While most American universities and colleges now offer co-ed dormitories, there remain a number of institutions—particularly religiously affiliated and some single-gender colleges—that do not have co-ed dorms. These schools maintain single-sex housing for various reasons, ranging from religious doctrine to tradition or student preference. Understanding where and why non-co-ed dorms persist can help prospective students make informed decisions about campus life and housing.
Background: The Evolution of College Dorm Policies
Co-ed dorms, where students of all genders live in the same building (and sometimes the same floor or suite), became widespread in the United States from the 1970s onward. Prior to that, virtually all college housing was single-sex, with men and women living in separate buildings—if women were admitted at all. The rise of co-ed dorms paralleled broader social changes, including the movement toward gender equality and the integration of formerly all-male or all-female institutions.
Despite these shifts, a number of colleges have retained or reinstated single-sex dorms. Some do so exclusively, while others offer both co-ed and single-sex options. A much smaller set of universities, however, maintain a strict policy of not having any co-ed dorms at all.
Examples of Universities Without Co Ed Dorms
Institutions that do not have co-ed dorms are relatively rare, but they do exist. The following types of schools are most likely to offer only single-sex housing:
- Religiously affiliated universities: Some Catholic, Mormon (LDS), and evangelical Christian colleges require single-sex dorms in accordance with religious teachings about modesty and gender roles. Examples include Brigham Young University (all campuses) and Liberty University.
- Single-gender colleges: Women’s and men’s colleges, such as Wellesley College (women) or Morehouse College (men), naturally only have one gender in their residence halls.
- Military academies: Some military colleges, such as the United States Military Academy (West Point), have historically separated housing by gender, though policies have evolved in some cases to allow for integrated housing under strict rules.
Here are some specific examples:
- Brigham Young University (BYU): All undergraduate residence halls are single-sex. Men and women live in separate buildings, and visitors of the opposite sex are only allowed in certain public areas during designated hours.
- Liberty University: Requires single-sex dorms for undergraduates. The university is known for its strict code of conduct, which extends to residential life.
- Wheaton College (IL): Offers only single-sex residence halls, in keeping with its evangelical Christian affiliation.
- Hillsdale College: While not officially religious, Hillsdale maintains single-sex dorms for traditional and philosophical reasons.
- United States Naval Academy: While men and women both attend, housing is separated by gender.
Note that some universities may offer co-ed apartments or off-campus housing, even if their on-campus dorms are single-sex. Policies can also differ between undergraduate and graduate student housing.
How Non-Co Ed Dorms Work
At universities with only single-sex dorms, students are assigned to residence halls based on their legal or self-identified gender, depending on the institution’s policies. Men and women live in separate buildings or, at minimum, on separate floors with restricted access. Rules governing visitation, shared spaces, and privacy are often more stringent than at schools with co-ed housing.
- Visitation Hours: Many schools restrict when students can visit dorms of the opposite sex, sometimes limiting visits to common areas only.
- Bathrooms: Restrooms and showers are typically single-sex, reducing concerns about privacy for some students.
- Room Assignments: Roommates and suitemates are always the same gender, and requests for mixed-gender accommodations are generally not allowed.
These rules are often enforced by residence advisors and campus security. Violations can result in disciplinary action, up to and including removal from housing.
Reasons for Maintaining Single-Sex Dorms
Universities that do not have co-ed dorms usually cite several reasons for their policies:
- Religious beliefs: Many faith-based institutions believe that single-sex living arrangements promote modesty and reduce temptation.
- Tradition: Some colleges value the continuity of long-standing customs, including single-sex housing.
- Focus on academics: Proponents argue that separating the sexes reduces distractions and fosters a more studious environment.
- Safety and comfort: Some students and parents feel safer and more comfortable in single-sex housing, especially in the context of privacy and personal boundaries.
Comparisons: Co Ed vs. Non-Co Ed Dorms
For many students, the choice between co-ed and single-sex dorms is about personal preference. Here are some common points of comparison:
- Social Environment: Co-ed dorms often foster more mixed-gender friendships and a broader social network. Single-sex dorms may foster tighter bonds among same-gender peers but can feel more restrictive.
- Privacy: Single-sex dorms provide bathrooms and living spaces exclusively for one gender, which some students prefer for privacy reasons.
