This minor examines issues in the lives of LGBTQIA (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, intersex and allied) individuals in the context of gender, race, class, nation, ability, and age. In Queer Studies you will gain academic knowledge of local, national, and global experiences concerning LGBTQI lives and Queer theory. You will learn about social movements, artistic and cultural contributions, political oppression and resistance, medical issues, and literatures across time and place.

You will learn concepts to understand queer lives and how to apply this understanding in your careers and through citizenship to advance social justice. In addition to direct advocacy, professions such as non-profit, human resource personnel, or government jobs ensuring non-discrimination and so forth, this minor will also prepare you with the skills necessary to contribute to teamwork across diversity and thus increase workplace productivity and understanding. For example, there is a growing demand for counselors and social workers that can address the needs of LGBTQI clients as well as friends and family. Civil rights for LGBTQI individuals also make this a timely minor for those who might pursue political, legal and criminal justice careers. Furthermore, there are tours oriented toward LGBTQI clients. In short, the needs are multiple in the government and the marketplace.