Are you curious about how societies create, control or contain gender differences? Are you intrigued by the ways in which gender might affect your life? If so, the Women's Studies minor offered at Penn State Brandywine may be an excellent choice for you. 

The Women's Studies minor explores gender issues in every area of life. By focusing on gender-distinct perceptions and experiences, you will gain a vital perspective on human experience throughout history and across cultures. Coursework focuses on feminist analyses of the structure of sex/gender systems, gender relations and women's contributions to their cultures in all facets of life. 

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MINOR: 18 credits 

Core Courses  – 6 credits, which must include:

  • WMNST 100 (Introduction to Women’s and Gender Studies) OR WMNST 106 (Representing Women and Gender in Literature, Art and Popular Cultures)
  • WMNST 301 (Sexualities, Gender and Power: Feminist Thought and Politics) OR WMNST 400 (Debates in Contemporary Feminism)

Additional Courses – 12 credits

Additional courses must include at least 3 credits in the arts or humanities from Women’s Studies, 3 credits in the natural or social sciences from Women’s Studies, and 3 credits that focus on non-Western women or women of color. For more information, contact the minor coordinator (see below). Some possible courses include:

  • WMNST / AMST 104: Women and the American Experience
  • WMNST / HIST 116: Family and Sex Roles in Modern History
  • WMNST / RLST 137: Women and Religion
  • WMNST / ENGL 194: Women Writers
  • WMNST / HDFS 418: Family Relationships
  • WMNST / HDFS 424: Family Development in Economic Context

The interdisciplinary and inclusive nature of Women’s Studies means a program curriculum that intersects with a variety of departments. Courses may double-count for your major, general education or other graduation requirements.

COMPLEMENTARY MAJORS

This minor complements every other course of study and gives students a nuanced, politically savvy perspective on other academic subjects. It is particularly valuable for those pursuing careers in law, medicine, education, public policy, communications, information technology, social sciences and business. 

Brandywine’s Women’s Studies minor can easily be paired with any of the campus’ four-year degrees.

For more information, contact Maureen Fielding: 610-892-1439, [email protected].