LGBTQ studies is the academic investigation of sexuality in established fields such as literature, history, theatre, law, medicine, economics, sociology, anthropology and political science. As an academic discipline, LGBTQ Studies examines the history of queerness, the politics of sexual oppression and empowerment, the relationship of sexual identity, the representation of sexualities in music, literature and art and the meaning of queerness in individual identity and the examined life. By its very nature LGBTQ studies is interdisciplinary. It encourages students to think across established disciplines in order to understand the meaning of sexuality in society.<br><br>Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) studies at the University of Colorado Boulder encompasses more than 20 courses in a dozen departments, including classes in literature, history, theatre, law, medicine, economics, sociology, anthropology and political science. With its interdisciplinary approach, LGBTQ studies interweaves complex theories and analysis into the study of sexuality. Through the certificate program and the guidance of faculty advisors, students are given an opportunity to integrate a wide variety of courses offered in the humanities, social sciences and natural sciences in order to deepen their understanding of societies and cultures and to relate that understanding to lived experience.