The Program in Women's Studies integrates liberal arts education at Agnes Scott by using women's experience and feminist theory to analyze themes in the humanities, fine arts, social sciences and natural sciences. Courses emphasize women's past and present roles in culture, politics, economy, family, society and the arts and sciences. They offer various theoretical approaches to topics such as the representation of gender , lesbian studies, women and the law, gender and language and women in global issues. The program promotes the study of intersections of gender and sexuality with race, ethnicity and nationality in comparative and global contexts. By considering a variety of controversial issues from different perspectives, it encourages debate and critical thinking.
Students develop their skills in oral and written expression.
Heightened self-awareness and commitment to community service are further goals of the program. Students who major or minor in Women's Studies enroll both in courses housed entirely in the program and in courses cross-listed with other disciplines. Faculty who teach in the program include representatives from most of the departments in the College. The Atlanta Semester program offers other opportunities for experiential learning. The Women's Studies program prepares majors to pursue careers in agencies and businesses that focus on women and in a variety of other fields ranging from law to education to religion.