California Queer History Field Study
A short-term, place-based study-away course exploring LGBTQ+ histories through archives, neighborhoods, and community partners in San Francisco and Los Angeles, California.
At a Glance
Eligibility
Open to University of Northern Colorado students 18+. Students from other colleges and universities may be considered based on demand.
Dates
June 26, 2026 – July 3, 2026
Credit
HIST 292 (1 unit through the University of Northern Colorado)
Walk iconic LGBTQ+ neighborhoods
Stroll the Castro, Silver Lake, and Harvey Milk Plaza while learning the queer histories that shaped them.
Location
California, USA:
San Francisco
Los Angeles
Program Overview
This week-long journey through San Francisco and Los Angeles invites students to explore queer history, culture, and community across generations and geographies. From archives and activism to drag shows and intergenerational storytelling, the program blends place-based learning with personal reflection.
Along the way, students will engage with queer leaders, visit iconic historical sites, and examine how space, memory, and identity intersect in the ongoing work of LGBTQ+ liberation.
Go behind the scenes at ONE Archives
Visit one of the largest LGBTQ+ collections in the world, and see how LGBTQ+ history is preserved and shared.
What You’ll Do
Meet LGBTQ+ leaders & mentors
Candid Q&A with organizers, artists, historians, and elders about community, care, and change.
Create for the community
Make a mini‑podcast, zine, or exhibit labels that share local LGBTQ+ stories with public audiences.
Explore together
Travel with a supportive cohort and staff who make LGBTQ+ travel fun, welcoming, and safe.
Turn experience into next steps
Convert what you did into resume lines, LinkedIn language, and contacts for internships or graduate pathways.
Stay Tuned
We’re actively fundraising, and all funds raised will reduce the cost to participate for each student. Final pricing and application dates will be announced in the spring of 2026. This program was created by Rainbow Routes in collaboration with the University of Northern Colorado. Details may change based on site availability and partner scheduling.