20 Most Affordable Master’s in Women’s Studies for 2020

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Great Value Colleges - Most Affordable

In this ranking of affordable Master’s in women’s studies, we actually take a unique approach. We include lots of on-campus rankings, but also a few online and hybrid options too. So whatever you’re looking for, you can find it here.

Some sample degrees you’ll find in this ranking include:

  • MA in Women’s Studies
  • MA in Women’s and Gender Studies (WSGS)
  • MA in Women, Gender, Spirituality, and Social Justice
  • Master of Humanities/Master of Social Science in Women’s and Gender Studies
  • Online MA-PSY Gender Diversity Studies

**online or hybrid degrees will be indicated in the degree title, as well as in the body of the ranking.

If you’re looking for a graduate degree that will take an advanced and critical look at the intersection of gender, race, class, disability, power struggles (and more!), then you might want to check out a low-cost Master’s in Women’s Studies. Because this graduate degree pulls from many different subjects, an undergraduate degree in Women’s Studies may not be required. You’ll be able to continue your education or work in the activism/social justice side of the discipline. Whatever choice you make, getting your advanced degree in women’s studies will activate understanding and change.

Rating and Ranking Methodology

To develop this ranking of the top affordable Master’s degrees in Women’s Studies, our editors searched for schools that offered cheap graduate programs in Women’s Studies.  To rate and rank these programs, we applied the methodology below using information from Google, the National Center for Educational Statistics (NCES), Payscale.com, and each program’s website. In cases of a tie, the more affordable school pulled the higher rank. If the information didn’t fit within the parameters, zero points were awarded for that category.

Tuition

  • Out-of-State Graduate Tuition Below $10,000: 4 points
  • Out-of-State Graduate Tuition Below $15,000: 3 points
  • Out-of-State Graduate Tuition Below $20,000: 2 points
  • Out-of-State Graduate Tuition Below $25,000: 1 point

Student to Faculty Ratio

  • Less than 20:1: 1 point
  • Less than 15: 1: 2 points
  • Less than 10: 1: 3 points

Return on Investment (ROI) According to Payscale.com

  • Top 500: 1 point
  • Top 300: 2 points
  • Top 150: 3 points

Flexibility of the Program (course delivery, hybrid options, part-time/full-time schedule, etc. ) – 1 point per item

Concentrations/Specializations – 1 point per item

Accreditation (School-Wide and Program-Specific) – 1 point per item

“Wow” Factor – 1 point

#20 Rutgers University-New Brunswick

New Brunswick, New Jersey

M.A. in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies

Website
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16 to 1

Graduate Enrollment: 14,215
Points: 5

20 Most Affordable Master's in Women's Studies

The most enticing thing about the low-cost women’s studies graduate program at Rutger’s University in New Brunswick is that you can complete the degree in just one calendar year. The program offers two tracks to help customize the pursuit. Track one is a traditional approach with a thesis, which is a great option for students who want to continue their academics with a doctoral degree. The second track is called Feminist Practices for Social Change. This option is best for students who want to engage in activism and social justice, and it will have a practicum component instead of a written thesis. The core courses will be different in each track. Rutger’s University-New Brunswick is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Out-of-State Graduate Tuition: $30,144

#19 University of Colorado Denver

Denver, Colorado

Master of Humanities or the Master of Social Science in Women’s and Gender Studies

Website
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17 to 1

Graduate Enrollment: 9,202
Points: 5

20 Most Affordable Master's in Women's Studies
 

Through the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the University of Colorado Denver offers a low-cost graduate degree in women’s studies. Students can earn an on-campus Master of Humanities or a Master of Social Science, a choice that will ultimately be up to you and your career path. The curriculum will focus on feminist theory, queer theory, postcolonial and ethnic studies, and cultural studies. Classes in the concentration include Goddess Traditions, Whores and Saints: Medieval Women, International Women’s Resistance, and Women’s Rights, Human Rights: Global Perspectives. UC Denver is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Out-of-State Graduate Tuition: $22,590

