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Women's Studies

  • Minor
  • Erie, Pennsylvania
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  • The minor in Women's Studies is an interdisciplinary field of inquiry that encourages students to understand and articulate how gender makes a difference - in the lives and experiences of women, as well as men; in the practices and institutions of human societies; and in the cultural products of societies, such as art and literature. Emphasizing the importance of historical and cross-cultural perspectives, students in the minor will critically examine the intersections of gender, class, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, age, and ability to make visible structures of power that otherwise remain hidden. 

    View Curriculum and Course Descriptions


    Experience an Exceptional Learning Environment

    • Conceptualize and implement public programs to raise awareness for women's history and gender issues.  
    • Engage in crucial conversations and debates surrounding gender issues in society during "topical tea" events. Past topics include, "Is Beyoncé a Feminist?" "Women in Sciences," Masculinity Studies," and "Media and Body Image."  
    • Hear from world renowned speakers and learn how to emerge a competent, confident professional in any industry. 

    Inspire Your Academic Success

    Gain real-world knowledge through key courses including:

    Women in Western Philosophy: Expand your understanding of traditional philosophies to define what it means to be a woman living in the 21st century. Discuss issues like fair wages and genderized roles women play personally and professionally.

    Women Writers: Words have power and so do women -- gain a deeper appreciation for literature written by women from the late nineteenth century to the present day as they meet, question, challenge, resist, or change traditional gender expectations in cultural and historical contexts.

    Gender and Rationality:  Examine the implications that come with "either-or" thinking between reason and emotion in disciplines like science, economics, political science, and religion. Learn the contemporary manifestations of rhetoric in these subjects along with how feminist theories can be applied.

    Achieve Your Possibilities

    The critical thinking skills gleaned from these classes and interaction with top Gannon faculty will empower you to function in a variety of different leadership roles.  Women’s Studies minors emerge competent, confident, and able to collaborate effectively to problem-solve.  All of these are key qualities sought by both governmental and private sector organizations and companies, as well as distinguished graduate programs. Secure exciting careers with large international performing arts and media centers, independent studios, network affiliates and more.   

Madeline Bruce

Madeline Bruce College of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences

"The women’s studies minor has opened my eyes to the diverse experiences of people from historical and cross-cultural perspectives. It allowed me to examine not only the experiences of women but the importance of intersectionality when it comes to social issues. I feel invariably prepared for my career with the knowledge I gained from this program.

  • Receive hands-on learning through real-world courses, projects and valuable internship experiences that prepare you to become a professional in the field.
  • 13:1Enjoy a personalized experience inspired by Gannon’s faculty experts and a low student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1.
  • Apply for generous financial aid packages and scholarship awards.