Moore College of Art & Design, the country’s only historically all-women visual arts college, has announced it will open its enrollment to students of all genders beginning in the 2027-2028 academic year. The Philadelphia-based college has accepted nonbinary and gender-nonconforming students to its undergraduate programs since 2020, and enrollment in Moore’s graduate and continuing education programs already serves students of all genders.
“This decision reflects both who Moore has always been and who we must continue to become for the creatives who thrive here and for the City of Philadelphia,” said President Cathy Young. “Moore has always believed that creativity demands courage. Opening enrollment to students of all genders ensures that future generations of artists and designers can access the deeply personal, career-focused creative education that defines this institution. We are evolving our legacy and respecting our past.”
The policy update follows an extensive period of research, strategic analysis, and community engagement. Data gathered over the past decade found that only 6 percent of prospective students considered Moore’s identity as a women’s college to be a deciding factor in choosing to attend the college, while 25 percent of prospective students viewed it as a reason not to enroll.
Beginning in the fall 2025 semester, the Philadelphia-based college reviewed national trends in higher education, enrollment patterns, financial models, and the unique position of an independent art and design college. During the spring 2026 semester, students, alumni, faculty, and staff participated in numerous forums, listening sessions, and feedback opportunities, bringing together nearly 500 members of the broader Moore community to discuss the college’s future.
“This process reaffirmed how deeply people care about Moore and what it represents,” said President Young. “There was unanimous belief in the importance of preserving Moore as a place where students discover their authentic voice, develop creative confidence, and find a true sense of belonging and shared purpose. There were certainly differing opinions on how to address our future, and the boards considered all perspectives. In the end, the boards determined this to be the best path forward for a future that endures and thrives, particularly amidst the realities of the higher education landscape.”