It’s a common misconception that college isn’t a viable path for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. However, The Arc of New Jersey Family Institute believes in challenging this notion. With appropriate support systems and tailored services, numerous young adults with autism and learning disabilities can not only attend college but also thrive, earning degrees and achieving their higher education goals. This guide highlights college programs in New Jersey and surrounding areas specifically designed to support students with autism and learning disabilities, empowering them to pursue academic success and personal growth.
College Programs in New Jersey and Beyond
This list provides a comprehensive overview of college programs catering to students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Explore these options to find the best fit for your educational journey.
New Jersey Programs
Bergen Community College – Turning Point Program
Contact:
Tracy Rand
T: 201.493.4087
Bergen Community College’s Turning Point Program offers a supportive environment for students with diverse learning needs in Northern New Jersey.
Brookdale Community College – Keep Achieving (Kach) at Brookdale
Contact:
Alexandria Goldrich
T: 732.493.1919
Located in Central New Jersey, Brookdale Community College provides the KACH program, designed to foster achievement and independence in students with disabilities.
Camden County College – Garden State Pathways
Contact:
Curt Watkins
T: 856.227.7200 x4425
Camden County College’s Garden State Pathways, situated in Southern New Jersey, offers tailored pathways to success for students with varied abilities.
College Of Saint Elizabeth
Contact:
Dr. Brian Friedlander
T: 973.290.4261
The College of Saint Elizabeth, located in Northern NJ, provides resources and support services for students with disabilities to ensure an inclusive learning experience.
County College of Morris (Disability Services)
Contact:
Brya L. Emery
T: 802-578-0035
County College of Morris offers comprehensive Disability Services, ensuring students with autism and learning disabilities receive necessary accommodations and support in their academic pursuits.
Drew University
Contact:
Dana Giroux
T: 973.408.3962
Drew University, located in Northern New Jersey, is committed to providing an inclusive environment and support services for students with diverse learning profiles.
Fairleigh Dickinson University – Compass Program
Contact:
Liat Schneier
T: 201.692.2645 ext. 411
Fairleigh Dickinson University’s Compass Program offers a guided pathway for students with learning differences to navigate college life successfully.
Georgian Court University – Transition and Career University
Contact:
Dr. Sharlene Smith
T: 732.987.2658
Georgian Court University’s Transition and Career University program is a Comprehensive Transition Program (CTP) providing federal financial aid eligibility, making higher education accessible.
Hudson County Community College (Continuing Education and Workforce Development) – Access Program
Hudson County Community College’s ACCESS Program, within the Center for Adult Transition (CAT), is a 10-week pre-college and workforce pathway program designed for young adults aged 17-24. It focuses on building essential life skills, computer literacy, career planning, and work readiness.
Contact:
Maritza Reyes – Associate Director, Center for Adult Transition
ACCESS Program
Continuing Education & Workforce Development
T: 201-360-5383
Register here: https://tinyurl.com/CAT-ACCESSProgram
KEAN University – College Steps
Contact:
Brya Emery
T: 888.732.1022
KEAN University partners with College Steps to offer tailored support for students with autism and learning disabilities, fostering their independence and academic success.
Mercer County Community College – DREAM program
Contact:
Susan Onaitis
T: 609.570.3375
Mercer County Community College’s DREAM program is dedicated to providing resources and a supportive community for students with disabilities to achieve their educational aspirations.
Ramapo College – Enhance Program
Contact:
Suzanne Calgi
T: 201.684.7522
Ramapo College’s Enhance Program is specifically designed to support students with Autism Spectrum Disorders, providing a comprehensive approach to academic and social integration.
Raritan Valley Community College – The Achievement Center
Contact:
Bob Hulit
T: 732.666.4781
Raritan Valley Community College, in partnership with The Achievement Center, offers resources and support services to empower students with disabilities to achieve their full potential.
Rowan/Gloucester County College – Adult Center for Transition
Contact:
Jennifer Wilson
T: 856-464-5203 or 856-468-5000 ext: 6425
Rowan/Gloucester County College’s Adult Center for Transition provides crucial transition services and support for students with disabilities entering higher education.
Rutgers University – The College Support Program
Contact:
Rutgers University’s College Support Program offers individualized support services across its campuses, ensuring accessibility and inclusion for students with disabilities.
Seton Hall University
Contact:
Gianna Graw
T: 973-313-6003
Seton Hall University is committed to providing comprehensive disability support services, fostering an inclusive academic community for all students.
Stockton University – Learning Access Program
Contact:
Anthony Thomas
T: 609.652.4988
Stockton University’s Learning Access Program is dedicated to creating accessible learning environments and providing tailored support for students with diverse learning needs.
Sussex County Community College – LACE program
Contact:
Patti Nugent
Sussex County Community College’s LACE program offers specialized learning and academic coaching for students who benefit from structured support.
The College of New Jersey – Career and Community Studies
Contact:
Amy Schuler
T: 609.771.3342
The College of New Jersey’s Career and Community Studies program is dedicated to providing inclusive post-secondary education and career pathways for students with intellectual disabilities.
Programs in Neighboring States
Bridgewater State University (Bridgewater, Massachusetts) – EXCEL Certificate Program
Contact:
Lisa Turner
T: 508.531.2109
Bridgewater State University’s EXCEL program in Massachusetts offers a certificate program specifically designed to enhance the college experience for students with intellectual disabilities.
College of Mount Saint Vincent (Riverdale, NY) – Bridge Program
Contact:
Samantha
T: 718. 405.3241
The College of Mount Saint Vincent’s Bridge Program in New York provides a supportive bridge to college life for students with learning differences, fostering academic and personal growth.
East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania (East Stroudsburg, PA) – Career, Independent Living and Learning Studies (CILLS)
Contact:
Domenico Cavaiuolo
T: 570.422.3893
East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania’s CILLS program focuses on Career development, Independent Living skills, and Learning Studies for students with intellectual disabilities.
Gwynedd Mercy University (Gwynedd Valley, Pennsylvania) – Integrated Studies
Contact:
Ariana Amaya
Gwynedd Mercy University’s Integrated Studies program in Pennsylvania promotes inclusive higher education, integrating students with disabilities into the wider college community.
Lesley University (Cambridge, Massachusetts) – Threshold Program
Contact:
Colin Brady
T: 617.349.8247
Lesley University’s Threshold Program in Massachusetts is designed for young adults with diverse learning challenges, offering a supportive pathway to independence and further education.
Syracuse University (Syracuse, NY) – Inclusive U
Contact:
Brianna M. Shults
T: 315.443.4058
Syracuse University’s Inclusive U program in New York champions inclusive education, providing opportunities for students with disabilities to fully participate in university life.
Conclusion
Choosing the right college program is a significant step for students with autism and learning disabilities. The programs listed above represent just a fraction of the opportunities available in Northern NJ and surrounding states for inclusive higher education. The Arc of New Jersey Family Institute encourages students and families to explore these resources, connect with the program contacts, and discover the path to a fulfilling and successful college experience. Higher education is within reach, and these dedicated programs are designed to help students with diverse learning needs thrive and achieve their academic dreams.
