Women's & Gender Studies

Minor

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Why Study Women’s and Gender Studies at Goshen College?

Teaching in class

As a Women’s and Gender Studies minor at Goshen College, you’ll explore how gender and identity shape our lives, cultures, and institutions. This interdisciplinary program is grounded in social justice and invites you to examine how power, privilege, and inequality affect communities globally and locally.
You’ll ask critical questions about gender norms, sexual identity, feminist theory, intersectionality, and the roles of women throughout history. By combining academic exploration with hands-on learning, this program prepares you to lead change in fields like education, healthcare, ministry, social work, activism, and the arts. Wherever your path leads, this minor will deepen your understanding of the world—and your role in it.

  • 91%
    of classes have fewer than 30 students
  • 93%
    of graduates are employed, in grad school, or in service within a year
  • 56%
    of traditional undergrads are students of color or from outside the U.S.

    Curriculum and Credit Requirements

    The Women’s and Gender Studies minor includes coursework from a variety of disciplines, including sociology, history, literature, and religious studies. This minor pairs well with majors like English, Social Work, Psychology, History, and Peace and Justice Studies. Your coursework may include:

    • Introduction to Women’s and Gender Studies
    • U.S. Women’s History
    • Gender and Communication
    • Spiritual Writings of Women
    • Peace, Justice and Conflict Studies courses with a gender focus
    • Independent study or internship in a related field

    Faculty will work with you to design a pathway that supports your major and career goals.

    See the full list of courses and requirements in the course catalog

    Course Catalog

    Hands-On Learning

    Hands-on learning is woven throughout this program—from collaborative class projects to internships that connect you with local nonprofits, advocacy organizations, schools, and social services. GC students have helped lead campus events such as Take Back the Night, consent education workshops, and panel discussions on gender identity and inclusion.

    Scholarships

    Students pursuing this minor may be eligible for broader scholarships through departments such as English, history, or religion. Visit our Scholarships Page for current opportunities.

    Careers

    This minor prepares you to bring a justice-oriented, inclusive perspective to a wide range of professions. Career possibilities include:

    • Social Worker
    • Educator
    • Nonprofit Program Manager
    • Counselor or Therapist
    • Journalist or Editor
    • Human Rights Advocate
    • Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Coordinator
    • Lawyer or Legal Advocate

    Graduates of this program often pursue graduate study in gender studies, theology, education, law, or social work.

    Facilities

    You’ll study in GC’s supportive, inclusive academic community, with access to the Good Library, dedicated faculty offices, and collaboration spaces in the Umble Center and surrounding humanities buildings.

    Faculty

    All Faculty

    • Kendra Yoder

      Professor of Sociology
      RJS and Co-Director of Global Engagement

      All Faculty

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