Going to College with a Disability

There are many colleges and universities in the United States. Every public college must follow laws that protect students with disabilities. Schools are not allowed to treat someone unfairly because of a disability.

This means students must be able to get into buildings, use transportation, live in housing, and join school activities. Colleges must also give support so students can learn.

Most campuses have a Disability Resource Center (sometimes called Disability Services). This office helps students get the support they need for classes, tests, and school events.

Some students do best when they take fewer classes or move at a slower pace. That is okay. College is not a race.

Supports You May Get from a Disability Resource Center

Here are a few examples of accommodations or resources that can be provided through a campus Disability Resource Center. Again, every college is different and some private colleges may not provide them as they are not required to do so. The key is to share what supports will help you succeed and then work with your Disability Resource Center to find the best solution. 

Supports may include:

• Accessible on-campus classrooms, labs, libraries, cafeterias, housing, and transportation
• Help asking for accommodations
• Note-takers or readers
• Sign language interpreters
• Tests in a quiet room
• Extra time for tests
• Books in large print or audio
• Help using special technology or software
• Referrals for personal assistants or community services
• Adaptive sports and fun activities
• Counseling for stress or anxiety
• Tutoring for schoolwork
• Help from an academic advisor
• Clubs or support groups for students with disabilities

Disability specific college programs located throughout Utah:

Aggies Elevated

• Utah’s first inclusive college program
• 2 location options
• Possible on-campus living
• Many students get jobs after graduation
• Some students continue working toward college degrees

Website: https://cehs.usu.edu/aggieselevated/index

Wolverines Elevated UVU Orem:

https://www.uvu.edu/wolverineselevated/

• Three-year certificate program that supports students with intellectual disabilities (ages 18-26)
• Commuter program located on-campus at UVU
• Industry-recognized certificate programs available
• Job sampling, on-campus internships, and community employment opportunities
  
  

UVU’s Passages Program Orem:

A series of experience classes and activities held on the UVU campus for those on the autism spectrum. 

https://www.uvu.edu/autism/passages/index.html

Southern Utah University – Online

• Classes are online
• Students work at their own pace
• Cost is $75 per credit hour

Website: Southern Utah University

Mt. San Antonio College – IMPACT Program
Program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities

• Choose from many classes
• Learn skills for work and independent living

Website: https://www.mtsac.edu/

Auditing Classes, Social Opportunities, and Volunteering

If you are auditing a college class or taking a class with a pass or fail grade, you are still a student on campus. For social opportunities, look at campus clubs, organizations, or volunteer opportunities. Getting involved on campus may be a great way to meet people your age, get involved in campus life, community events, and activities, and find friends who have a similar interest as you.

Vocational Rehabilitation (VR)

Vocational Rehabilitation can help pay for college or job training. There is an eligibility process and currently, there is an order of selection. This means that instead of serving people in the order they apply, VR prioritizes people based on how significant their disability is. Ask your VR counselor what support is available. Make sure your plan includes your college or job goals.

Website: https://jobs.utah.gov/usor/vr/index.html