Academy of Art College (San
Francisco, CA)
Institutional web site address: http://www.academyart.edu
Does a staff member have experience working with students on the autistic
spectrum? Yes
Is there anyone on staff who would feel comfortable working with students on the
autistic spectrum? Yes
Contact information:
Vicky Garcia, Educational Therapist
415-263-5501
Sarah Estes, Classroom Services Manager
415-263-8825
Specific services offered: We accommodate all students with
disabilities on an individual basis and really look at what that individual
needs. We then create the service based on the need. Below are some
services/accommodations we've given students with autism/Asperger's:
1) A private room in the dorms, so the student does not
have to share his or her space with other students.
2) One-on-one help with time management, organization,
goal-setting, budgeting money.
3) A note-taker
4) A coach the student can talk to on a regular basis
about emotional problems around socializing, getting adjusted to a new routine,
getting adjusted to a new environment, etc.
5) Quiet, distraction-free environment for taking tests
5) Modified assignments (Ex: We modified a public
speaking assignment for a student to make it less threatening)
6) preferential seating
Characteristics of the institution that may be especially suitable for someone
on the autistic spectrum: We offer a lot of on-line classes. There is
also room for individualized study in certain majors.
Characteristics of the institution that may pose challenges to students on the
autistic spectrum: Classes in certain majors, such as Motion Picture and
Television, require group work and collaboration. A student with Asperger's
Syndrome or with Autism may have a harder time in these classes. If so, we
provide them with additional support or we modify some of the requirements.
University of Arizona
Institutional web site address:
http://www.arizona.edu
Student special services office web site, if any:
http://www.salt.arizona.edu and
http://drc.arizona.edu
Does a staff member have experience working with students on the autistic
spectrum? Yes
Is there anyone on staff who would feel comfortable working with students on the
autistic spectrum? Yes
Contact information:
Autumn Palmer
Admissions Counselor
SALT Center
University of Arizona
520 621-5285
Specific services offered: We offer academic
counseling with an individually assigned learning specialist. Regular weekly
meetings offer opportunities to discuss transition strategies, academic
expectations, psychosocial support, and referral to supportive resources. We
also offer tutoring in a wide range of academic subjects, writing and math
support, and a computer lab with assistive technology.
Characteristics of the institution that may pose challenges to students on the
autistic spectrum: Extreme heat and sunlight at certain times of year. Large
campus environment with over 35,000 enrolled students. Decentralized student
services programs located throughout the campus environment.
Auburn University--Montgomery
Institutional web site address: http://www.aum.edu
Student special services office web site, if any:
http://www.aum.edu/home/services/special/css.htm
Does a staff member have experience working with students on the autistic
spectrum? Yes
Is there anyone on staff who would feel comfortable working with students on the
autistic spectrum? Yes
Contact information:
For disability issues contact:
Center for Special Services
(334) 244-3631
For general university information contact:
Recruiting & Information
(334)244-3668
Specific services offered:
Extended time in a quiet environment, adaptive technology training, Lumbar
support chairs, proctors for reading and transcribing, referrals to appropriate
centers for counseling, tutoring, etc., assistance in locating note-takers, photocopies of needed class materials,
equipment, extended time on
assignments Books-on-tape, scanned e-text, interpreters, etc.
Characteristics of the institution that may be especially suitable for someone
on the autistic spectrum:
We are a small campus with a small number of students(5000 students), thus
interaction between our staff, students, and faculty is easier. I have found
this important especially due to some of the behavioral issues I have had to
address surrounding our students with Aspergers syndrome. Communication is
vital. Also, having our students feel comfortable is a key. For example, we
have our own computer lab and some students prefer to work in our lab over the
main campus labs. There seems to be an sense of security by working in our lab
and being around our staff.
Comments:
Although my experience is limited in the sense of the number of students I have
worked with who have Asperger's, I feel I have learned a lot and have sought out
the experiences of my peers for suggestions, etc. At times, it may appear I
have to spend more time with these students but once trust and confidence is
gained I find such students just as "unique" as anyone else.
