The Autism Program at Marian University's Ancilla College

Program Highlights

The Autism Program at Marian University's Ancilla College focuses on the student’s needs outside of the classroom.  With an emphasis on academics, independent living, social skills, and vocational preparations, the ADA and Autism Specialist offers a comprehensive model to guide and assist students through their time at Marian University's Ancilla College.

Academics

The ADA and Autism Specialist closely monitors participants’ progress towards course completion and graduation.  Such supports include, but are not limited to:

• Regular meetings with the ADA and Autism Specialist to review academic progress.
• Consultation with faculty and staff focusing on individual strengths as well as skill development needs.
• Collaboration with writing lab, math lab, tutoring and testing centers.
• Personal Goal Plans and data monitoring for targeted behaviors/skills.
• Use of behavior analytic interventions to address concerns such as on-time attendance, on-time assignment completion, class participation, etc.

ASD Housing (Optional)

The Autism program offers on-campus housing to fit the needs of individuals in the program.  This component of the program includes:

• Development of independent skills such as basic housekeeping skills and living with a roommate, etc.
• Single room accommodations in the residence halls*
• Autism program events: pizza parties, movie nights, etc. intended specifically for smaller and calmer social settings.

*At an additional fee

Note that this component is optional. Students can also opt to commute from nearby. However, it is important to note that opting out of housing from the start may inhibit a student’s ability to access them at a later date, as rooms for this option are limited.

Social

The Autism program provides social instruction geared towards skills required for success.

• Routine, evidence-based skills lessons
• Focus on skills essential for college success.
• Explicit in-vivo practice/training of skills for  real-world application.

Vocational

Participants prepare for life after college by practicing skills crucial for success in their areas of interest.

• Career exploration/research
• Practice interviews
• Focus on critical interpersonal skills based on career choice, and faculty/staff feedback.
• Mock apartment searching, relocation considerations, etc.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my child’s/(my) IEP transfer to college, or what sorts of resources are available?

Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) do not transfer into the college world. However, submitting such documentation to ADA and Autism Specialist or a school’s office of disabilities may grant access to accommodations protected by ADA such as: extra time on tests, quiet test taking space, or assistive technologies. Please contact ADA and Autism Specialist or the Student Success Center regarding questions about specific accommodations.

My child/(I) receive counseling/therapy related services through another agency, should he/she/(I) continue them?

Absolutely. The Autism program offers a ton of support for its students, but it does not have an on-site counselor or therapist. Besides, if possible, it would be better to stick with someone who already knows a lot about the student. If desired, the ADA and Autism Specialist can work with the counselor/therapist on addressing the individual needs of the student.

Does my child/(Do I) have to live in campus housing?

No, housing is an optional component to the program, though highly recommended. Students can opt to commute from nearby. However, it is important to note that opting such accommodations from the start may inhibit a student’s ability to access housing at a later date, as these rooms are limited.