2.4

Beverly Shuman

Womens Studies - Towson University

2.4
Quality
3.6
Difficulty
22%
Would Retake
166
Reviews
2.4
Quality
3.6
Difficulty
2.1
Helpful
2.6
Clarity

22%

Would Retake

166

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official
166 total ratings

5

13

4

29

3

34

2

43

1

47

What Students Say

Clearly hasnt taken a teaching class

WMNS231 - 1.0 rating

I'm very passionate about this course, but I have to say she the WORST professor here

WMST231 - 1.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

99%

Textbook Required

13%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B

95% confidence
Based on 38 grades
Most common grades:
Not sure yet (13)
A (8)
B (6)
Grade Distribution
A(13)B(8)C(8)D(2)F(1)A-/B+(7)
Based on 56 reported grades
Not sure yet: 13
A: 8
B: 6
C: 6
Common Tags
Get ready to read (30)
Tough grader (27)
Skip class? You won't pass. (20)
Graded by few things (18)
Participation matters (17)
Lots of homework (8)
Tough Grader (6)
Lecture heavy (6)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.70 avg change
Dec
Jan
Apr
Jun
Nov
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

WMNSSTDS

5.0

(1)

WMST301

5.0

(1)

WSMT010

5.0

(1)

WMSTD231

4.0

(1)

WOMENSTUDIES

4.0

(1)
+17 more courses
Difficulty by Course

WOMENSTUD

5.0

WMST201

5.0

WMST101

4.6

WMST235

4.5

WMST100

4.0

Reviews (165)
5.0
2.0
WMNSSTDS
Apr 9, 2002

Easy class, she's a lenient grader at the end of the semester

4.0
3.0
WMST231
Apr 10, 2002

No Comments

4.0
1.0
WMST231
Apr 17, 2002

Easy A if you tell her what she wants to hear, steer clear men she'll fail you

3.0
3.0
WMST231
Apr 21, 2002

No Comments

2.0
4.0
231
Apr 26, 2002

No Comments

3.0
4.0
WMST231
Grade: B
May 24, 2002

No Comments

3.0
4.0
WMST231
Sep 12, 2002

Tests don't always cover material in class or fit with lecture. Hard grader.

4.0
1.0
WMST231
Oct 9, 2002

Only hard if you don't wanna examine popular ideology and institutions.

1.0
4.0
231
Oct 29, 2002

No Comments

2.0
3.0
WMST231
Nov 17, 2002

No Comments

5.0
2.0
231
Nov 19, 2002

Very knowledgeable on subject; interesting class. Not hard if you pay attention

5.0
3.0
WMST
Nov 21, 2002

She's really good!!! If you a generally a good student, you'll get an A!

4.0
3.0
WMSTD231
Nov 22, 2002

she comes off mean...but underneath she has a heart. Read the books!

4.0
4.0
WMST231
Dec 10, 2002

She is tough, a lot of notes, she gives hard tests, but she is effective

3.0
4.0
WMST
Dec 11, 2002

Hard grader.Man-hater.Hard tests(Essays)Attendance must.Believe me, I know!!

2.0
3.0
WMST231
Dec 11, 2002

work is easy horrible teacher!!ATTENDANCE!!!

2.0
4.0
WMST231
Dec 18, 2002

No Comments

2.0
4.0
WMST231
Jan 24, 2003

Horrible teacher. Not helpful. Makes this gen. ed. class a nightmare.

1.0
5.0
WMST231
Apr 13, 2003

Do not take her, I dropped this class. Tests are hard, and she makes you read a ton. She doesn't teach anything. Avoid her at all cost.

1.0
5.0
WMST231
Apr 25, 2003

This class is horrible. Don't even bother taking it unless you want to drop it or receive a low grade. Tests are hard and she makes you read a great deal. Way to much work for an elective class.

2.0
5.0
WMST231
May 4, 2003

she's not nice, hard tests, annoying paper, ATTENDANCE!!

4.0
4.0
WMST231
May 9, 2003

one of the most interesting classes ive taken. however she is a very hard grader. you have to study and read. but over all i still really liked the class and so did the guys in it.

4.0
3.0
WMST231
May 12, 2003

You def will leave this class with a whole new perspective on things. She is a hard grader but the lessons you learn are worth it. This class takes effort but will improve your character!

3.0
2.0
WMST
May 15, 2003

the tests are easy as long as you take good notes and study them.

5.0
3.0
WMST
Oct 21, 2003

Wonderful teacher, great perspective on society and influence on women's culture. Hard grader but very helpful and easy to pull grade up by participation and involvement in class discussions

2.0
4.0
WMST231
Oct 22, 2003

HORRIBLE!! Very closed-minded. If one does not agree with her opinion she acts like they are stupid and holds a grudge. Do not take this class unless your are a radical feminist. DO THE READINGS!

2.0
3.0
WMST100
Oct 30, 2003

Class Blows and so does She. Very closed minded and if you argue with her you're just asking for a bad grade. Too much damn reading!!

4.0
4.0
WMST231
Nov 10, 2003

I really enjoyed the class, she is a hard grader, and attendance is mandatory. Much more work than expected for a gen. ed. but topics are interesting and i learned a great deal.

3.0
4.0
WNST101
Nov 11, 2003

hard class...lots of reading...if you don't write exactly what she wants you will fail the test

3.0
4.0
WMST231
Nov 20, 2003

class is interesting, but tests are very difficult...even if you study, you must be very specific on info...A LOT of reading and attendance is a MUST...i wouldnt suggest this class for anyone...too hard for a gen ed!!!

