College of Humanities & Social Sciences

WHAT IS WOMEN'S STUDIES?
Women's Studies is an interdisciplinary approach to university study which prepares students to critique power structures relating to sex, sexuality, race, class, age, abilities, belief systems, and other societal institutions. "Women's Studies has been defined by the founders of the National Women's Studies Association as an 'educational strategy' for change, with a double purpose: to expose and redress the oppression of women. Women's Studies is the intellectual and research arm of the women's movement." (Humm, The Dictionary of Feminist Theory, 1990). Women's Studies, however, is more than traditionally academic; it is also committed to activism, connecting theory with practice. Hence, Women's Studies students have options to include community work as part of their degree program. This can be acheived with internships, as well as through course and club projects.

In Women's Studies classes, students can learn about women's history; feminism; health and reproductive issues; the politics of sex; images of women in literature; racial and cultural differences among women; educational issues related to gender and race; empowerment through education and self-defense; economics; parenting; lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender issues; images of women in the media; the psychology of women; femininity, masculinity and other gender constructs; and so much more. Women's Studies also prepares students for a wide range of careers. Today, issues such as sexual harassment, sexual orientation differences, racism, child care, etc. are issues being addressed by employers. With a major or minor in Women's Studies, students can earn an undergraduate degree which will make them more attractive to future employers. See the "Careers in Women's Studies" page.

EXPANDING PERCEPTIONS
The program in Women's Studies at William Paterson is over 25 years old, making it one of the oldest such programs in the country. Yet the major is amongf the newest on campus. An interdisciplinary course of study, the major provides career opportunities in education, business, the arts, communication, law, politics, medicine, the sciences and a host of other endeavors. Graduates are working in diverse occupations as academics, communication consultants, spiritual leaders, union organizers, advocates for social, health and human services programs, art therapists, librarians, lawyers, law enforcement professionals, youth educators, counselors, and numerous other professions.

Because of its interdisciplinary nature, the course of study is designed to provide historical and multicultural perspectives not just on women, but on gender, sex, race, class, religion and sexual orientation, and their impact on everyday life. Women's Studies courses focus on opening intellectual horizons and links with traditional academic disciplines. Many students who major in Women's Studies may also have a major in another field, such as history, political science, business, communication, psychology, English, education, or sociology. Those in other disciplines often select Women's Studies as a minor.

The Department offices and resources are located in rooms H205, H210, and the Tower of Hunziker Hall. There is a Computer Lab in Hunzinker Hall 200.

ACCENT ON ENRICHMENT
In addition to course offerings, the University is home to a growing feminist community. The Feminist Collective is a student government chartered group established to provide a forum for addressing feminist issues as they impact on students' lives. Open to the campus community, the Collective sponsors speakers and performances among its many activities.

The Women's Center, established in 1993, serves as a drop-in center, resource center, and provides counseling, crisis intervention and support groups to meet student needs. In conjunction with the Department of Women's Studies, and other campus groups, the Center develops year-round programming, with special events scheduled to coincide with Women's History Month each March.

Department of Women's Studies
Wayne, NJ 07470
Undergraduate Program:
(973)720-3547 Fax: (973)720-2912

Chairperson Arlene Holpp Scala:
scalaa@wpunj.edu
(973) 720-3405

This site was authored by Dr. Arlene Holpp Scala.