Course Overview

New for 2023!

This course will provide students an introduction to LGBTQ+ history in the United States from the 20th century onward. The course will begin by defining “LGBTQ+” and why it’s history and representation matters.

We will then discuss and analyze the major social, political, historical, and artistic events in the last 100 years that have contribute to creating a more inclusive society.

All students who successfully complete the course will receive a Certificate of Completion and have the opportunity to request a Syracuse University noncredit transcript.

Course Objectives

Students will be able to:

  • Define and utilize basic terms and concepts central to LGBTQ+ history.
  • Identify and discuss major social, political, historical, and artistic events that pertain to LGBTQ+ history
  • Express in writing and discussions an understanding of the variety of perspectives and challenges presented in LGBTQ+ history.
  • Analyze  an LGBTQ+ historical figure and what their major contributions were to the LGBTQ+ rights movement.

Course Information

Course Prefix and Number: TBD

Format: Online

Eligibility: Students must be of rising high school junior or senior status – or a 2023 high school graduate. 

Credit: Noncredit

Grading: Pass/Fail

Cost: $1,985
Program rates are subject to change and will be approved by the board of trustees.  Discounts and scholarships are also available.


Program Information

Summer College – Online: Explore college life before stepping foot on campus! High school students can enroll in a college-level course, pursue their academic interests, and meet likeminded students in daily virtual events and activities.


“I absolutely loved my time at Syracuse University Summer College 2020 and truly mean it when I say that it changed my life.”

— Maggie S.., Summer College Online Student, 2020

Course Dates and Details

ProgramCourse DatesSynchronous Class Time (Eastern Time)Credit/NoncreditStatus
Summer College – Online3-Week Session I:
Monday, July 3 – Thursday, July 20, 2023
MTWTh;
6:30 – 8 p.m.
NoncreditClosed
*July 4 is an observed holiday and students will have class on Friday, July 7 and then all subsequent synchronous class will run according to the schedule above.

Course Requirements

Technology Requirements

  • Laptop or desktop computer with a webcam and mouse
  • Reliable internet access
  • A space conducive to taking an online class (without distractions)

Typical Day

Tentative Schedule

Students will do some pre-work on Blackboard (watch a video, listen to a podcast, write a short discussion board assignment) and then meet synchronously with the class. During the synchronous sessions, the instructor will provide an introduction to the lesson, and then there will be a general discussion of the topic, some light group work and/or a guest lecture where they will be able to listen and interact with an expert in the field.

When class is over, and on weekends, students can look forward to various Summer College virtual activities to meet and connect with other students across the world. Check out our Virtual Campus Experience page for more information!

Faculty Bios

Dr. Janet E. Gomez

Dr. Janet E. Gomez received her Ph.D. from Johns Hopkins University in 2016. She has taught courses at several institutions including, University of Florida, Florida State, johns Hopkins University, and Georgetown University. Dr. Gomez’s research is in on  Italian early modern women writers, Dante, and the figure of the warrior woman in history. When not teaching and researching, Dr. Gomez likes to train for half marathons, ride her Peloton bike, and play the guitar.