Overview

At URI, Gender and Women’s Studies uses feminist and interdisciplinary methods to teach, conduct research, and expand existing knowledge. Critical thinking, theory, and community and global responsibility are integral to these methods. GWS focuses on the interrelationship between the personal and political, supporting and promoting feminist teaching, learning, research, scholarship, creative activity, and professional and community service.

Program Requirements

The Gender and Women’s Studies major requires 30 credits:

Required core courses (15 credits)

• GWS 150: Introduction to Gender and Women’s Studies
• GWS 300: Field Experience in Gender and Women’s Studies
  OR GWS 320: Feminist Thought Into Action
  OR ITR 301/302: Field Experience I/II
• GWS 310: Race, Class, and Sexualities in Women’s Lives
  OR 325: International Women’s Issues
• GWS 315: Introduction to Feminist Theories and Methodologies
• GWS 400: Critical Issues and Feminist Scholarship

Elective courses (15 credits)
The remaining 15 credits may be selected from other GWS courses, or approved interdisciplinary courses offered through other academic departments.

If double majoring, please note that courses in your primary major may not be used to fulfill your General Education requirements.

The GWS Advisory Committee recommends that students majoring in Gender and Women’s Studies either take an additional 18 credits in one area as a minor or pursue a double major so as to combine their interests in Gender and Women’s Studies with a traditional discipline.