New minor formed for study of gender, sexuality and women's studies

A new minor area of study at Pitt-Bradford will examine Gender, Sexuality and Women's Studies.

The new minor consolidates previous minors in Gender Studies and Women's Studies while integrating coursework addressing the topic of sexuality.

The new curriculum and introductory course, Introduction to Gender, Sexuality and Women's Studies, were created by an administrative council composed of Dr. Nancy McCabe, professor of writing and program coordinator; Dr. Helma de Vries-Jordan, assistant professor of political science; Stephanie Eckstrom, coordinator of the Master of Social Work program at Pitt-Bradford; Dr. Tammy Haley, associate professor of nursing; and Dr. Tracee Howell, assistant professor of English.

Program faculty are actively engaged in research, scholarship, and writing projects linked to gender, sexuality and women's studies.

In addition to the introductory course, students will select five additional courses from a list of nearly two dozen classes that includes choices such as Latina Writers, LGBTQ Politics and Sociology of Gender. Many courses required for the minor also satisfy general education requirements students must meet.

In general, the curriculum explores the impact of social, cultural, historic, economic, and political influences on identity, the fluidity of gender identity and sexuality, and the intersections of gender identity and sexuality with other aspects of identity.

The minor also seeks to raise awareness about the experiences, economic conditions, contributions, and human rights concerns of women and members of the LBGTQ community.

Students will be encouraged to participate in applied experiences such as service learning, internships, research, and study abroad to expose them to gender identity and sexuality in multicultural and international contexts.

“A unique aspect of the minor is that it helps to integrate identity and embrace diversity, inclusion, and global perspectives in both the curriculum and in related programming on the campus,” McCabe said.

Members of the administrative council are already involved in and will help organize events for Women's History Month, Sexual Assault Awareness Month, National Coming Out Day, the Transgender Day of Remembrance, and Safe Zone trainings for the campus and community.

For more information on the minor, contact McCabe at 814-362-0785 or ngm4@pitt.edu.