California
Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly)
Institutional web site address:
http://www.calpoly.edu
Student special services office web site, if any:
http://www.drc.calpoly.edu
Does a staff member have experience working with students on the autistic
spectrum? Yes
Is there anyone on staff who would feel comfortable working with students on the
autistic spectrum? Yes
Contact information:
Dr. Steven Kane
Mr. William Bailey
Ms. Ann Fryer
Ms. Shelley Aleshire
Ms. Chris Parker-Kennedy
805-756-1395
Disability Resource Center
Bldg. 124-119
California Polytechnic State University
San Luis Obispo, CA 93407
Specific services offered: Please see
http://www.drc.calpoly.edu for a
detailed overview of specific
support services.
Characteristics of the institution that may be especially suitable for someone
on the autistic spectrum: We offer many science and engineering
technology degrees that often appeal to individuals with HFA and AS.
However, our campus is very competitive and can be very stressful for these
individuals.
Characteristics of the institution that may pose challenges to students on the
autistic spectrum: As mentioned above, Cal Poly is a highly selective
institution and is thus very competitive. Students often find this
atmosphere very stressful. Also, although there is a lot of "hands-on" lab
learning as well as a great deal of "team projects" and small group work
that can be very stressful for HFA/AS students. Finally, the residential
nature of
the campus (dorm life) can be very hard on some HFA/AS students as well.
Central Washington University
Institutional web site address:
http://www.cwu.edu/
Student special services office web site, if any: Go to CWU web site, click on
Disability SupportServices to view the DSS/Post-ITT web site
Does a staff member have experience working with students on the autistic
spectrum? Yes
Is there anyone on staff who would feel comfortable working with students on the
autistic spectrum? Yes
Contact information:
Robert A. Campbell, Director
Pamela S. Wilson, Disability Accommodation Specialist
Disability Support Services
Central Washington University
400 E. University Way
Ellensburg, WA 98926-7431
(509) 963-2171 (v)
(509) 963-2143 (tdd)
campbelr@cwu.edu
wilsonp@cwu.edu
Specific services offered: Appropriate accommodations are identified
for each student on an individual
basis and are based on specific functional limitations as identified in
medical/diagnostic documentation.
Comments: A few students with Asperger's have attended/are attending classes at
CWU. The biggest challenges for these students seem to be social interaction in
the residence halls and required meetings with professors when/if academic
accommodations are needed.
University of Colorado at Boulder
Institutional web site address:
http://www.colorado.edu
Student special services office web site, if any:
http://www.colorado.edu/disabilityservices
Does a staff member have experience working with students on the autistic
spectrum? Yes
Is there anyone on staff who would feel comfortable working with students on the
autistic spectrum? Yes
Contact information:
Disability Services, University of Colorado at Boulder
Willard Hall, Room 322
107 UCB
Boulder, CO 80309-0107
phone: 303-492-8671
fax: 303-492-5601
dsinfo@colorado.edu
www.colorado.edu/disabilityservices
Disability Services offers meetings with Disability Specialist to answer
questions about accessing services and to describe available services.
Specific services offered:
Students who request services are assigned to a Disability Specialist who
provides individualized support. The Specialist can help with academic advising,
time management and organization, learning strategies, general problem solving,
referrals to other resources, advocacy, and assistance with accommodations that
are supported by documentation. In addition, Disability Services offers a
Writing Lab, an Assistive Technology Lab, a Career Program for Students with
Disabilities and a student organization for those with disabilities.
Characteristics of the institution that may be especially suitable for someone
on the autistic spectrum:
A limited number of free counseling sessions are available to all students
through the Counseling department. The University of Colorado at Boulder offers
Residence Academic Programs (RAP) for all students. RAP provides smaller sized
classes for certain courses that are generally offered only in a large lecture
format. (There is a fee for participation in RAP programs.) Free peer tutoring
is offered through the residence halls. Student Academic Services Center also
offers a variety of support services.
Characteristics of the institution that may pose challenges to students on the
autistic spectrum:
The University of Colorado at Boulder is a large institution with approximately
28,000 students. However, the student organization, UCSU, offers many ways to
become involved- from professional to recreational groups.
