Gender and Sexuality Studies

GSS 121: Introduction to Gender and Sexuality Studies

Required for the gender and sexuality studies major and concentration, this course introduces students to the concept of gender as a category of analysis. It is designed for students who seek a fuller understanding of themselves as gendered individuals living in a gendered society - all genders are encouraged to participate! Offered each semester. Also counts toward educational studies concentration.

GSS 175: Introduction to Trans Studies

This course covers a wide range of approaches to trans (from gender identity, gender expression, to trans as a method and a theory). Students examine a number of topics including: definitions and language; the binary gender system and its effects on trans life; the history of the trans movement; the legal, social, and medical aspects of transition; transnational perspectives of trans experience; decolonial approaches to trans experience; and socio-political issues of trans life. Offered periodically.

GSS 250: Intersectional Feminisms: Race, Gender, and Sexuality

This interdisciplinary seminar introduces students to critical and cultural texts written by authors of color to name the complex politics of race, gender, and sexuality. Students develop intersectionality as an analytical tool with which to understand how systems of interlocking oppression have marginalized women and LGBTQ people of color. Readings emphasize literary and cultural representations as acts of resistance to racial gender violence, racial homophobia, policing and militarization, and global economic inequality. Offered annually. Also counts toward race and ethnic studies major and concentration.

GSS 255: Hip Hop Feminism

Hip Hop Feminism combines Womanist Thought with Hip Hop. Hip Hop Feminism engages with the contradictions of identifying as feminist while still enjoying misogynistic aspects of Hip Hop. This course discusses aspects of Hip Hop culture that relate to Black womanhood and girlhood, such as double-dutch, hair braiding, twerking, and playground games Students engage with core Hip Hop Feminism concepts such as "the personal is political," respectability politics, intersectionality, Black Girl Magic, and radical self-love. Offered periodically.

GSS 294: Academic Internship

GSS 298: Independent Study

GSS 394: Academic Internship

GSS 398: Independent Research

GSS 399: Advanced Topics in Gender and Sexuality Studies

The course provides a capstone to the major. Taught as a seminar, it offers an opportunity for students to integrate their studies of women and gender across disciplines and to become more aware of the intricate web of gender, race, culture, and class that informs women's experiences. Offered annually in the spring semester.
Prerequisite: GSS 121; priority given to majors and concentrators.