A career that utilizes an education in women’s studies and leadership in 2025 is going to be an interesting path at the very least. The political climate has demonstrated large groups of people who could be charitably described as critically uninformed to stubbornly oppressive, which is indicative that advocates are needed more than ever. The career path for women’s studies and leadership tends to lead to a role in government, counselling, education, law or in a management role in the private sector.
Here are some example roles, complied from Indeed, Wilfrid Laurier University and the University of Toronto:
Counselling
Social work
Digital media/Social media/Communication
Education/Teaching
Equity, Diversity & Inclusion
Gender Advocacy
Gender Research
Healthcare
Human Resources
Journalism/Writing
Law/Legal Field
Negotiation & Dispute Resolution
Non-profit/Advocacy
Public Policy
Public Relations
Social Services
Researcher
Sociologist
Archivist
Union Organizer
Project Manager
Lobbyist
Public Policy Analyst
Foreign Service Officer
Public Relations Specialist
Lecturer
Family Therapist
Communication Specialist
Marketing Specialist
Business Consultant
Psychologist
Women's Studies & Leadership in Government
Obtaining a government job can be a long process requiring persistence. Networking and a strong résumé and cover letter tailored specifically for government work will be critical; LinkedIn has groups specifically for government work, such as Government of Canada Job Opportunities. You should also familiarize yourself with the kinds of testing and assessment methods used by government, which will be different from the private sector.
Women's Studies & Leadership in the Private Sector
A career in the private sector will depend on what particular elements of women’s studies & leadership you wish to focus on. If you’re looking to educate, inform and advocate then you’re going to be more focused on the public relations and marketing elements which are part of the communication skills developed in your program. Indeed has a basic starter for public relations specialists.
If you’d prefer to be working in a management role, consider obtaining certifications such as PMP (Project Management Professional), CFA (Chartered Financial Analysis) or CPA (Certified Public Accountant) to prove your leadership and ability to manage finances at an organizational level. Also ensure you have the proper technical skills in data analysis and information technology; not just for specific office software, but to have a general understanding of IT so you can quickly learn whatever preferred systems your potential employer uses.
Women's Studies & Leadership in Legal
For a legal career, your research and advocating skills will be essential as a great deal of legal work involves research. Robertson College has a good starter article for paralegals if you’re planning to take your studies in that direction.
In Closing...
A degree in women’s studies & leadership opens a lot of doors in many different directions. If you’re still unsure which one is right for you, consider getting a consultation. You have a lot of opportunities to choose from, so make sure you’re pouring your energy in the right direction.