Indiana Wesleyan University
Institutional web site address: http://www.indwes.edu
Student special services office web site, if any:
http://www.indwes.edu/Student_Life/Student_asst_services
Does a staff member have experience working with students on the autistic
spectrum? No
Is there anyone on staff who would feel comfortable working with students on the
autistic spectrum? Yes
Contact information:
Jerry Harrell
Director of Center for Student Support Services
Indiana Wesleyan University
4201 S. Washington Street
Marion, IN 46953
765-677-2257
jerry.harrell@indwes.edu
Specific services offered:
Academic guidance, course content tutoring, disability support, personal
counseling, adaptive resources.
Characteristics of the institution that may be especially suitable for someone
on the autistic spectrum:
We have a good support system in residence life and academic affairs to work
with students with disabilities. Each incoming student is mentored through a
small group in residence life. Additionally, our Dean of Mentoring provides
one-on-one mentoring opportunities for students seeking additional support. Our
student body openly embraces those with disabilities and seeks to include them
in campus activities.
Georgia State University
Institutional web site address: http://www.gsu.edu
Student special services office web site, if any:
http://www.gsu.edu/disability
Does a staff member have experience working with students on the autistic
spectrum? Yes
Is there anyone on staff who would feel comfortable working with students on the
autistic spectrum? Yes
Contact information:
Office of Disability Services (404)463-9044
Specific services offered:
See website at http://www.gsu.edu/disability
.
University of
Hawaii at Hilo
Institutional web site address: http://www.uhh.hawaii.edu
Student special services office web site, if any:
http://www.uhh.hawaii.edu/studentaffairs/uds
Does a staff member have experience working with students on the autistic
spectrum? Yes
Is there anyone on staff who would feel comfortable working with students on the
autistic spectrum? Yes
Contact information:
Susan Shirachi
University Disability Services
200 W. Kawili Street
Hilo, HI 96720
Ph: (808) 933-0816
TTY: (808) 933-3334
Fax: (808) 974-7691
Email: shirachi@hawaii.edu
Specific services offered:
Personalized campus orientation
Registration assistance
On campus voter registration assistance
Referral to Disability Liaison in Financial Aid Office
Referral for personal, academic and career counseling
Referral for tutorial services
Referral to service learning programs
Referral to external agency support programs (e.g., Division of Vocational
Rehabilitation)
Classroom, and testing accommodation
Taped textbooks
Cassette recorders
Talking calculators
Distraction free testing rooms
Page magnifier (manual)
CCTV
Computers with assistive technology software (JAWS, Zoomtext, Dragon Naturally
Speaking)
Assitive technology peer tutor
Disability awareness training with faculty
Facilitated meetings
Empowerment and advocacy training
Learning Disability Support Group
Bi Monthly UDS newsletter mailing on topics of concern to UDS students
Annual Scholar with Disability Tuition Waiver (to 1 selected candidate)
UHH accessible van for program use
UHH accessible housing, theater and bookstore
UHH accessible dining facilities, new gym and classroom facilities
Ample accessible parking throughout campus
Characteristics of the institution that may be especially suitable for someone
on the autistic spectrum: The philosophy that guides the UDS Office is one
based on respect, responsibility, and trust. For a student to succeed we realize
that a partnership must be developed, and we see our goal as being one of the
partners that a student with disability may need in order to achieve his/her
goals of graduating with a degree from UHH.
Our campus environment is one that encourages diversity, and inclusion for
all in a variety of venues, and disciplines.
Characteristics of the institution that may pose challenges to students on the
autistic spectrum: UHH campus is on a hilly terrain, that is often rainy and
damp for a majority of the year. Consideration should also be taken into account
for persons with respiratory issues as the existence of the Kilauwa Volcano
(active volcano) that still emits fumes which may build up occasionally with a
change of wind direction. The active volcano will emit fumes that build up with
a change of wind direction.
Comments: Students who have received the most benefit from UHH are those
who are motivated and have basic college preparatory skills that enhance their
ability to transition into an academically competitive environment.
