Women's Studies

A Brief History
Women's Studies (WISE), as an educational and intellectual enterprise, has been gaining momentum over the past 20 years. The Brock Women's Studies Program was approved by the University Senate in 1990 and is dedicated to the memory of the 14 women engineering students who died at the Ecole Polytechnique in 1989, and whose death dramatized the need for a better understanding of the relationships between women and men.

What is Women's Studies?
Women's Studies examines how gender influences both women and men. Using an interdisciplinary, cross-cultural approach, the curriculum encourages students to consider diversity, and to develop a critical perspective on culture, social structures, institutions, human relations and welfare, ideologies, history, science, language, etc. Students in the combined major program in WISE are expected to develop the analytical skills to examine questions derived from feminist theories, as well as to evaluate scholarship that does not take this perspective into account. The program also encourages students to undertake self-generated projects in order to explore the validity of established theoretical frameworks as well as the role of gender, and becoming sensitive to gender issues, helps individuals to become ethically, socially and politically responsible In their lives. It also helps students gain new insights and perspectives in their chosen careers.

What are my study options?
You may pursue a single major or a combined major with another program in the humanities, sciences or social sciences leading you to a three year Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a four year Honours BA. The interdisciplinary emphasis of the program encourages you to take any combined major program that is consistent with the program's academic objectives and your interests. A certificate is also offered, providing an overview if you already have a degree in a different field or if you do not want to enter the degree program. If you are working in a related field, this option may be of special interest.

Why study Women's Studies at Brock?
Career Opportunities
A Women's Studies background is useful to employers in areas such as human resources and employment services, health and social services, government, education, research and policy, media, communications and film, business, or law. Administration, research, consultant and fundraising careers are available in organizations providing services and advocacy support.

While a Women's Studies degree will prepare you for a wide variety of careers, some may require professional graduate qualifications (e.g. a Master's degree) as well as an undergraduate (first) degree. Some specific occupations include:

Family Lawyer
Social Worker
Family Practice Medicine
Director/Coordinator of Women's Organizations
Human Rights Organizations

• The multidisciplinary nature of Women's Studies will provide you with exposure to a range of disciplines, methodologies, approaches and conceptual paradigms.
• You can tailor your program to meet your individual interests and needs.
• You can earn credit while gaining valuable fieldwork experience!
• The program promotes and facilitates your participation in university and external community organizations.
• Strong community involvement provides you with the opportunity to participate in various events related to your field of study, providing you with the opportunity to gain valuable, hands on experience.
• Awards are presented to students in years two to four in recognition of academic standing and participation in the university community.
• Small class sizes and an involved faculty provide you with individual attention.