College Programs for Special Learners

Ocean County College Disability Services: As a full or part-time student with a disability at Ocean County College, free disability services are available through the Center for Student Success (CSS). Prospective students requesting reasonable accommodations for the Accuplacer placement test must submit appropriate documentation of disability to Disability Services PRIOR to scheduling an appointment for the test. For more information about accommodations, email accommodations@ocean.edu

The Career & Community Studies (CCS) at The College of New Jersey is a four year college-based certificate program for young adults with intellectual disabilities ages 18-25 (student must turn 18 by December of their freshman year in the CCS program. Student must be 25 or under at the start of their freshman year in the CCS Program). This program is designed to prepare students for adult life through academic rigor, career discovery/readiness and peer socialization as part of a diverse community of learners.

Fairleigh Dickenson's Compass Program COMPASS is an individually tailored, comprehensive, academic and social support program for a very limited number of college students with high functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder or Asperger's Syndrome. COMPASS is offered separately on each of FDU's two New Jersey campuses. The goals of this two year program are: to help each student recognize and make use of existing academic and social strengths; to aid in the development of new abilities, and to promote progress toward a higher level of independent functioning.

Ramapo College Office of Specialized Services: Ramapo College of New Jersey demonstrated a strong commitment to providing equal access to all students through the removal of architectural and attitudinal barriers. Integration of qualified students with disabilities into the college community has been the Ramapo way since the College opened in 1971. Guided by that mission, the College established the Office of Specialized Services (OSS) to facilitate equal access and to offer optional academic support for students with documented physical, sensory, learning, or psychological disabilities. The office has also been partially funded by federal and state grants and has been the recipient of numerous corporate and private contributions for special projects.

Rutgers University: The College Support Program (CSP) for Students on the Autism Spectrum provides its ASD students with peer mentors, employment prep, and plenty of life skills support. But the school further distinguishes itself by personalizing its services to meet each student's needs. For example, individuals who are nervous about navigating around campus can sign up for a personalized tour of the transportation options. Faculty and mentors also work with program participants to develop goals - both academic and social - and then design strategies for achieving them. Another primary contact for students is the program coordinator, who conducts weekly check-ins and facilitates communication with teachers and classmates as needed.

Middlesex County College Disability Services: The College provides specialized counseling and auxiliary services to support a student’s academic program at the College. Services and accommodations are provided in keeping with the regulations and spirit of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act. A variety of services may be provided including adapted testing services, note taker support, sign language interpreters, adaptive technology, liaison with faculty regarding classroom accommodations, books on tape, and other accommodations based on a student’s needs and supported by documentation.

Rowan College South Jersey: Department of Special Services (DSS)​​​Rowan College of South Jersey at Cumberland is committed to ensuring equal access to all physical and academic environments.If you believe you are eligible for accommodations or special services, the Department of Special Services (DSS) is the place to begin. You'll need to self- identify your need for special services and provide appropriate documentation to our office.

Bergen County College Turning Point Program The Turning Point Program is a two-year post secondary experience for young adults with intellectual disability interested in academic, vocational and social enrichment. Students participate in a career pathway credentialing course and have the opportunity to graduate with professional industry recognized credentials as well as a Certificate of Achievement through the Division of Continuing Education.

St. Joseph's University (Philadelphia, PA) ASPIRE Program: Most of the top colleges with autism programs offer such specialized services exclusively through an office of disability resources. St. Joseph's, however, has established a dedicated Center for Autism Education and Support just to administer its unique ASPIRE Program. The initiative puts a particular emphasis on the transition to college life, encouraging students to focus on developing essential social skills that will improve their chances of success. Therefore, the first two years of the program focus heavily on social and life skills classes. Participants also benefit from peer mentoring and on-campus employment. Those who re-enroll in ASPIRE as juniors and seniors can continue working in their position as a way to develop hands-on experience in a low-stress environment.

Edinboro University (Pennsylvania) Boro Autism Support Initiative for Success (BASIS) Program: Edinboro's BASIS (Boro Autism Support Initiative for Success) program gives students with ASD a boost by helping them develop their daily living, social, and academic skills. To do so, this top college for students with autism provides peer mentoring and professional coaching to BASIS participants. BASIS staff members also help arrange classroom and testing accommodations for program members who have specific needs in those areas. Writing specialist services are also available for those who find written communication to be a challenge. And while program costs are already modest, Edinboro may be able to offer additional funding that further reduces any out-of-pocket expenses.

East Stroudsberg University (PA) Career, Independent Living & Learning Studies (CILLS) is a program sponsored by East Stroudsburg University that is designed to provide individuals with intellectual disabilities with a learning experience in an inclusive campus environment where life and work skills are accelerated by daily encouragement in the life of a university. The program includes living off campus and acquiring proficiency to function among others without disabilities on campus. In addition, the program provides personal development activities combined with classes designed to develop essential skills for independent living and future employment.