Enough already! University offers LGBT Undergraduate Degree

SAN DIEGO – San Diego State is the second university in the nation and the first in California to offer an undergraduate degree in lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender studies, thanks to approval from the California State University Chancellor’s Office last week. The university has offered a minor in LGBT studies since 2009. The new major will begin accepting students in spring 2012.
“We really are the first CSU, the first college in California, the first one on the West Coast and the second in the nation to offer this major,” said Esther Rothblum, professor of women’s studies and the LGBT studies academic advisor. 
Rothblum said that she already has five students who have contacted her about applying to the major. She noted that the degree is applicable to a variety of careers, from medical to law to business.
“Students are realizing that having a minor or major in LGBT studies is a huge asset in getting them into medical school, law school or even the corporate sector,” Rothblum said. “It really shows that they have a level of expertise that a lot of places want. Most places really like it if their employees have an understanding of diversity.”
According to Associated Students Diversity Commissioner Channelle McNutt, students — whether they identify with the LGBT community or not — will benefit from the major.
“It definitely signifies our commitment to further understanding, exploring and showcasing our support and knowledge of the community,” McNutt said. “It presents a unique opportunity for students to engage in dialogue and to further their education on LGBT issues.”
Rothblum said that the degree reflects the change on campus in the past few years, from the implementation of the Safe Zones program to the annual Lavender Graduation ceremony for LGBT students. For two years, SDSU has been a leading LGBT-friendly university with a five-star rating from Campus Pride’s LGBT-Friendly Campus Climate Index.

Source: exministries.wordpress.com