Gender and Women's Studies

The Department of Gender & Women’s Studies at CSUN emphasizes interdisciplinary, cross-cultural and transnational studies with a focus on gender.

It includes course work in feminist theories, women and social movements, transnational feminisms, women of color feminisms, decolonial and postcolonial feminisms, women’s economic conditions in the context of globalization and development, productions of women in the media and literature, queer studies, women’s health and masculinity studiThe major and minor provide a background for various careers such as law, counseling and healthcare or advanced graduate degrees in fields such as Gender Studies, Women’s Studies, education, communication, political, cultural and media studies.

Now you can Double Major in Gender & Women's Studies!

Double majoring in Gender & Women’s Studies is one of the best career choices you have today at CSUN.  Make yourself distinctive from others in your primary major by adding GWS as a double major. It is easy to do. Select out of a variety of combinations of majors that pique your interests and become an expert in gender and another area of study. Talk to our academic advisors about designing a plan that fits your needs.

Fall 2025 Course Offerings

narco culture gws 495nc

Narco Culture, Gender, & Sexuality GWS 495NC (21053)

Learn about the theories, histories, and politics of narco corridos. narco art, and narco narratives. Explore the intersections of gender, sexuality, race, and class within the US-Mexico drug trade and war on drugs.

Narco Culture, Gender, & Sexuality GWS 495NC flyer (PDF)

Feminist Science Fiction Class

Feminist Science Fictions GWS 495FSF (21054)

Do you enjoy stories that imagine and explore the possibilities of the future?! Are you interested in tales of aliens, robots, technology, and space exploration? Do you ever wonder what science fiction has to say about gender? If so, enroll in Feminist Science Fictions!

Feminist Science Fictions GWS 495FSF flyer (PDF)

Empower Your Academic and Professional Growth

Explore our programs, connect with dedicated advisors, and uncover career opportunities. Dive into a supportive community that champions equity and social change.

Job Openings

Visit our webpage for current opportunities and connect with the Career Center for support.

Scholarships

Every year the Department of Gender and Women's Studies awards three scholarships to outstanding junior or senior students.

Academic Programs

Explore our comprehensive academic offerings, including the Major and Minor in Gender and Women’s Studies, double major options, tailored graduation plans, and detailed course information in our catalog.

Apr 17

Evolutionary Spaces: Octavia E. Butlers Planetary Arguments for the Human

Time: 1:00 pm — 2:30 pm
Location: Extended University Commons (EU) 132

Get the details

Apr 24

Reproductive Justice and Black Women’s Maternal Health.

Time: 1:00 pm — 2:15 pm
Location: Zoom

Get the details
FSA club officers

GWS Department Mission

We see our department as a force for change in California, in the nation as a whole, and in the world, change which strives to achieve social justice, deepen democracy, and create world peace. 

Academic Programs

Department of Gender and Women's Studies

Chair Sheena Malhotra

  • Phone: 818-677-3110
  • Fax: 818-677-7094

Send email


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