#18 Arizona State University-Tempe

Tempe, Arizona

MA Women and Gender Studies

Website
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19 to 1

Graduate Enrollment: 8,741
Points: 5

20 Most Affordable Master's in Women's Studies

Through the School of Social Transformation, Arizona State University – Tempe offers an affordable Master’s degree in Women’s Studies. The program at ASU takes a solution-oriented approach to this discipline. The benefit of that? When you graduate, you’ll understand how to work through real-world problems that pertain to issues women might face. Among the 30 required credits, students will take a mandatory core and an array of electives. All work will culminate in a 6-credit applied project. An internship is an option for interested students. ASU-Tempe is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Out-of-State Graduate Tuition: $26,160

#17 CUNY Graduate School and University Center

New York, New York

MA in Women’s and Gender Studies

Website
Student-Faculty Ratio: 7 to 1

Graduate enrollment: 5,754
Points: 6

20 Most Affordable Master's in Women's Studies

At the Graduate School and University Center in New York, graduate students can earn an affordable MA in Women’s and Gender Studies. The program is 30 credits in length and will consist of 4 core courses and 5 elective courses. Core courses include Feminist Texts and Theories, Global Feminisms, Topics in Women’s and Gender Studies, and Research Seminar in Methodology. If you are a full-time student, you can complete the MA in 1.5 years, but part-time students can expect a 4-year time-frame. The Graduate School and University Center is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Out-of-State Graduate Tuition: $23,160

#16 Sarah Lawrence College

Bronxville, New York

MA in Women’s History

Website
Student-Faculty Ratio: 9 to 1

Graduate Enrollment: 299
Points: 7

20 Most Affordable Master's in Women's Studies

If diving deep into the history of women and women’s issues is intriguing to you, then you will want to check out the affordable MA in Women’s History at Sarah Lawrence College. In fact, it was the first program of its kind so you know you’ll be a part of a reputable women’s studies program. A thesis is required, and part-time tracks are available in 3 and 4 year stints. A unique feature of this program is its partnership with Pace University Law School, which offers a joint degree in Women’s History and Law. Graduates will be ready for careers as lawyers, writers, high school teachers, archivists, public historians, museum professionals, theater professionals, entrepreneurs, activists, and psychiatrists. Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Out-of-State Graduate Tuition: $29,034

#15 University of Wisconsin-Madison

Madison, Wisconsin

MA in Gender and Women’s Studies

Website
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17 to 1

Graduate Enrollment: 11,758
Points: 7

20 Most Affordable Master's in Women's Studies

The affordable MA in Women’s Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison will take a critical look at gender through a global, local, and historical lens. The program will be 30 credits in length and will be multidisciplinary in nature. Students must take 15 credits with the Women’s Studies realm, and the remaining credits can be of your choosing. But don’t worry, you’ll have help from an advisor. At the end of the program, students will choose between a thesis and a comprehensive project. UW-Madison is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Out-of-State Graduate Tuition: $24,054

#14 Northcentral University

La Jolla, California

Online MA-PSY Gender Diversity Studies

Website
Student-Faculty Ratio: 1 to 1

Graduate Enrollment: 10,465
Points: 7

20 Most Affordable Master's in Women's Studies

Northcentral University takes a unique, yet profound approach to its affordable online Master’s in Women’s Studies. First of all, this is an online degree and will result in an MA in Psychology with a specialization in Gender Diversity Studies. The program believes that understanding gender is part of emotional health. This psychology program focuses on gender as a whole, rather than the history of women, so this degree could be a great pair for someone who is looking for a career in the psychology field. The 30-credit program is expected to take 18-months to complete. Courses include Psychology of Sex and Sexuality, Psychology of Gender, LGBTQ Affirmative Psychology, and Theories of Personality. It is important to note that you must maintain a 3.0 GPA. Northcentral University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.
Out-of-State Graduate Tuition: $16,983

