Studying gender studies in the USA: What to expect?

I'm considering a major in gender studies, but I'm not entirely sure what the programs entail in the USA. What are the potential career paths, and are there any schools that are particularly good in this field?

Gender Studies programs in the U.S. typically focus on the exploration of gender and sexuality from various perspectives - historical, societal, cultural, and political. You can expect to engage in a variety of topics including (but not limited to) feminist theory, masculinity studies, women's history, queer theory, and transgender studies. These programs also encourage students to learn about intersections of race, class, and age alongside gender and sexuality.

As for career opportunities after obtaining a Gender Studies degree, graduates have a wide range of options. You could work in law, public policy, human resources, social work, counseling, education, or non-profit sectors. Many students also continue their education in graduate or professional schools in various disciplines.

When choosing a school, focus on those with strong Social Sciences and Humanities programs, as these areas often overlap with Gender Studies. Some standout programs include those at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), University of California, Berkeley, and New York University. UCLA has one of the oldest Gender Studies departments in the country, UC Berkeley has an interdisciplinary major, and NYU offers a Gender & Sexuality Studies major through its College of Arts and Sciences.

While these programs are worth considering, it's important to find a program and institution that aligns with your academic and career goals. So research each school's specific curriculum and resources, including potential internship opportunities or faculty research projects you might find interesting. A strong Gender Studies program will provide an interdisciplinary curriculum that will foster critical thinking, understanding of cultural and social diversity, and an ability to articulate your insights in both oral and written form.