(Inside Higher Ed | July 20, 2024) The number of students enrolled in higher education who have a disability has grown over the years, but they still face barriers in completing a certificate or credential. A May report from the US Government Accountability Office found only 21 percent of students with disabilities graduate from college, compared to 38 percent of students who do not have a disability.
Colleges and universities have created specialized programs for students with intellectual or developmental disabilities to promote access to higher education and give wraparound supports for students’ unique needs.
Here are four examples of programs that provide certificates, peer support and campus engagement opportunities to neurodiverse learners …
#2: InclusiveU: Syracuse University
At Syracuse University, students with intellectual and developmental disabilities can participate in a four-year program to earn a certificate in their area of interest by declaring a major, auditing inclusive classes and electives, and completing internships across campus. InclusiveU is a long-standing program at the university and nationally recognized for serving large numbers of students.
The program enrolls over 100 participants each year and invites learners to engage in all campus has to offer.
“Our students are embedded into campus life,” says Brianna Shults, InclusiveU director. “Our students take regular SU classes, live in campus residence halls with their peers and attend social events across campus.”
Nondisabled students serve as campus mentors who help with in-class accommodations such as note taking and studying.
Participant feedback highlights how participants have learned independence, become more confident and feel as though they belong on campus. Graduates also go on to seek competitive full-time employment …