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Institutional web site address:
http://www.uiuc.edu
Student special services office web site, if any:
http://www.rehab.uiuc.edu
Does a staff member have experience working with students on the autistic
spectrum? Yes
Is there anyone on staff who would feel comfortable working with students on the
autistic spectrum? Yes
Contact information:
Division of Rehabilitation Education Services (DRES)
Student Services Main Number 217-333-4603
Specific services offered:
Academic Adjustments/Accommodations
Transportation
Priority Registration
Accommodations within Housing
Academic Coaching
Support groups
Advocacy
Clinical Psychologist as their case manager
Personal Assistant (would have to pay for on own)
Support services vary depending on the needs of the student and vary from
intense meetings up to several times a week, coordination of classes and
services, intervening with faculty/staff, all the way to one student who had a
personal assistant attend class with him to help manage some inappropriate
behaviors and safety concerns.
Characteristics of the institution that may be especially suitable for someone
on the autistic spectrum:
The campus values diversity. DRES was the first post-secondary disability
service provider in the US. We have a large staff and utilize cutting edge
techniques to help support our students with disabilities. A clinical
psychologist who is familiar with and understands autistic spectrum disorders is
the case manager so that the individual can learn strategies but also have some
one help with certain areas. This is a unique disability that requires more
follow-up and more hands-on management than many disabilities and some
disability service providers do not understand these needs.
Characteristics of the institution that may pose challenges to students on the
autistic spectrum:
The two most challenging issues would be that we do not have special admissions
criteria for students with disabilities and the second is the fact that we have
a very large campus to learn to navigate.
Comments:
In my four years here at UIUC, I have had 10 students with Autism/Asperger's on
my caseload. Three have graduated and the other seven are still enrolled and
pursuing their degrees. All three of the students who graduated have obtained
full-time employment, one with a starting salary of $55,000!
University of Indianapolis
Student special services office web site, if any:
http://build.uindy.edu
Does a staff member have experience working with students on the autistic
spectrum? Yes
Is there anyone on staff who would feel comfortable working with students on the
autistic spectrum? Yes
Contact information:
Admissions Office
University of Indianapolis
1400 East Hanna Avenue
Indianapolis, IN 46227
800-232-8634
Specific services offered: The B.U.I.L.D. program at the University of Indianapolis is a full support
program designed to help the college student with a specific learning
disability, which can include dyslexia, attention deficit, Asperger's, and
traumatic brain injury, earn an associate or baccalaureate degree.
The specific services include individualized strategies tutoring, professional
tutors, Occupational Therapy interns, proficiency-level Math and English
courses, specialized English 101 and Study Skills courses, additional testing
accommodations, academic advising, and some assistive equipment and software.
Characteristics of the institution that may be especially suitable for someone
on the autistic spectrum:
The University of Indianapolis is a moderate-sized, comprehensive university
located in the southeastern corner of Indianapolis. Two thousand students,
mostly campus residents, make up the day division, and more than 60 countries
are represented in the University's population.
B.U.I.L.D. received the unanimous support of the faculty at the program's
inception in 1990, and faculty members continue to offer their cooperation and
support. The university has a desirable student-to-faculty ratio for all
students (14 to 1) and the average class size is 18. This opportunity allows
for personal attention from faculty and staff.
Ithaca College
Institutional web site address: http://www.ithaca.edu
Does a staff member have experience working with students on the autistic
spectrum? Yes
Is there anyone on staff who would feel comfortable working with students on the
autistic spectrum? Yes
Contact information:
Academic Support Services for Students with Disabilities
322A Smiddy Hall
Ithaca College
Ithaca, NY 14850
607-274-1005
acssd@ithaca.edu
Specific services offered:
Accommodations offered by the office are based on a recent (within 3 years) psychoeducational evaluation and the recommendations of the referring
psychologist, psychiatrist or medical doctor.
We don't have a comprehensive program. Instead, we arrange for specific academic
accommodations as recommended in the evaluation. Special housing accommodations
may be available if recommended in the report.