3.0
2.0
231
Nov 21, 2003

tests are hard, must do readings. if you don't agree with her she will hold it against you. either be prepared to agree with everything and mimic her like a parrot on the tests or don't take this class

1.0
5.0
WOMENSTUD
Mar 24, 2004

WARNING, if you have a **** don't take this class. If you disagree w/ this teachers opinion on any course content your grade will be sacrificed. I actually felt as if I tried my best and still got a D when I have a B average in every other class.

3.0
5.0
WMST231
Mar 31, 2004

Interesting class, but a ton of reading. Some of the reading is very boring and some of it won't be on the tests. Very demanding class for a Gen-Ed. If there is an easier teacher for this class, do yourself a favor and take that teacher!

4.0
2.0
231
Apr 16, 2004

You will learn a lot in this class if you show up and take notes. She is strict,intimidating, and a little condescending (unless you are an older student). But, she knows her stuff and makes the material interesting.(A lot of work for a 200 level class)

3.0
4.0
WMST
Apr 28, 2004

Take detailed notes! You will need them! She loves to put detailed essays on exams. She is very opinionated, the best thing to do is just agree w/her. She can be condescending if your opinion differs from hers.

1.0
4.0
WMST231
May 6, 2004

Very Biased towards woman. Men have a strong disadvantage in the class.

5.0
3.0
WMST231
May 17, 2004

As someone else said, take a lot of notes because she gives essay tests. She will help you if you need it (at least she helped me). If you're intrested in women's studies, then take this course. If there's a debate in class, DO THE READING FOR IT.

2.0
5.0
WMST231
Sep 30, 2004

No Comments

5.0
2.0
WMST231
Nov 16, 2004

When I started this class I asked Prof. Shuman if I should drop it because I am not a feminist by any means and I disagree with alot that she says. She basically told me that I would be ok if I just made it clear on tests that I understand her points. So far I have an A!

3.0
2.0
WMST231
Nov 18, 2004

Be prepared to read A LOT!!! IF you don't she will ask you to leave the class! Seemed nice at first, but as long as you regurgitate every thing she says you'll do fine. Don't disagree with her or she will make your life hell. I would advise GUYS to not take this teacher.

5.0
3.0
WMST231
Nov 30, 2004

Very interesting class. Learned a lot from her. Make sure you do the readings and print out your assigned internet articles! She doesn't make a point to learn everyones names, which stinks. It is the end of the semester and I participated in almost every class and she still doesn't know mine.

4.0
1.0
WOMENINPERSP
Nov 30, 2004

closed minded liberal, all the way. very rude if you disagree with her, i advise guys not to take it at all. work overall is incredibly easy, essay tests are not hard. just read and participate.

2.0
5.0
WMN231
Dec 10, 2004

NEVER TAKE THIS CLASS IF IT IS FOR A GEN ED. WHEN SHE GRADES SHE IS VERY BIASED. TONS OF MEMORIZATION. ARGUES WITH THE OTHER POINTS OF VIEW. **** TO MALES! and religious people, male or female.

2.0
5.0
WMNINPERSP
Jan 6, 2005

Hard class for a gen ed. I showed up every day and did all of my work and still ended up with a C. Very liberal. Very one-sided. Seems like she only understands and respects her liberal point of view. Unless you want to fight for a fair grade-don't even bother taking her.

2.0
3.0
WMST231
Mar 14, 2005

DO NOT TAKE!

1.0
5.0
WMST231
Apr 13, 2005

DO NOT TAKE...unless you like feeling like you are going to be a victim no matter what you do. She hates men, thinks they are all abusers,****s and out to keep women in the kitchen. This class is all about the ways women are oppressed, not about their accomplishments. I'm a girl and I HATED HER

5.0
3.0
WMST301
Apr 14, 2005

Good class

4.0
3.0
WMST
Apr 14, 2005

good teacher,difficult class, study a lot get A, interesting and learned a lot, very clear, group project essay tests,

3.0
3.0
WMNS231
Apr 25, 2005

Very biased.. teaches the class as if feminism is a right/wrong issue. Tests are hard to finish in the time she gives.. Smart lady but pretty much must be a feminist to enjoy the class. Overall not too hard.. no obscene amount of work is required to do well.

2.0
3.0
WMST231
May 19, 2005

No Comments

2.0
3.0
WMST231
May 24, 2005

No Comments

3.0
1.0
WMST231
Jun 2, 2005

I did very little work for the class and got an easy A. I did, however, tell her exactly what she wanted to hear on the exams. Don't let her know that you have opinions different than hers and you'll do fine. lots of reading assignments, but nothing that took a lot of time. No papers, all essay exams.

4.0
2.0
WOMENSTUDIES
Jun 27, 2005

this teacher is great!! make sure u do the readings, attend classes and PARTICIPATE, key word "PARTICIPATE". u'll be fine. all essays on her exams, and it comes right from what she says in class and the readings. I recommend her..

1.0
5.0
WMST231
Oct 1, 2005

she is the absolute worst professor.

3.0
3.0
WMST231
Oct 27, 2005

One of the worst professors i've ever had. It would be a great class if she wasn't teaching it. She's a very liberal feminist, and if you don't agree with her, she'll make you feel like crap. If you give her what she wants to hear, you'll pass.

4.0
2.0
WOMENSSTUDIES
Nov 1, 2005

Come to class, participate, and u will do fine. all exams are essays. she is nice if you talk to her or ask questions. i will definetly take her again.

3.0
4.0
WMST231
Dec 7, 2005

she was good in the beginning then she got boring she is all ou ton her views only she puts on an act that she is interested in your beliefs if you are not on the same page as her on beliefs and if you have differernt approach on her beliefs she will make you feel low and try to believe what she believes

2.0
3.0
WOMENSSTUDIES
Dec 12, 2005

Agree with what she has to say even if you really don't agree.Say what she wants to here.Try to avoid taking her.She gives essay exams that are tricky.Expects you to memorizer way to much info.Class was worthless but if you show up and particpate you should pass.

