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Bachelor of Arts, Majors and Minors

Women’s Studies

General Description

Women’s Studies at VIU explores the history, thought and experiences of women from a range of viewpoints using a multi-disciplinary approach. It encourages students to look critically at cultural productions, institutions, ideologies, sexuality and language as ways of examining the historical and contemporary status of women. In addition to gender, specificities of race, class, sexual orientation, age and disability/ability will be addressed as key elements in developing sound critical theories. Particular attention is paid to the history and experiences of First Nations women, both in courses with a uniquely First Nations focus, as well as in the content of other required courses. The program is grounded in feminist theory and teaching/learning styles, and recognizes the value of a participatory classroom where diverse life experiences are included and recognized.

Requirements for a Major

Students must fulfill all the Institutional B.A. degree requirements, including Degree English Requirements and courses listed below:

Years 1 and 2: WOST 200/201 or 210/211 and 6 credits at 100/200 level of courses with Women’s Studies focus – e.g., CRIM 213; ENGL 244, 245; SOCI 220, 221; HIST 210, 211.

Years 3 and 4: 30 credits at 300/400 level of courses with Women’s Studies focus, including approved courses offered by other departments, as follows: WOST 305/306; a minimum of 24 credits of other WOST courses numbered 300 and above; including up to 6 credits of courses offered by other departments such as HIST 473, 474, 478, English courses such as ENGL 316 when the particular subject matter is women writers.

Note: WOST 380 can be taken more than once for credit.

Due to limited offerings from the Women’s Studies Department, it may not be possible to complete a major in four years. Students wishing to complete a Major in Women’s Studies should contact the Chair of Women’s Studies as early as possible in their degree planning process.

Requirements for a Minor

Students must fulfill all the Institutional B.A. degree requirements, including Degree English Requirements and courses listed below:

Years 1 and 2: 6 credits from either WOST 200/201 or 210/211. In addition, students are encouraged to choose electives from the following second year courses: CRIM 213; ENGL 244, 245; SOCI 220, 221; HIST 210, 211.

Years 3 and 4: Minimum of 18 credits of Women’s Studies courses numbered 300 and above, including up to 6 credits of approved courses offered by other departments, such as HIST 473, 474, 478, English courses such as ENGL 316 when the particular subject matter is women writers.

Please consult the Chair of Women’s Studies to find out which courses in other departments are approved in any given year. Students interested in a Minor should consult with the Chair of Women’s Studies.

Note: WOST 380 can be taken more than once for credit.

Updated February 29, 2012