The University of Montana has emphasized women's academic engagement since the beginning. The university's founding charter promised “the instruction of young men and women on equal terms." Two women, Ella Robb Glenny and Eloise Knowles, were UM's first graduates.
Over the last 130 years, women participated in academic pursuits across many fields, including traditionally male-dominated colleges, like Forestry. The Women's Studies program, which later became Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies (WGSS), was founded during the 1970s. Women's Studies was established as an interdisciplinary program focusing on women's contributions across history, philosophy, science, religion, and more.
Through their work at UM, female students and faculty have become leaders and mentors in Missoula and beyond.
Over the last 130 years, women participated in academic pursuits across many fields, including traditionally male-dominated colleges, like Forestry. The Women's Studies program, which later became Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies (WGSS), was founded during the 1970s. Women's Studies was established as an interdisciplinary program focusing on women's contributions across history, philosophy, science, religion, and more.
Through their work at UM, female students and faculty have become leaders and mentors in Missoula and beyond.
Women have always been a key part of the University of Montana's high level of research. Since 2014, the University has ranked number 9 for research growth of the 146 R1 universities.
Between 1919 and 1963, women could use the "Associated Women Students Handbook" for guidance during their time as students. The handbook provided information about academics, social organizations, residence halls, and etiquette.
The Women’s Studies newsletter advertised many interesting courses as part of the program. Some courses listed for Spring 1994 are still available for students today.