Explore Art, Identity, and Social Change
A major or minor in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies (WGSS) helps students examine how gender, race, sexuality, and other identities shape art, culture, and society.
Whether you’re interested in creating inclusive classrooms, designing meaningful visual experiences, curating exhibitions, or using art to inspire change, WGSS provides the tools to think critically, communicate effectively, and create with purpose.
Why Add WGSS?
Students strengthen skills in:
- Critical visual analysis
- Creative storytelling and representation
- Research and evidence-based analysis
- Cultural competency and ethical practice
- Leadership and community engagement
- Communication and advocacy
These skills are valued across creative, educational, nonprofit, and cultural professions.
See Where WGSS Can Take You
Arts and Culture
Explore how visual culture reflects and shapes social values, identities, and public conversations.
Education
Develop inclusive, student-centered approaches to teaching and learning.
Museums and Curation
Examine representation, accessibility, and inclusion in cultural institutions.
Media and Design
Create more ethical, inclusive, and culturally responsive visual communication.
Community Engagement
Use creative practice to support dialogue, advocacy, and social change.
Research
Connect theory, lived experience, and creative inquiry through interdisciplinary research.
How WGSS Complements Art and Art Education
WGSS coursework encourages students to think critically about representation, identity, and power while exploring how creative work can contribute to more equitable and inclusive communities.
Opportunities Through WGSS
- Flexible pathways to a major, double major, or minor
- Discussion-based courses that encourage dialogue, creativity, and reflection
- Research opportunities with faculty mentors
- Independent studies and engaged learning experiences
- Internships with museums, arts organizations, schools, nonprofits, and cultural institutions
- Leadership opportunities through student organizations, campus initiatives, exhibitions, and advocacy projects
WMNST 106N/106Q
Representing Women and Gender in Literature, Art, and Popular Culture
Explore how artists, writers, filmmakers, and media creators challenge cultural narratives surrounding gender, race, and identity.
Career Pathways
WGSS can strengthen preparation for careers in:
- Art Education
- Museum Education
- Curation
- Arts Administration
- Media and Communications
- Graphic Design
- Cultural Programming
- Community Arts
- Nonprofit Leadership
- Social Practice Art