4.0
2.0
WMST231
Dec 18, 2005

Class was pretty easy. Read the articles and participate. It makes the essay tests easier. Study for the easy tests and its easy.

5.0
2.0
WMST231
Apr 18, 2006

Class was pretty easy. Make sure that you read ALL of the articles and readings that she gives because she WILL call you out. Very nice lady and interesting class. I hear a lot of other WMST teacher are a lot tougher. Take her!

2.0
4.0
WMST231
Apr 24, 2006

it's a worthless class. i never want to show up, and we mainly just talk about the readings. AGREE WITH HER NO MATTER WHAT YOU THINK...we did a big group project and it counted for class participation which is retarded. her essay exams are hard and tricky...dont take her

2.0
4.0
WMST231
Apr 30, 2006

I took this class as a gen ed thinking that I would get something out of it and I didn't...one of the worst teachers I've had. She hates people being late and she isn't clear on the exams. Like the last person said, group projects are class participation. Don't take this class unless you have to!

4.0
3.0
WOMENINPERSPE
Jun 16, 2006

She's not that bad. I do have to agree, her tests are tricky and agree with her no matter what. But honestly, I got so much out of this class, and I honestly think that most young women should take this. Almost empowering...

2.0
3.0
WMST230
Mar 8, 2007

She is the worst. She hates you if you have poor attendance. DO NOT MISS A CLASS. Make sure you do all your homework cause she will call on you, no matter if your prepared or not. She continuously thinks that he opinion is golden, and you should really kiss ass cause she likes that a lot. But I did like the material, it was interesting.

2.0
3.0
WMST231
Apr 10, 2007

Not cool at all, shes not one of those teachers that wants you to get a good grade. very boring and reqires attendance. one of the better womens studies teachers but none of them are that intersting ne way

4.0
3.0
WMST231
Dec 18, 2008

Interesting material about women covered in this class, but the day to day routine becomes boring. Professor Shuman comes off as very intimidating and hard to please, but she is definitely a nice lady at heart. DO NOT BE LATE TO CLASS. She hates lateness and is strict about attendance. Tests are tricky, but not impossible if you study hard.

2.0
5.0
WMST231
Jan 6, 2009

if you can help it do NOT take this class. if you don't ALWAYS agree with her that women are the best thing in the world, then youre going to fail. If you defend yourself in an argument, you're automatically wrong. She belittles you to think the way she does. Complete waste of my time, so don't waste yours.

2.0
5.0
WMST231
Apr 12, 2009

She is so boring- avoid taking her if you can. She makes you print out every article and it is a total waste of paper! she expects you to memorize a lot of information for her tests, and she doesnt allow you to form your own opinion. for a gen ed this class is very hard and so not worth taking. she takes attendance religiously!!!

4.0
2.0
WMST231
May 10, 2009

Yes you have to agree with her but just repeat what she says, it wont ruin your life to agree with her even if you don't. Printing out every article is annoying. Repeat quotes from the articles in the tests and you'll do fine. The information is everything you have heard about women's studies your entire life so its not hard at all.

1.0
5.0
WMST231
May 22, 2009

AVOID TAKING HER IF YOU CAN! Women studies can be a really interesting topic but not with this teacher. She will bore you to tears. There are only three exams and they are tough. But if you have to take her... GO TO CLASS AND STUDY HARD FOR THE EXAMS!! Oh- and try to stay awake... She hates it when you sleep.

2.0
5.0
WMST201
Aug 3, 2009

Beverly Shuman, is a hypocritical closed minded professor - completely **** towards males. I spoke with various male students from past and present classes with Mrs Shuman, and received a generic response, "to do half-decent (Average Grade: C), just write about how much men have ruined our society in its entirety." Beverly Shuman is BS.

2.0
5.0
WMST101
Dec 15, 2009

DO NOT TAKE THIS CLASS!! I worked hard all semester and she gave me a D in the course. She plays favorites and only likes you if you agree with everything she says. Her tests are really hard and she is an extremely hard grader. She is mean and rude and you most likely will not do well in the class no matter how hard you try.

2.0
5.0
WMST231
Nov 10, 2010

Avoid her class at all costs. She is a super hard grader and no matter how hard you try, you WILL fail her tests. She is super rude and condescending and if you don't agree with her, your life in that class will be hell.

3.0
4.0
WMST231
Nov 15, 2010

Never be late, never miss class, always printing out 30 page articles. She's very judgemental and closeminded. It's an interesting class, but she's just downright mean.

3.0
3.0
WMST231
Nov 20, 2010

She is an incredibly hard grader, takes attendance every class, believes in only what she says, SUCH a liberal...dont ever try to disagree with her because she'll make you look like an idiot. the material is interesting but its also very one-sided

2.0
5.0
WMST231
Nov 22, 2010

AVOID THIS CLASS! I work my tail off in all my classes especially for exams and she gave me a D to a person who never comes to class receiving an A.She is an extremely hard grader and she doesn't like male students. There are two older women in my class who she plays favorites to. All i can say is to watch out

2.0
4.0
WMST235
Jan 24, 2011

least helpful teacher..did NOT explain the tests at all. books are expensive and you HAVE to have both of them..the class was interesting but she took the interest out of it with impossible tests.. theres 3 exams and 1 group project..all essay tests. i asked for help and for my grade and she did not answer

5.0
1.0
WSMT010
May 13, 2011

TAKE THIS CLASS AT ALL COST. You are guaranteed an A by doing nothing. There is little to no reading. And she doesnt care how late you show up. Not to mention she is hot a perfect 10. Which is weird that she is a women studies teacher study that ass I say.

