Ramapo College seeks to provide a living environment welcoming to all gender identities; one not limited by the traditional gender binary.  Gender Inclusive Housing (GIH) allows for same-gender, opposite-gender or other-gender identities to live together regardless of biological sex.  This provides a living/learning environment where residents can learn about and explore gender identity and expression in a supportive environment.

GIH provides students with the opportunity to live within the residence halls with students of any other gender.

Gender Inclusive Housing is an environment where student housing is not restricted to traditional limitations of the gender binary. This program has been launched in recognition of the fact that traditional, same-sex room assignments are not ideal or appropriate for all students. Ramapo College has chosen to offer gender inclusive housing because we believe it is important that housing policies evolve to meet the needs of students and to create an inclusive, welcoming environment.

Students interested in learning more about GIH, or applying to be on the GIH waitlist (as the application process has concluded for GIH), should review the Women’s Center website.

Who can participate in GIH?

Any current resident who is interested in sharing a housing assignment with other Ramapo College students of all gender identities.

What are the differences between co-ed housing and GIH?

The term co-ed operates on the assumption that there are two genders: male and female. It leaves little room for the progressive theories on gender, and no room for those who do not identify as their biological sex or those who are transgendered. This idea is based on the notion that there are more then two genders, in fact an infinite amount.  Allowing for gender inclusive housing, as opposed to co-ed, shows more inclusiveness and room for diverse identities.

Where will the gender inclusive residence halls be, and who can live in each hall?

APPROVED Gender Inclusive Housing Applicants will participate in the online housing selection process and select housing in accordance with the housing selection procedures.

What if a student does not want to live in GIH?

A student must apply separately to be considered for Gender Inclusive  Housing, and students who are not simply need not apply. The majority of housing at Ramapo will remain single-sex housing, and the usual rules for housing selection will apply.

What will the duration of GIH be?

Participants will commit to living in gender inclusive housing for one full academic year. Students may re-apply for Gender Inclusive Housing for the following year if they meet housing eligibility standards.

What if someone who requested to take part in GIH decides they no longer wish to do so?

Students may request room changes by following the room change procedures that are published each semester. Students who do not fulfill their commitment to live in Gender Inclusive Housing for one full academic year may not be eligible to take part in future Gender Inclusive Housing accommodations.

What will happen to the remaining suitemates in the event that a vacancy occurs?

If a vacancy occurs, the Office of Residence Life reserves the right to place a “wait listed” Gender Inclusive Housing applicant in the suite, leave the vacancy open and combine two or more under capacity suites, or convert the room to a single sex room. This decision will be made at the Office of Residence Life’s discretion, but reasonable accommodations will be made whenever possible.

What if parents don’t want their child to live in a GIH room?

We encourage students to maintain an open dialogue with their families so that they can be supportive of a students housing decision. Students over the age of 18 are legally able to make decisions about their housing contracts. Students under 18 should discuss housing plans with their families, as they must provide parental consent.

What if I have more questions about GIH?

Further information about GIH can be viewed on the Women’s Center website. Questions regarding the GIH program should be directed towards women@ramapo.edu after reviewing that site.