M.A. in Women and Gender Studies

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 70

1. Academic Qualifications:

• Applicants should have completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution.
• The general academic requirement for admission is a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or an equivalent of a "B" average.

2. English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: An overall score of 6.5 or higher with no individual band score less than 6.
• TOEFL iBT: A minimum overall score of 80.
• PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 65.

San Francisco State University (SFSU) offers various scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support international students in their academic pursuits. These scholarships can help alleviate the cost of tuition and living expenses. 

1. SFSU Foundation Scholarships: SFSU offers a range of scholarships through its Foundation. These scholarships are available to both domestic and international students and cover various academic disciplines and criteria.

2. President's Scholarship for World Leaders: This prestigious scholarship is designed for incoming undergraduate international students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities.

3. Graduate Equity Fellowship: This fellowship supports underrepresented graduate students, including international students, by providing financial assistance and mentorship to help them succeed in their graduate programs.

4. College and Departmental Scholarships: Many SFSU colleges and departments offer scholarships specifically tailored to students within their academic programs. International students should inquire with their respective colleges about these opportunities.

5. External Scholarships: SFSU encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities, both in their home countries and through international organizations, to help fund their education in the United States.

6. Assistantships and Work-Study Programs: International graduate students may have opportunities to work as teaching or research assistants, which often come with tuition waivers and stipends.

7. Study Abroad Scholarships: SFSU promotes study abroad programs, and students may be eligible for scholarships to support their international experiences.

8. International Student Office Assistance: The International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) office can provide information and guidance on scholarship opportunities available to international students.

9. Departmental Awards and Grants: Some academic departments may offer awards or grants to outstanding international students based on their academic achievements and contributions to their field of study.

10. Cultural and Exchange Scholarships: - International students participating in cultural exchange programs or representing their home countries may be eligible for scholarships related to cultural exchange and diplomacy.

It's essential for international students to research and apply for scholarships well in advance of their planned enrollment at SFSU. Each scholarship has specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines, so it's crucial to review the details and adhere to the application requirements. Additionally, maintaining good academic standing is often a requirement for scholarship renewal.

Earning a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Women and Gender Studies from San Francisco State University (SF State) opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities across various sectors. This interdisciplinary program equips graduates with critical thinking, research, and analytical skills, making them valuable contributors to fields that require an understanding of gender dynamics, social justice, and diversity.  

1. Higher Education: Many graduates choose to pursue careers in academia. They can become professors, lecturers, or researchers in women and gender studies departments or related fields such as sociology, anthropology, or cultural studies. With this degree, they can contribute to academic research, curriculum development, and social change through teaching and writing.

2. Nonprofit Organizations: Graduates can work for nonprofit organizations focused on gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, reproductive health, domestic violence prevention, and more. They may hold roles such as program managers, advocates, grant writers, or community organizers, helping to drive positive social change.

3. Policy Analysis and Advocacy: M.A. in Women and Gender Studies graduates are well-equipped to work as policy analysts and advocates. They can contribute to shaping policies related to gender equality, social justice, and human rights at the local, state, or federal level. Their expertise can be valuable in research-based organizations and think tanks.

4. Healthcare and Social Services: Careers in healthcare, counseling, and social services are common paths for graduates. They can work as counselors, therapists, or healthcare educators, focusing on issues such as sexual health, mental health, and trauma-informed care. They can also contribute to creating inclusive and culturally sensitive healthcare environments.

5. Human Resources and Diversity Management: Many organizations value diversity and inclusion specialists who can help create equitable workplaces. Graduates with this degree can work in human resources, diversity, and inclusion roles, fostering inclusive work environments and advising on diversity-related policies.

6. Public Relations and Communications: Graduates can pursue careers in public relations and communications, particularly in agencies or organizations that aim to communicate messages related to gender equality, diversity, and inclusion. They can work as communications specialists, media relations managers, or content creators.

7. Social Research and Data Analysis: Those with strong research skills can find opportunities in social research organizations, market research firms, or government agencies. They can conduct studies related to gender, sexuality, and social justice issues, providing valuable data for policy decisions and societal change.

8. Community Development: Graduates can work in community development roles, collaborating with communities to address social issues and promote gender equality. They can become community organizers, outreach coordinators, or program managers for nonprofits or government agencies.

9. Legal and Advocacy Organizations: Some graduates choose to work in legal and advocacy organizations focused on women's rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and civil liberties. They may serve as legal advocates, paralegals, or policy analysts, contributing to legal battles and social justice initiatives.

10. Entrepreneurship and Consulting: With their critical thinking and problem-solving skills, graduates can start their own consulting firms or businesses focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion training and consulting services for other organizations.