3.0
5.0
WMST231
Sep 24, 2011

Meanest teacher I have ever had. I'm not just saying this because she's a hard teacher. Not helpful at all, LOVES to embarass students in front of everyone. You could walk in 30 seconds late and she'll glare at you. Expect to print out at least 30 (5-10pgs each) articles. Tests are all essay form, one group project, and several random assignments.

2.0
4.0
WMST231
Nov 8, 2012

Gives a lot of notes, you're expected to print out, read, and provide a response to several articles. You'll have to print a total of around 30 pages. Essay form exams. Very opinionated, but accepts other opinions. If you're not feminist you'll roll your eyes a lot

2.0
1.0
WMST231
Nov 26, 2012

Pros- 1.exams are note based 2. Easy 1 page assignments Cons- 1.attendance is mandatory.2. She has no grading scale she uses checks and check check pluses.3. No guidelines for writing. 4.she doesn't use blackboard. But overall even though she was NO help, it's an easy A.Go to class(mandatory) and take notes(what else do you have to do?) get an A.

4.0
1.0
WMST203
Nov 26, 2012

This class isn't THAT bad. The material was interesting, but shes a little dry. Not that many people participate, so if you skim the readings and participate every so often she'll like you. Be somewhat familiar with the material and get on her good side and you'll get an easy A

4.0
3.0
WMST231
Nov 28, 2012

The class is easy but tests are writing based and she grades VERY hard. She has no point system for anything. She picks the group for a project & if someone in the group messes up YOU get the bad grade. She makes you write so many papers & they aren't even graded. & she's rude. Not a good teacher. If you must take the class TAKE THE NOTES.

2.0
3.0
WMST231
Nov 28, 2012

She takes attendance everyday & makes you absent if you're late. When you ask her questions she makes you feel like you're dumb. She has no system for grading and the test are ridiculously hard. And when you ask to see your grade she says "I don't predict grades" so you do not know your grade until the last day of class. Hated that class.

3.0
4.0
WMST231
Dec 12, 2012

Come to class EVERY class, lots of reading. Almost every night, some writing. Tests are all writing/essays. No multiple choice. Beloved the novel is also a required reading. She's a little snappy but the class is very informative

2.0
5.0
WMST235
Dec 18, 2012

The class itself wasn't horrible but this professor is! She goes through notes so quickly, if you ask her to repeat something she gets snotty, her tests suck, and she starts taking attendance early yet marks you late if you are actually on time. If you have to take this course, never be late and keep an organized notebook because it will be helpful

2.0
2.0
WMST231
May 15, 2013

she's very old fashioned no blackboard just goes from the syllabus. overall it's not a bad class only 3 tests one is open book on the book breadgivers. didn't read the text so much. on time to her is 2 minutes early.. she's annoying with attendance. but I didn't have to try too hard and should come out with an A or B. not the best but not the worst

3.0
3.0
WMST231
May 22, 2013

Get on her good side by showing up and participating in class discussions. 99% of what she writes on the board WILL be on a test at some point so make sure you take notes. Got a D on the first test bc I learned the hard way that all she cares about is what she puts on the board. Still ended up with an A tho.

3.0
4.0
WMST231
Jan 22, 2014

No rubric for tests. No Blackboard. Come to every class, be early to every class and take notes. Everything she writes on the board will be on the final. Take notes on the articles read for homework, it will help during the 2nd test.

4.0
3.0
WMST231
Feb 10, 2014

She is actually a good teacher. The class is pretty interesting. If you listen to her it's an easy A. You have to read the articles. But, they are really interesting and pretty short. I'd take this class

2.0
2.0
WMST231
Mar 24, 2014

Like a lot of other articles say, the work isn't difficult. No textbook, just articles from the internet. They will all mush together which is bad for tests, because she is very particular. You need to be early to every class to get any credit for attendance and don't even think about taking out your phone or computer during class. Harsh grader.

2.0
4.0
WMST231
Grade: D-
Dec 9, 2014

This is not an easy class. She is a very hard grader and her exams are very in depth and requires a lot of studying. Shuman is a very good professor and knows how to teach but requires memorization of every article assigned to read and there's a lot of them. If you are not dedicated to memorize every article for the exams don't take this class.

4.0
2.0
231
Dec 10, 2014

Really nice teacher and passionate about what she teaches. Takes attendance every class, no text just (usually) short articles to read for every class. One group presentation and only a midterm and final and one exam on a novel. If you pay attention in class she makes it very clear what she finds important and is usually what is on the tests.

3.0
4.0
WMST231
May 4, 2015

Professor Shuman makes you read a lot of articles and all of her tests are in Blue books so get ready to write. On the plus side, I did learn a lot.

3.0
3.0
WMST231
Nov 13, 2015

Participation, participation, participation. She seems like a sweet person but her teaching style wasn't my kind of learning style. You'll have articles to read and take notes of every night. You have a midterm (essays), final (essays), and an exam on a book called Beloved (essays). Interesting topic, but wouldn't take again.

3.0
4.0
WMST231
Dec 2, 2015

Great professor in regards to teaching and knowledge of material. But do not ask her what will be on the test and do NOT have your phone out--she's against laptops, too. If you want to get on her good side, participate a lot and read the dozens of articles she assigns. Also she'll probably never know your name.

4.0
3.0
WMN231
Grade: A
Mar 27, 2016

Shuman is very inspirational. I took her for Women's Studies and it was one of my favorite classes I've ever taken. You have to read articles after almost every class but they are interesting. For the tests you have to write and remember which article talks about what. If you understand the topics, the class won't be a problem. Take this class.