#13 University of Louisville

Louisville, Kentucky

MA in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies

Website
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14 to 1

Graduate Enrollment: 5,789
Points: 8

20 Most Affordable Master's in Women's Studies

The good news about the University of Louisville’s affordable MA in Women’s Studies program is that any undergraduate degree will work for admission. But it’s important to note that if you don’t have any background in women’s studies, you might need some prerequisite work. Among the 37 credit hours, students will take 9 credit hours of a concentration and can choose either a thesis or a culminating project for graduation. All courses are offered in the afternoon and evening, so if you still need to work, you’ll be able to balance it easily. A dual MSSW/MA in Social Work and Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies is also available and would be a great option for someone seeking a career in social work. The University of Louisville is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.
Out-of-State Graduate Tuition: $27,114

#12 San Francisco State University

San Francisco, California

Master of Arts in Women and Gender Studies

Website
Student-Faculty Ratio: 23 to 1

Graduate Enrollment: 3,247
Points: 8

20 Most Affordable Master's in Women's Studies

San Francisco State University offers a truly customizable cheap Master’s degree in Women’s Studies. Core classes include:

  • Introduction to Graduate Studies
  • Feminist Social Movements
  • Queer Theories
  • Intellectual Genealogies
  • Feminist Research Methods

Students will then take 12 credits from various areas, a schedule that an advisor will assist with. To end the program, you will pick from a creative project, a field study project, or a thesis. Internship opportunities are also available. For undergrad students, SFSU offers a blended BA/MA program in Women’s Studies. San Francisco State University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.
Out-of-State Graduate Tuition: $16,680

#11 Oregon State University

Corvallis, Oregon

M.A. in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies

Website
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17 to 1

Graduate Enrollment: 5,287
Points: 8

20 Most Affordable Master's in Women's Studies

The affordable Master’s in Women Studies at Oregon State University will highlight the discipline from three specific lenses: women of color feminisms, transnational feminisms, and queer feminist studies. Required coursework includes Orientation and Professionalization, Systems of Oppression in Women’s Lives, Theories of Feminism, Feminist Research. In addition, a thesis will be required. Students can then customize their degree with their choice of electives in three different cluster areas. For admission, the GRE is optional, but could aid in scholarship opportunities. Oregon State University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Out-of-State Graduate Tuition: $24,975

#10 University of North Texas

Denton, Texas

Master’s in Women’s and Gender Studies

Website
Student-Faculty Ratio: 25 to 1

Graduate Enrollment: 6,866
Points: 9

20 Most Affordable Master's in Women's Studies

Students enrolled in the on-campus University of North Texas’ Master’s in Women’s and Gender Studies program will take 30 credit hours. Required courses include Feminist Theory, Gender & Human Trafficking, and Gender & Globalization. Students will then get to customize their degree with the rest of the credits. And finally, students will get to choose from 3 exit options: a thesis track or a non-thesis track (with an internship/fieldwork option or a special project option). Because this program is interdisciplinary in nature, it is a good fit for students will all kinds of undergraduate backgrounds. A related degree in LGBT Studies is also available. UNT is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.
Out-of-State Graduate Tuition: $13,496

#9 California Institute of Integral Studies

San Francisco, California

MA in Women, Gender, Spirituality, and Social Justice (hybrid options)

Website
Student-Faculty Ratio: 12 to 1

Graduate Enrollment: 1,391
Points: 10

20 Most Affordable Master's in Women's Studies

The California Institute of Integral Studies is right for the person who is driven by the spirit within and who can’t separate spirituality from all aspects of life. The degree will result in an MA in Women, Gender, Spirituality, and Social Justice. Students will be able to also choose an area of concentrated scholarship, including:

  • Ecofeminism/ecology
  • Women in world religions
  • Mysteries, sacred arts, and healing
  • Diversity and social justice 
  • Spiritual activism and Leadership

