Gender Studies

Gender Studies traces histories, theories and experiences of gender and its intersections with race, class and sexuality. It explores the everyday practices, institutions and cultural texts of students’ gendered lives, investigates the social and cultural legacies that inform contemporary lived experience, and serves as a reminder of the forms of dominant thinking and dissent on sexuality and identity in the past. 

The major is grounded in interdisciplinary methodologies and equips students with the analytical, communication, and advocacy skills to foster equity, diversity and inclusion in any context. It also emphasises skills in collaboration, leadership, group dynamics, and literacy in screen, print and digital cultures. The Gender Studies major draws on knowledge and perspectives from a range of disciplines including anatomy and human biology; anthropology; art history; biomedical science; classics and ancient history; English; history; Indigenous knowledge, history and heritage; law; music; political science and international relations; and work and employment relations.

Globally, industries are addressing gender inequalities and this requires important decisions and contributions to be made by knowledgeable individuals. With equity and diversity at the forefront of many organisational policies, a major in Gender Studies is a valuable addition to any degree as it is grounded in the ethics of equity, diversity and social justice.