Empower Voices. Challenge Systems. Lead the Future of Social Change.
     
    Unlock your potential with our Master of Arts in Women and Gender Studies—a transformative graduate program designed for individuals passionate about equity, justice, and the intersections of gender, race, class, sexuality, and power. This program prepares you to become a leader in advocacy, education, policy, and research by equipping you with the tools to analyze and challenge systemic inequalities in local and global contexts.  Specialize in feminist theory, intersectional analysis, and social justice praxis. With a curriculum grounded in interdisciplinary scholarship and community engagement, you’ll be prepared to lead change across sectors—from education and public policy to nonprofit leadership and cultural institutions.

    Why Choose the MA in Women and Gender Studies?

    Career Prospects


    According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, individuals with degrees in culture and gender studies pursue careers across a wide range of fields, including education, social services, and public policy. Top-employing occupations for graduates include postsecondary teachers, education administrators, and community and social service managers [1]. Employment in master’s-level occupations overall is projected to grow by nearly 17% from 2016 to 2026, the fastest of any education level [2].

    Competitive Salaries
     
    Graduates with advanced degrees in this field often pursue roles with strong earning potential. For example, postsecondary teachers earned a median annual wage of $84,380 in 2024, and social and community service managers earned $77,030 [1]. These roles offer opportunities to lead, educate, and advocate in diverse professional settings.

    Interdisciplinary, Justice-Oriented Curriculum

    Our program offers a rich blend of theory and practice, with courses that explore:
    • Feminist and Queer Theories 
    • Gender and Globalization 
    • Intersectionality and Social Movements 
    • Gender, Race, and Public Policy 
    • Research Methods in Gender Studies 
    • Community-Based Learning and Activism 
    Students can tailor their studies through electives and independent research, culminating in a capstone project or thesis that reflects their professional and academic goals.

    Supportive, Inclusive Learning Environment
     
    With small seminar-style classes and close faculty mentorship, you’ll be part of a vibrant intellectual community committed to equity and inclusion. Whether you’re preparing for doctoral study, nonprofit leadership, or public service, our program supports your growth as a scholar and changemaker.

    Diverse Career Opportunities

    Graduates of the MA in Women and Gender Studies program are prepared for a wide range of impactful roles, including:
    • Gender Equity Specialist 
    • Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Consultant 
    • Policy Analyst 
    • Nonprofit Program Director 
    • Human Rights Advocate 
    • Community Organizer 
    • Postsecondary Educator 
    • Social Justice Campaign Manager 
    • Public Affairs or Government Relations Specialist 
    • Researcher in Gender and Social Policy 
    • Grant Writer or Fundraising Strategist 
    • Cultural Program Coordinator 
    Join a community of scholars, activists, and educators dedicated to building a more just and inclusive world. Your journey to becoming a leader in gender justice and social transformation starts here.
    [1]: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Field of Degree: Culture and Gender Studies
    [2]: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Graduate-Level Occupations Outlook
    Next Steps
         

         
    Contact Us
         
    WomensStudiesGrad@SouthernCT.edu
    College of Arts and Sciences
    Department of Women's and Gender Studies
    Application Requirements

    Application Submission
    Application Fee ($50)
    Official Transcripts
    Essay Two Letters of Recommendation
    Writing Sample

    Essay Prompt

    500-word essay explaining his or her interest in the program and how completion of the program will play a role in future academic, professional and/or personal goals
    Capstone Requirement (Choose One)

    Thesis
    Comprehensive Exam
    Special Project
    Curriculum

    Course Outline

    Additional Information

    This program may be selected as a secondary degree option with the MSW in Social Work:

    Clinical Practice
    Community Practice
    Cost of Program

    Use our Paying for College Calculator to estimate the cost of your program.
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