Post-Secondary Education for Adults with Autism

ACCESS Center at City Colleges of Chicago

Harold Washington College - (312) 553-3050
Harry S Truman College - (773) 907-4725
Kennedy-King College - (773) 602-5278
Malcolm X College - (312) 850-7342
Olive-Harvey College - (773) 291-6170
Richard J Daley College - (773) 838-7578
Wright College - (773) 481-8015

DAC provides a full range of support services for CCC students with disabilities, including note-takers, readers, classroom accommodations, adaptive equipment, testing accommodations, and more.

ACHIEVE at Southern Illinois University

374 E Grand Ave, Carbondale, IL 62901
(618) 456-6155
achieve@siu.edu 

ACHIEVE is a comprehensive, optional, fee-for-services support program for neurodiverse students at SIU. Offers assistance with organization, tutoring, case management, and accommodations. 

Autismerica at College of Dupage

Michael Duggan, Counselor/Professor: (630) 942-2845

Sheryl Ebersold, Accommodations Specialist: (630) 942-3798

Autismerica is a student organization for students on the autism spectrum to better educate themselves about COD and socialize with one another in a safe and supportive environment. Parents are also provided a separate meeting opportunity. Meetings for the Spring semester are held on the second Thursday of each month.

Choices: College Disability Programs & Support Services Database

Downloadable database through Choices, a website designed to help students and parents navigate through the process of post-secondary planning. Provides autism spectrum information and post-secondary resources. 

City Colleges of Chicago: After 22 Program (Daley College)

7500 S. Pulaski Road Chicago, IL 60652
773-838-7545

The After 22 Program connects adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to career training, educational opportunities, and jobs. This is a 2.5 year program that follows a traditional 8/16 week semester. Students complete academic, life skills adn job-related coursework. Social and extracurricular activities available. Case manager and staff support available. Students receive a non-academic Career Advancement Certificate after completing credited coursework and an internship. To enroll in After 22, students must have been ensured a free public education under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), have a documented intellectual disability, have a high school diploma or GED, and be 18 or older. Financial aid available. 

College of DuPage: Developmental Education Program

425 Fawell Blvd. Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
(630) 942-2208
ce@cod.edu 

Young adults with mild to moderate intellectual or developmental disabilities who can independently and safely manage classroom expectations and find their way to classes can continue their education through College of DuPage's Developmental Education Program. The courses will help students continue to increase academic and employment skills and improve overall communication and independence abilities. 

Career Opportunity ACHievement (COACH) Program: COACH is a two-year (four-term), cohort program for adults with mild intellectual or developmental disabilities. The program has been developed to provide post-transition students with additional educational training aimed at preparing them for meaningful employment.

Cutting EDGE at Edgewood University  

1000 Edgewood College Dr., Madison, WI 53711 
(608) 633-2332 
cuttingedge@edgewood.edu 

A flexible four-year certificate or degree-supported track that fully integrates students into the Madison campus community. It balances individual career goals with daily living support, utilizing peer mentors to assist with social navigation and residential skills. 

educationconnection.com

Provides an online guide that lists and outlines government sources and organizational resources for students with disabilities. This information including Students rights under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the ADA, how to tell the prospective school about the student's special needs and updated scholarships and grants students can apply for.

Elmhurst College

Elmhurst Life Skills Academy
Tim Ahlberg
190 Prospect Ave. Elmhurst, IL 60126-3296
(630) 617-3309
ahlbergt@elmhurst.edu

ELSA offers an outstanding educational opportunity for young adults with developmental disabilities. This full-time, postsecondary program enables ELSA students to work productively and live as independently as possible.18 years and up; tuition-based, grants available.

Harper College Career Skills Institute: Students with Intellectual Disabilities

(847) 925-6161

Career Skills Institute (CSI) is a two-year program for students with differing abilities, ages 18 and above. CSI students have previously had an IEP and are ready for a unique college experience. View the CSI curriculum and schedule.  Students who have been diagnosed with a mild intellectual disability, have had an IEP, are able to independently find their way to classes, have transportation arrangements, and can assimilate into a classroom and work setting.

Lakeland University: Life and Career Studies

W3718 South Dr, Plymouth, WI 53073
Kate Dvorak
(920) 565-1000 x2156
dvorakkj@lakeland.edu 

Based at Lakeland’s Main Campus in rural Sheboygan County, Life and Career Studies is an inclusive and engaging, full-time residential program for students with intellectual disabilities. It features a four-year, personalized curriculum designed to promote academic, social, personal and professional growth. Fostering self-determination, LCS provides a gateway to meaningful employment and independent and community living. LCS students take inclusive coursework towards an academic certificate, participate in cooperative education experiences to gain employment skills, and receive instruction through personal development, independent living, and community living and engagement courses. Apply here.

