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College is a difficult adjustment even for neurotypical students. The lifestyle changes necessitated by college enrollment can be even more of a shock for autistic students.
Though high-functioning students with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are often academically gifted, the radical shifts in daily routine and social environment that come with matriculating at an institution of higher learning may be destabilizing. Some autistic students require little if any support as they move to this next phase, but many can benefit from programs that cater to their specific needs and guide them through this period of adjustment.
Autistic individuals, when provided with the proper conditions, often thrive in higher education. Many find that their skills prime them for success in highly systematic professions such as engineering, computer programming and mathematics. Others may find that their talents are more appropriate for other types of professions.
As awareness of neurodiversity increases due to campaigning by ASD individuals and their families, a suite of programs have emerged at American colleges to address the unique needs of this population. These programs vary in their level of intensity and in the degree to which they are tailored to the needs of autistic students.
Some programs offer de-centralized counseling and academic support through disability services offices — students are required to seek out these services individually. Others are specifically designed for autistic students and cover everything from social transitioning to academic counseling through a staff of dedicated counselors. Peer mentoring is a fixture in the strongest programs.
A handful of colleges cater specifically to disabled students. Housing accommodations vary widely, from on-campus programs that provide special dorms for students with special needs to commuter programs that allow students to live at home while slowly dipping their toes into campus life.
Levels of communication with parents also differ from program to program. Only a handful directly communicate student progress to parents or guardians due to legal constraints and instead expect students to work this out themselves. However, some offer the option of signing a privacy waiver to make it easier to share information with parents.
Application procedures, fees and financial aid also vary between institutions. Most colleges compel autistic students to submit to the same application procedures as neurotypical students and charge additional fees for specific support programs. ASD and program-specific scholarships are available at some universities, but most require prospective students to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student aid (FAFSA) and search for outside aid to subsidize their educations.
The list below attempts to distill essential information about the better programs for autistic students. Because their websites vary in quality and in the specificity of available information, it is advisable to contact institutions that you are interested in for additional information and to schedule in-person visits to assess whether a given university is a good fit or not.
It is also worth noting that funding for some of these programs is tenuous and that enrollment capacity is often limited. A proactive and targeted approach will be necessary to ensure that the needs of a given ASD student are fully supported.
Colleges with Targeted Programs for ASD Students
Adelphi University (Bridges to Adelphi) * Garden City, New York
The Bridges to Adelphi program offers ASD students a comprehensive array of services aimed at making their transition to college easier. Students are assigned four different coaches: an academic coach, a learning strategist, a peer mentor, and a vocational coach. Each assists students with different parts of college life.
The academic coach and learning strategist teach ASD students executive functioning skills and strategies that aid them in dealing with the increased academic burden. The peer mentor assists the student in developing social skills and facilitates social activities. And the vocational coach assists in career training as well as obtaining internships and employment.
Additional fee: Yes.
Scholarship assistance available: Not specified.
Separate housing: Not specified.
Diagnostic information required: No.
Mental health counseling: Available separately through the Student Counseling Center.
Bellevue College (Autism Spectrum Navigators) * Bellevue, Washington
The Autism Spectrum Navigators program, associated with the Center for Career Connections at the university’s RISE Learning Institute, provides structured guidance to ASD students. Particular focus is given to executive functioning, social interaction, self-advocacy, and self-regulation.
A total of eight career preparation courses prepare students for entrance into the workforce. And each student also works with a peer mentor. The program facilitates communication with professors and conducts progress meetings with parents as well.
Additional fee: No. There are normal tuition costs for career preparation courses.
Scholarship assistance available: Not specified.
Separate housing: Not specified.
Diagnostic information required: No.
Mental health counseling: Not specified.
Daemen College (College Autism Transition Support (CATS) program) * Amherst, New York
Peer life-skills coaches offer weekly training sessions in many of the areas in which ASD students struggle, from time management to self-advocacy. Career counseling is also offered. Testing accommodations may be provided to students with a demonstrated need through the Disability Services office.
Additional fee: Yes.
Scholarship assistance available: No.
Separate housing: Not specified.
