Author’s note: this letter also appears at the opening of our updated Guide to Women's Colleges, which you can now find on our Resources page.
The landscape of women’s colleges continues to evolve against a backdrop of political shifts, social change, and economic pressures. Since the last edition of our guide, historic women’s institutions have faced transformative decisions, national policies around gender and education have swung dramatically, and debates over women’s and LGBTQ+ rights have intensified. Despite these challenges, women’s colleges have shown remarkable resilience and adaptability. In the 2025 Edition, we address how current events–from elections and legislation to campus-level changes–are reshaping women’s colleges, and how these colleges are responding with courage and innovation.
Since 2021 (the last time this guide was updated), several historic women’s colleges have undergone major shifts. Mills College merged with Northeastern University, ending its status as an independent women’s institution. Notre Dame of Maryland University transitioned to coeducation, a decision driven by declining enrollment. Meanwhile, Sweet Briar College, which narrowly avoided closure in 2015, has seen a remarkable resurgence, reporting a 60% increase in enrollment over six years through strategic innovation and a reinforced commitment to women’s leadership.
These examples reflect the broader reality: women’s colleges are adapting in different ways to remain viable. Some institutions, facing financial and demographic challenges, have chosen coeducation or partnerships, while others are leaning into their unique identity to attract students. Today, approximately 30 women’s colleges remain in the U.S., down from 47 just over a decade ago. This decline mirrors broader trends in higher education, where small, private colleges—especially those with limited endowments—are under increasing strain.
The past few years have been marked by shifting federal policies affecting gender and education. A recent executive order defining "sex" based strictly on biological characteristics has raised concerns about transgender inclusion, while federal scrutiny on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs has put many college initiatives at risk. Despite these challenges, many women’s colleges have maintained their commitments to inclusive policies, ensuring that transgender women and non-binary students who align with their missions remain part of their communities.
At the same time, changes to Title IX—the federal law governing sex-based discrimination in education—have influenced campus policies. A 2024 expansion had broadened protections for LGBTQ+ students, but these were later rolled back, leaving institutions in a complex position. Women’s colleges, historically leaders in gender equity, now face decisions about how to uphold their values while navigating an uncertain legal landscape. Many remain steadfast in their mission of fostering safe, inclusive learning environments, even as external pressures mount.
While women’s colleges have always been at the forefront of gender advocacy, recent years have tested their ability to sustain that leadership. Legislative shifts affecting reproductive rights, protections for survivors of sexual violence, and gender-based admissions policies have created new challenges. Yet, these institutions continue to provide spaces where students can develop leadership skills and advocate for gender justice.
Financial pressures are another significant factor. Across the higher education sector, declining enrollments and rising operational costs have forced many small colleges to close or merge. Since 2020, over 70 institutions have shut down or consolidated, with projections indicating further closures ahead. Women’s colleges, many of which are small liberal arts institutions, are particularly vulnerable. Yet, some have found success through innovative approaches—expanding career-focused programs, forming partnerships, and leveraging strong alumnae networks for financial support.
Women’s colleges have faced increasing scrutiny over their admissions policies concerning transgender and non-binary students. Today, most of these institutions explicitly welcome transgender women, while policies for non-binary and transmasculine students vary. A few schools have tightened their admissions criteria, sparking debate over the evolving definition of "women’s education." Meanwhile, attacks on DEI programs nationwide have left many colleges reevaluating how they support marginalized students without jeopardizing federal funding.
Despite these pressures, many women’s colleges continue to champion diversity and inclusion. Institutions in states with strong anti-discrimination laws, such as California and Massachusetts, have reaffirmed their support for LGBTQ+ students, while others have found creative ways to sustain DEI efforts under different names or through private funding. The resilience of these institutions demonstrates their enduring commitment to gender equity and social justice.
The financial sustainability of women’s colleges remains a pressing issue. The so-called “enrollment cliff”—a predicted decline in college-age students—has exacerbated financial difficulties, forcing schools to rethink their models. Tuition-dependent institutions are particularly vulnerable, with some shifting to coeducation or adding graduate programs to broaden their student base.
At the same time, recent confirmations of the benefits of women’s leadership have helped some colleges maintain steady enrollment. Programs focused on women in STEM, business, and politics are drawing students who seek an education that addresses gender disparities in leadership. Some institutions, like Barnard College, have leveraged partnerships with larger universities to provide expanded opportunities while retaining their distinct missions.
The future of women’s colleges is one of adaptation and resilience. These institutions have weathered immense changes over the years, from coeducation movements to financial crises, and they continue to evolve. The debates over gender, education policy, and DEI initiatives will shape their next chapter, but their core mission—to empower students and foster leadership—remains unwavering.
This guide aims to help prospective students navigate this shifting landscape. Whether you’re seeking a historic liberal arts college, a progressive and inclusive space, or a career-focused institution, women’s colleges offer a range of opportunities. While challenges persist, the spirit of these institutions—bold, forward-thinking, and dedicated to gender equity—remains as strong as ever.
You can now download and read our updated Guide to Women's Colleges here. Happy reading!
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