Texas Tech University

Women's & Gender Studies

Explore Ideas. Expand Perspectives.

The Women’s and Gender Studies program at Texas Tech University is an interdisciplinary program open to students at both the undergraduate and graduate level. In WGS, you’ll explore how gender shapes experiences across cultures, communities, and history while connecting those ideas to real-world contexts.

Our courses emphasize discussion, collaboration, and creative approaches to learning, helping you develop strong critical thinking and communication skills. Whether you’re preparing for a career or continuing your studies, WGS is a welcoming place to ask big questions, engage with new perspectives, and build connections that last beyond the classroom.

About the Program

Founded in 1981, the Women’s Studies Program began with just three students pursuing the minor. Today, it has grown into a vibrant academic community, offering coursework that counts toward the Core Curriculum in the Humanities and Social and Behavioral Sciences.

History

 
The Women’s & Gender Studies (WGS) program at Texas Tech University was established in 1981 as an interdisciplinary minor within the College of Arts & Sciences. Over the decades, WGS has grown into a vibrant program offering both undergraduate and graduate opportunities, with a strong focus on scholarship, leadership, and community engagement.

Leadership

Directors
2018–Present: Elizabeth Sharp (Human Development & Family Sciences)
2011–2018: Charlotte Dunham (Sociology)
2007–2010: Laura Calkins (History)
2004–2006: Charlotte Dunham (Sociology)
1999–2004: Gwen Sorell (Human Development & Family Sciences)

Coordinators
2008–Present: Tricia Earl
2004–2008: Esther Lichti
1989–1999: Gwen Sorell (Human Development & Family Sciences)
1986–1989: Laurie Churchill (Classical & Romance Languages)
1985–1986: Nancy Hickerson (Anthropology)
1983–1985: Marietta Morrisey (Sociology)

Timeline Highlights

1981 – Women’s Studies minor approved as an interdisciplinary program.
1984 – First All-University Conference on the Advancement of Women in Academia held.
1985 – Women’s Studies becomes part of the Interdisciplinary Master’s Program.
1990s – Expansion of courses, cross-listing with other departments, and creation of community partnerships.
1999 – Program leadership reclassified with Director and Coordinator positions.
2006 – Graduate Certificate Program approved by the Graduate School and State Coordinating Board.
2009 – WGS relocates to Holden Hall under the College of Arts & Sciences.
2010s – Growth of student organizations, scholarships, and conferences.
Today – WGS continues to support research, teaching, and collaboration across disciplines.

In Memoriam

Dr. Gwen Sorell – Director and longtime advocate for Women’s & Gender Studies at TTU.
Freda McVay and Sandy River – Founding supporters and community partners.


Mission

Our mission is to provide education that advances scholarship in Women’s and Gender Studies and related fields. We support research, teaching and collaboration across disciplines while promoting networking and professional growth for faculty, staff, students and community members.

The program also serves as a central source of information and support for gender-focused research, activities and academic engagement at Texas Tech and beyond.

Vision

Our vision is to expand gender-aware educational opportunities and to strengthen research that reflects the experiences and contributions of women. We work to make these perspectives an integral part of the Texas Tech University academic mission and to strengthen the university’s engagement across campus and within the broader community.

Program Outcomes

Aligned with Texas Tech University’s Strategic Plan: A Foundation for the Next Century | A Pathway to 2025, the Women’s & Gender Studies program supports three core goals:


Educate and Empower Students
We cultivate a learning environment that attracts and supports motivated, high-achieving students prepared to think critically and lead confidently.

Advance Research and Creativity
We foster research, scholarship and creative activity that deepen understanding, improve quality of life and promote innovation within and beyond the university.

Engage and Transform Communities
We partner with local, national and global communities to inspire collaboration, stimulate growth and help address complex challenges through education and outreach.

Graduate Opportunities

Since 2006, WGS has been part of the Graduate Certificate Program (GCP), providing a focused area of study in women’s and gender analysis for master’s and doctoral students. The certificate also serves as a stand-alone credential valued by professionals across fields.

Why Choose WGS?
  • Strengthen your critical thinking and analytical skills
  • Build expertise that connects with multiple disciplines
  • Prepare for a career that values insight, communication, and perspective

If you’re ready to deepen your understanding of people and ideas that shape the world, WGS is a powerful addition to your academic journey.

Women's & Gender Studies