Of the 36-credits, 19 of them must be taken face-to-face. The remaining 17 can be taken online or face-to-face. Graduates of this program will be able to pursue a variety of careers, like activists, educators, healers, facilitators, artists, and socially conscious entrepreneurs. CA Institute of Integral Studies is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.
Out-of-State Graduate Tuition: $21,708

#8 Simmons University

Boston, Massachusetts

MA in Gender/Cultural Studies

Website
Student-Faculty Ratio: 6 to 1

Graduate Enrollment: 4,273
Points: 10

20 Most Affordable Master's in Women's Studies

Simmons University, based in Boston, offers a low-cost Masters degree in Women’s Studies that results in an MA in Gender and Cultural Studies. The program will examine the ways in which race, ethnicity, nationality, class, gender, sexuality, and sexual orientation intersect. Students will take 8 classes over the course of two years. A part-time track is available, too, but it will take closer to 5 years to complete. A culminating research project will be required. Dual degree options are also available for interested students. Options include dual degree with our Master in Public Policy, M.S. in Education, or Master of Arts in Teaching. Simmons University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Out-of-State Graduate Tuition: $21,654

#7 DePaul University

Chicago, Illinois

MA in Women’s and Gender Studies

Website
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15 to 1

Graduate Enrollment: 7,930
Points: 10

20 Most Affordable Master's in Women's Studies

Looking for an on-campus graduate degree in women’s studies that you can afford and that works with your schedule? Well, take a good look at DePaul University’s MA in Women’s and Gender Studies. Here, classes are offered in the evenings, so you can still manage your work or home life. You can earn your graduate degree in just two years. Among the 48 required credits are classes like Feminist Genealogies in Women’s and Gender Studies; Globalization, Transnationalism, and Gender; and Women, Gender, Agency, and Social Change. For the final project requirement, students have four customizable options: a thesis, a practical project, a creative project, or a portfolio. DePaul University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Out-of-State Graduate Tuition: $19,584

#6 University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Greensboro, North Carolina

MA in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies

Website
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17 to 1

Graduate Enrollment: 3,465
Points: 10

20 Most Affordable Master's in Women's Studies

Through the College of Arts and Sciences, the University of North Carolina Greensboro offers an affordable Master of Arts in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. The program is extremely customizable, offering 3 required core courses, a capstone experience, and a 21-credit individual plan of study. Students can choose from multidisciplinary class options in fields like education, philosophy, history, social work, business administration, and more. Students interested in pursuing a doctorate degree or professional degrees can create a plan of study during their Masters work for that pursuit. UNC Greensboro is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.
Out-of-State Graduate Tuition: $18,937

#5 San Diego State University

San Diego, California

MA in Women’s Studies

Website
Student-Faculty Ratio: 27 to 1

Graduate Enrollment: 4,717
Points: 10

20 Most Affordable Master's in Women's Studies

San Diego State University offers a cheap graduate women’s studies program that is full of benefits. First of all, you won’t have to choose between becoming a scholar or an activist; in this program, you’ll get both. You can also enroll on a part-time basis, as well as get to teach classes in your 2nd year. As you complete your degree, you’ll get to choose how it ends, with a choice of thesis, exam, or project. A choice of an international specialization is also available. Lastly, MA students will get the opportunity to publish through book reviews and other kinds of publications. SDSU is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.
Out-of-State Graduate Tuition: $16,680

#4 Minnesota State University-Mankato

Mankato, Minnesota

MA/MS in Gender and Women’s Studies

Website
Student-Faculty Ratio: 22 to 1

Graduate enrollment: 1,882
Points: 10

20 Most Affordable Master's in Women's Studies

Minnesota State University-Mankato offers two degree options for its affordable Master’s in Women’s Studies: a Master of Arts and a Master of Science. The common core in both options includes research, feminist theories, and a graduate seminar. Students will then take restricted electives and unrestrictive electives. Students will engage in independent study and internships. The degree will end in a choice between a thesis or an alternate plan paper. Financial assistance is available. Minnesota State University-Mankato is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Out-of-State Graduate Tuition: $7,694

