Are you a prospective college student who identifies as LGBTQ+, seeking a campus that’s not just academically stellar but also safe, inclusive, and supportive? Look no further! In this blog post, we’ve compiled a list of the Top 25 LGBTQ+ Friendly Colleges that not only boast vibrant communities but also offer strong administrative backing and a history of inclusivity.
1. Brown University
- 24% of undergraduates identify as LGBQ+.
- LGBTQ Center established in 2004.
2. Bryn Mawr College
- Active Rainbow Alliance and Zami+ student groups.
- Career engagement opportunities for the LGBTQ community.
3. Carleton College
- Gender and Sexuality Center (GSC) offers resources and support.
- 20% of undergraduates identify as LGBTQ+.
4. College of William & Mary
- All Gender-designated restrooms on campus.
- Thriving W&M Rainbow Coalition and Lambda Alliance.
5. Emerson College
- LGBTQIA+ Student Life housed within the Division of Student Affairs.
- Diverse student organizations like EAGLE, XeCult, and Theyta.
6. Emory University
- Office of LGBTQ Life fosters an affirming campus environment.
- Regular Queer Discussion Groups (QDGs).
7. Grinnell College
- Stonewell Resource Center with a library of queer publications.
- LGBTQ course options, including Foundations of LGBTQ Studies.
8. Macalester College
- Gender & Sexuality Resource Center (GSRC) hosts regular events.
- Socially/civically-involved gay student community since the 1970s.
9. Mount Holyoke College
- Over half the student body identifies as LGBTQ+.
- Gender-inclusive restrooms and housing available.
10. NYU
- NYU LGBTQ+ Center with 25 years of existence.
- Major or minor in Gender and Sexuality Studies.
11. Oberlin College
- Multicultural Resource Center offers services for LGBTQ+ students.
- Study options in Gender, Sexuality, and Feminist Studies.
12. Penn State University
- Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity offers comprehensive services.
- Active LGBTQ+ student organizations on campus.
13. Rutgers University
- Center for Social Justice Education supports LGBTQIA students.
- 15+ student organizations for the LGBTQ+ community.
14. Smith College
- Progressive transgender policies.
- PRISM student organization for Queer, Trans, and Questioning students of color.
15. Stanford University
- Strong Queer Student Resources and Program in Feminist Studies.
- Supportive housing and counseling options.
16. Tufts University
- LGBT Center active since 1992.
- Mentoring program for incoming students (Team Q).
17. University of Maryland – College Park
- LGBTQ+ Equity Center with professional staff.
- The One Project helps first-year students adjust to college life.
18. University of Massachusetts – Amherst
- Stonewall Center offers workshops and support groups.
- Gender-inclusive restrooms and housing policy.
19. University of Michigan – Ann Arbor
- Spectrum Center enhances campus climate and support services.
- Strong student-run LGBTQ+ organizations.
20. University of Washington – Seattle
- Q Center provides a celebratory environment for all sexual orientations.
- Accessible name change process for records and documents.
21. University of Wisconsin – Madison
- Gender and Sexuality Campus Center supports LGBTQ+ students.
- LGBTQ+ Peer Mentor Program for campus acclimation.
22. University of Pennsylvania
- LGBT Center enriches the experiences of LGBTQ+ students.
- Annual LGBTQ cultural celebration, QPenn.
23. Wellesley College
- Stone Center offers LGBTQ programs and services.
- Professional networking through “The Hive” virtual space.
24. Wesleyan University
- Queer Studies concentration in the American Studies Major.
- Gender-neutral housing and all-gender bathrooms on campus.
25. Vassar College
- LGBTQ Center enhances campus life experiences.
- Diverse student organizations, including Ace Space and TransMission.
For more detailed insights and a comprehensive guide, check out our college guidebook: “Colleges Worth Your Money.” These institutions not only prioritize LGBTQ+ inclusivity but also offer exceptional academic opportunities. Remember, these schools are presented in alphabetical order for easy reference, as each stands out in creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all students.