3.0
4.0
WMST231
Grade: C
May 19, 2016

Shuman is a good teacher, her expectations are clear. If you don't do the readings or actually study for her exams you aren't going to know what to do. There is an exam on a book she will assign (mine was breadgivers) you just have to skim it and make notes. She shows graphic and disturbing films that will make you cringe.

1.0
4.0
WMN231
Grade: Rather not say
Jun 14, 2016
Wouldn't take again

This class is meant to be enjoyable and shouldn't be a hard class but this prof made it so unnecessarily difficult. She is very passionate on the topics she talks about but is rude and makes things difficult especially grading. If you can avoid taking her, DO SO. I have no idea how she still works at Towson with all the negative reviews she gets.

4.0
3.0
WMST231
Grade: A
Jun 20, 2016
Would take again

Ms. Shuman is actually a good, fair teacher. Part of the reason she's so poorly graded on here is because you actually have to do some work for this course. She doesn't make you buy a textbook, only a novel that's about $10 at Barnes& Noble, and she asks you to read articles online, of which she gives you all of the links. Easy A if you do the work

1.0
4.0
WMNS231
Grade: B
Oct 26, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Clearly hasnt taken a teaching class. Shames students in front of every1. Doesnt say what she wants but takes points off if u dont say it. No rubric 4 group projects. Big on participation but makes you not wanna talk. Said "This is so simple, I dont understand why some of you didnt get it." Class isnt hard, but u wont know what she wants from u

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
GROUP PROJECTS
1.0
5.0
WMST231
Grade: C
Nov 29, 2016
Wouldn't take again

I'm very passionate about this course, but I have to say she the WORST professor here. This course should not be this hard but she makes it horrendous. The things we talked about were good, but she was never clear on what she expected on the assignments. She makes you feel less than for asking simple, relevant questions. BEWARE taking her.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
TEST HEAVY
2.0
4.0
WMST231
Grade: B+
Dec 30, 2016
Wouldn't take again

I went into Prof Shuman's class really excited to delve into the class material because, as a feminist, I couldn't imagine not liking a feminist class. But her assignments are jokes, as tests are based almost entirely on online articles, rather than on concepts and ideas. Don't disagree with her. But she liked me, so I guess I got off easily--B+

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
3.0
4.0
WMST231
May 27, 2017
Wouldn't take again

She's alright. She encourages students to participate. Will call on people randomly when discussing articles that are assigned every class for reading. I appreciated the knowledge and experience she shared. Will probably come off as a grandma or great aunt you don't really care to see often tho. Expect a big group assignment at end of semester. C+

Participation matters
GROUP PROJECTS
LECTURE HEAVY
4.0
3.0
WMN231
Dec 1, 2017
Would take again

This class is a breeze if you show up and take the notes. She goes over exactly what will be on the three exams in the class. You have one group project for the whole semester. It is a lot of reading articles and talking about them and you watch several films in class- also on exams.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Tests? Not many
Hilarious
4.0
4.0
WMST231
Grade: B
Dec 6, 2017
Would take again

If you do all the assignments you should pass no problem. She knows a lot about women studies and tries to make it more interesting to learn about. I am not a feminist at all and had no problem in this class. I would definitely recommend her as a professor.

Get ready to read
Participation matters
Would take again
5.0
1.0
WMST231
Grade: A+
Dec 16, 2017
Would take again

Absolutely loved Professor Shuman!!! Such a sweet lady and I learned so much from her class. This was my first class ever at Towson and I can say that she is a lady I will remember. I began to really talk about the class outside of the class itself. The work load isn't bad, you just have to read an article before every class. Take this class!!

Respected
Inspirational
Amazing lectures
1.0
5.0
WMNS231
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 3, 2018
Wouldn't take again

This class was ridiculous. Extremely tough grader. A lot of reading, too much work for a core class. The tests are all short answer/essay format. Very difficult. A lot of people in my class regret taking this class and are super upset. AVOID! The chance of getting an A or B is very slim... and she even warns you. Chose another class for this core!

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
TEST HEAVY
1.0
5.0
WMST231
Grade: Rather not say
Apr 30, 2018
Wouldn't take again

EXTREMELY HARD FOR A CORE CLASS! DON'T TAKE THIS CLASS! TRUST ME! AVOID AT ALL COSTS! All the exams are essays and writing format. No multiple choice. So many articles to read, she is an extremely tough grader. The average for our first exam was a 53%.... Don't take Woman Studies with Professor Shuman. Trust me...

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
TEST HEAVY
2.0
4.0
WMST231
Grade: A
May 4, 2018
Wouldn't take again

I call this class the Man Basher Class. At first, I hated it, but it did grow on me a little. We learned about some enlightening topics, especially the in the films. Do the reading and the work, and you can get an A. I just really didn't like the way the professor created a stressful environment with her tone and words. Hard to enjoy the class.

Get ready to read
Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
3.0
4.0
WMST231
Grade: A-
Jul 16, 2018
Would take again

Prof Shuman knows a lot about the subject and tried to make it clear that the class objective was not to hate on men. Her tests can be difficult, and are all essays, no MC, there was also one big group presentation. Don't skip class or be late, she takes attendance at the beginning of every class. Overall, the class was difficult but interesting.

Tough Grader
Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
1.0
3.0
WMST231
Oct 18, 2018
Wouldn't take again

I really dislike this professor and she was not very fond of me either. If you need to take women's studies, make sure to avoid Beverly Shuman at all costs!

