LGBTQ+ Student Experiences in Higher Education

Using Queer Theory to Explore the Experiences of LGBTQ+ students in Higher Education

John Garvey from ATU Donegal recently researched the experience of LGBTQ+ students in higher education as part of a doctorate in Education at Queen’s University Belfast. Fourteen LGBTQ+ participants took part in the study in two former institutes of technology in the north-west of Ireland, now part of Atlantic TU.

Almost all LGBTQ+ students described coming from a highly heteronormative secondary school experience where LGBTQ+ life is silenced and rarely visible. In deciding their choice of which third level institute to enrol in, many ensured that there was an active LGBTQ+ society and looked for evidence of LGBTQ+ life being celebrated or visible on campus.

Participants said they hid their sexuality and gender identity for many years, prior to starting their third level course. This caused them to be wary of their first year on campus, often not coming out to classmates and others until later in their higher education journey.

Showing visibility and support to LGBTQ+ students at events such as open days, during school visits and on the university’s main webpage is an important indicator for prospective students. All participants agreed on the need for much greater visibility of LGBTQ+ life on campus stating the only visible presence was the LGBTQ+ society and the rare flying of the Rainbow flag.

Survey participants said that the presence of active LGBTQ+ societies on third level education campuses was an important factor in making their decision to enrol at a particular campus.

John McGarvey says: "This study captured the experiences of LGBTQ+ in Higher Education which highlighted the need for greater visibility and support for LGBTQ+ students, more inclusive curricula, staff training, institute policies and a closer relationship between staff and LGBTQ+ students. ”

John McGarvey, PhD researcher, ATU Donegal