Gender and sexuality Studies Senior Project
The senior project is a significant component of the Gender and Sexuality Studies curriculum and is required of all majors.
All graduating majors must complete an intersectional research paper, or a comparable creative project, demonstrating knowledge of more than one disciplinary approach to the study of gender and sexuality in relation to race, class, nationality, ability, religion, and age among other vectors of difference. Students may draw on approaches from fields such as trans studies, literary and cultural studies, history, religion, philosophy, sociology and anthropology, dance and performance studies, and health sciences, among others represented across the program’s course offerings.
The project’s specifications may be determined by the student in consultation with either their GSS 399 instructor or GSS 398 research supervisor.
Options for Completion
Senior majors are strongly encouraged to fulfill their capstones by taking GSS 399: Advanced Topics in Gender and Sexuality. In an instance in which registering for the capstone may not be possible due to, for example, off-campus study, a student may complete their capstone through GSS 398: Independent Research.
GSS 399: Advanced Topics in Gender and Sexuality Studies
Taught as a seminar, it offers an opportunity for students to integrate their studies of women and gender across disciplines and to become more aware of the intricate web of gender, race, culture, and class that informs women’s experiences. Offered annually in the spring semester. The course provides a capstone to the major and priority is given to majors/concentrators.
GSS 398: Independent Research
Independent work is guided by a faculty member. Students need to have the necessary background, including appropriate coursework, before an independent project is approved. A student may not substitute an IS/IR course for a course regularly offered in a department or program. IS/IR culminates in at least one product (a paper, laboratory report, work of art, etc.)
Timeline
Although all seniors would end up defining their own experience at their own pace, there are common times of the senior year in which you are recommend to plan ahead with your academic advisor and maintain constant communication. During fall semester of your senior year, you will complete a “senior project survey” to inform the program director of your plans for your capstone. Traditionally, students present their finding during a showcase in Early May, and then are notified of successful completion around Reading Day.