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
3.0
4.0
WMST231
Grade: A+
Dec 14, 2018
Wouldn't take again

exams are just essays which have no grading criteria, you have to read and print out articles throughout the semester for participation she will call on you, don't miss class, if your 5 min late you'll regret it

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
1.0
5.0
WMST231
Grade: C
Mar 4, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Took this class to fulfill a core, and would never take any class with this professor again. If you miss class, she will dock points, even if you go late, she takes attendance beginning of every class. Exams are impossible, she expects very specific details and they're a bunch of essay questions that are too long. Homework wasn't too bad.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Graded by few things
3.0
3.0
WMNS231
Grade: A+
May 8, 2019
Would take again

she is an old prof that does not like technology. papers printed before class and stapled... no paper clips! one novel, Beloved, exam toward the end of the semester. Midterm all by memory. Final non-cumulative. Lots of online articles to read and be ready to discuss them in class. Participate, she will like you more! Stay in line with her views...

Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
Group projects
1.0
2.0
WMST231
Grade: A
Aug 7, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Professor Shuman is what is wrong with the college. She puts her opinions into the course material and you are tested on what she thinks and not fact. She will get unbelievably aggressive if you challenge her on any topic in the class. You better have a good memory. I got an A just because I am a really good test taker and I studied hard.

Skip class? You won't pass.
1.0
2.0
WMST231
Grade: A-
Sep 18, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Interesting class, bad professor. Do not get on her bad side. Fails to remember important dates and will return emails with blunt rudeness. Homework is very easy, but every single day. Do not trust her to remember her own schedule, because she wont and she will blame it on you. So if you have a make up exam, make sure to remind HER.

Lots of homework
Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
2.0
4.0
WMST231
Dec 17, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Very traditional by education standards, very liberal in her personal beliefs. The course was extremely insightful, but I wish I took it w/ another professor. Absolutely no phones, no laptops, & no missing class. A decent amount of films in class that were really useful. She details exactly what articles will be on exams (except for Beloved exam)

Lots of homework
Get ready to read
Participation matters
1.0
5.0
WMST231
Jan 16, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Just dont take her class

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
4.0
4.0
WMST231
Grade: B
Jan 30, 2020
Would take again

She is so passionate about this class and it shows through her teaching. This was such a great class to take with a professor who cares so much. One of my favorite classes I've ever taken. She can be harsh if you are late or are on your phone, but these are easy to avoid to stay on her good side. Pay attention and be respectful. Grading is tough.

Participation matters
Caring
Tough grader
1.0
4.0
WMST231
Grade: F
Apr 21, 2020
Wouldn't take again

You have to be in class to pass because nothing is online except the syllabus! She does not even post grades! I spent the whole semester wondering what my grade was only to find out that I failed. I would have asked her about my grades but she's not very approachable in my opinion. She always seems like she has an attitude.

Lots of homework
Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
WMST231
Grade: C
Apr 28, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Easily the worst professor I've had yet. Entire class is based on assigned readings; which in turn are literally blog posts and op ed pieces from random websites. Does not really teach real feminist theory. Also, tests are based entirely off of the readings :) Very difficult, extremely rude, unhelpful, did not learn one thing. Avoid at all costs!!!

Skip class? You won't pass.
Graded by few things
2.0
4.0
WMN231
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 30, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Took this class as a core and regret it. I thought the information was really interesting and she can be funny, but she in a really hard grader for exams and looks for very specific things. I emailed her to ask what my grade was and she did not give a straight answer (said I was in good standing but I wanted a number). She is also rude at times

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
WMST101
Jul 16, 2020
Wouldn't take again

The Worst

Get ready to read
Tough grader
1.0
4.0
WMST101
Grade: C+
Oct 13, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Terrible grader. Horrible feedback. Useless lectures. Rude feedback. I highly recommend to stay away from this professor if you wish to keep your will to live.

2.0
3.0
WMST231
Nov 18, 2020
Wouldn't take again

The entire class is based off of given readings and videos. Few graded assignments during the semester, which are toughly graded. If you prepare for written exams, you will do well. Gives little feedback to grades, but asks for very specific things. Class based off of her opinion, as any class like this would be.

Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
Tough grader
1.0
4.0
WMST231
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 19, 2020
Wouldn't take again

She is very kind and passionate. However, she gives few assignments(all essays) and gives little if any feedback. She then assigns exams consisting of 3 essays to complete in 1 hour which require specific quotes from dozens of readings throughout the semester. Exams are graded extremely hard which is ridiculous considering her lack of feedback.

Get ready to read
Graded by few things
Tough grader
1.0
4.0
WMST231
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 24, 2020
Wouldn't take again

I did not head the warnings of others before taking this class with Shuman, so let me be clear. She is an extremely hard grader. I have never gotten above a C on any assignment, no matter how much effort I spend on it. She also gave me a 60 on the midterm without any positive feedback. Based on speaking with my classmates, same goes for them.

Lots of homework
Graded by few things
Tough grader
1.0
4.0
WMST101
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 3, 2020
Wouldn't take again

You will have to read a lot and she grades on few things. She's a very tough grader as well and has her own grade book that she uses to determine your grade. She also gives very little feedback if any. Tests are hard and you have to quote from the readings. She can also be condescending and rude.

Get ready to read
Graded by few things
Tough grader
1.0
4.0
WMNS231
Grade: B-
Feb 9, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Mrs. Shuman was the the absolute worse teacher I had last semester. She is very passionate about the subject but she makes the class dreadful. The class consists of reading hundreds of random online articles and getting a few opportunities to get your grade up. She is not very forgiving and with only about 6 final grades, I do not recommend her.