Marshall University (Huntington, WV)
Institutional web site address: http://www.marshall.edu
Does a staff member have experience working with students on the autistic
spectrum? Yes
Is there anyone on staff who would feel comfortable working with students on the
autistic spectrum? Yes
Contact information:
Marshall University
The West Virgininia Autism Training Center College Program for Students
with
Higher Functioning Autism
Old Main
316 One John Marshall Drive
Huntington, WV 25755
Telephone (304) 696-2332
Email: ramseyk@marshall.edu
Specific services offered: A person-centered, positive behavior
support approach is used to assist students with high functioning autism or
Asperger's syndrome. Social, independent living, and academic supports are
provided. Participating students must be admitted to Marshall University and
apply to The College Program for Students with Higher Functioning autism through
a separate application process.
University of Maryland, College Park
Institutional web site address: http://www.umd.edu
Student special services office web site, if any: http://www.umd.edu/dss/
Does a staff member have experience working with students on the autistic
spectrum? Yes
Is there anyone on staff who would feel comfortable working with students on the
autistic spectrum? Yes
Contact information:
Susan McMenamin, Coordinator
Office of Disability Support Services
Shoemaker Bldg.
University of Maryland
College Park, MD 20742
301-314-7682
smcmenam@wam.umd.edu
Specific services offered:
Standard accommodations are available e.g. testing services - extended time,
private space, reader/scribe, computer use; reading services - books on tape;
note taker; priority registration, reduced course load. There is an adaptive
technology lab in the main library. Individualized student advocacy support and
mentoring is also available.
Characteristics of the institution that may pose challenges to students on the
autistic spectrum:
This is a very complex campus both in terms of size and administrative hierarchy
making it difficult to negotiate at times. Due to the large student population,
most lower level classes have large enrollments.
Students are expected to initiate contact with DSS to request any assistance or
support. There is a strong emphasis on student self-advocacy and independence.
University of Missouri-Kansas City
Institutional web site address: http://www.umkc.edu
Student special services office web site, if any:
http://www.umkc.edu/disability
Does a staff member have experience working with students on the autistic
spectrum? Yes
Is there anyone on staff who would feel comfortable working with students on the
autistic spectrum? Yes
Contact information:
Scott Laurent, Director OSSD
disability @umkc.edu
Specific services offered:
I have had some experience. Typically our
services are limited to academic accommodations such as extended exam time, a
reduced distraction exam room, etc. However, we do
strive to assist the student in whatever way we can.
Characteristics of the institution that may pose challenges to students on the
autistic spectrum:
We may not always be able to provide extensive individualized support beyond basic academic accommodations.
The University of Montana-Missoula
Institutional web site address: http://www.umt.edu
Student special services office web site, if any:
http://www.umt.edu/dss
Does a staff member have experience working with students on the autistic
spectrum? Yes
Is there anyone on staff who would feel comfortable working with students on the
autistic spectrum? Yes
Contact information:
Disability Services for Students (DSS)
Contact person: Jim Marks, Director
Email address: marks@mso.umt.edu
Phone number: (406) 243-2373
Mailing Address: Disability Services for Students, Lommasson Center 154, The
University of Montana,
Missoula, MT 59812
The DSS web site provides useful information to students making the transition
from high school to The University of Montana-Missoula, or transferring from
another institution of higher learning. This web site also provides extensive
information useful to their families.
Specific services offered:
For specific accommodations and services that DSS offers, please see the
"Detailed Description of Accommodations and Services" at
http://www.umt.edu/dss/ea-31.html
.
Comments:
We focus on the accessible learning environment, which means we identify
barriers to program access caused by the functional limitation resulting from a
disability. We underline the functional limitations, which are teased out of
interviews with the student, documentation and/or conversations with the
diagnostician, and the application of best practices. Our attention is not
heavily directed at the individual. Rather, our attentions are on the
environment.