Diagnostic information required: Not specified.
Mental health counseling: Counseling is available through the CHIP Center.
Dakota State University (STRONG program) * Madison, South Dakota
The STRONG program provides academic advisement to the neurodiverse student population. Supplemental instruction is offered and students can obtain extra training in writing and reasoning skills through the University Writing Center.
Additional fee: Not specified.
Scholarship assistance available: Not specified.
Separate housing: Not specified.
Diagnostic information required: Not specified.
Mental health counseling: Not specified.
Drexel University (Drexel Autism Support Program; DASP) * Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
DASP offers ASD students peer mentoring and more structured support by professional staff for those who require it. Weekly meetings with DASP staff help students to adjust to their new lives as college students. Workshops on various skill sets are offered on a rolling basis. Social activities are facilitated. A partnership with the Steinbright Career Development Center assists students in preparing for entry into the workforce.
The program partners with the A.J. Drexel Autism Institute. The institute is developing the Learning Academy, a program for first-year students that will assist them in transitioning to the workplace.
Additional fee: No.
Scholarship assistance available: Not specified.
Separate housing: Not specified.
Diagnostic information required: Not specified.
Mental health counseling: Not specified.
Eastern Illinois University (Students with Autism Transitional Education Program; STEP) * Charleston, Illinois
The STEP program offers peer mentorships and weekly support groups to ease the transition to the post-secondary environment. Counselors assist students in managing course work and regularly check in with instructors. The STEP Maintenance program offers less-intense guidance to students who complete one semester in the STEP program and feel that they are independent enough to manage most tasks on their own.
Additional fee: Yes.
Scholarship assistance available: Not specified.
Separate housing: Yes, individual rooms are available.
Diagnostic information required: Yes.
Mental health counseling: Not specified.
Eastern University (College Success Program; CSP) * St. Davids, Pennsylvania
CSP offers a variety of support services for ASD students in a Christian context. Peer mentors assist students in adapting to collegiate life. Students are expected to participate in a weekly support group and a weekly skills group. Study groups are also available. Coaching is provided as needed. The program liaises with faculty to ensure that students are getting the help they need in their coursework.
Additional fee: Yes.
Scholarship assistance available: Not specified.
Separate housing: Not specified.
Diagnostic information required: Yes.
Mental health counseling: Not specified.
Fairleigh Dickinson University (COMPASS program) * Teaneck and Madison, New Jersey
The COMPASS program offers two hours a week of individualized academic support for students with Asperger’s, in addition to counseling and group psychotherapy sessions. Peer mentorship is also available.
Additional fee: Yes.
Scholarship assistance available: Not specified.
Separate housing: Not specified.
Diagnostic information required: Yes.
Mental health counseling: Yes.
George Mason University (Mason Autism Support Initiative; MASI) * Fairfax, Virginia
MASI offers a suite of services tailored to the individual ASD student. Each student is paired with a learning strategist who helps them map out their academic career. Students take skill building classes to help them adjust to their new environment and to prepare them for their careers. Peer mentorship is a key component as well. Monthly social events facilitate interaction with other ASD students.
Additional fee: Yes.
Scholarship assistance available: Yes.
Separate housing: Not specified.
Diagnostic information required: Not specified.
Mental health counseling: Not specified.
Grand Valley State University (Campus Links program) * Allendale Charter Township, Michigan
The Campus Links program emphasizes the relationship between ASD students and their peer mentors. Mentees check in daily with their mentors, who are trained in dealing with the unique needs of ASD students. A variety of sessions guide students through the novel experience of living away from home and directing their own education.
Monthly problem-solving meetings with the program coordinator assist in trouble-shooting difficulties as they arise. Because ASD students are housed alongside their mentors, they receive intensive and individualized support.
Additional fee: Not specified.
Scholarship assistance available: Not specified.
Separate housing: Yes. Students live alongside their mentors.
Diagnostic information required: Yes.
Mental health counseling: Not specified.
