Program Summary

WOMEN'S, FEMINIST, AND QUEER STUDIES - Certificate of Achievement

The Certificate of Achievement in Women’s, Feminist, and Queer Studies provides in-depth knowledge of gender and sexual equality within a condensed curriculum and enhances career prospects in various fields by enriching understanding of these vital subjects. Students benefit from a holistic perspective that transcends traditional boundaries, equipping them with a well-rounded understanding. Students obtain the tools and knowledge to advocate for gender and sexual equity, making a positive impact in their community and workplace. This Certificate of Achievement offers a concise yet comprehensive exploration of women's, feminist, and queer studies. Designed for individuals seeking to enhance their existing degrees, advance their careers, or expand their knowledge, this program delves into diverse disciplines, from history and literature to psychology and sociology.

Career Opportunities
The Certificate of Achievement in Women’s, Feminist, and Queer Studies will prepare students for a wide range of career opportunities, offering both professional development for current practitioners and entry points for emerging workers. Existing counseling, social work, education, and advocacy professionals may leverage this certificate to enhance their qualifications for promotions or specialized roles, particularly in areas like domestic violence and sexual assault prevention, LGBTQ2S+ advocacy, or diversity and inclusion training. The certificate also serves as a stepping stone for those seeking careers in legal services, where knowledge of gender and queer theory is increasingly relevant for human rights and family law cases, as well as in public policy, where advocacy for gender equity and LGBTQ2S+ rights is crucial.
Require Core: Complete at least ONE course from this list
Units: 3.0
Core Courses
3.0
ETHN 219
INTRODUCTION TO QUEER STUDIES
3.0
OR
ETHN 234
WOMEN OF COLOR
3.0
OR
SOC 208
INTRODUCTION TO GENDER STUDIES
3.0
Elective Course: Select at least ONE course from each area: Identity, Health, and Intersectionality. Students can select from required core courses or electives to satisfy the total unit requirement.
Units: 9.0
Area 1: Identity
3.0
ASHS 218
HUMAN SEXUALITY: EXPERIENCE & EXPRESSION
3.0
OR
ENGL 217
WOMEN AND GENDER IN LITERATURE
3.0
OR
HIST 237
HISTORY OF AMERICAN WOMEN
3.0
Area 2: Health
3.0
ASHS 215
FEMINIST APPROACHES TO CARE AND COMMUNITY WELLNESS
3.0
OR
HSCI 203
WOMEN'S HEALTH SCIENCE
3.0
OR
NUTR 218
MATERNAL AND CHILD NUTRITION
3.0
Area 3: Intersectionality
3.0
ETHN 230
INTRODUCTION TO SOCIAL JUSTICE AND ETHNIC STUDIES
3.0
OR
ETHN 231
DECOLONIZATION AND RACIAL JUSTICE MOVEMENTS
3.0
OR
ETHN 235
RACE, ETHNICITY, AND POP CULTURE
3.0
OR
ETHN 250
INTRODUCTION TO BLACK STUDIES
3.0
OR
ETHN 260
INTRODUCTION TO CHICANX AND LATINX STUDIES
3.0
Total: 12.0
Program Outcomes
Analyze and apply key concepts in feminist and queer theories, such as intersectionality, equity, social justice, and decolonization, to issues affecting women and LGBTQ+ communities.
Essay or presentation utilizing a course concept
Critically examine the historical and contemporary social movements related to gender and sexuality, assessing their impact on local, national, and global levels.
Report on a community service or social movement organization
Evaluate the influence of societal structures and cultural norms on identity, health, labor, and education, particularly as they pertain to women and LGBTQ+ individuals.
Analytic memo on an institutional inequity and advocacy to change it
Demonstrate skills in cultural competency and inclusive communication, in preparation for effective engagement within diverse professional and community settings.
Presentation or group discussion on sensitive topics related to gender and sexuality
Identify career pathways and transfer opportunities that align with the knowledge and skills gained in women’s, feminist, and queer studies.
Participate in a career fair and write a report on the experience