The Best College for LGBTQ+ Students In Each State
There are colleges in every state that provide notable LGBTQ+ support services. Find out which schools made our list for best colleges for LGBTQ+ students in each state.
Updated June 25, 2022
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- Colleges are increasingly looking to provide a strong support network for LGBTQ+ students.
- The support provided to LGBTQ+ students in each state can vary.
- View our list of the best colleges for LGBTQ+ students in each state.
According to the American Council of Education, identity development, campus climate, and policy remain the most critical components of support for LGBTQ+ students. Many colleges struggle to provide data-driven programs to support these students. However, some schools have made advances to provide targeted support for trans and nonbinary students, LGBTQ+ students, and LGBTQ+ students of color.
In partnership with Campus Pride, BestColleges has put together a list of LGBTQ+-friendly colleges, highlighting the best colleges for LGBTQ+ students in several states.
Who Is Campus Pride?
Campus Pride serves LGBTQ+ and allied student leaders and campus organizations in leadership development, support programs, and services to create safer, more inclusive, and LGBTQ+-friendly colleges and universities. It exists to develop, support, and give "voice and action" in building future LGBTQ+ and ally student leaders.
Campus Pride Resources for LGBTQ+ College Students
How Do We Rank LGBTQ+-Friendly Colleges in Each State?
In partnership with Campus Pride, BestColleges presents this list of the most LGBTQ+ friendly colleges in each state. In addition to the Campus Pride Index rating scale, BestColleges has included its own ranking methodology that emphasizes college affordability and important academic quality metrics, including admissions rate, enrollment rate, graduation rate, and accreditation. You can also find this unique ranking methodology on our list of the best LGBTQ+-friendly colleges.
It is important to note that the following list does not include states where there are no schools that rank on the Campus Pride Index or states that do not have at least a four-star rating on the Campus Pride Index.
The Best Colleges for LGBTQ+ Students in Each State in 2022
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American UniversityLocation
Washington, DC
American University in Washington, D.C. provides LGBTQ+ students, faculty, and staff with significant supportive resources through its Center for Diversity and Inclusion. Resources include the Trans Resource guide, LGBTQ housing options, and a weekly newsletter with updates on community events. See the LGBTQ community page for more resources.
The Health Center provides counseling as well as wellness promotion and gender-affirming support. The office connects individuals to external non-profit advocacy in the greater D.C. area. American University ranks 4.5 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 36%
- Graduation Rate: 79%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 13,000
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $49,070
- School Status: Private
- School Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
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Bowdoin CollegeLocation
Brunswick, ME
After integrating with the Women's Resource Center (WRC) in 2017, the Resource Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity (RCSGD) became the Sexuality, Women, and Gender Center in order to better support both women and the LGBTQ+ community at Bowdoin College.
Resources include workshops on inclusive language, gender in art, and trans rights. Various student organizations provide opportunities for participation in social justice and other activities. Bowdoin College ranks 4 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 9%
- Graduation Rate: 95%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 1,750
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $55,822
- School Status: Private
- School Accreditation: New England Commission on Higher Education
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Brown UniversityLocation
Providence, RI
The LGBTQ Center at Brown University was established in 2004 and serves to provide a comprehensive training and support system surrounding issues of gender identity and sexuality for members of the LGBTQ+ community at the university and in the greater community.
Resources and activities include gender-inclusive housing, health resources, gender-inclusive restrooms, policy on sexual harassment and gender discrimination, and various social and support groups. Brown University ranks 4.5 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 7%
- Graduation Rate: 96%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 9,728
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $57,112
- School Status: Private
- School Accreditation: New England Commission on Higher Education
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Connecticut CollegeLocation
New London, CT
Connecticut College's LGBTQIA Center was founded in 2007 by a group of students in conjunction with a faculty member. The Center provides a location for study and programming and a resource library for the community.
Activities include participation in national events — such as National Coming Out Day and World AIDS Day — and internal events such as pride rallies, Transgender Day of Remembrance, and mentorship programs. Connecticut College ranks 4.5 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 37%
- Graduation Rate: 84%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 1,800
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $56,540
- School Status: Private
- School Accreditation: New England Commission on Higher Education
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Dartmouth CollegeLocation
Hanover, NH
The Dartmouth College Office of Pluralism and Leadership (OPAL) provides community-specific campus resources to various student populations, including the LGBTQ+ community. Support includes LGBTQIA+ advising, housing, and academic residency programs through Triangle House, a library with specialized resources, and a Partnerships in Pride mentoring program.
The Counseling and Human Development office offers a safe and welcoming space for individuals to seek help with issues of gender identity and sexuality confidentially. Dartmouth College ranks 4.5 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 8%
- Graduation Rate: 95%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 6,342
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $55,605
- School Status: Private
- School Accreditation: New England Commission on Higher Education
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Emory UniversityLocation
Atlanta, GA
The Office of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Life's main objective is to create a campus climate of acceptance and affirmation for the LGBTQ+ community. The center offers social activities such as Wednesday Wine Downs, LBGTeas, open houses, panel discussions, interactive workshops, and Safe Space training.
Additional support includes access to specialized legal services, health initiatives, and professional and academic development with an LGBT+ focus. Emory University ranks 4.5 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 16%
- Graduation Rate: 90%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 14,769
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $53,070
- School Status: Private
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission
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Guilford CollegeLocation
Greensboro, NC
Guilford College's Diversity and Inclusion office provides a number of support services for members of the LGBTQ+ community. Multiple residence halls provide gender-inclusive housing and student activities coordinated by Guilford College Pride.
The counseling center provides confidential assistance. Health insurance is provided to cover gender confirmation surgery and hormone therapy. The office also provides connections to community activism and support programs. Guilford College ranks 5 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 56%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 1,200
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $37,920
- School Status: Private
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission
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Ithaca CollegeLocation
Ithaca, NY
Ithaca College provides a vibrant and engaged community for LGBTQ+ students through their Center for LGBT Education, Outreach & Services. The center, founded in 1999, supports both the academic and social needs of the community and its allies.
Campus-wide events include an Ithaca Pride walking tour of historically meaningful sites in Ithaca, an important site for LGBTQ+ rights. It also hosts speakers, film series, receptions, and other social gatherings. Ithaca College ranks 5 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 73%
- Graduation Rate: 74%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 6,000
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $45,274
- School Status: Private
- School Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
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Kansas State UniversityLocation
Manhattan, KS
The LGBT Resource Center at Kansas State University opened in 2010, and works to create an inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals, as well as resources to support the community at large.
Organizations involved in this effort include the K-State Sexuality and Gender Alliance, the LGBTQ+ Faculty Staff Alliance, the Gender Collective, and oSTEM. These organizations support various initiatives such as appropriate housing communities, restroom facilities, and gender and sexuality resources. K-State ranks 5 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 95%
- Graduation Rate: 65%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 20,000
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $9,735
- School Status: Public
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
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Kenyon CollegeLocation
Gambier, OH
Kenyon College has a strong institutional commitment to providing a safe, vibrant community for its LGBTQ+ students, faculty and staff, and policy to support them. Their programming involves social, academic, and advocacy opportunities, as well as health promotion and financial support.
Kenyon College biennially hosts the Queer and Trans Studies Conference, featuring tracks in healthcare and technology, visual and performing arts, humanities and popular culture, society and law, and community interest workshops. Kenyon College ranks 5 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 34%
- Graduation Rate: 91%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 1,734
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $56,340
- School Status: Private
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
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Macalester CollegeLocation
Saint Paul, MN
The Gender & Sexuality Resource Center (GRSC) at Macalester College provides programming for its LGBTQ+ students, faculty, and staff. The All-Gender Community housing is a model community where students of all genders are welcome. The GSRC Qmmunity Connections creates a space for community members to make connections.
The Queer Professionals Network allows students to connect with faculty, staff, and alumni, and various Identity Collectives create opportunities for cross-campus dialogue. Macalester College ranks 5 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 32%
- Graduation Rate: 91%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 2,094
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $56,062
- School Status: Private
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
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Montana State University-BozemanLocation
Bozeman, MT
The Montana State University LGBTQ+ Resource directory provides a comprehensive look into all of the educational and support resources available to the campus community. Housed within the Diversity and Inclusion Student Commons, various programs are available to the community, including identity support, discrimination and bias prevention, and mental health and well-being programs.
The directory also provides access to community outreach, advocacy, and activism opportunities available for further participation. MSU ranks 4 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 82%
- Graduation Rate: 57%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 16,902
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $5,654
- School Status: Public
- School Accreditation: Northwest Commission of Colleges and Universities
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Northern Arizona UniversityLocation
Flagstaff, AZ
Northern Arizona University LGBTQIA Commission is an organization that provides support to all students, faculty, and staff at the university. The Commission supports the Office of Inclusion: Multicultural & LGBTQIA Student Services and provides Safe Zone training, counseling services, and policy for safety and health promotion on campus.
NAU also provides gender-inclusive housing to allow for transgender and gender-questioning students to experience a safe alternative to gender binary housing. Northern Arizona University ranks 4.5 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 85%
- Graduation Rate: 57%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 29,000
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $10,018
- School Status: Public
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
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Northern Illinois UniversityLocation
Dekalb, IL
The Gender and Sexuality Resource Center collaborates with various campus partners to provide support to the LGBTQ+ community. Partnerships with campus offices allow the center to leverage existing expertise into workshops, presentations, and conferences on topics affecting the community.
The LGBTQ+ Speakers Bureau is a resource that offers interactive events for the community and allies. The organization provides speakers from the community to present in classes, residence halls, or other events. NIU ranks 5 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 48%
- Graduation Rate: 49%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 16,234
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $9,466
- School Status: Public
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
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Portland State UniversityLocation
Portland, OR
The Queer Resource Center began in 2003 as a response to the need for support and protection for the LGBTQ+ community. The Center provides support through advocacy, community, and celebration.
The Center provides regular programming throughout the year, but also a Queer Students of Color Conference, and various affinity groups. Their Dandelion Initiative is a new persistence program serving the non-binary, transgender, and queer communities. PSU ranks 5 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 96%
- Graduation Rate: 48%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 30,000
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $6,462
- School Status: Public
- School Accreditation: Northwest Commission of Colleges and Universities
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Princeton UniversityLocation
Princeton, NJ
Founded in 1989, the Gender + Sexuality Resource Center (GSRC) was created to support and empower the LGBTQ+ community through events, education and other interventions.
The GSRC provides peer-facilitated first-year discussion groups, gender support discussion groups, a peer educator program, Out in STEM, and the Q'nnections mentorship program. They also provide training and initiatives related to allyship, social justice, and mental health and wellness. Princeton ranks 5 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 6%
- Graduation Rate: 98%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 8,014
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $51,870
- School Status: Private
- School Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
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Purdue UniversityLocation
West Lafayette, IN
The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer Center, part of the Office of Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging, serves the LGBTQ+ community through social events, lecture series, advocacy for a discrimination-free environment, and various training opportunities.
THE LGBTQ Center maintains a library of resources and historical artifacts related to key moments in the history of the community. The center connects with the local community groups to provide enrichment opportunities for its members. Purdue University ranks 5 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 60%
- Graduation Rate: 82%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 49,000
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $9,208
- School Status: Public
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
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Stanford UniversityLocation
Stanford, CA
The Queer Student Resources (QSR) office creates spaces for students of all genders and sexualities to feel safe. There is a focus on the intersectionality of gender, race, religion, and sexuality.
The QSR provides programming for members of various communities such as Black queer and trans students, queer and trans people of color, academic-focused programs, and queer faith-based initiatives. Stanford University ranks 5 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 4%
- Graduation Rate: 94%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 18,000
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $52,857
- School Status: Private
- School Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
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The University of Texas at DallasLocation
Richardson, TX
The Galerstein Gender Center (GGC) has been part of the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion since 1996. The GGC provides support to the LGBTQ+ community through specialized advising, training, lectures, workshops, and celebratory advocacy.
The GGC Equity Excellence program provides a certificate of commitment to participants from the university community upon completion of various academic and social events, book clubs, and lectures. UT Dallas ranks 5 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 79%
- Graduation Rate: 70%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 27,642
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $13,442
- School Status: Public
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission
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Tufts UniversityLocation
Medford, MA
The LGBT Center at Tufts University offers a safe space for students to gather, as well as campus-wide programming on sexuality, gender, and discrimination. Center staff are available for consultations to provide support and guidance to the LGBTQ+ community.
The university provides special interest housing, and the campus health center is available for a broad range of sexual health support and gender-confirming therapy. Tufts University ranks 5 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 15%
- Graduation Rate: 94%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 11,606
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $57,324
- School Status: Private
- School Accreditation: New England Commission on Higher Education
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University of Colorado BoulderLocation
Boulder, CO
The Pride Office, which is part of the Center for Inclusion and Social Change, provides the LGBTQ+ community with a support system that encourages dialogue, advocacy, and education. This happens through consultations with center staff, Safe Zone training, and conferences.
The campus also provides LGBTQ+-friendly housing and all-gender restrooms and locker rooms, as well as healthcare and educational materials. Off-campus community groups also create strong partnerships for the campus community. CU Boulder ranks 5 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 78%
- Graduation Rate: 69%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 30,000
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $10,728
- School Status: Public
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
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University of DelawareLocation
Newark, DE
The Division of Student Life at UD is committed to creating spaces and activities that foster acceptance and development. There are many LGBTQ+ resources available to students to build community.
The Gender and Sexuality Living Learning Community provides first-year housing to LGBTQ+ students and all-gender housing opportunities. Community dinner nights and Lavender Coffee chats also allow for social engagement. University of Delaware ranks 4.5 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 71%
- Graduation Rate: 81%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 22,166
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $12,730
- School Status: Public
- School Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
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University of LouisvilleLocation
Louisville, KY
The LGBT Center at University of Louisville provides students with a safe space to come together for discussions, advocacy, and to embrace each other's differences. The purpose of the center is to create an inclusive community on campus.
The center provides Safe Zone training, specialized orientation activities, PRIDE activities, and a unique opportunity for a social justice-themed living community. UofL ranks 5 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 69%
- Graduation Rate: 59%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 22,000
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $11,732
- School Status: Public
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission
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University of MarylandLocation
College Park, MD
The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, & Transgender Equity Center serves all LGBTQ+ students, faculty, and staff at the University of Maryland, College Park. The center provides opportunities for learning, leadership, and connection to the community.
Unique opportunities include the Lavender Leadership Honor Society, the #TransTerps project, and the Rainbow Terrapin Network. The resource library also catalogs books, movies, and other resources. UMD College Park ranks 5 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 44%
- Graduation Rate: 87%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 37,952
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $8,824
- School Status: Public
- School Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
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University of MiamiLocation
Coral Gables, FL
The LGBTQ Student Center at the University of Miami provides the community a breadth of both virtual and face-to-face options for support. The center provides holistic and transformative opportunities for student, faculty, and staff members.
The LGBTQ Student Center hosts a number of student organizations for its diverse populations. Participants also take part in local events such as the Miami Beach Pride Parade.UM ranks 4 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 27%
- Graduation Rate: 83%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 16,397
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $50,400
- School Status: Private
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission
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University of Michigan-Ann ArborLocation
Ann Arbor, MI
The Gay Liberation Front chapter at the University of Michigan created the Spectrum Center in 1971, to support their LGBTQ+ community. The center works to create a welcoming climate through advocacy, education, and community building.
The program support includes health and wellness initiatives, crisis response, and academic and social support groups. Online learning opportunities also allow involvement with easier access. U-M ranks 5 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 23%
- Graduation Rate: 93%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 46,000
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $16,212
- School Status: Public
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
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University of Nebraska at KearneyLocation
Kearney, NE
The Office of Student Diversity and Inclusion created the Gender & Sexuality Resource Office to provide a safe space to voice concerns and share ideas related to issues facing the LGBTQ+ community. It is also a resource center for survivors of sexual violence, assault, or domestic abuse.
The center staff provides referrals for campus resources such as counseling, the Kearney S.A.F.E. Center, or Title IX concerns. UNK ranks 4 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 85%
- Graduation Rate: 56%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 6,232
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $6,090
- School Status: Public
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
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University of New MexicoLocation
Albuquerque, NM
The LGBTQ Resource Center at the University of New Mexico began as a student-led initiative in 2010 and has significantly expanded since. Services provided by the center range from educational programming to counseling and health promotion resources.
UNM has several active student and community organizations that serve the LGBT+ community, and the Queer Student Alliance provides students with educational and social activities throughout the year. The University of New Mexico ranks 4 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 94%
- Graduation Rate: 54%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 27,000
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $6,299
- School Status: Public
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
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University of OklahomaLocation
Norman, OK
There are a significant number of initiatives at the University of Oklahoma created to meet the needs of the LGBTQ+ community. The Gender + Equality Center houses advocates that cultivate and affirm the rights of LGBTQ+ people and women on campus.
Ally training is available on campus, and the university collaborates closely advocacy groups in the community such as Freedom Oklahoma and the Norman Queer Alliance. University of Oklahoma ranks 4 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 80%
- Graduation Rate: 70%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 25,829
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $4,788
- School Status: Public
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
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University of PennsylvaniaLocation
Philadelphia, PA
Open since 1982, the LGBTQ+ Center at the University of Pennsylvania was created as a response to homophobic incidents occurring on campus. It fosters a safe campus environment and affirms members of its community.
Other resources include an African-American Resource Center, religious organizations and various cultural clubs. University of Pennsylvania ranks 5 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 8%
- Graduation Rate: 96%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 20,000
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $51,156
- School Status: Private
- School Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
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University of UtahLocation
Salt Lake City, UT
The University of Utah's LGBT Resource Center began serving the LGBTQ+ university community in 2002, as a student initiative. Since then, the university has built many resources for faculty, staff, and students in the community.
One new initiative is the David Bohnett CyberCenter, a computer lab that allows students to work in a nurturing atmosphere. Other initiatives include workshops, leadership programs, and student organizations. University of Utah ranks 4.5 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 62%
- Graduation Rate: 70%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 23,389
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $7,412
- School Status: Public
- School Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
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University of VermontLocation
Burlington, VT
The Prism Center has been serving the LGBTQ+ population at the University of Vermont since 1999 and is a place for students to build their leadership skills, connect to the community and advocate for equity and inclusion. The center works closely with other campus identity centers to achieve this goal.
Other sources of support include identity-affirming care, emergency funds for urgent needs, and housing. The University of Vermont ranks 5 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 67%
- Graduation Rate: 77%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 11,000
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $16,392
- School Status: Public
- School Accreditation: New England Commission on Higher Education
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University of WashingtonLocation
Seattle, WA
The Q Center was created in 2005 as a result of a letter to the University President requesting a safe space for queer students. It has since grown to provide support, learning and research opportunities, employment, and leadership development for LGBTQ+ students.
