Why Iowa?

Investigate how gender and sexuality shape the challenges society faces in the environment, culture, media, education, health, violence, the economy, and so much more.

Develop a deeper understanding

Amplify your graduate studies

Learn from experts across fields

See yourself here

The Women's Studies Program was established at The University of Iowa in 1974 and is one of the first programs in the United States. Be apart of this rich history and legacy.

Write Your Story

Critical thinking, analysis, and development of expertise in writing, research, and presentation will prepare you for a variety of careers and graduate programs. Alumni have gone on to exciting careers in policy, government, non-profits, social services, and so much more.

GWSS professor teaching to class

Est. 1974

One of the first women's studies programs in the U.S.

large classroom filled with students learning about social justice

3 tracks

Students can earn a major, minor, or graduate certificate in Gender, Women's, and Sexuality Studies

16 faculty

Have joint appointments in GWSS and comes from the humanities and social sciences

students workshopping in class

55 faculty

Affiliated with GWSS and regularly cross-list their courses, supervise graduate students or serve on GWSS committees

student discussing topics in class

News and announcements

Emerson Cram receives funding to pursue summer research projects

Tuesday, June 17, 2025
Emerson Cram is an associate professor in the department of Gender, Women, and Sexuality Studies and Communication Studies. Cram brings expertise in frameworks of critical environmental justice that center recursive relationships between race, disability, sexuality, and the environment. Cram will use the funding for a current book project Mad Ecologies: The Energy Politics of Dependency and Need that requires archival research and fieldwork.

Meena Khandelwal recognized with UI’s highest teaching honor

Thursday, February 20, 2025
Meena Khandelwal is one of four University of Iowa faculty members are recipients of the 2025 President and Provost Award for Teaching Excellence, recognizing their exceptional and ongoing contributions to student learning and success.

Meenakshi Gigi Durham featured on Talk of Iowa's Womanhood series

Tuesday, October 24, 2023
GWSS professor Meenakshi Gigi Durham sits with "Talk of Iowa," host Charity Nebbe to discuss pop culture moments through history that shed light on what it's like to be a woman.

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