Lewis and Clark Community College

Supported College Transition
5800 Godfrey Road Godfrey, IL 62035
618.468.4127
rellington@lc.edu

The Supported College Transition Program (SCT) was designed for students with little mainstreaming experience in high school and the academic preparation that indicates that they can be successful in smaller sections of college developmental courses with the additional support provided by a Transitions class. Students have career goals that require college credentials.

Mansfield Hall

233 Langdon St, Madison, WI 53703
David Williamson
david@mansfieldhall.org 
(608) 515-5655

Mansfield Hall is a residential living and learning community for college students who benefit from additional academic, executive functioning, social and independent living skill support. Mansfield Hall students are ready for a college experience, but not yet ready to tackle college on their own.

Morton College Skills for Daily Living 

3801 S Central Ave, Cicero, IL 60804
Mary Jo Buongiorno 
maryjo.buongiorno@morton.edu
(708) 656-8000 ext. 2368

The Skills for Daily Living Program at Morton College is a non-credit enrichment program designed to help students with mild to moderate intellectual disabilities develop and expand their life skills in an ability-appropiate college setting. The program is driven by needs and interests of students enrolled in the program.

Notre Dame College

Gretchen Walsh, M.S.Ed, director, academic support center
4545 College Road South Euclid, OH 44121
(216) 373-5185
gwalsh@ndc.edu

Students enrolled with the academic support center take the same classes and must meet the same expectations as other Notre Dame College students. Students participating in the ASC may major or minor in any of the programs offered at the college. All students with the ASC participate in an orientation program separate from Notre Dame College to assist them in their transition to college. The year ends with a recognition day for the academic support center students, parents and faculty. Application requirements: to participate in the academic support center you must be a full-time traditional student, and you must submit documentation of a learning disability, along with a completed application. Services offered based on individual documentation include: note-taking assistance, extended time for completing tests, alternative format for taking tests, books on audio format, use of a scribe, distraction free environment and taping of class lectures.

OPTIONS Transitions to Independence

900 S Brehm Ln, Carbondale, IL 62901
Scott Donovan 
(618) 549-4201
scott.donovan@experienceoptions.org 

OPTIONS is a comprehensive boarding program for post-secondary students with learning disabilities, attention disorders, langue-based disorders, and executive functioning deficits. OPTIONS is a college-connected transition program that helps students build the academic, vocational, and life skills needed to succeed in adulthood.

PACE at National Louis University

122 S. Michigan Ave. Chicago, IL 60603
(312) 261-3770
paceprogram@nl.edu

PACE at NLU is a three-year post-secondary program which is designed to meet the transitional needs for young adults with multiple intellectual, learning and developmental disabilities.

RISE Program at Judson

Road to Independent Living, Spiritual Formation, and Employment
(847) 628-1151 
gguth@judsonu.edu 

RISE to the Challenge and Join Us! Are you looking for a unique opportunity for post-secondary education for you or a loved one with an intellectual disability? Through the RISE Program, we give students with intellectual disabilities the college life experience in a Christian community and build upon strengths for independent living and customized employment.

Shepherds College

1805 15th Ave, Union Grove, WI 53182
Makayla Cranford
admissions@sheperdscollege.edu
(262) 878-6353

A fully accredited, post-secondary program for students with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. Throughout the three-year program, SC equips students to reach independence through the development of vocational, social and life skills. Students choose from one of three specialty majors: Culinary Arts, Horticulture, or Technology. Apply here. 

STEP at Eastern Illinois University

2086 7th St, Charleston, IL 61920
(217) 581-6361
jkfahy@eiu.edu 

STEP is a fee-based support program for university students at EIU with a diagnosis of ASD. Provides structured, personalized support in five key areas: academic coaching, executive function coaching, social communication, career readiness and strategic communication.

Turning Pointe Career College

Ketra Kuniej, Career College Director/HR
1500 W. Ogden Ave. Naperville, IL 60540
630-615-6032 
kkuniej@turningpointeaf.org

The Career College is an educational and career exploration opportunity for adults with ASD, social and communication challenges and other learning differences.  Career College is for students to gain skills that prepare them for independent employment, offering a highly individualized learning and training environment focusing on individual strengths, skills and areas of challenge. The Career College format is based on C.O.P.E.S.™ model of instruction.  These core components (Communication, Organization, Positive Behavior Supports, Emotional Regulation, Social Skills and Sensory Needs) are the focus of the curriculum. Ages: 18 and up

UW-WHITEWATER LIFE PROGRAM

Offers a complete college experience for young adults ages 18-25 with an intellectual disability. Through individualized supports, specialized instruction, on-campus residential living, and community engagement, LIFE provides access and opportunity for students who have historically been underrepresented in higher education.
The program includes two pathways – a two-year Basic Program and a two-year Advanced Program – both designed to support personal growth, independent living, and employment success. Students participate in campus life alongside their peers while developing the academic, social, and life skills needed to thrive beyond college.

