Top 5 LGBT Friendly Colleges in 2021

Each student embarking on their education and career path may have different considerations in choosing a school that’s right for them. When it comes to the LGBTQ community, students may be looking for a school that is diverse, progressive, and supportive of their identity.

In this article, we’ll provide some advice on looking for LGBT friendly colleges: what to look for, which questions to ask, and a list of some great colleges that are known for being inclusive.

A Word On LGBTQ

In this article, we use the acronym LGBTQ as an umbrella term which encompasses the full community of sexual orientations, genders, and identities. Though LGBTQ stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer/questioning, we recognize that there are many more identities included in the term, and we mean to include and address them all by using this acronym.

What Should You Look For in an LGBTQ Friendly College?

If you or a loved one are looking for gay friendly colleges or LGBTQ friendly colleges, it can be hard to know what exactly to look out for. Many college campuses may say that they are welcoming of LGBTQ students, but what kind of practical measures really make an LGBTQ student feel supported on campus?

Below are some factors to look out for or ask about a college when searching for an inclusive campus experience.

Non-discrimination policies

When searching for a college, look out for clear non-discrimination policies in their academic and campus policies. This is a good indication that you will be protected in the school system. Look out for school policies that clearly denounce discrimination based on gender, sexual orientation, religion, ethnicity, etc.

A thriving LGBTQ student life

Student life is an important part of college. Check to see what kind of groups, clubs, and events are included on campus. Many LGBTQ students feel more comfortable when there is a larger LGBTQ presence on campus and a place to go to meet other students like them.

Options for LGBTQ classes and majors

It can sometimes be a good indication of campus pride when there are available classes and majors on LGBTQ and gender issues. This is not a hard-fast rule though, as even the most LGBT friendly college may not have specific majors. It may just be a factor if you wish to study these topics as part of your major or personal development during college.

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Gender inclusive housing and restrooms

For some LGBTQ students, living situations and restrooms can be a big factor in their choice of college campuses. In fact, the ability to feel comfortable and safe with the housing options may be a non-negotiable for many.

Therefore, it’s important to look out for gender inclusive housing and restroom options. If the information is unclear on the college’s website, try speaking with the administration directly and ask about these matters.

LGBTQ-specific healthcare and counseling options

Before choosing a school, be sure to check whether there is LGBTQ-specific healthcare and counseling available. Depending on your unique situation, you may need specific healthcare options, as well as a counselor who is prepared to deal with LGBTQ-specific issues and mental health.

Campus safety

Campus safety is important for all students, but different communities may have distinct worries when it comes to safety in college. Students may wish to ask around about the safety and attitude toward the LGBTQ community on campus. Whereas non-discrimination policies indicate the attitude of the general administration and school, campus safety indicates the attitude of fellow students.

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5 Best LGBTQ Friendly Colleges

Below, we’ve listed 10 great colleges that are LGBTQ friendly. We’ve made sure to include colleges that have ranked well in both inclusivity and academics, so that you don’t have to compromise on either aspect when choosing your perfect school.

1. University of Pennsylvania

University of Pennsylvania is first on the list for its long standing LGBT advocacy, with one of the oldest LGBT centers in the country. The LGBT center is a great place for students to visit and hang out, as well as a center for advocacy on campus. Trans or non-binary students especially will find important considerations at Penn, such as gender-neutral bathrooms and showers (all across campus), gender-neutral housing options, and official/administrative use of preferred names.

2. Ohio State University

Ohio State University is dedicated to each student, academically, socially, and mentally. It checks all the boxes for institutional LGBTQ support, health, housing, and campus safety. The University houses many different LGBTQ student groups, including a co-ed, inclusive fraternity called Pi Alpha Kappa. Some groups include Out In Business, LGBT & Allies in Medicine, LGBT First Year Q*mmunity, and more.

3. University of California – Los Angeles

At the epicenter of the gay-friendly city of Los Angeles, University of California has an inclusive and academically-involved campus. The University of California is home to the Williams Institute, a think tank which researches sexual orientation and gender identity policy — responsible for legal support in LGBT parenting and adoption, public health LGBT rights, and more. The campus also has an LGBTQ Campus Resource Center, as well as counseling services and therapy groups, transgender legal and health resources, sexual health resources, and weekly events. UCLA also has 7 LGBTQ scholarships for students to consider.

4. Washington University in St. Louis

Washington University does a great job at encouraging LGBTQ advocacy on campus with LGBTQ leadership and advocacy student awards, a retreat called DestinationQ for LGBTQ undergraduates, and department-specific programs such as BranchOut for business students and OUTLAW for law students.

5. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

MIT checks all the boxes for LGBTQ student life. They offer all the necessities such as inclusive policies, gender-neutral housing, bathrooms, and locker rooms, mental health services, and name change services. They also have a vibrant LGBTQ student life and presence on campus, including student groups such as Lazos: A Place at the Table for TQPOC & Allies of Color, an MIT Rainbow Lounge, LGBTQ orientation week and retreats, and more.

Wrap Up

When looking for LGBT friendly colleges, students may look at a variety of factors from diversity to inclusivity, housing options, and favorable policies. We hope this article helps you narrow down the schools that are suitable for you.

At University of the People, we are dedicated to providing quality education for everybody. We wish to celebrate each student for their unique identity, background, and life experience. In fact, 91% of UoPeople students surveyed feel that the University is an inclusive environment, and 95% feel respected during their studies. Because we offer completely online degrees, our students study with us from all around the world, and each adds to our collective college experience.