This interdisciplinary graduate course introduces major concepts, histories, theories, and debates in women’s and gender studies, with particular attention to their relevance for professional practice. Students examine gender as a social structure and system of power that interacts with race, class, sexuality, disability, citizenship, nationality, and other dimensions of social life.

The course introduces major feminist and gender theories and applies them to institutions and professional contexts including work and organizations, health, education, communication and media, law, and social policy. Throughout the semester, students use gender-informed and intersectional frameworks to analyze issues within their own professional fields and to develop policies, programs, practices, or interventions that advance equity and inclusion.

The course builds upon the interdisciplinary and intersectional orientation of existing introductory Women’s and Gender Studies courses, which address gender in relation to labor, health, reproduction, media, law, public policy, and other social institutions. At the graduate level, the emphasis shifts from general introduction and personal reflection toward theoretical analysis, professional application, institutional critique, and intervention design.