AffordableColleges.com

Scholarships and Financial Aid for Students with Disabilities. Guide includes valuable resources for students with disabilities, such as:

• A curated list of more than 85 disability-specific scholarships
• Strategies for utilizing state and local financial aid resources
• An overview of loan forgiveness and reduction options

Autismerica at College of Dupage

Michael Duggan, Counselor/Professor
(630) 942-2845

Sheryl Ebersold, Accommodations Specialist
(630) 942-3798

Autismerica is a student organization for students on the autism spectrum to better educate themselves about COD and socialize with one another in a safe and supportive environment. Parents are also provided a separate meeting opportunity. Meetings for the Spring semester are held on the second Thursday of each month.

Beyond BookSmart

Wendy M. Craven Outreach Coordinator 
wcraven@beyondbooksmart.com
630-333-6698

Beyond BookSmart and WorkSmart Coaching provides one-on-one Executive Function coaching online for students and adults.

Casa de Amma

27231 Calle Arroyo San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
(949) 496-9001

Casa de Amma nurtures the abilities and independence of adults with special needs. We provide a broad spectrum of vocational, residential, educational and social opportunities in a responsive and caring environment.

Choices

Website is designed to help students and parents navigate through the process of post-secondary planning. Provides autism spectrum information and post-secondary resources. The Choices Committee is hosting an event - CHOICES 2022 to be hosted in person at Evanston Township High School on October 18, 2022. This has typically been open to the public!

City Colleges ACCESS Centers 

Each of our seven colleges has an ACCESS Center staffed by professionals who can guide you through the process of receiving accommodations based on your documented disability. If you don’t have a diagnosis of a disability, but you suspect that you might have one, our staff can advise you on next steps and make appropriate referrals.

College Internship Program (CIP) 

CIP Bloomington, Indiana
877-566-9247
admissions@cipworldwide.org

CIP provides individualized, post-secondary, academic, internship and independent living experiences for young adults with ASD and learning differences. Ages: 18-26 years; tuition-based. 

College Living Experience (CLE)

info@ExperienceCLE.com
866-376-4783

With 6 locations across the United States, CLE Centers can be found in Ft. Lauderdale FL, Washington D.C, Austin TX, Denver CO, Costa Mesa CA, and Monterey CA. Each Center location is situated near area colleges and vocational programs so students have easy access to CLE support services while they pursue their degree, college or career of interest.

Disability.gov - Scholarships 

Students who are planning to attend college or enroll in other postsecondary education or training have many financial aid options, including scholarships, grants and loans. Be sure to consider both public (federal, state, and local government) and private financial aid sources.

educationconnection.com

Provides an online guide that lists and outlines government sources and organizational resources for students with disabilities. This information including Students rights under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the ADA, how to tell the prospective school about the student's special needs and updated scholarships and grants students can apply for.

Elmhurst College

Elmhurst Life Skills Academy
Tim Ahlberg
190 Prospect Ave. Elmhurst, IL 60126-3296
(630) 617-3309
ahlbergt@elmhurst.edu

ELSA offers an outstanding educational opportunity for young adults with developmental disabilities. This full-time, postsecondary program enables ELSA students to work productively and live as independently as possible.18 years and up; tuition-based, grants available.

The Guide for Students with Autism

In this guide, you will find:

• Information on choosing colleges and tips on college success
• Scholarships and useful resources for college students with ASD

Have Dreams

Sara LaMontagne; Adult Services Program Coordinator
2020 Dempster Evanston, IL 60202
847-905-0702
slamontagne@havedreams.org

Project SEARCH Collaborates for Autism at Northwestern University: This one year business-based transition program is for young adults with ASD in their last year of high school transition, who have the goal of competitive employment.

Higher Education for Students with Disabilities: Rights, Resources and Accredited Online Schools

This guide helps students with disabilities and their parents better understand their rights when it comes to post-secondary education. In addition to outlining laws and regulations that apply specifically to students with disabilities, our guide offers tips and information about finding a college or university that best suits a student’s needs.