Get ready to read
Graded by few things
Tough grader
4.0
3.0
WMST231
Grade: A
May 6, 2021
Would take again

Honestly, If you like learning about this topic and you put effort into the work you will do well. The course isn't hard it just requires time and attention. Professor Shuman is passionate and helps those she see's making an effort. This course gets into some heavy topics about violence against women & can be hard to learn about at times

1.0
4.0
WMST231
Grade: B
May 6, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Worst prof I've ever had. Teaches from her opinion and assigns a ridiculous amount of articles to read, and gives very little time for the long essays on tests. She never uses Blackboard for grades, she's rude and demeaning to everyone and does not care about her students. There's only a few graded assignments and you will never know your grade.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Tough grader
2.0
3.0
WMST231
Grade: A
May 11, 2021
Wouldn't take again

The issue I have with Professor Shuman is that she gives no criteria for papers or presentations but still expects you to know exactly what she wants. She also does not have very good time management when it came to the presentations. She would also cut people off during the presentations but allowed the people with topics she likes to continue.

Participation matters
Graded by few things
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
WMST231
Grade: C-
May 17, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Literally would rather drop out of college all together then take her class again. Would assign around 5-10 long articles each day and expect you to know every single detail the next day in class. Also does not give directions but will get mad when it's not done her way. The whole class is graded off of participation and extremely rude to students.

Lots of homework
Participation matters
Graded by few things
1.0
4.0
WMST231
May 21, 2021
Wouldn't take again

She is very rude, expects you to read several long articles and remember every single detail of them for tests, grades on very few assignments, and doesn't provide rubrics for the work she assigns. You will have to do a presentation, and if it's not what she wants, she will literally end your presentation. I hated every second of being in her class

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
WMST231
Grade: Rather not say
Sep 25, 2021
Wouldn't take again

shes not clear on what she wants for the papers, I remember asking her what she was looking for and she said whatever you want then proceeded to fail me and tell my my paper looked bad. Ive literally been in tears from this class, I was so excited to take it and then its not even fun.. I wanted to enjoy this class but she makes it impossible.

Graded by few things
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
2.0
5.0
WOMENINPERSP
Nov 2, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Shes not clear on her grading at all

Tough grader
1.0
3.0
WMN231
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 3, 2021
Wouldn't take again

She is not it. She gives no guidelines for papers or exams. She expects you to read tons of articles and be able to use them in an exam. Not worth it

Skip class? You won't pass.
So many papers
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
WMST231
Nov 9, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Gives absolute no feedback on assignments and isnt clear of her expectations while grading . And is sometimes rude

1.0
4.0
WMST231
Grade: C
Nov 19, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Ms. Shuman is very disrespectful to her students. Even as I sit quietly in the back on the class I can't help but feel sorry or hurt by the way she passive aggressively insults her students. She doesn't post graded work so there no chance to know what you have and he doesn't give back your midterms. In all I would really steer away from her. Please

Get ready to read
Participation matters
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
WMST231
Nov 30, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Awful, do not take. I do not understand why she is a professor. Ive never had this awful of an experience with a teacher. Shes so rude and her expectations are unreasonable. I was really excited abt this class, such a disappointing experience. Her teaching ethics only suit her and her closed mind. Personality sucks. Teaching suck. Wanted to drop.

1.0
5.0
WMST231
Nov 30, 2021
Wouldn't take again

THE WORST. She should not be a professor. Makes me disappointed in Towson.

1.0
5.0
WMST231
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 2, 2021
Wouldn't take again

I honestly don't know how anyone passed her tests because they are nearly impossible considering you have to read her mind and regurgitate only her opinions in order to get any credit. She offers no direction on how to complete the two papers and presentation & gives little feedback. Nobody on this page is exaggerating. Proceed with caution.

Graded by few things
Test heavy
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
WMST100
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 9, 2021
Wouldn't take again

She is such a cruel women. Ive never been treated less like an adult by an adult until encounters with her. She gives you no guidance. She will not help you understand what youre doing wrong on test either. She said we werent allowed to have computers for notes Bc some people got poor grades. Were adults

Lots of homework
Get ready to read
Tough grader
3.0
3.0
WMST231
Grade: A-
Dec 14, 2021
Would take again

Shuman received a lot of backlash this semester, but I think people are just having a hard time adjusting to in person classes again. If you study for the exams, you'll be fine - you just actually have to put in the work. Lectures aren't the easiest to follow and I wish we had more guidelines for the papers. Exams were fine. receptive to feedback.

Get ready to read
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
WMST231
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 15, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Professor Shuman is the most disrespectful and unclear professor I have ever had. All her test are short answers where she expects you to give the exact answer she is looking for as well as memorize long articles. She gives no feedback, is unclear on her grading, and is rude in class and in emails. Would never recommend taking this class.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Graded by few things
Tough grader
1.0
3.0
WMN231
Grade: Not sure yet
Sep 21, 2022

Want to be treated like you're back in high school take this class. No phones or laptops, or else the professor will stop the class. Wanna close your eyes in class the professor will stop the whole class and call you out. If the professor sees your phone the class will stop. You need to be taking visible notes in class...the class will stop

Lots of homework
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
WMST
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 1, 2022

unbelievably rude

1.0
4.0
WMST230
Grade: Rather not say
Dec 3, 2022

Came to Towson as a freshman and I was told how these professors are different than high school teachers. But I never expected to be spoken to as if I'm lesser than a human.

Get ready to read
Lots of homework
1.0
5.0
WMN231
Grade: B-
Dec 14, 2022

The saddest part of this course is the content is amazing I learned so much about women's studies. The issue is the professor her grading policies are absolutely ridiculous. She will grade solely on your ability to memorize article titles or other irrelevant not at all based on your level of understanding. LISTEN TO THE WARNINGS.

