The queer studies minor at Mills explores the social construction of sexuality in different historical, geographical and cultural contexts as well as the histories, experiences, and cultures of diverse LGBTQ communities. With a specific focus on how sexuality intersects with race, class, gender, ability, religion, and national origin, queer studies at Mills is intersectional and transnational in its scope.

Queer studies course offerings are interdisciplinary, allowing students to study sexuality from a broad range of theoretical and methodological perspectives. Located amidst the vibrant queer communities of the San Francisco Bay Area, queer studies students also have numerous opportunities for service learning and community engaged research.  

The queer studies minor complements a wide range of majors. Whether students are interested in policy issues affecting queer communities, queer literature, queer history, critical theory, social movements, visual culture, etc., queer studies offers the opportunity to develop a critical analysis of sexuality and power. The queer studies minor prepares students to work in social justice oriented fields such as education and social services and also provides a strong foundation for graduate work in a number of different disciplines.

Students in the minor take an introductory course and a methodologies course. In addition, students take four queer studies electives of their own choosing. While the minor is offered by the Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Department, queer studies minors also benefit from the experience of a multi-disciplinary faculty advisory board.

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