This article describes the emergence of Deaf women's studies by way of Deaf studies and women's studies. This discipline arose from the need to explore the Deaf female experience. Understanding the barriers Deaf women have faced and overcome engenders an appreciation of the experiences and contributions made by and for Deaf women. Deaf women's studies courses established at National Technical Institute for the Deaf (NTID), California State University, Northridge, and Gallaudet have advanced the discipline, including the documentation of the lives of Deaf women.