#3 Texas Woman’s University

Denton, Texas

Master of Arts in Multicultural Women’s and Gender Studies (with online options)

Website
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16 to 1

Graduate Enrollment: 5,130
Points: 12

20 Most Affordable Master's in Women's Studies

Texas Woman’s University’s low-cost graduate degree in women’s studies will merge coursework, research, and community service. The program will result in an MA in Multicultural Women’s and Gender Studies and utilize both online and traditional setting classes. Among the school’s accolades include a top 10 most diverse campus and the largest university depository for research material in women’s studies (in the south and southwest). Students can expect small classrooms and flexible degree plans that are created with working students in mind. A thesis and coursework/comprehensive exam option are both available. Texas Woman’s University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.
Out-of-State Graduate Tuition: $12,569

#2 Southern Connecticut State University

New Haven, Connecticut

MA in Women’s Studies

Website
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14 to 1

Graduate Enrollment: 1,928
Points: 13

20 Most Affordable Master's in Women's Studies

The low-cost Master’s in Women’s Studies program at Southern Connecticut State University can be completed in two years and follows a cohort model. The program is broken down into 4 parts: the required core, an area of specialization, the field experience component, and the exit component (options include a comprehensive exam, a thesis, or a culminating project). Core courses include Feminist Theories and Practices, Research Methods in WMS, History of Feminist Thought, and Global Women’s Issues. To be admitted to the program, applicants must have an undergraduate GPA of 2.5. SCSU is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Out-of-State Graduate Tuition: $17,677

#1 Loyola University Chicago

Chicago, Illinois

MA in WSGS (plus other dual degree options)

Website
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14 to 1

Graduate Enrollment: 5,088
Points: 16

20 Most Affordable Master's in Women's Studies

When it comes to customization, Loyola University Chicago is among the best. In fact, their affordable MA in WSGS offers many dual degree options, as well as areas of concentration. Dual degree options include an MA in WSGS and an MA in Theology or an MA in WSGS and an MA in Social Work. Areas of specialization include:

  • Global and Transnational  
  • Gender and Violence
  • Bodies and Sexualities
  • Religion and Ethics  
  • Expressive Arts 
  • Self-designed concentration

Core coursework includes Global Feminisms, Feminist Research Methods, and History of Feminist Thought. All work will culminate into a capstone experience, where students can choose from an internship, a thesis, or a self-designed practicum. Loyola University Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Out-of-State Graduate Tuition: $18,594

What is an Affordable Master’s in Women’s Studies?

A Master’s degree in women’s studies will take an advanced and critical look at women’s history, roles, and struggles, and examine how factors like race, ethnicity, religion, disability (and more) shape those experiences. Though all programs vary, common themes could include feminism, social justice, sexuality, and gender studies. Graduate women’s studies programs will prepare students for careers in non-profit organizations, social work, post-secondary teaching, law, politics, and more.

Prerequisite Undergraduate degrees:

In order to earn a Master’s degree in Women’s Studies, you must have a Bachelor’s degree first. But because graduate women’s studies programs are interdisciplinary in nature, you won’t necessarily have to have an undergraduate degree in women’s studies to gain admission to a program. Sample undergraduate degrees that might transition easily into graduate women’s studies programs include gender studies, sociology, politics, psychology, and African-American studies. While technically any field could work, you might need a few women’s studies prerequisite courses.

Types of Graduate women’s studies degrees:

While most graduate women’s studies programs will result in Master of Arts, you might see a few more degree types as well.

Master of Arts: a graduate-level degree that focuses on the humanities

Master of Humanities: a graduate-level degree that focuses on subjects like history, literature, and philosophy and examines human behavior and thought.

Master of Social Science: a graduate-level degree that utilizes subjects like sociology, political science, psychology, theology, anthropology, humanities and more.