University of New Hampshire, Durham
Institutional web site address:
http://UNH.Edu
Student special services office web site, if any:
http://unh.edu/access
Does a staff member have experience working with students on the autistic
spectrum? Yes
Is there anyone on staff who would feel comfortable working with students on the
autistic spectrum? Yes
Contact information:
Maxine Little, Director
Brandee Franciosi, Assistant Director / LD Specialist
Access Office
118 Memorial Union Building
Durham, NH 03824
603-862-2607 (voice /TTY)
Specific services offered:
Once eligibility for accommodations has been established by the Access Office,
we meet with students to determine appropriate accommodations based upon
presented documentation of disability. These accommodations may include:
Extended Exam Time
Notetaker(s)
Option to tape record lectures
Meetings with Disability Support Service Counselors
Accessible Classrooms
FM Assistive Listening Systems
4-track tape players
Text on Tape
Readers for exams
Distraction limited testing environment
Reduced course load
Use of a computer on essay exams
Use of a calculator
Parker Adaptive Media Room Located in The Dimond Library:
Station: 15" PC Monitor with Zoom Text 7.06
Station: Mac Quadra 610 Monitor hooked up to Brailler (no PC hook up)
Braille Printer
Station: 21" Monitor with Dragon Naturally Speaking 7.0, ZOOM Text 7.06 Ultra
Station: 15" PC Monitor with JAWS
Station: Clearview 300 OPTELEC CCTV
Station: PC 21" Monitor with Open Book 6.0, Scan Jet6200C
Large Font Mac 21" monitor
Characteristics of the institution that may be especially suitable for someone
on the autistic spectrum:
Our four year baccalaureate programs are suitable and challenging.
Thompson School is our 2 year applied science program that offers a more
"hands-on" curriculum.
Characteristics of the institution that may pose challenges to students on
the autistic spectrum: There are no formal tutoring or life/social skills coaching services available
through the Access Office. A fee for service tutor clearing house is located on
campus at the Center for Academic Resources.
Reinhardt College
Institutional web site address:
http://reinhardt.edu
Does a staff member have experience working with students on the autistic
spectrum? Yes
Is there anyone on staff who would feel comfortable working with students on the
autistic spectrum? Yes
Contact information:
Sylvia Robertson, Director, Academic Support Office 770-720-5567 srr@reinhardt.edu
Specific services offered:
The services of the Academic Support Office are designed for college able
students who are diagnosed with Specific Learning Disabilities and/or Attention
Deficit Disorder. Services include academic advisement, testing accommodations,
note takers, access to computers, etc. A fee-based enhanced program of small
group faculty-led tutorials is also available in the general education core
curriculum.
Characteristics of the institution that may be especially suitable for someone
on the autistic spectrum:
The college is small (approx. 1000), and students do get personal attention.
Characteristics of the institution that may pose challenges to students on
the autistic spectrum: While the small size and caring nature of the college is helpful for many
students, it also means that certain students attract a good deal of attention.
In small classrooms where students are encouraged to participate, students with
poor social control bring a challenge to professors and fellow students that
causes patience to sometimes wears thin.
Families see the small college coupled with the opportunity to have the student
live in the dormitory as a great place for students to mature. In fact, the
social situations posed by dormitory living and other parts of campus life are
extremely stressful for students on the autism spectrum. We do recognize the
spectrum, however. We have had in the past, and do have enrolled at present,
students who have done well academically and have grown socially. Likewise, we
have had students who have been completely unable to handle one or both the
academic and social/living parts of college. It is very important that the
student, the family, and the college problem-solve on the front end of the
admissions process.
The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey
Institutional web site address: http://www2.stockton.edu
Student special services office web site, if any:
http://www2.stockton.edu/wellness/lap.html
Does a staff member have experience working with students on the autistic
spectrum? Yes
Is there anyone on staff who would feel comfortable working with students on the
autistic spectrum? Yes
Contact information:
Learning Access Program
West Quad 110
Richard Stockton College of New Jersey
PO Box 195
Pomona, NJ 08240
609-652-4988
Specific services offered:
Individual counseling, accommodations such as note takers, testing
accommodations including extended time and distraction reduced environments,
adaptive technology available, student advocacy.
Characteristics of the institution that may be especially suitable for someone
on the autistic spectrum:
Buildings linked together, easy to access and to get around, quiet, wooded
environment.
