College Programs For Students With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Academically gifted, high-functioning students with ASD may thrive at a four-year college. Large state universities may not offer as much support. Undergraduates may also experience challenges getting one-on-one attention.

However, some students with autism require little (if any) support. They may find success in highly ordered professions such as engineering, computer programming, and mathematics. In general, students with autism can benefit from programs that cater to their specific needs.

Prospective students and their families should ask colleges and universities about additional academic support programs, such as additional advising and student support. They should also speak with the professionals who help with academic tutoring and advising.

Cooperative education allows students to obtain professional work experience while still in college. High-functioning ASD students may benefit by applying academic knowledge to real work and social settings. This may enable them to more fully develop their interpersonal and communication skills as they move between these two environments.

Prospective students should determine whether they like this type of unpredictable work and school schedule. Keep in mind that not all colleges offer cooperative education programs.

Community colleges can help students ease into the college experience. Learners may choose to live at home and take classes in a potentially smaller, one-on-one environment. Some learners may feel more comfortable attending a local school.

Prospective students and their families should ask about support for students with autism. They should also ask whether professors are trained and certified to teach students on the spectrum. Prospective enrollees may also want to ask about ASD-based social organizations or peer mentoring programs.

ASD students who aspire to work in a trade may want to choose a vocational or technical school. Enrollees can learn specific vocational skills from trained professionals. This may help them gain employment that aligns with their skills. Students may also learn how to regulate emotions and build social and communication skills.

Parents and students should identify career and life goals to ensure they align with this type of job skills training. Learners should investigate how the school can help with career exploration and transitioning to a job. They may also want to consider how the school can help them manage independent living and career advising.

Online colleges offer a viable alternative to the traditional college experience for students on the autism spectrum. Students who struggle with excess sensory stimuli or social anxiety may not thrive in a traditional on-campus experience.

Prospective students and their parents may want to consider how an online college can help students transition to a job after college. For example, they may want to ask how they might get job skills training and interview preparation. Students can ask about training for organization, prioritizing, and time management.

Executive functioning skills include time management, organization, self-starting, and problem-solving. According to Dr. Lee, students with ASD who focus on developing these skills during high school can set themselves up for success in college.

“You need strong executive functioning skills in all aspects of college academic life,” says Dr. Lee. “Practice managing your own schedule. Initiate your work and monitor your progress.”

Even with the best-laid plans, setbacks happen. When students with ASD have a plan of action to handle setbacks, they can rebound quicker. Students may want to find a mentor who can help. “When students struggle, reaching out to a trusted person is the most important thing they can do,” says Dr. Lee. “They should never feel ashamed. The real shame would be struggling so much that they need to withdraw from college.”

Pathfinders for Autism is an organization that offers free programs and services to individuals with autism and their loved ones. According to this organization, students fare best when they understand the special education services they can access.

Services could include a dedicated special education department, peer groups for autistic students, or staff trained to work with autistic students. Attendance may be mandatory for some programs. Others may offer services on an as-needed basis. Fees also vary. Some schools charge for special services while others do not.

It’s never too early to prepare for college. However, while an early start helps, it’s also never too late to prepare. College-bound students with autism may need years to master certain skills.

Dr. Sush says, “Some individuals diagnosed with autism require frequent repetition and practice before consistently and accurately performing a task without assistance.”

Academics are usually at the forefront of college. However, social relationships are among the most challenging aspects of college life. Making new friends can feel especially daunting to students with ASD. Some peers may say or do hurtful things. As a result, students with autism may close themselves off and avoid social activities.

Dr. Sush recommends that students identify the qualities of a good friend. “Parents, teachers, and students can discuss the importance of making new connections,” says Dr. Sush. “They can also discuss strategies for making friends and accessing support.”