Tough grader
3.0
5.0
WMST101
Grade: C
Jan 9, 2023

Lots of reading for homework before every class for many articles and takes points off of exams if you dont have the exact title down to refer back to. Not graded fairly at all. Interesting topic/ important class but the class was not graded off of actual knowledge of the course.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
3.0
4.0
WMNINPERSP
Grade: A
Jan 3, 2024
Would take again

Make sure to participate in class. She will remember and she will favor you if you always are a part of discussion. The topics are generally interesting. She does not tolerate lateness AT ALL! So thats a quick way to get on her bad side.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Participation matters
2.0
4.0
WMST231
Grade: A
Jan 17, 2024

The exams are brutal. All written questions, multiple parts, and you need to know exact article titles from your notes throughout the semester. Her lectures are discussion based, so be prepared with notes. We read Beloved by Toni Morrison, which I feel wasn't a good choice for the content of the class. A presentation mid-semester with no rubric.

Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
WMST231
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Jan 19, 2024

Very hard to get on her good side.Tough grader even w/ strong grasp of material. She accepts no excuse, even in the case of a death, so make sure that does not happen. Course is interesting, but your whole grade depends on just 3 exams, so it's easy for your grade to take a major hit. If this is an elective class, you should really reconsider.

Tough grader
Participation matters
Graded by few things
3.0
4.0
WMST231
Grade: B+
Oct 30, 2024
Would take again

This class is a real challenge - the exams are brutal, and you need to know every detail from the lectures and readings. The prof has high expectations, but using Unstuckstudy and ChatGPT helped me prep. Definitely not an easy A, but worth it if you put in the work.

2.0
4.0
WMN231
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 12, 2024

Professor Shuman is one of the worst professors I have ever had. Her lectures are interesting, but she assigns an absurd amount of outside reading to get participation credit in class. She provides no feedback and about 4 assignments are graded for the entire semester. If you are looking for a gen ed requirement to fill, look elsewhere.

Tough grader
Participation matters
Graded by few things
2.0
3.0
WMN231
Grade: A+
Nov 22, 2024
Would take again

I'm a freshman with an A+ in her class so far. PARTICIPATE. Take notes on everything she writes on the board bc they'll show up on exams. She's strict about lateness and door-slamming. She doesn't use rubrics and is a tough grader, but she's quiet, passionate, and even jokes around. Avoid phones, be on time, STUDY + TAKE notes.

Tough grader
Participation matters
4.0
3.0
WMNINPERSP
Grade: A-
Dec 5, 2024
Would take again

Professor Shuman is very kind and engaging in her lectures. Some say she is a hit or miss, I believe you just have to do your work, participate in class, and stay off your phone and she will like you. If you follow those three things, you will do perfectly fine in this class. I would 100% take her class again as I found the content interesting.

Tough grader
Amazing lectures
Hilarious
5.0
4.0
WMN231
Grade: A-
Dec 15, 2024
Would take again

She is an amazing professor. As long as you show up and take notes you will pass. She is definitely intense but she wants her students to strive!

Participation matters
Amazing lectures
Inspirational
1.0
5.0
WMST
Grade: Not sure yet
Jan 19, 2025

This is insane I have not ever been this angry about a class that I put my all into. No help on exams tells you nothing about why you might be struggling does not care about any mishaps you encounter.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
5.0
2.0
WMNINPERSP
Apr 3, 2025
Would take again

Most of these reviews sound like they were written in a moment of anger or you simply could not listen to this woman's one rule, which is to participate. I was ready to hate this woman based on what everyone else said, but she's genuinely nice and wants her students to take what she teaches for irl usage. Exams weren't even that hard (just read)

Get ready to read
Participation matters
Graded by few things
1.0
3.0
WMNINPERSP
Jun 25, 2025

Does not care about others which is very distasteful when you are a professor. My father recently passed. I came to the professor very respectful and nicely. When I asked if I can make up any work I missed due to depression and grief all she said was “No”. No sorry for your loss nothing! Some proffers just don't deserve to have that title. 0/0 RUN!

1.0
3.0
WMST231
Grade: B
Nov 13, 2025

Rude women doesn't care about others. I'm in the course right now, all we do is watch hour long films which makes me want to sleep. You have to read so many articles for no reason. Literally worst class and professor. She makes you buy your test packets and then its all writing. No computers for anything all writing.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Graded by few things
1.0
3.0
WMN231
Nov 23, 2025

I wouldn't recommend this class to anyone!! she grades very harshly and only assigns readings and makes you take notes on hour long videos like every day, if you want to protect that GPA dont take this class

Tough grader
3.0
4.0
WMST231
Grade: A+
Dec 22, 2025

I was lucky to have an extreme interest in the subject, but I understand why people wouldn't like the course/prof. She can be blunt, and allows no phone/laptop use whatsoever, all handwritten notes. She also wants very specific answers that you may have a hard time remembering. If you're worried by the reviews, just take a different prof lol

Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

99%

Textbook Required

13%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B

95% confidence
Based on 38 grades
Most common grades:
Not sure yet (13)
A (8)
B (6)
Grade Distribution
A(13)B(8)C(8)D(2)F(1)A-/B+(7)
Based on 56 reported grades
Not sure yet: 13
A: 8
B: 6
C: 6
Common Tags
Get ready to read (30)
Tough grader (27)
Skip class? You won't pass. (20)
Graded by few things (18)
Participation matters (17)
Lots of homework (8)
Tough Grader (6)
Lecture heavy (6)
Rating Trend

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Ratings by Course

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5.0

(1)

WMST301

5.0

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WSMT010

5.0

(1)

WMSTD231

4.0

(1)

WOMENSTUDIES

4.0

(1)
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Difficulty by Course

WOMENSTUD

5.0

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5.0

WMST101

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