Whether as activists, scholars or labourers, women have generated significant changes in society. Women & Gender Studies offer you the opportunity to learn how these changes were initiated and gives you the tools to actively participate in the creation of an inclusive society.

Using feminist theory and research methodologies, women & gender studies examine the historical and contemporary conditions of women and men in society. Our department draws on a vibrant community of scholars and activists both inside and outside the university to explore a wide range of issues.

As a student in this program, you will increase your knowledge of women’s lives, bodies, experiences, labour and scholarship. You’ll also explore feminism as an influential political and social global movement that has generated significant change in all aspects of daily life for men and women.

The department encourages all students to enroll in women and gender studies classes to discover enlightening perspectives applicable to your chosen field of study. By participating in these classes, you will develop an in-depth understanding of how current and historical events, ideas and institutions have been structured by gender, ethnicity, race, age, ability, class and sexuality.

Minors | Adding a minor to your degree is a great way to explore academic interests beyond your major. A minor is a set of courses comprising a secondary focus of interest generally not related to your major. A minor may be required or optional.

Honours thesis | If your GPA is high enough in your fourth year, you can opt to complete an undergraduate thesis course. This is an excellent opportunity for you to earn an “Honours Thesis” designation on your degree.

Experience learning | Our students have a number of experiential learning opportunities available to them including co-operative education, international exchanges, independent and applied studies as well as volunteer opportunities. uLethbridge is the only university in Alberta to offer co-operative education to all majors in the arts & sciences, at both the undergrad and grad level. Transfer students can actually head out on their first work term before ever stepping foot on campus! For example, many transfer students have completed a summer work term before starting classes in September. ​

Skills acquired | By pursuing the major in women & gender studies you will not only broaden your understanding of the world, you will also develop strong critical, analytical and “big picture” thinking skills. Participating in this program will enhance your ability to conduct research and apply your knowledge and expertise across disciplines. Additionally, you will develop your written and oral communication skills, as well as expand your academic and scholarly expertise. All these abilities are transferable to virtually any industry or occupation and are highly sought after in the working world.

There are numerous career options open to graduates of women & gender studies, such as:

Legal Studies
Human Resources
Career Development
International Development
Health Sciences/Promotion
Research
Social Work
Women’s Shelter Programming
Counseling & Psychology
Family Counseling
Children’s Advocacy Work
Anti-violence Lobbying
Anti-poverty Lobbying
Immigration
Multicultural Services
Family Services
Policy Analyst
Criminology & Justice Studies
Health Care
Non-Profit Agencies & NGO Administration