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Inspire Change Through a Deep Understanding of Gender and Sexuality

Embark on a transformative journey with our interdisciplinary Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies (WGSS) bachelor's program. Critically analyze and deconstruct the roles of gender and sexuality in shaping societal norms and explore how diverse individuals have influenced these concepts across history and modern contexts. 

Grounded in intersectional feminism, our curriculum examines how gender, sexuality and identity dimensions—such as race, ethnicity, culture, class, nationality, religion and ability—interact to shape societal structures. This approach highlights the complexities of individual experiences and the broader social fabric. 

Our program prepares you for a variety of career paths, including advocacy, education, public policy and social justice. You'll be well-equipped to make a meaningful impact in your chosen field. 

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Careers and Job Outlooks

Potential Career Paths

The BA in Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies equips you with fundamental research, writing and collaboration skills for a variety of career opportunities, such as:

• Community Outreach Coordinator 

• Victim Advocate 

• Policy Analyst 

• Diversity and Inclusion Specialist 

• Human Rights Advocate 

• Social Worker 

• Public Relations Manager 

• Legislative Aide 

• Educator 

• Nonprofit Program Manager 

• Health Educator 

• Union Organizer
  

You may also choose to pursue graduate study in fields such as law, social work, public policy or education.

Attend an Information Session

Join an Online Information Session
Learn more about the Bachelor of Arts in Women's, Gender and Sexuality Studies program through one of these upcoming informal webinars and Q&A sessions: 

• Please revist later for updates on upcoming information sessions.

Admission and Costs

Admission

This is a degree-completion program. Students must complete required prerequisite courses and 60 transferable units (or 90 quarter units). Additionally, applicants are required to meet the CSU general education transfer standards. View all admission requirements.

Costs and Financial Aid

• $420 per unit
• Discounts available for active-duty military
• Eligible for financial aid

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Curriculum Highlights

The BA in WGSS curriculum equips students with critical thinking and analytical skills to explore the social construction of gender and sexuality, and the intersections with race, class and other social identities. The program prepares graduates for careers in advocacy, education, public policy and various social justice fields.
 

FAQ

• What is a cohort?
  A cohort is a group of students who progress through a curriculum together to achieve the same academic degree. By taking classes together and graduating as a unit, cohort members form strong bonds, creating a valuable support system and professional network that benefits them both during and after the program. 
• What is a bachelor's degree-completion program?
  Degree-completion programs at ´ó·¢ cater to individuals who have initiated, yet not completed, their four-year undergraduate degrees. If you have earned at least 60 transferable units, you can get a head start on your bachelor’s degree. 
• Will my diploma say "online"?
  No, your diploma will not specify that your degree was earned online; it will simply indicate that you received a bachelor’s degree from California State University San Marcos, the same as traditional, on-campus students. 
• What are the learning outcomes for the BA in Women's, Gender and Sexuality Studies?

  Graduates with a B.A. in Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies will be able to: 

  • Critically analyze the historical and present-day construction of gender and sexuality.
  • Recognize and explain women’s roles and contributions to the economy, politics, arts, culture and society in the United States and globally.
  • Integrate the analysis of race and ethnicity, class, sexual identities, culture, religion, disabilities and geography into explanations of women, gender and power relations in the contemporary world.
  • Critique intersecting issues of privilege and oppression through the lens of feminist social movements and activism in the United States and around the world. 
• What does asynchronous mean?
  An asynchronous course is an online class format that allows you to access course materials, such as lectures and assignments, at any time without having to attend live sessions. This flexibility enables you to manage your studies around other commitments. Interaction with instructors and classmates occurs through online platforms, ensuring a supportive learning environment. Deadlines are set to keep you on track, but how and when you meet these deadlines is up to you.   
• What vocations will the WGSS degree prepare me for?

  A degree in Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies (WGSS) prepares you for a wide range of careers and graduate education opportunities. WGSS equips you to meet the challenges of the 21st century and become a leader in various fields, from business to education, community organizations to government agencies. 

  Our graduates have successfully pursued careers as lawyers, teachers, artists, community leaders, elected officials, business managers and other professionals. 

• What services do you offer to active military, veterans and dependents?
  Please visit our military and veteran services page to learn how we can help. 
• What is Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) and how can it benefit me?

  Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) allows you to earn academic credits for skills and knowledge you've acquired outside of a traditional classroom. This can help reduce the number of courses needed for your degree, saving you time and money while accelerating your path to graduation.

• How do I apply for CPL?

  Start by contacting your ´ó·¢ advisor, who will guide you through the CPL process. You’ll need to provide proof of your certifications and/or provide supporting documentation demonstrating your learning, knowledge or skill acquired through experience. Once the appropriate paperwork has been received, the department faculty will assess which credits you qualify for.

• Can other forms of experience besides certifications count toward CPL?

  Yes, beyond certifications, prior experience such as work or military experience may also qualify for credit. Faculty at ´ó·¢ will review these experiences on a case-by-case basis to determine eligibility.