Master of Science (MS): a graduate-level degree that focuses on the sciences and mathematics

Length of degree:

The length of time it takes for you to get your degree will vary from program to program, as well as personal factors. Most graduate-level programs will be completed in 2 years or so, but some accelerated programs offer a 12 or 18-month completion time. Some programs allow students to complete their degree on a part-time basis, lengthening the time it takes to earn your degree.

How do I get admitted to my cheap graduate women’s studies program?

Getting admitted to a graduate program will be different than getting admitted to an undergraduate program. The admissions process will vary from school, but generally, you can expect some or all the following requirements:

  • an undergraduate Bachelor’s degree in a related field
  • a satisfactory GPA (will vary but generally 3.0)
  • official standardized test scores (GRE, MAT, etc) – not always required/check program requirements
  • any additional required components (letters of recommendation, entrance essay, curriculum vitae/resume, portfolio)

In addition to these factors, graduate schools might also be looking for something deeper. Your interests, career goals, and passions could also play a role in whether or not you get admitted.

What courses will I take in my low-cost graduate Women’s Studies program?

Your coursework will vary from program to program, but in a graduate women’s studies program, you can expect advanced classes in:

Feminist History: courses that will survey the history of women and their struggles over time

Feminist Theory: an analysis of feminist writings and texts that shape feminist thought.

Feminist Research Methods: a course rich in research related to women’s studies, including the qualitative impact of surveys, focus groups, and more.

Specific courses listed in this ranking include:

  • Global Feminisms
  • Feminist Research Methods
  • History of Feminist Thought
  • Feminist Genealogies in Women’s and Gender Studies
  • Globalization, Transnationalism, and Gender
  • Women, Gender, Agency, and Social Change
  • Goddess Traditions
  • Whores and Saints: Medieval Women
  • International Women’s Resistance
  • Women’s Rights, Human Rights: Global Perspectives

What areas of concentration are available for students in a master’s in women’s studies degree program?

Yes, you can specialize in an area even within a Master’s Degree program! A concentration allows you to focus on a subset of courses within your discipline. Not every program will offer a concentration, but if your program does, it would be wise to choose one. It can help you focus your studies towards your career goals and make you more marketable as you pursue jobs.

Here are a few areas of concentration we discuss in this ranking:

  • Global and Transnational  
  • Gender and Violence
  • Bodies and Sexualities
  • Religion and Ethics  
  • Expressive Arts 
  • Self-designed concentration
  • Ecofeminism/ecology
  • Women in world religions
  • Mysteries, sacred arts, and healing
  • Diversity and social justice 
  • Spiritual activism and Leadership

Affordable Graduate Women’s Studies Degree FAQs:

Q: Is getting a graduate degree in Women’s Studies worth it?

A: The answer to this question will rely mostly on what you plan to do with your career. If your job doesn’t require higher schooling, it may not be wise. Yes, you’ll be more of an expert on the subject matter (and that can never hurt), it may not give you a boost in pay. However, it could help you get a promotion in the future. On the other hand, if your career goals require a graduate-level degree, then you better believe getting it is your next step!

Q: How can I pay for my low-cost women’s studies degree?

A: Paying for your graduate degree can be daunting, especially if you’re still paying on your undergraduate degree. The good news is that there are many scholarships available for graduate students. You can check your program details or reach out to the school to see what is offered. In addition, some schools allow graduate students to teach in exchange for reduced tuition.

Q: How do I know if getting a graduate degree in Women’s Studies is right for me?

A: Ultimately this kind of decision will be something you have to decide. But before you take the plunge, you can do a little due diligence to help make the choice a little easier. First, do some research on what kinds of careers you can pursue with an affordable Master’s in Women’s Studies (or look at our information below in the Career FAQs). Take a good look at those jobs, read about what they would entail, and think about your passions and skills. Do they line up with what the job will require? If they do, you are probably making a wise decision. Ultimately, if you’re passionate about feminism and the woman’s perspective, you will find purpose in a career tied to this degree. In general, you will be able to pursue jobs in education, politics, law, non-profits, women’s health organizations, and more.

