Bachelor's Degree in Gender and Women's Studies
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
The bachelor's degree program in Gender and Women’s Studies is perfect for students interested in examining social justice, gender dynamics, and the roles of women and marginalized groups in society. Graduates develop critical thinking and advocacy skills, preparing them for careers in social work, public policy, education, or nonprofit management, where they can work as community organizers, policy analysts, or diversity and inclusion specialists.
Program Overview
Gender and Women’s Studies is an interdisciplinary field that examines how gender interacts with various aspects of society, including race, class, sexuality, citizenship, age, and physical ability. Students explore how these interactions shape experiences and perspectives, and gain tools to critically analyze societal structures. Through a diverse range of methodologies, the program equips students to better understand complex social issues and apply their knowledge in various professional and community settings.
Related Careers
GWS will help you prosper in a career that aims for social transformation, innovation, or analysis. Your training in mixed methodologies, a variety of theoretical frameworks, and familiarity with transnational perspectives will help you develop an intellectual dexterity that can provide a competitive advantage in the job market.
- Advocacy and Nonprofit Work
(e.g., domestic violence prevention, reproductive rights, LGBTQ+ advocacy, human rights organizations) - Social Services and Community Outreach
(e.g., case manager, support services coordinator, crisis counselor) - Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Roles
(e.g., DEI coordinator, training facilitator, HR specialist focused on equity initiatives) - Public Policy and Government
(e.g., legislative aide, policy analyst, civil service roles) - Education and Academic Support
(e.g., K–12 educator, academic advisor, student affairs professional) - Media and Communications
(e.g., writer, editor, public relations assistant, social media manager for advocacy organizations) - Law and Legal Services (with further education)
(e.g., paralegal, legal advocate, or preparation for law school) - Healthcare Advocacy and Administration
(e.g., patient advocate, health education coordinator, community health outreach)
Admission Requirements
- Official High School Transcript with Pre-College Curriculum: View transcript requirements on the Undergraduate Admission webpage.
- Test Scores (optional): ACT or SAT scores can be submitted but are not required for university admission.
Any "Program Specific Requirements" that display below are specific to the program and will be required for admission to the program.
Application Requirements
Completed applications include an official high school transcript, application fee ($50 domestic/$60 international) and optional official ACT/SAT score (the University of Kentucky is test-optional for admission and scholarships through the 2028-29 academic year).
Application Deadlines
Freshman
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Early Action
- 12/01/2025 Apply early to be considered for Lewis Honors College, scholarships, or on-campus living.
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Regular Decision
- 02/15/2026
Transfer
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Fall Scholarship
- 06/15/2025 Apply early to be considered for scholarships.
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Fall
- 08/01/2025
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Spring
- 11/15/2025
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Summer
- 04/15/2026
FIND OUT EXACTLY
What You'll Learn
The Bachelor of Arts in Gender and Women’s Studies program examines how gender, sexuality, race, class, and other social identities shape individual experiences and societal structures. Students explore topics such as feminist theory, LGBTQ+ studies, global gender issues, and social justice movements. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, interdisciplinary analysis, and inclusive inquiry, helping students understand and challenge systems of power while developing strong research, writing, and communication skills. Expand the menu below to view a sample curriculum plan.
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Transfer in using our KCTCS Pathway
This program has a degree pathway from KCTCS, allowing students a seamless transfer process to obtain their bachelor's degree from the University of Kentucky.
View Pathways
Get a Head Start with an
Accelerated Pathway
This program is part of the Accelerated Master's Pathways program. If you plan to obtain a related master's degree, this program can save you time and money with dual credit hours when you sign up.
Attend an Upcoming Event for this Program
These events are designed to answer your questions and give you a glimpse into what it’s like to be a part of our program.
Register Now"Attending college has changed me, not just in the way that I have been new places and learned new things, but it has changed the very center of my being, the way that I think and believe, and the way that I experience life and the world around me."
Leslie Smith
Student, University of Kentucky
Explore Financial Aid Options
Undergraduate degree-seeking students have access to a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans, designed to make education more affordable.
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Students who get involved in activities outside of the classroom tend to do better academically and develop meaningful relationships with others at UK. Our network of student organizations and activities has something for everyone, from academic to professional to fun!
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