Gender, Women's, and Sexuality Studies | College of Liberal Arts and Sciences | The University of Iowa

Explore intersectionality

Where the humanities, sciences, health, and arts unite.

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.

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students in a social justice classroom listening to lecture on MLK

Develop a deeper understanding

Learn how to think, research, and write critically while exploring how a degree in gender, women's, and sexuality studies can position you for an exciting career in research, social services, government, academia, and more.

Develop a deeper understanding

Amplify your graduate studies

Graduate students across the disciplines have found their scholarship enhanced by the perspectives this interdisciplinary field of study offers.

Amplify your graduate studies

Learn from experts across fields

Our faculty give us strength in both social sciences and the humanities, enabling us to continue to develop the breadth of interdisciplinary strength we believe is the cornerstone of a strong gender, women's and sexuality studies program.

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.

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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.

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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

55 faculty

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

News and announcements

Cinda Coggins-Mosher, Interim Departmental Executive Officer, receives the Distinguished Professor of Instruction Award

Tuesday, September 30, 2025

Cinda Coggins-Mosher. Interim Departmental Executive Officer, received the Distinguished Professor of Instruction Award recognizes candidates who excel in teaching, institutional, and professional service, and their record of publications at time of advancement. The two-year award carries a one-time financial award, which may be used for research and teaching initiatives.

Teresa Magnum, CLAS English, GWSS faculty member recognized for efforts to support the humanities

Tuesday, September 30, 2025

College of Liberal Arts and Sciences faculty member Teresa Mangum is the 2025 recipient of the Francis March Award, a prestigious recognition of her contributions the field of English.

Brady G'Sell wins President's Civic Engagement Leadership Award

Tuesday, July 1, 2025

Brady G'Sell is an Assistant Professor of Anthropology and Gender, Women's, and Sexuality Studies. Her research explores the intersection of citizenship, kinship, and economy in the daily lives of South African families. Professor G'Sell co-created Iowa City's inaugural African Festival of Arts and Culture held this past fall and played a key role in planning the 2024 Engagement Summit hosted by the Office of Community Engagement. At the summit, she led the session "Do Good Well: Building Community Partnerships," highlighting best practices for fostering meaningful and mutually beneficial collaborations between faculty, students, and community organizations.

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Events

Midterm Reset @ the Museum

Wednesday, November 5, 2025 5:00pm to 6:00pm

University of Iowa Museum of Natural History

Midterms are upon us, and we’re practicing the art of the pause here at the Museum of Natural History. Join us for one or all three upcoming events designed to help you unwind and recharge through origami, movement, and mindfulness at the museum.

Origami in Bird Hall
Step into the calm of Bird Hall for an origami break led by Mary Alice, our Visitor Services Coordinator. Fold peaceful paper birds, quiet your mind, and take a moment to breathe. No experience needed — just show up and recharge.
Wedne...