Women and Gender Studies (Graduate Certificate)
Program Summary
100% Online
Credits: 15 total
Degree: Graduate Certificate
College/School: College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Start Date: 8/24/2026
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Program Description
The Women and Gender Studies Graduate Certificate provides interdisciplinary training in gender theory, feminist scholarship, and critical approaches to identity, power, and social justice.
Offered 100% online but also includes hybrid and on campus course offering through the College of Humanities and Social Sciences at George Mason University, this graduate certificate equips students with advanced research, analytical, and applied skills to address gender‑related issues in academic, professional, domestic, and global contexts. With coursework grounded in feminist theory, transnational feminisms, critical race theory, and queer theory, the program offers a valuable specialization that strengthens graduate study and enhances career readiness across fields.
This 15-credit graduate certificate in women and gender studies enables students interested in an academic career to enrich their research and analytical skills. Students interested in a professional career are prepared to address gender-related challenges in both domestic and global settings. The certificate adds an area of specialization to any graduate degree, giving students a competitive edge in the professional world. The core courses provide students a groundwork in transnational feminisms, feminist theory, critical race theory, and queer theory. Electives allow students to select from a range of interdisciplinary classes across the arts, humanities, and social sciences.
Banner code: LA-CERG-WGST
Careers
To learn more about some of the careers our alums have pursued, visit our “meet an alum” page here.
Courses
Please follow this link to see a detailed breakdown of the course requirements that make up the 15 credit certificate.
New to online learning? Visit our Online Learning Tips and Strategies page to learn more about what to expect and how to succeed in an online course at George Mason.
Details
Who should apply?
The certificate may be taken alone or in conjunction with another graduate program. Courses applied to the certificate may also be applied to a degree program, subject to approval of the graduate director of the respective programs. Electives from your degree program can be counted towards your certificate when relevant to Women and Gender Studies, in consultation with your graduate advisor. Be sure to talk with your graduate advisor early before filing for your degree. You cannot declare the certificate in the last semester of your degree program.
Tuition & Financial Aid
Please Note: Various course and lab fees may be assessed depending on the course(s) in which the student is enrolled. Please refer to the Students Accounts Office website for more information on tuition and fees.
For information on loans and scholarships, visit the Office of Student Financial Aid. For information regarding grants, tuition waivers and other merit aid, please inquire with your graduate department. Additionally, your current employer may provide tuition reimbursement opportunities for graduate studies. (https://studentaccounts.gmu.edu/tuition-fees/)
Why choose George Mason?
George Mason University is Virginia’s largest public research university. We set the standard for a bold, progressive education that serves our students and communities. We are a leader in scholarship and research, preparing graduates to meet the complex needs of a rapidly changing world. At Mason, we see diversity as our strength. We include and embrace a multitude of people and ideas in everything we do and respect differences. We honor freedom of thought and expression. And we thrive together, nurturing a positive and collaborative community that contributes to the well-being and success of every member.
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Contact
Program Contact
Dr. Rachel Lewis
Email: [email protected]
Program Website:
Women and Gender Studies (Graduate Certificate)
Department Website:
