The Emergence of Gender-Neutral Housing on American University Campuses

Abstract:: American college housing is beginning to introduce gender-neutral housing, or the housing of students in the same room regardless of gender. This study provides a descriptive overview of gender-neutral housing from 148 universities and documents central areas of debate in current policy discussions. Information regarding gender-neutral housing policies and practices at each of these campuses was collected. Results suggest that gender-neutral housing is currently an uncommon occurrence as a formalized housing option for most students. However, almost half of the schools sampled are currently engaging in formal or informal policy discussion regarding the addition of gender-neutral housing. Important future questions and priorities for both college administrators and scholars are suggested.

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