College Programs for Students on the Autism Spectrum

Families and educators are often looking for programs for students with Asperger's and autism and don't know where to go to get the information. Three directors of college programs for students with Asperger's will present informtiaon on their own programs and others across the country. Information will also be given about kinds of programs and which are appropriate for different types of students. Guidance Counselors in high schools across the country spend much of their time helping students decipher college info and preparing students for applications and visits. When it comes to students with special needs, it is difficult for guidance counselors and school staff to know all of the programs in the country that excel for each individual disability. Parents are then at a loss as to where to begin the college search for their son/daughter with an Autism Spectrum Disorder.  

There are services for students with disabilities at every college and university in the country. Some of these schools have specific programs and staff for students on the spectrum. Other schools have basic services which can meet the need of high functioning students. Some small schools do a very good job of integrating all types of diversity into their campuses, including students on the spectrum. The three service providers on this panel all direct college programs for students with Aspergers and high functioning autism.  These presenters offer unique perspectives including services through university student services programs, university school of education programs, and university psychology clinic programs.  Additionally, these presenters represent a range of different university settings.  As such, we know the other programs and many of the different schools and directors. There are many lists and false information on this topic on the internet and this panel hopes to dispel those myths. 

Since college programs and their staff are subject to funding sources and change, we have found most printed material to be wrong by the time it is published. This panel will provide up to date information on current programs.