Some of the most innovative research in specific subject areas is now occurring under the heading of women's studies. This recent scholarship on women and women's experiences is relevant to both male and female students seeking a liberal arts education. The interdisciplinary and critical approach of women's studies encourages the pursuit of an understanding of the role of values in teaching, research, and the construction of knowledge. Students in women's studies develop perceptions and awareness that extend beyond the classroom in both time and scope. The awareness of gender and gender differences profoundly affects the way people live their daily lives.
Students carry that awareness into all of their course work, including their major fields of study.
They develop the ability to perceive systems at work and observe themselves in relation to other systems and institutions. The minor requires five full courses from the list designated for women's studies. To illustrate the collaborative and interdisciplinary nature of women studies, some courses are team-taught by faculty members of the various involved departments. Although courses in women's studies are popular among Concordia students, class sizes are usually kept small. Students are encouraged to give input into existing courses, participate in cooperative learning experiences and develop independent projects.