Toward the conclusion of their undergraduate studies, Gender, Women, and Sexuality Studies students complete a "senior project" as part of the requirements for the BA degrees.

To fulfill the senior project requirement, juniors and seniors are required to take two 4xxx or 5xxx level courses. In one of these courses, students should complete a senior project. This project has a great deal of flexibility, but must meet the standards set forth by the faculty advisor for the project. For ideas, or to view alumni senior projects, students can visit the undergraduate advising office in 419 Ford, where senior projects are archived.

Some common possibilities for student registration to fulfill the senior project are:

GWSS 4900, Gender, Women, and Sexuality Studies Seminar, is a topics course in which students may complete a senior project. Typically, in this case, student projects are related to the topic of the course.

GWSS 4108, Writing Seminar, is a course in which students may complete a written senior project on the topic of their choice. This course allows students to choose the topic of their project.

Additionally, students may complete a senior project contract with an instructor teaching a 4xxx or 5xxx course. This contact involves an agreement between the student and instructor that she/he will serve as the student's advisor for the project. A senior project contract outlines the requirements that will fulfill the senior project requirement. In this case, student projects are also related to the topic of the course.

In rare cases, students may also complete a directed study, typically GWSS 4993, to fulfill the senior project requirement. If students wish to pursue this option, they are required to meet with the undergraduate advising office in 419 Ford prior to registration.

The senior project should reflect the student's best work. The project is a process of reflection, creativity, and high quality output on the part of the student, with guidance from the senior project advisor.

Expectations for Senior Project

Frequently asked Questions about Senior Project