Women’s Studies Certificate Program

The Women’s Studies Certificate Program is an interdisciplinary approach to research and scholarship that draws on various disciplines, while challenging disciplinary boundaries, raising new questions and offering different perspectives. The general aim of the program is to offer critical reflection on the experiences of both women and men in terms of differences of gender, sexuality, race, class, ethnicity and nation. Particular attention is paid to the conditions of women’s lives and the varied forms of struggle to which these give rise. Students are prepared to teach courses and to do research in Women’s Studies and related critical approaches to the disciplines. Besides focused course work and guidance in research, Women’s Studies offers participation in a wide range of graduate student-faculty activities, such as lecture series and forums. Students also are invited to participate in the research programs of the Center for the Study of Women and Society.

The Women’s Studies Certificate Program currently has over 160 students from 30 different programs and comprised of 86 faculty members from a wide range of programs as well. As a WSCP student (PhD only), you become eligible for the Carolyn G. Heilbrun Dissertation Prize, the Sue Rosenberg Zalk Travel Award, and the Koonja Mitchell Memorial Prize. Further information about applying for these awards can be found on our Awards and Fellowships page.

Students who would like to join the Certificate Program should fill out a WSCP application form. This allows you to become part of our email lists and get updates and information about the program. We recommend students start Women’s Studies Certificate Program coursework around the 2nd year of their PhD program and as soon as possible in their master's program. Prospective students are encouraged to stop by the office or contact the Director to discuss their programs and interests.