This is partly because of the learning environments women's colleges provide. Many studies have documented a less than favorable climate for girls and women in coeducational classrooms. Single-sex learning environments for women allow them truly to express their opinions. Throughout campus life, women fill all student leadership roles. They assume positions that give them experience of being in charge.
Women learn leadership skills through practice, beginning with their educational experience.
Women's colleges in North Carolina are taking women's leadership potential one step further by creating programs that intentionally mold women into leaders. Meredith is the only women's college to hold its own LeaderShape session, a well-respected national leadership training program. Peace is the only North Carolina college to offer a leadership studies major on the baccalaureate level. Women's colleges tend to be small compared to coeducational universities. These characteristics contribute to positive student experiences and higher levels of academic achievement.