About the Department

At Saint Louis University, women's and gender studies is a social justice-focused field of study that draws from the social sciences, sciences and humanities, and contributes to disciplines including law, medicine and nursing.

At its core, women's and gender studies recognizes the importance of diversity and the consequences of differences in power and opportunity. Our courses examine power relations that result in societal marginalization. 

Department of Women's and Gender Studies Mission

Women’s and Gender Studies advances social justice throughout our dynamic classroom discussions, rigorous scholarship, and effective action. We analyze and combat systems of inequality based on gender, sexuality, and gender identity, and explore how these systems intersect with racism, classism, and ableism. The Women’s and Gender Studies department offers an exciting range of courses taught by faculty across the University, raising vital questions about power, voice, knowledge, identity, and resistance. Both in and outside the classroom, we embrace a model of active, informed citizenship that envisions and works to create a more just and sustainable world. To this end,

●       We strive to keep theory and practice in critical conversation by incorporating service learning and feminist activism in our curriculum.

●       We are committed to inclusive, participatory classrooms, and work for a more equitable campus.

●       We invite and welcome students of all genders, races, abilities, gender identities, sexualities, religions, classes, and ethnicities, and strive to create a sense of community.

●       We believe students with all types of career plans benefit from understanding the nature and costs of inequality and the benefits of gender justice.

●       We hope to inspire the next generation of feminist scholars, practitioners, and leaders.