Kent State University (Autism Initiative for Research, Education, and Outreach; AIREO programs) * Kent, Ohio
AIREO sponsors two separate programs that assist ASD students in their transition to higher education. One, Partnering for Achievement and Learning Success (P.A.L.S.), partners students with a peer mentor. The other, College Success for Students with Asperger’s or Autism, offers guidance on self-advocacy and career planning.
The disHUBility program provides a room in which disabled students can gather to relax and seek access to wellness services. Testing accommodations are available through Student Accessibility Services.
Additional fee: Not specified.
Scholarship assistance available: Not specified.
Separate housing: Not specified.
Diagnostic information required: Yes, if the student wishes to make use of Student Accessibility Services.
Mental health counseling: Yes, through Psychological Services. This appears to be a crisis-specific service rather than one that offers consistent counseling, though.
Marshall University (College Program) * Huntington, West Virginia
College Program counselors provide intensive support to ASD students. They assist in mapping out an educational trajectory and liaise with faculty as needed to ensure that students are getting what they need. Strategies for executive functioning are taught, including note taking and test preparation. Social skills training is also offered.
There is a separate employment preparation workshop taught in the summer for an additional fee.
Additional fee: Yes.
Scholarship assistance available: No.
Separate housing: Not specified. Coordination with residence halls is provided, so their may be some accommodations offers.
Diagnostic information required: Not specified.
Mental health counseling: Not specified.
Mercyhurst University (AIM Program) * Erie, Pennsylvania
The AIM program offers a fairly comprehensive framework geared toward helping ASD students deal with college life. Academic counselors hold weekly meetings with students to assess academic progress and help them deal with any issues they may be facing. Social skills modules assist in behavioral modification and adjustment. Career planning assistance is offered as well.
Peer mentors offer one-on-one support for both academic and social issues. Social activities for ASD students are sponsored.
Additional fee: Yes.
Scholarship assistance available: Not specified.
Separate housing: Specialized housing is coordinated through the program.
Diagnostic information required: Yes.
Mental health counseling: Yes, through the Mercyhurst Counseling Center. The program also provides referrals to local mental health professionals.
Misericordia University (Autism for Lifelong Learning; ALL and Alternative Learners Program; ALP) * Dallas, Pennsylvania
Catholic university Misericordia offers a number of programs aimed at supporting ASD students and adults.
The ALL program assists students with an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) with living skills, self-advocacy, and career planning. It is available for people ages 14-21.
The ALP program offers BRIDGE, which allows students with learning disabilities to arrive on campus a week early to acclimate and undergo assessments geared toward determining learning style and compensatory strategies.
As the program progresses, students develop learning strategies with the assistance of coordinators, with whom they meet regularly. Coordinators help students to create a program of accommodations, which determines which support technologies and services they require.
There is also a summer transition program and an Autism Speaks U chapter on campus.
Additional fee: Yes.
Scholarship assistance available: Not specified.
Separate housing: Not specified.
Diagnostic information required: Yes.
Mental health counseling: Yes.
Rochester Institute of Technology (Spectrum Support Program) * Rochester, New York
The Spectrum Support Program offers individualized coaching and group seminars aimed at supporting academic achievement and social functioning. The program coordinates with other campus departments to ensure that the needs of ASD students are met. Tailored social events are facilitated.
Additional fee: Yes.
Scholarship assistance available: No.
Separate housing: Not specified.
Diagnostic information required: No.
Mental health counseling: Counseling and Psychological Services offers group counseling.
Rutgers University (College Support Program; CSP) * New Brunswick, New Jersey
Students participating in the College Support Program can expect weekly meetings with their program coordinator, who will assist them in planning and executing their academic goals.
Along with peer mentors, they also provide support in navigating the social side of campus life, from getting along with roommates to managing public transportation. Social events are facilitated.
A residential program for a wider range of students, including older adults, is currently seeking funding.
Additional fee: Yes.
Scholarship assistance available: Not specified.
Separate housing: Not specified.
Diagnostic information required: Not specified.
Mental health counseling: Referrals provided when necessary.
St. Joseph’s University (ASPIRE program) * Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
A support coordinator from the university’s Kinney Center meets with each student weekly to discuss academic progress. A peer mentor assists with social issues and facilitates outings. Social and life skill classes are also offered. A weekly study hall incorporating neurotypical students helps students work through academic challenges.
