The LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer) minor cuts across disciplinary boundaries and investigates what is means to divide people into social categories of "male" and "female," "straight" and "gay," or "bi" and “queer.” The minor in LGBTQ studies combines historical, social science, interpersonal and institutional investigations of sexualities, sexual identities and gender identities in U.S. and global contexts.
Students receive an overview of the subject, a focus on theoretical frameworks, and hands-on experience in the form of internships as well as examinations into culture and institutions such as education, medicine, government and the family. The LGBTQ Studies minor is facilitated by the Women and Gender Studies (WGS) Program.
Minor Requirements
To earn a minor, students must complete a minimum of 20 credit hours as follows:
Core:
- WGS 3010 – Intro to LGBTQ Studies (4).
- WGS 4931 – Field Experience in LGBTQ Studies (4) with approval of the WGS director. (Students majoring in WGS and minoring in LGBTQ Studies will have this course double counted.) Offered every semester. Students must contact the WGS director for permission.
- WGS 4010/SOC 4800 – Queer Social Theory (4).
Courses are sequenced to make completing the minor in a timely manner possible.
8 credits from the following list:
- WGS 3830/SOC 3110 – Human Sexuality (4)
- WGS 3814/SOC 3620 – Sociology of Gender (4)
- WGS 4810/EST 5304 – Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Education (4)
- WGS 3827/COM 3606 – Media, Gender and Sexuality (4)
- COM 4602 - Sexuality and Communication (4)
Students may petition to have additional courses such as WGS 3900 – Special Topics – count for the minor.
