Gender and Sexuality Studies, B.A.
The Bachelor of Arts in Gender & Sexuality Studies at Governors State University explores the social, cultural, and historical dimensions of gender, sexuality, and identity to prepare students for inclusive leadership, advocacy, and critical engagement across professions. This program equips students with analytical, research, and communication skills that are essential for careers in advocacy, education, human services, public policy, nonprofit leadership, and community organizing. With mentorship from faculty and opportunities for applied learning, you’ll develop a nuanced understanding of contemporary social issues, strengthen your capacity for inclusive leadership, and prepare for graduate study or careers that support equitable, just communities and institutions.
The Bachelor of Arts in Gender & Sexuality Studies at Governors State University offers an interdisciplinary curriculum that centers equity, diversity, and social justice through the study of gender, sexuality, race, class, and power. Through courses grounded in critical theory, cultural analysis, and community engagement, students learn to examine how identities are shaped by and shape social structures and lived experience.
Career Outcomes
The versatility of the study of gender and sexuality equates to a wide range of career opportunities. You may consider occupations in human services, such as psychology, social work, or human resources, or to continue your academic studies at the graduate level. Students in the Gender and Sexuality program often choose to double major, increasing the specialization of their studies. Many graduates also continue their education in graduate or professional programs such as law, counseling, public administration, social work, or education.
Possible career fields include:
- Social and community services
- Advocacy and nonprofit leadership
- Human resources and diversity initiatives
- Public relations and communications
- Education and student affairs
- Public policy and government
- Counseling and social services
- Journalism and media
- Law and legal advocacy
- Healthcare administration
What You'll Study
Our academic catalog has detailed information about what you'll study, like courses, hours needed for completion, and other requirements.
How to Apply
You'll need certain documents and meet certain requirements in order to apply. Read about them on our admissions pages.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Governors State University offers a range of financial aid options to help undergraduate students make their degree more affordable, including federal, state, institutional, and private funding. To get started, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) using GovState's school code (009145). The FAFSA determines eligibility for grants, loans, work-study programs, and many scholarship opportunities.
Grants, including the Federal Pell Grant and the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), are awarded based on financial need and do not require repayment. Federal Direct Loans provide borrowed funds that must be repaid with interest after graduation.
Why Study Gender and Sexuality Studies at GovState?
At GovState, you’ll learn in a supportive, inclusive academic community where students are encouraged to ask meaningful questions, challenge assumptions, and engage with real-world issues. Our program combines theory with practice, empowering students to become thoughtful leaders, advocates, educators, and changemakers.
Small class sizes, dedicated faculty mentors, and hands-on learning experiences allow students to build strong relationships while developing valuable professional skills.
Get Involved
Gender & Sexuality Studies students are encouraged to expand their learning and leadership through campus involvement, professional organizations, and community initiatives that promote equity, advocacy, and interdisciplinary scholarship. Join or support student clubs that advocate service learning, and human rights and advocacy campaigns; and look to professional organizations that do the same:
National Women’s Studies Association (NWSA) — Offers conferences, publications, and networking for scholars and activists in feminist, gender, and sexuality studies.
GLAAD — An advocacy group working to ensure fair representation of LGBTQ+ people in media; offers student resources and awareness campaigns.
American Sociological Association (ASA) — Provides opportunities for students to engage with research on gender, inequality, and social change.
Highlighted Faculty
Contact Us
- Division of Arts and Letters
- College of Arts and Sciences, E2578
- Governors State University, 1 University Parkway, University Park, IL 60484
- 708.534.4101
- casinfo@govst.edu