The program is set up in two tiers: one for freshman and sophomore year and one for junior and senior year. Students are expected to become more self-reliant over the course of the program.
Additional fee: Yes.
Scholarship assistance available: Not specified.
Separate housing: Not specified.
Diagnostic information required: Yes.
Mental health counseling: Not specified.
Texas Tech University (CASE program) * Lubbock, Texas
The CASE program assigns each student a learning specialist, who helps to identify areas of interest and reinforce executive functioning skills. Monthly written reviews are provided to assist in tracking progress. Career training is provided. Various personal issues such as friendships and personal hygiene are also addressed.
Additional fee: Yes.
Scholarship assistance available: Assistance is offered through the financial aid office, though the college itself does not provide scholarships.
Separate housing: Not specified.
Diagnostic information required: Yes.
Mental health counseling: Not specified.
Trinity International University (Access program) * Deerfield, Illinois
The Access program features academic success, social success and spiritual growth. Key characteristics include one-on-one mentoring, peer mentoring, study halls and support groups. There are also social events planned around affinities of autistic students.
Additional fee: Yes.
Scholarship assistance available: Assistance is offered through the financial aid office, though the college itself does not provide scholarships.
Separate housing: Not specified.
Diagnostic information required: Yes.
Mental health counseling: Not specified.
University of Alabama (Autism Spectrum Disorders College Transition and Support; UA-ACTS) * Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Therapist-mentors meet with students thrice weekly, with sessions devoted to academic progress, social transitioning, and life skills. Dorms are checked for cleanliness and organization.
Communication with instructors is facilitated. Students and mentors check in with parents weekly and monthly update letters are sent to parents summarizing student progress.
Students may begin classes in the summer to get an early start on the college experience.
Additional fee: Yes.
Scholarship assistance available: Not specified.
Separate housing: Yes.
Diagnostic information required: Yes.
Mental health counseling: Yes.
University of Denver (Learning Effectiveness Program; LEP) * Denver, Colorado
LEP participants meet with an academic counselor weekly to plan coursework and discuss progress. Tutoring is available in a variety of subject areas. Executive functioning specialists assist students in developing compensatory strategies and bolstering existing strengths. Peer mentors are also available. Targeted recreational activities are facilitated.
Students may also choose to mentor younger kids with learning disabilities through the EyetoEye program.
Provided that proper paperwork is filled out, parents may be apprised of the student’s progress.
Additional fee: Yes.
Scholarship assistance available: Yes.
Separate housing: Not specified.
Diagnostic information required: Yes.
Mental health counseling: Not specified.
University of Idaho (Raven Scholars Program) * Moscow, Idaho
The Raven Scholars offers a comprehensive suite of services to ASD students. Meetings may be held with program coordinators on a daily or weekly basis to address academic planning and progress. Academic coaching is available in a wide variety of subjects. Life and social skills classes assist ASD students in adjusting their behavior patterns and interpersonal functioning to the collegiate environment.
Additional fee: No.
Scholarship assistance available: Not specified.
Separate housing: Not specified.
Diagnostic information required: Yes.
Mental health counseling: Not specified.
University of Missouri (STRIVE program) * Columbia, Missouri
The STRIVE program through the Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders offers a two-semester training program that focuses on interview skills and job training. The program offers peer mentorship and on-the-job experience.
Additional fee: Yes.
Scholarship assistance available: Yes.
Separate housing: Not specified.
Diagnostic information required: Yes.
Mental health counseling: Not specified.
University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (Mosaic program) * Chattanooga, Tennessee
Mosaic is a comprehensive program that augments the traditional undergraduate curriculum with four yearly courses that teach a variety of skills.
The first year concentrates on independence and social and studying strategies. The second year focuses on developing strengths and re-centering perceptions of ASD identity. The third year assists students in developing career skills. And the fourth year trains students in skills they will need in the workplace, using job shadowing and internships to give them a real-world perspective.