Q: Are there any affordable women’s studies programs that don’t require standardized testing like the GMAT or GRE for admission?

A: Yes! You will be able to find programs that don’t require testing scores at all, and in other programs, test scores are optional. There are others that require them as well, but also offer waivers for certain GPAs, usually 2.75-3.0.  Some schools even waive these test scores for professional experience or military service. Check your program’s details to see what the requirements are.

Q: Will I be able to take my classes part-time?

A: Yes! Many schools understand that students aren’t just going to school; they are also working or managing complicated life situations. Therefore, most schools allow for students to take their classes on a part-time basis. Several programs on this list have part-time programs available. Keep in mind that this will lengthen the time it takes to get your degree. If you pursue your degree full-time, you can earn your degree in 1-2 years, but part-time, you can expect the degree to take anywhere from 3-5 years!

Q: Will I be able to work and attend school at the same time?

A: The answer to this question will completely depend on YOU, and what you think you can handle. Graduate school is often accelerated and more advanced than undergrad, so consider all those factors when deciding if you can put one more thing on your plate. Try getting a job on-campus or even taking advantage of the graduate teaching positions at your school.

Q: Does my program require an internship?

A: Getting real-world experiences will only help you in your career! Whether or not your school requires an internship will vary from program to program. Most programs on this rankings list do. You will be paired with community organizations that fit your women’s studies missions. Plus you’ll be able to see if that sector of the discipline lights your fire our not. Internships will help you decide which women’s studies career you want to pursue.

Q: What options do I have for the “end” of my program?

Most graduate-level degree programs will have an exit requirement, the most typical being a thesis. While in some programs you won’t be able to choose, some programs on this list do let you choose from a list of options. And that is certainly a benefit. Not every student will excel with a thesis or a portfolio. Options could include:

  • internship
  • thesis
  • self-designed practicum
  • comprehensive exam
  • culminating project

Q: How is graduate school different than undergraduate school?

Generally, graduate school will survey the topics from a more advanced level, will take less time to complete, and could be accelerated in nature. Unlike undergrad where you’ll take classes spanning lots of disciplines, your Master’s degree program will focus on one subject matter, making your coursework more specialized. Graduate school can be intense and will require detailed attention and devotion.

Q: Are doctoral programs available for the field of Women’s Studies?

Yes, there are! A few schools that offer a PhD in Women’s, Gender, and/or Sexuality Studies are as follows:

  • University of Arizona
  • University of Kentucky
  • University of Minnesota
  • University of Washington

Women’s Studies Career Opportunities FAQs:

Q: What kind of jobs can I get with a low-cost Master’s degree in Women’s Studies?

With a degree in Women’s Studies, you won’t have to settle for just one kind of job. The opportunities are vast. And with a Master’s degree? You’ll have even more jobs to pick from. Pursue careers in fields like political organizations, women’s health organizations, human resource organizations, business consulting, and more! Choose a career (from activists to women’s health workers to politicians) that fits not only your degree but also your interests. And the good news is that if you start a career that you don’t like, your degree will allow you job fluidity.

Q: What kind of careers and corresponding salaries can I expect in this field?

According to the US Bureau of Labor and Statistics (data from 2018), here are a few specific jobs and salaries you can expect:

  • Human Resources Manager: $113,300 per year 
  • Training and Development Manager: $111,340 per year 
  • Public Relations Specialist: $60,000 per year 
  • Writer/Author: $62,170 per year
  • Social Worker: $49,470 per year 

You could also pursue jobs like these with additional schooling, experience, or certifications:

  • Women’s rights advocate
  • Post-Secondary Educator
  • Lawyer
  • Midwife or Nurse
  • Mental Health Counselor

Q: Should I join a professional organization in my field?

Yes, you absolutely should join a professional organization! They help you stay up to date on current research, as well as allow you to network with peers in your field. To find the right fit for you, search the internet for professional organizations in your field. A few to look for include:

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