This qualitative study was conducted to develop a better understanding of the place of praxis in higher education women’s studies programs in the U.S. Built upon theories of feminist pedagogy, feminist praxis, activism, experiential education, and academic service-learning, the research explores how praxis is reflected and taught in women’s studies programs, how these programs impact students’ understanding of feminist theory and practice, and what factors affect the implementation of action-oriented pedagogy. Examples of several action-oriented projects that have successfully been implemented in women’s studies courses are offered, and a case study demonstrates the impact of these projects. The methods used include document review of women’s studies mission statements and syllabi, and interviews with women’s studies faculty and alumnae. The interview data were coded and analyzed using a grounded theory approach. / Includes bibliography. / Dissertation (Ph.D.)--Florida Atlantic University, 2015. / FAU Electronic Theses and Dissertations Collection