The Queer Mentoring and Peer Program provides peer support as students navigate the college experience alongside sexual orientation and identity. UW ranks 5 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 52%
- Graduation Rate: 84%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 45,000
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $10,370
- School Status: Public
- School Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
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University of Wisconsin-Eau ClaireLocation
Eau Claire, WI
The University of Wisconsin Eau Claire has a significant number of resources for members of the LGBTQ+ community to get involved in social, educational and advocacy programs through the Gender & Sexuality Resource Center (GSRC). Whether through regular campus events, housing and safe spaces, or training opportunities, there is robust support available.
There are many ways for students to get involved at the GSRC, with volunteer or service-learning opportunities. The UWEC ranks 5 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 82%
- Graduation Rate: 67%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 11,000
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $7,361
- School Status: Public
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
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Vanderbilt UniversityLocation
Nashville, TN
Vanderbilt University's Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Intersex Life Office offers several campus, local and national resources to serve its LGBTQ+ community. Resources are available to students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Vanderbilt University ranks 4 on the Campus Pride Index.
The University Counseling Center offers individual and group therapy options and critical care. Student academic and social organizations provide connections on campus, as do the LGBTQI Life programs. The Program for LGBTQ Health connects community members to LGBTQ-competent health providers both on campus and in the local community.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 9%
- Graduation Rate: 93%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 11,815
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $50,800
- School Status: Private
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission
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Virginia Wesleyan UniversityLocation
Virginia Beach, VA
The Safe Space Program at Virginia Wesleyan University seeks to create a safe and bias-free campus environment for the LGBTQ+ community. The program connects community members to campus and local resources for support.
Safe Space workshops, resources for education on unconscious bias, and participation in local Pride events provide the LGBTQ+ community with opportunities to connect with members of the community for academic and social support. Virginia Wesleyan University ranks 5 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 77%
- Graduation Rate: 48%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 1,750
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $36,010
- School Status: Private
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission
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Washington University in St. LouisLocation
St. Louis, MO
Washington University offers a great deal of resources for LGBTQIA+ students and allies, from special interest organizations, retreats, leadership opportunities and various online resources.
Several events are organized each year through the Pride Alliance, but special interest groups, such as WashU Athlete Ally, oSTEM, Transcending Gender, and WashU Ace & Aro offer various options. Graduate students can also participate in OUTgrads, LGBTQ+Med Alliance, OUTLaw, and other academic communities for support and guidance. Washington University ranks 4.5 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 14%
- Graduation Rate: 95%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 14,000
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $54,250
- School Status: Private
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
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West Virginia UniversityLocation
Morgantown, WV
The LBGTQ+ Center at West Virginia University connects members of the LGBTQ+ community with on campus resources and training, as well as to state and national resources. The university has a number of active student organizations, housing and diverse choice academic programs.
THe WVU LGBTQ+ Commission works with the center to monitor institutional procedures to ensure protection. Other resources encourage connection, advocacy, and networking throughout the community. WVU ranks 4.5 on the Campus Pride Index.
Academic Snapshot
- Admission Rate: 84%
- Graduation Rate: 61%
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 34,000
- Annual Undergraduate Tuition, In-State: $8,976
- School Status: Public
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
State Resources for LGBTQ+ College Students
Explore LGBTQ+ Resources
Discover NowMeet Our Campus Pride Experts
Genny Beemyn, Ph.D.
Genny Beemyn is a leading expert on the experiences of trans people in the United States, particularly the lives of trans students, and on the development of trans-inclusive college policies and practices. They are the director of the Stonewall Center at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst and the Trans Policy Clearinghouse coordinator for Campus Pride.
Shane L. Windmeyer, M.S., Ed.
Shane Windmeyer is a leading author on LGBTQ+ campus issues, national leader in LGBTQ+ civil rights, and a champion for LGBTQ+ issues on college campuses. He is co-founder and executive director of Campus Pride. Windmeyer is also the author of The Advocate College Guide for LGBTQ+ Students, the first-ever college guide profiling the "100 Best LGBTQ-Friendly Campuses."