In addition to these courses, the program offers weekly academic coaching, peer mentoring, and supervised study sessions.
Additional fee: Yes.
Scholarship assistance available: Fee can be appealed.
Separate housing: Not specified.
Diagnostic information required: Yes.
Mental health counseling: Not specified.
University of Texas at Dallas (Young Adult Social Communication Groups) * Dallas, Texas
This limited program trains ASD students in social skills through group sessions led by a speech-language pathologist. One group concentrates on conversational skills, including commenting, and staying on topic. The other concentrates on executive functioning, independent living, self-advocacy, and career planning.
An on-campus group called For Autistic Empowerment also offers support.
Additional fee: Yes.
Scholarship assistance available: No.
Separate housing: No.
Diagnostic information required: Not specified.
Mental health counseling: Not specified.
University of West Florida (Argos for Autism Program) * Pensacola, Florida
The Argos for Autism Program provides individualized academic support, including advisement on planning of coursework and scholastic progress. The program assists students in communicating with their professors and developing social skills. Career preparation is emphasized and internships are facilitated.
A number of types of coaching are available. Accessibility coaching offers assistance in dealing with issues in communicating with coursework and professors. Academic coaching is provided in a number of subject areas. And peer mentors assist students in adjusting to university life.
Additional fee: Not specified.
Scholarship assistance available: Not specified.
Separate housing: Not specified.
Diagnostic information required: Not specified.
Mental health counseling: Not specified.
Western Kentucky University (Circle of Support) * Bowling Green, Kentucky
The Kelly Autism Program sponsors the Circle of Support, a system that attempts to account for the diverse needs of ASD students.
Study tables are held four times each week. During these sessions, students concentrate on executive functioning skills as well as particular academic subjects. Staff mentors, many of whom are also tutors, meet with students over dinner or other social activities several times a week. Students also meet with their advisors weekly to discuss particular academic concerns.
Additional fee: Yes.
Scholarship assistance available: Not specified.
Separate housing: Yes.
Diagnostic information required: Yes.
Mental health counseling: Yes.
Colleges with Strong Disability Services Appropriate for Some ASD Students
American University (Learning Services Program) * Washington, D.C.
This year-long program for freshman helps ASD students and others with learning disabilities to acclimate to college life. LSP includes meetings with a program coordinator to develop an appropriate course load, a one-semester writing course and weekly meetings with a writing tutor, and an assigned upperclassman peer mentor. Disability advisement is available through the Academic Support and Access Center (ASAC) after the first year.
Additional fee: Yes.
Scholarship assistance available: Not specified.
Separate housing: Not specified.
Diagnostic information required: Yes.
Mental health counseling: Available separately through the Counseling Center.
Appalachian State University (Scholars With Diverse Abilities Program) * Boone, North Carolina
SDAP is a two-year program serving students with moderate to mild intellectual disabilities. Students select courses from the options available to all students; the program is inclusive and participants learn alongside neurotypical students. Participants are supported by tutors and counselors who help them select coursework and facilitate recreational activities. At the end of the program, students receive a College Achievement Certificate.
There is an Autism Speaks U chapter on campus.
Additional fee: Yes.
Scholarship assistance available: Yes.
Separate housing: Not specified.
Diagnostic information required: Yes.
Mental health counseling: Available through the Student Health Service.
Hofstra University (Program for Academic Learning Skills; PALS) * Hempstead, New York
The PALS program assists students with a variety of learning disabilities. Students meet weekly with a learning advisor who helps them plan their academic careers and deal with issues as they arise using strategies that reinforce executive functioning, time management, and independence. Though the program is officially one year in length, students may choose to continue seeing their learning instructor throughout their time at Hofstra.
Additional fee: Yes; a one-time fee is assessed during the first year.
Scholarship assistance available: Not specified.
Separate housing: Not specified.
Diagnostic information required: Yes.
Mental health counseling: Not specified.
Marist College (Learning Support Program) * Poughkeepsie, New York
The Learning Support Program pairs students with ASD and other learning disabilities with a learning specialist, who trains them in learning strategies that assist them in compensating for their disabilities in the academic realm. Among the concentrations are writing, note taking, and time management skills.