University of Southern California
Institutional web site address: http://www.usc.edu
Student special services office web site, if any:
http://www.usc.edu/disability
Does a staff member have experience working with students on the autistic
spectrum? Yes
Is there anyone on staff who would feel comfortable working with students on the
autistic spectrum? Yes
Contact information:
University of Southern California
3601 Trousdale Pky.
Student Union 301
Los Angeles, CA 90089
Tel: 213/ 740-0776 (main number)
213/ 740-8205 (Disability Counselors)
email: ability@usc.edu
Specific services offered:
In order to fulfill our goal of providing all students with an equal opportunity
to succeed in the classroom, Disability Services and Programs (DSP) seeks to
accommodate students with documented disabilities (including autistic spectrum
disorders) in a variety of ways. Specific accommodations that are beneficial to
a student with an autistic spectrum disorder may include: distraction free rooms
to exams, use of a class note-taker, use of a tape recorder in the classroom, use
of a word processor during essay exams, and use of a spell checker.
Personalized Learning Assistants are available to the student body and are
particularly useful for a student with an autistic spectrum disorder.
Characteristics of the institution that may be especially suitable for someone
on the autistic spectrum:
We are currently improving the services that we are able to provide for students
with autistic spectrum disorders. We will soon offer a peer buddy/ mentoring
system, as well as specific training for learning assistants and disability
counselors who work directly with the students. The staff has already
participated in training for working with students with Asperger's Syndrome.
Furthermore, two members of our staff just completed a course on college
students with Asperger's Syndrome. It is our hope that these improvements and
trainings will improve the quality of service provided to all students,
especially those students with autistic spectrum disorders.
Southern Illinois University at Carbondale
Institutional web site address:
http://siuc.edu
Student special services office web site, if any:
http://siu.edu/~achieve
Does a staff member have experience working with students on the autistic
spectrum? Yes
Is there anyone on staff who would feel comfortable working with students on the
autistic spectrum? Yes
Contact information:
Roger Pugh
Achieve Program
Mailcode 6832
SIUC
Carbondale, IL 62901
(618) 453-2369
achieve@siu.edu
Specific services offered: SIUC provides two program for students with
disabilities: The Disability
Support Services office, and the Achieve Program. DSS is the federally
mandated program to provide equal opportunity under law for students with
disabilities. Achieve is a comprehensive academic support service program
for students with learning disabilities and/or attention deficit
disorder. A third program, specifically designed to meet the social
issues faced by students with Asperger's syndrome, the ASperger's Peer
Intervention, Reflection, and Evaluation (ASPIRE) Support Group, began
operating in august of 2003.
Students who use DSS must apply to SIU and meet the SIU entrance
requirements.
Students interested in Achieve apply to both the university and to the
Achieve Program. Application materials are reviewed on an individual
basis. Applicants must meet the Achieve program criteria: Previous
diagnosis of LD and/or ADD; Cognitive abilities in the Average range or
greater; Social/emotional maturity to transition well into a large
liberal arts university. If necessary, Achieve will make recommendations
to Admissions and Records regarding the admission of students.
The ASPIRE support group will be designed to provide directed group
counseling and modeling to address the social needs of students with
Asperger's syndrome. Students must meets the entrance requirements for
the University, and apply separately for services.
Characteristics of the institution that may be especially suitable for someone
on the autistic spectrum: SIUC has a reputation of being attuned to the
needs of students with
disabilities. The campus is welcoming, friendly, beautiful, and offers
hundreds of choices for classes and degree programs. SIUC is competitive
nationally in many diverse areas. It is a large university, but fosters
an atmosphere like what might be found at a smaller college.
Characteristics of the institution that may pose challenges to students on the
autistic spectrum: SIUC is a large university. It encompasses a large physical
space. Some
classes a student will take will be large lecture classes. Student
housing for Freshman and Sophomore students include several dormitory
areas. Students must be prepared to face the challenges of independent
living and close peer interactions.
Temple University
Institutional web site address: http://temple.edu
Student special services office web site, if any:
http://temple.edu/disability
Does a staff member have experience working with students on the autistic
spectrum? Yes
Is there anyone on staff who would feel comfortable working with students on the
autistic spectrum? Yes
Contact information:
Disability Resources and Services (DRS) can be contacted to discuss services for
students with disabilities at the University.