JJB Educational Consultants, Inc.

Jordan Burstein
1441 Hemlock Knoll Terrace Northbrook, IL 60062
(312) 620-3527
jordan@jjb-edconsultants.com 

Specializing in post-secondary placements for students with autism.

Lewis and Clark Community College

Supported College Transition
5800 Godfrey Road Godfrey, IL 62035
618.468.4127
rellington@lc.edu

The Supported College Transition Program (SCT) was designed for students with little mainstreaming experience in high school and the academic preparation that indicates that they can be successful in smaller sections of college developmental courses with the additional support provided by a Transitions class. Students have career goals that require college credentials.

Mental Health Guide for Autistic College Students

Tips to help you feel less overwhelmed & improve well-being. This project was funded by the Organization for Autism Research. 
Text-only version for those who may find the graphics too distracting; it can be downloaded here.

Minnesota Independence College & Community (MICC)

7501 Logan Ave S.  STE 2A Richfield, MN 55423
(612) 869-4008

Minnesota Life College (MLC) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit vocational and life skills training program for young adults with learning differences and autism spectrum disorders (ASD).

nAblement

Website of SPR Companies focused on supporting the training, mentoring, networking, placement and professional growth of qualified candidates with disabilities into technology roles. nAblement fosters its own client opportunities while also collaborating closely with each of the SPR Companies three strategic companies – MPS Partners, Redpoint Technologies and Talent Acquisition Partners. Qualified candidates secure professional technology opportunities suited to their skill sets, and clients secure access to this valuable and underutilized segment of the workforce while extending their diversity profile.

PACE at National Louis University

122 S. Michigan Ave. Chicago, IL 60603
(312) 261-3770
paceprogram@nl.edu

PACE at NLU is a three-year post-secondary program which is designed to meet the transitional needs for young adults with multiple intellectual, learning and developmental disabilities.

Progress Center for Independent Living

Main Office:
7521 Madison St. Forest Park, IL 60130
708-209-1500
info@progresscil.org

Satellite Office in Blue Island: 
12940 S. Western Ave. Blue Island, IL 60406
708-388-5011

Provides assistance in advocacy, housing issues, independent living skills training, and resources for personal support workers. Also provide services and activities designed to prepare young people with disabilities for the transition to higher education and employment.

Organization for Autism Research (OAR)

OAR accepts applications on an annual basis for the Schwallie Family Scholarship program. These scholarships are for one academic year, $3,000 each, to be applied towards tuition, books, and other expenses associated with higher learning. To be eligible, students with an established autism or Asperger Syndrome diagnosis must be accepted for enrollment or pursuing undergraduate studies at an accredited institution of higher education in the United States during the fall semester. This can include four-year colleges or universities; two-year colleges; and trade, technical, or vocational training programs. For more information, please visit OAR’s website.

Riverview School

551 Route 6A East Sandwich, MA 02537
(508) 888-0489
admissions@riverviewschool.org

Riverview School’s Post-High School Transition Program for young adults, ages 17–22, is called GROW—Getting Ready for the Outside World.

ScenicView Academy

5455 N. River Run Drive Provo, UT 84604
(801) 226-2550
info@svacademy.org

ScenicView Academy is a Nonprofit School for Young Adults with Autism & Learning Disabilities.

Soloman Admissions Consulting

Transitioning to College for Students with Disabilities: A Practical Guide for Families and Students. In the article you will find:

• Key Differences Between High School and College Disability Services
• Preparing During High School: Step-by-Step
• Resources by Type of Disability
• Frequently Asked Questions (PACER)
• Final Thoughts

Think College Illinois

Website is meant to serve as a blueprint/toolkit for Illinois postsecondary education (PSE) institutions in developing inclusive programs for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). It is also meant to support existing programs in ongoing efforts to become more "inclusive" according to the federal Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA) standards. The background information and resources available on the site are intended to be used by students and families, as well as a general audience e.g. disability service providers.

Turning Pointe Career College

Ketra Kuniej, Career College Director/HR
1500 W. Ogden Ave. Naperville, IL 60540
630-615-6032 
kkuniej@turningpointeaf.org

The Career College is an educational and career exploration opportunity for adults with ASD, social and communication challenges and other learning differences.  Career College is for students to gain skills that prepare them for independent employment, offering a highly individualized learning and training environment focusing on individual strengths, skills and areas of challenge. The Career College format is based on C.O.P.E.S.™ model of instruction.  These core components (Communication, Organization, Positive Behavior Supports, Emotional Regulation, Social Skills and Sensory Needs) are the focus of the curriculum. Ages: 18 and up