Social Justice Studies-LGBTQ Studies

This program is designed to introduce students to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer studies from a variety of academic disciplines and prepare them for transfer into university programs in these areas. Intersections between sexual orientation, gender identity, and other social statuses will be explored. Students will engage with a growing body of work in feminist and queer theory that broadens our understanding of sexual orientation, gender identity, society, and culture.

The Associate in Arts in Social Justice Studies-LGBTQ Studies for Transfer is designed to provide a clear pathway to a CSU institution for students who plan to transfer and complete a CSU major or baccalaureate degree in Gender/Women’s and Gay/Lesbian Studies. California Community College students who are awarded an Associate in Arts in Social Justice Studies-LGBTQ Studies for Transfer are guaranteed admission with junior standing somewhere in the CSU system and given priority admission consideration to their local CSU institution or to a program that is deemed similar to their community college major. This priority does not guarantee admission to specific majors or institutions.

To fulfill the requirements for this degree, students will complete the required and elective courses in the area of emphasis and Cal-GETC pattern requirements totaling no more than 60 semester CSU-transferable units.

Additional NVC graduation requirements do not apply to this degree. Students must successfully pass all courses in the area of emphasis with a minimum of “C” (or “P”) and maintain an overall minimum 2.0 GPA. Additionally, students pursuing this degree option must work with a counselor and faculty advisor to ensure appropriate elective course selections for their intended area of emphasis for the baccalaureate degree.

Career Opportunities

A degree in LGBT and/or Queer Studies prepares students for a wide range of careers. It is an interdisciplinary course of study that introduces students to hidden histories, explores complex social structures, confronts injustice and oppression, and hones their critical thinking and analytical skills. Graduates can work in LGBTQ+ non-profit agencies, law, local and national politics, health care settings, counseling centers, journalism, news media, theatre, film, fine arts, and education.

Program Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the intersections between sexual orientation, gender identity, and other social statuses.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of current issues and socio-political movements of the LGBTQ+ community.
3. Critically assess and analyze cultural artifacts and social phenomena using feminist and/or queer theory.

Degree Requirements

To receive an Associate Degree for Transfer, students must complete 60 CSU transferable semester units with a grade point average of at least 2.0, and the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC) beginning fall 2025. Consultation with a Counselor is highly encouraged to ensure all requirements are met.