2003-04 Undergraduate Catalog
Indiana, Pennsylvania 15705
 

Director: Carolyn A. Thompson

Website: www.iup.edu/womens

The Women’s Studies minor is designed to examine the status and experiences of women from a multidisciplinary perspective. The courses use a variety of methods and disciplinary perspectives to explore the impact of gender on the experiences of the individual. Women’s contributions to a variety of fields and the historical, literary, and cultural images of women are also addressed. Students are encouraged to challenge traditional theories and research regarding women and to develop a critical, multidisciplinary, multicultural, and gendered view of the world. Courses taught within the minor typically involve the students through innovative, experiential classroom exercises and written assignments. Courses in Women’s Studies address social equity issues and encourage students to perceive themselves as capable of transforming society.

A minor in Women’s Studies indicates to the prospective employer an awareness of and sensitivity to gender issues. This awareness may be needed in the following positions: personnel specialist, affirmative action officer, crisis intervention specialist, family and youth services provider, legal advocate. A minor in Women’s Studies can contribute to success in a variety of fields including communication, counseling, criminology, education, health, journalism, law, politics, psychology, and applied sociology.