Women’s, Gender, and African American Studies

S. Jones, Chairperson

bsu.edu/wgaas

The Department of Women’s, Gender, and African American Studies offers an interdisciplinary minor in African American Studies and an interdisciplinary major and minor in women's and gender studies. In the Women’s and Gender Studies programs, students investigate women's and men's gendered experiences. In the African-American Studies Minor, students analyze the functioning of race in American culture and history and around the world. Both programs give students the opportunity to learn their respective theories and methods of inquiry. And they pay heed to intersections of gender and race with culture and belief, sexuality and sexual orientation, ethnicity, class, nationality, geography, age, (dis)ability, and religion. By evaluating historical and contemporary issues, our students broaden their understanding of difference and social justice through learning grounded in research and theory. 

Our classes train students to identify and explain how race and gender shape and are shaped by cultural definitions, norms, and institutions and how these, in turn, affect perspectives, behaviors, experiences, and the life chances of individuals. Class assignments and projects encourage students to synthesize interdisciplinary knowledge and provide a reflection on these experiences. Students will also learn to evaluate gender- and race-related social problems, indicate possible solutions, and justify recommendations.

In our diverse society and world, these programs help prepare students to become ethical and effective professionals in all fields. Recent graduates are thriving in such fields as social services, education, government, and the nonprofit sector. Moreover, our programs enable students to become well-informed citizens who are active in their communities. 

For more information, contact the Department of Women's, Gender, and African American Studies at 765-285-5451 or wgs@bsu.edu.