Why GSWS?
Social transformation is at the core of our mission.
As a discipline, we examine constructions of gender and sexuality as they intersect with other categories of identity such as race and class. We work toward social justice and collective liberation. We engage in rigorous interdisciplinary academic study, as well as community engagement, activism and creative production.
In all that we do, we strive to put our students first.
Learn more about what you can expect to gain as a student in our department.
News
April 18, 2024
‘We are diversity’: Five VCU community members honored at the 2024 PACME ceremony
Shawn Utsey, recipient of the Riese-Melton Award, notes ‘how much work we still have to do. We cannot afford to become complacent in the face of injustice.’
April 18, 2024
National Endowment for the Humanities awards two grants to VCU projects
One will establish a health humanities minor, while the other supports a professor’s book project on visual images of African Americans in leisure contexts from slavery through the Jim Crow era.
April 5, 2024
Class of 2024: As part of journalism’s next generation, Emily Richardson is ready to ask the tough questions
The mass communications major already has her first post-VCU assignment: a prestigious reporting fellowship.
GSWS Spotlight
Double Major With GSWS
Did you know? Our B.A. requires 30 credits—just 12 credits (or four courses) more than a minor! Consider a double major in GSWS and bolster your résumé.
You First
In all that we do, we strive to put our students first. For instance, we design our departmental curricula and assessment in direct conversation with our students because we believe in transparency and dialogue.
Meet a Student
Mannat Narang majored in gender, sexuality and women's studies as a pre-med student to explore disparities and examine how they can affect the healthcare field. Learn more about Mannat, including her favorite courses, professors and more.
Real-World Learning
Explore study abroad or get an internship! With real-world learning, you better position yourself for post-graduate employment or an advanced degree.
Graduate Certificate in GSWS
The certificate requires a total of 15 graduate credit hours, comprised of three core courses and two elective courses. In general, it will take about one year to complete.