A major in Gender and Women’s Studies combines a strong historical foundation with communications and critical analysis skills, and provides students with knowledge of feminist theory, cultural production, social movements, and sexuality and race theory. Graduates are prepared to pursue a wide variety of career paths either directly related to gender issues (such as activism, outreach, or policy) or to which they can apply a lens of gender, culture, and social systems (including journalism, public relations, sales, creative arts, or education). This major is also excellent preparation for graduate studies in Gender and Women’s Studies, cultural studies, English, education, public health, geography, media arts, and many other fields.
Gender and Women’s Studies, like many majors, teaches content and skills that can be applied to a wide variety of career fields. This major does not restrict you to a specific field. Following are career possibilities that may most closely relate to this major. Many of the career areas and job titles below require an advanced degree.
Potential Career Areas:
- Education
- Activism
- Health care
- Arts promotion or sales
- Journalism
- Public relations
- Outreach
- Communications
Sample Employers:
- Colleges and universities
- Magazines
- Websites
- Nonprofit agencies
- Activist organizations
- Political campaigns
- Clinics and hospitals
- Social service organizations
- Bookstores
- Publishing houses
- Public relations firms
Sample Job Titles and National Salary Ranges:
| Job Title | Salary Range |
|
Women’s Rights Activist
|
$32,000 - $75,000
|
|
Women’s Health Policy Analyst
|
$30,000 - $60,000
|
|
Gender or Ethnic Studies Instructor, Postsecondary
|
$36,000 - $68,000
|
|
Bookseller
|
$20,000 - $25,000
|
|
Medical Ethicist
|
$37,737 - $61,732
|
|
Health Educator
|
$25,000 - $50,000
|
|
Public Relations Assistant
|
$18,000 - $30,000
|
|
Magazine Researcher
|
$14,000 - $35,000
|
|
Newspaper Columnist
|
$20,000 - $80,000
|
|
Human Services Worker
|
$17,900 - $27,280
|
|
Government Affairs Specialist
|
$30,000 - $60,000
|
|
Women’s Ministry Director
|
$18,500 - $36,200
|
|
Internet Editorial Writer
|
$22,000 - $125,000
|
|
Victim Advocate
|
$25,000 - $55,000
|
|
Community Organizer
|
$18,000 - $45,000
|
Sources of Information: United States Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics (2010); DISCOVER (2011); Facts on File: Ferguson’s Career Guidance Center (2011).