The Department of Women’s and Gender Studies is a multi- and interdisciplinary field of study that examines the complex intersections of gender, race, class, sexuality, ability, nation, and other identities, with an emphasis on women’s lives and perspectives. A minor in Women's Studies complements any major, as it prepares students to work with diverse populations, with an understanding of what it takes to empower themselves and others to become change makers. This skill set makes our students highly competitive on the job market, as employers increasingly seek candidates with intersectional expertise. Department faculty work closely with students to help them learn how to engage in complex problem solving; connect with others across differences; and engage diverse communities.
Program Highlights
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Women’s Studies prepares students to contribute to a variety of fields—as advocates for justice, human rights, and equality. We offer distinct opportunities to get involved in organizations through internships, service-learning, and professional development series. Our department is supported by an active Friends of Women’s Studies organization that provides four scholarships, a range of events, and networking opportunities. Women’s Studies graduates work in a range of fields—from social work, to law, to education, and international development. This department allows students to learn theories of social justice and apply them to benefit not only women and girls, but in a range of contexts where graduates can promote equality and human rights.
Careers
Check out these ideas from ODU's Center for Career & Leadership Development and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.
Education Administrators, Postsecondary
Plan, direct, or coordinate research, instructional, student administration and services, and other educational activities at postsecondary institutions, including universities, colleges, and junior and community colleges.
Forestry and Conservation Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Teach courses in forestry and conservation science. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
Arbitrators, Mediators, and Conciliators
Facilitate negotiation and conflict resolution through dialogue. Resolve conflicts outside of the court system by mutual consent of parties involved.
Marketing Managers
Plan, direct, or coordinate marketing policies and programs, such as determining the demand for products and services offered by a firm and its competitors, and identify potential customers. Develop pricing strategies with the goal of maximizing the firm's profits or share of the market while ensuring the firm's customers are satisfied. Oversee product development or monitor trends that indicate the need for new products and services.
Requirements
To declare a Women's Studies minor, students must see an advisor in the Department of Women’s and Gender Studies. Students must maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0 in all courses specified as a requirement for the minor exclusive of lower-level courses and prerequisite courses and complete a minimum of six hours in upper-level courses in the minor through courses offered by Old Dominion University. Completion of the undergraduate Women's Studies minor will fulfill the upper-division General Education requirements.
Transfer
At ODU, we understand that as a transfer student you have unique needs that require a wide array of campus resources. The Center for Advising Administration and Academic Partnerships aims to create a transfer inclusive culture that supports the successful...
Cost
Estimated rates for the 2024-25 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.
Ways to Save
Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU. For more information visit University Student Financial Aid.
Scholarships
- Carolyn Rhodes Undergraduate Scholarship in Women’s Studies
- Anita Clair Fellman Service-Learning Scholarship
- The Dr. Jennifer N. Fish Endowed Scholarship for Social Justice.
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