Learning specialists also arrange for services such as note taking and use of adaptive equipment. Further, they facilitate meetings with faculty members to help tailor coursework to individual needs.
Additional fee: Yes.
Scholarship assistance available: Not specified.
Separate housing: Not specified.
Diagnostic information required: Yes.
Mental health counseling: Not specified.
Nova Southeastern University (Access Plus Support Programs) * Davie, Florida
Access Plus Support offers a wide range of services aimed at assisting learning disabled students in adapting to college life.
Daily study halls, support for basic functioning such as cleanliness and organization, and educational groups geared toward various functions combine to provide an environment that encourages independence but nonetheless addresses common difficulties facing learning disabled students in a higher education environment. A 24-hour phone line is available for problem resolution and organized extracurriculars are provided.
Additional fee: Yes.
Scholarship assistance available: No.
Separate housing: No, but support is provided in keeping living areas clean and in maintaining personal hygiene.
Diagnostic information required: Yes.
Mental health counseling: Not specified.
Southern Illinois University at Carbondale (Achieve Program) * Carbondale, Illinois
The Achieve Program provides support services for students with a variety of learning disabilities, including ASD.
Several packages are available. Services include case management, academic coaching and tutoring, and advisement on various executive functioning skills such as time management. Testing accommodation and note-taking are available.
Additional fee: Yes.
Scholarship assistance available: No.
Separate housing: Not specified.
Diagnostic information required: Yes.
Mental health counseling: Not specified.
Syracuse University (InclusiveU) * Syracuse, New York
InclusiveU offers non-credit certificates in a number of subject areas to students with a variety of learning disabilities. Students typically take 1-3 courses per semester. Weekly seminars deal with such topics as safety and team-building. There is an employment preparation option in the final semester. Enrollees also receive support from peer mentors and the Peer2Peer program matches them with neurotypical students for recreational activities.
Additional fee: Yes.
Scholarship assistance available: No.
Separate housing: Most students live off campus or with family. Some dormitory options are available but it isn’t clear if they provide special accommodations.
Diagnostic information required: Yes, but arrangements can be made for students who don’t have it.
Mental health counseling: Not specified.
University of Arizona (SALT Center) * Tucson, Arizona
The SALT Center accommodates students with a variety of learning disabilities. Learning specialists meet with students weekly to discuss executive functioning skills and academic progress. Tutoring is available through peer mentors who are trained in a variety of modalities. A range of educational technologies are provided.
Additional fee: Yes.
Scholarship assistance available: Yes.
Separate housing: Not specified.
Diagnostic information required: Yes.
Mental health counseling: Yes.
University of Connecticut (Beyond Access Program) * Storrs, Connecticut
Strategy Instructors work with program participants with a variety of learning disabilities for 1-3 hours a week to devise an educational plan and manage social and life skills. Communication with family, staff, and faculty are facilitated.
Additional fee: Yes.
Scholarship assistance available: Yes.
Separate housing: Possibly, through the Center for Students with Disabilities (CSD)
Diagnostic information required: Yes.
Mental health counseling: Not specified.
University of Iowa (Realizing Education and Career Hopes; REACH program) * Iowa City, Iowa
The REACH program serves students with a variety of learning disabilities. Students may earn two-, three-, or four-year certificates. Students take self-contained courses in executive functioning skills such as self-advocacy and independent living. They are also encouraged to enroll in traditional courses attended by neurotypical students. However, they need to seek accommodations through Student Disability Services in order to do so.
Students take two career seminars each spring semester. Internships are facilitated as well.
Additional fee: Set tuition for the program.
Scholarship assistance available: Yes.
Separate housing: Not specified.
Diagnostic information required: Yes.
Mental health counseling: Not specified.
University of Michigan (Services for Students with Disabilities) * Ann Arbor, Michigan
A variety of accommodations, from academic coaching to adaptive technology, are available through the university’s Services for Students with Disabilities. There does not appear to be a targeted program for ASD students, but some may find the available services sufficient.
There is a self-advocacy group, CAPS, on campus.