- Rules: Non-co-ed dorms typically have more restrictive rules regarding visitors and conduct, while co-ed dorms tend to be more flexible.
- Accommodating Gender Diversity: Co-ed dorms are often better equipped to accommodate transgender and non-binary students, though some single-sex institutions are making efforts to be more inclusive.
It’s important to note that the presence or absence of co-ed dorms can impact the campus culture and daily life in significant ways.
Costs and Financial Considerations
The cost of living in single-sex versus co-ed dorms is generally comparable within a given university. However, some private religious colleges or single-gender institutions may have higher tuition and fees overall, which can affect the total cost of attendance. Additionally, the limited housing options at schools with only single-sex dorms may mean less choice in terms of room style or amenities, which can influence value for money.
Students seeking financial aid should check whether their preferred housing option is covered by scholarships or grants, as some aid packages specify on-campus housing requirements.
Safety, Privacy, and Student Well-being
Safety and privacy are often cited as advantages of single-sex dorms. With separate floors or buildings and more controlled access, some students and parents feel reassured about personal safety. However, critics argue that single-sex housing does not necessarily prevent issues like sexual harassment or assault, and that education and campus culture play a more significant role in overall safety.
Privacy in bathrooms and sleeping areas can be enhanced in single-sex dorms, which may be especially important for students from cultures with strict norms around gender interaction. Conversely, some students may feel isolated or less prepared for real-world interactions after graduation if their college experience is highly segregated by gender.
Alternatives for Students Seeking Non-Co Ed Housing
For students who prefer or require single-sex housing but are interested in larger, more diverse universities, there are often single-gender floors or specialty living communities within co-ed institutions. These arrangements allow students to benefit from a broader range of campus resources while maintaining a single-sex living environment.
- Single-Gender Floors: Many large universities offer floors or wings that are reserved for men or women only.
- Faith-Based Living Communities: Some schools have residence halls or living-learning communities with religious or values-based themes, often with stricter visitation rules.
- Off-Campus Housing: Renting a house or apartment with same-gender roommates is another option for students who want to avoid co-ed dorms.
Students should check with their prospective schools to see what housing options are available and whether exceptions can be made for religious or personal reasons.
How to Choose the Right University Housing
Choosing between co-ed and single-sex dorms—or a university that only offers one or the other—depends on personal values, comfort levels, and priorities. Consider the following factors:
- Personal Beliefs: Does the housing policy align with your religious, cultural, or personal values?
- Campus Culture: Will the housing arrangement help you feel included and comfortable, or might it feel isolating?
- Practical Needs: Are amenities, location, and room types suitable for your lifestyle?
- Support Services: Does the school offer counseling, health services, and safety measures that meet your needs?
Visiting campuses, talking to current students, and reviewing housing policies online can help in making an informed choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are non-co-ed dorms only found at religious colleges?
While most non-co-ed dorms are at religiously affiliated schools, some secular institutions, including single-gender colleges and certain military academies, also maintain single-sex housing.
Do single-sex dorms offer more privacy?
Single-sex dorms typically offer more privacy in bathrooms and living spaces, as all residents are of the same gender. However, the level of privacy also depends on building design and institutional rules.
Can transgender or non-binary students live in single-sex dorms?
Policies vary by institution. Some schools with single-sex dorms have updated their policies to accommodate transgender students, while others may have more restrictive rules. It’s important to contact the housing office directly to discuss specific needs.
Is it possible to request a single-sex floor in a co-ed university?
Yes, many co-ed universities offer single-gender floors or specialty housing options for students who prefer not to live in a co-ed environment.
Do non-co-ed dorms cost more than co-ed dorms?
There is usually no significant cost difference between single-sex and co-ed dorms within the same university, though overall tuition and fees can vary by institution type.
Are there drawbacks to living in a non-co-ed dorm?
Some students find the rules restrictive or feel isolated from the broader campus community. It’s important to consider how the housing policy fits with your social and academic goals.
Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision
Universities without co-ed dorms represent a small but significant part of the higher education landscape, primarily among religious, single-gender, and military institutions. For students who value single-sex housing, these schools can offer a supportive and comfortable environment. However, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons, considering both practical needs and personal values, when making your college decision.