What issues of gender inequality do we face as a society? How is gender constructed in contemporary society and why? This course will challenge students to examine gender stereotypes and gendered issues of inequality by taking a closer look at social systems and institutions such as the family, education, and the media. A critical look at how gender inequality and sexuality intersect will be included.

Sociologists are interdisciplinary scientists who ask questions about how social issues emerge within society. This course will provide an introduction to the issues facing people due to race, gender, class, and other social identities. Students will leave this class with a foundational introduction to sociological concepts and theory, in addition to a deeper understanding of what sociologists can do to alleviate such issues.

For the past few years, there has been a significant media buzz about whether or not people “need” feminism anymore. Opponents on both sides of this controversy have voiced their opinions online in a variety of formats. This course aims to examine some of the many misconceptions associated with feminism, by defining exactly what feminism is and why it is relevant. This class will focus primarily on group discussion and question-raising. Whether you leave this course identifying as a feminist or not, you’ll certainly gain more knowledge about human rights and social justice.

What traits come to mind when you hear “masculine?” How about “feminine?” In this course, you will challenge your ideas about masculinity and femininity by understanding exactly where these stereotypes are derived and how they are portrayed in many different facets of life and society. How do gender stereotypes influence work, education, personality, and sexuality? Pulling from findings in psychology and sociology, this course will give you the tools to evaluate gender in your everyday life.

Do you believe in equal opportunity for all people? Well, you’re probably a feminist then. Feminism is for anyone and everyone (and yes, that means men too). This course will debunk many of the misconceptions associated with feminism, by examining exactly what feminism is and why it is important. Whether you leave this course identifying as a feminist or not, you’ll certainly gain more knowledge about human rights and social justice.

A person living in the United States, on average, views 37,000 television commercials a year (Stankiewicz and Rosselli, 2008). When we watch a commercial advertising a new skin product or a delicious meal, how are our ideals and expectations influenced? Advertisers are very clever in their ability to send us subtle messages about society and acceptable behaviors within society. This course will focus particularly on gender depictions in advertising and other media outlets.