How is reproductive justice activism shaping global politics? How can we protect the rights of the LGBTQI+ community through laws and policies? How do we analyze gendered and sexualized images in art, media and culture? How have ideologies of gender and sexual identities shaped systems of inequality? If these types of questions fascinate you, then let’s talk about global gender studies. Maybe you always knew you wanted to be a gender studies major, or maybe you didn’t even know it existed until now. Either way, you are welcome here—in a program that’s incredibly relevant and timely, anywhere in the world, in nearly every aspect of society.
"You will learn so much about different perspectives, deconstruct what you have been taught your entire life and gain the ability to critically analyze the world around you." That's how one of our students described UB's program, one of the first women's studies programs in the U.S.. Here, you'll typically take classes that focus on feminist theory, intersectional analysis of global citizenship and public policy, and the role of gender and sexual identities in shaping art, literature and culture in an atmosphere that one student described as, "uplifting and empowering and safe."
Make connections, make friends and make a difference.
As more organizations focus on social justice, equity and gender issues, you’ll likely find opportunities at government agencies, nonprofit institutions and large companies. For example, your career might include working for a women’s rights organization, developing policies for a health care system, or improving inclusion at a school or media company. Your career options may include:
Many of our students also go to graduate school to get an advanced degree in education, gender and women’s studies, law, public policy or other areas.
Within the Department of Global Gender and Sexuality Studies, you'll find faculty who are known around the world for their research and scholarship. They have authored books, written articles, presented at conferences, organized workshops and reviewed journal articles for leading publications. These are just a few of the reasons why their work has appeared in the "New York Times," Associated Press, NPR's "All Things Considered" and "Fresh Air," and other media outlets.
Our faculty members are also exceptional teachers and mentors, building and fostering a strong community, and helping guide students throughout their time at UB. In addition to learning from professors within our department, students often take classes with faculty throughout the university, including experts in topics such as literary criticism, Indigenous studies, geography, history, music, law and other relevant subjects.