Additional fee: Not specified.
Scholarship assistance available: Several scholarships are offered for disabled students, though none is specific to ASD students.
Separate housing: Not specified.
Diagnostic information required: Yes.
Mental health counseling: Not specified.
Utah State University (Accessibility Consultants) * Logan, Utah
Accessibility Consultants provide general academic advice to students with learning disabilities. They collaborate with students to access accommodations and communicate with faculty on how best to serve their needs. The consultants help students access other departments that can assist them in adjusting to the college experience.
Additional fee: Not specified.
Scholarship assistance available: Not specified.
Separate housing: Yes.
Diagnostic information required: Yes.
Mental health counseling: No, but referrals are provided.
Vanderbilt University (Next Step program) * Nashville, Tennessee
Next Steps offers a four-year certificate program that trains students with cognitive impairments in social and career skills. Students attend regular classes and are assisted by Ambassadores, peer mentors from the neurotypical student population. The Best Buddies program pairs students with other neurotypical students who assist in providing social stimulation.
Job coaching, job shadowing, and career coaching are also part of the program. Internships are facilitated.
Additional fee: Yes.
Scholarship assistance available: Not through the college, though a range of suggestions for outside aid are provided.
Separate housing: No.
Diagnostic information required: Yes.
Mental health counseling: Not specified.
West Virginia Wesleyan (Learning Center) * Buckhannon, West Virginia
Comprehensive Advisors guide students through registration for standard coursework as well as optional programs. Advisors also assist students in seeking special accommodations. Self-monitoring is emphasized. The Mentoring Advantage Program provides a day and evening check-in system that allows students to seek help with their coursework.
The program employs the Lindamood-Bell method of language comprehension training. Test-taking and note-taking accommodations are on offer. Study groups are facilitated for some subject areas as well.
Additional fee: Not specified.
Scholarship assistance available: Not specified.
Separate housing: Not specified.
Diagnostic information required: Yes.
Mental health counseling: Not specified.
Colleges Specifically for ASD and Other Disabled Students
Beacon College * Leesburg, Florida
Beacon College was the first in the United States to specialize in offering bachelor’s degrees to students with learning disabilities ranging from ADHD to ASD. The college offers bachelor’s degrees in a limited number of subjects, ranging from business management to psychology. Staff learning specialists and peer tutors assist students in working through their course materials. Career development is a particular emphasis.
Additional fee: No; set tuition.
Scholarship assistance available: Yes.
Separate housing: All students attending have learning disabilities.
Diagnostic information required: Yes.
Mental health counseling: Yes. There is a Counseling Center and referrals may be provided for more in-depth regular sessions with local providers. The center also facilitates group therapy/support sessions that concentrate on various issues.
Landmark College * Putney, Vermont
Landmark College is specifically designed for students with learning disabilities, including ASD. The college offers a comprehensive suite of services designed for this population. Faculty are all trained in strategies for making course material accessible to those with learning disabilities. Advisors are assigned to each student and help them map out their educational plans. Coaches are available in a variety of subjects.
The PEERS program helps students with their social skills. And the Office of Career Connections facilitates internships and prepares students for entry into the workplace.
Additional fee: No; set tuition.
Scholarship assistance available: Yes. Additionally, tuition may be tax deductible because the college’s specialized curriculum may technically be considered medical treatment.
Separate housing: All students attending have learning disabilities. An effort is made to pair compatible students.
Diagnostic information required: Yes.
Mental health counseling: Yes. Health Services offers counseling and counselors may coordinate with previous care providers in managing medications.
Vocational Training Institutions and Other Programs
Michigan Career and Technical Institute * Plainwell, Michigan
The Michigan Career and Technical Institute is a residential vocational program that provides training in thirteen separate trades for a variety of students with disabilities. In addition to training students for specific trades, the institute offers on-site counseling and occupational therapy as well as career placement services through the Career Readiness Center.
Additional fee: No; set tuition.
Scholarship assistance available: No.
Separate housing: All students attending have learning disabilities.
Diagnostic information required: Not specified.
Mental health counseling: Yes.