A Guide for Students with Disabilities is available online at the above website
or by contacting the department at
215-204-1280 weekdays between 8:30AM and 5:00 PM Eastern Time. Requests can
also be faxed to 215-204-6794.
Specific services offered:
Although Temple University does not have a special program for students on the
autistic spectrum, it does have supports and a welcoming
environment for all students with disabilities. Students have the availability
of individual meetings with counselors/advisors to discuss
academic and college-life related concerns. There are also counseling and other
support programs available on campus for students seeking such services.
Characteristics of the institution that may be especially suitable for someone
on the autistic spectrum:
Temple University has a long history of embracing diversity. It is a place
large enough for students to find others with similar
interests.
Characteristics of the institution that may pose challenges to students on
the autistic spectrum:
Because of the size of the University (more than 30,000 students) and its
location in a large metropolitan area, it can appear overwhelming to some.
Comments:
The Disability Resources and Services Department was established in 1976. There
are more than 1,000 students with disabilities
currently attending the University.
Texas State University-San Marcos
Institutional web site address:
http://www.txstate.edu/
Student special services office web site, if any:
http://www.ods.txstate.edu/
Does a staff member have experience working with students on the autistic
spectrum? Yes
Is there anyone on staff who would feel comfortable working with students on the
autistic spectrum? Yes
Contact information:
Office of Disability Services
Suite 5-5.1, LBJ Student Center
601 University Drive
San Marcos TX 78666
Phone: (512) 245-3451 (voice/TTY)
Fax: (512) 245-3452
Specific services offered:
We provide services to students with various disabilities, however, we currently
have no services specifically targeted toward students with an autistic spectrum
diagnosis. Specialized support services are based on the individual student's
disability-based needs. Services available include, but are not limited to:
Advance registration of classes
Assistance in ordering recorded textbooks
Recording textbooks not available on tape
Arranging for special testing accommodations
Assistance in accessing adaptive computer equipment
Assistance in locating volunteer readers and note takers
Liaison and advocacy between students, faculty and staff
Referral for tutoring
Student Support Services
Student Learning Assistance Center
Disability management counseling
Provision of sign language and oral interpreting services
Information and referral to on-campus and off-campus resources
Characteristics of the institution that may be especially suitable for someone
on the autistic spectrum:
Texas State University-San Marcos is very oriented toward ensuring undergraduate
students have a successful beginning to their college experience. To that end,
much effort is put into helping students feel a part of the campus community
through various programs before and during initial semesters. There are numerous
student organizations students may choose from in order to find their social
niche, and diversity is actively sought and valued by the university community.
Characteristics of the institution that may pose challenges to students on
the autistic spectrum: The university is growing very quickly. Current enrollment is over twenty-six
thousand, causing classes to be larger than the ideal. Some students with
disabilities find that this presents a challenge.
Washington State University
Institutional web site address: http://www.wsu.edu
Student special services office web site, if any:
http://www.wsu.edu/drc
Does a staff member have experience working with students on the autistic
spectrum? Yes
Is there anyone on staff who would feel comfortable working with students on the
autistic spectrum? Yes
Contact information:
Susan Schaeffer
(509) 335-1757
schaeff@wsu.edu
Specific services offered: Note takers, extra time on in-class exams other resources as appropriate.
University of Wisconsin, Whitewater
Institutional web site address: http://www.uww.edu
Does a staff member have experience working with students on the autistic
spectrum? Yes
Is there anyone on staff who would feel comfortable working with students on the
autistic spectrum? Yes
Contact information:
Project ASSIST
262.472.4788
Specific services offered:
Trained peer tutoring is available for content and learning strategies.
One-on-one staff assistance is offered that may include weekly meetings,
advocating for students. Workshops offered include computer instruction, math
study skills/anxiety, writing.
Characteristics of the institution that may be especially suitable for someone
on the autistic spectrum:
We have a small office and a small, personable staff, making a smooth transition
to our office and school.
Characteristics of the institution that may pose challenges to
students on the autistic spectrum: It is a mid-size university of 10,000, which may cause more challenges than a
smaller institute.
