Academic Catalog 2016-2018

Gender Studies Major (BA, Minor)

A multidisciplinary program, Gender Studies provides a framework through which students examine gender as it intersects with race, ethnicity, class and sexuality. Courses employ a multicultural and international perspective and draw from psychology, history, media, literature, politics, religion, art history and cultural studies.

Leadership development and an emphasis on rigor in critical analysis, writing and social critique are hallmarks of Gender Studies at Dominican. Students explore aspects of social justice, especially as they relate to gender. Civic engagement is a key component of the major, as are internships and a capstone thesis.

Graduates of the Gender Studies program have a solid foundation in the liberal arts and demonstrated practical experiences. They are prepared for employment in social services, government, private industry and non-profit agencies. Many graduates pursue advanced degrees.

Program Learning Outcomes

Students who complete the major in Gender Studies will:

  1. Demonstrate knowledge of the social construction of gender and the ways in which gender intersects with race, class, ethnicity and sexuality.
  2. Apply feminist and gender theory to an analysis of gender, including an examination of the construction of femininity and masculinity.
  3. Recognize the global, scientific, cultural, historical, or political issues that have created distinctions and disruptions among women, men, and sexual minorities.
  4. Explore theoretical and practical aspects of social justice as they relate to gender, women and sexuality.