The Autism Program at Marian University's Ancilla College

The Autism Program at Marian University's Ancilla College (APAC) is a fee-based, college level program designed to assist students on the autism spectrum build academic, independent, social, and workplace skills and knowledge. APAC is for students who are academically capable of pursuing a college level education but are seeking additional support in navigating the collegiate environment.

APAC Mission

The Mission of the Autism Program atMarian University's Ancilla College is to provide individualized support to college students on the autism spectrum and create a more inclusive campus environment by providing training and resources to faculty and staff on best practices for supporting autistic individuals. We strive to enhance the quality of campus life and create pathways for career and/or future academic success for neurodiverse students.

Application Process

• Step 1: Apply and gain admission to Marian University. Visit Marian University Ancilla Admissions for more information.
• Step 2: Complete the Autism Program application once admission to Marian University is finalized.
• Step 3: Schedule student interview and learn if additional documentation is needed.

Program Highlights

(APAC) focuses on autistic student’s personal and social needs within and outside of the classroom. With an emphasis on academics, social skills, and vocational preparations, our program offers a comprehensive model to guide and assist students through their time at Marian University's Ancilla College.

Academics

To best support progress towards course completion and graduation, students have access to APAC's Autism Coordinator, who offers many resources and supports. Such supports include, but are not limited to:

• Regular meetings with the Autism Coordinator to review academic progress and assist in the development of executive functioning skills.
• Consultation with faculty and staff focusing on individual strengths as well as academic skill development.
• Collaboration with writing lab, math lab, tutoring and testing centers for additional academic support.
• Personalized academic and social goal plans.

University Housing (Optional)

APAC offers on-campus housing to fit the individual needs of students within the program. This component of the program includes:

• Development of independent living skills such as healthy eating habits, living and engaging with a roommate, relationship building, conflict resolution, time management, etc.
• Trained residential life staff who are available to provide continued support for autistic students within university housing
• Single room accommodations in the residence halls*

*At an additional fee

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

Social

APAC focuses on the development of student’s social skills by actively engaging within the university community. Examples of specific supports include:

• Routine skills workshops
• Sensory reduced social programming, such as pizza and movie nights
• Early move in to residence halls and continued residence life support
• Development of skills essential for college success.

Vocational

Participants prepare for life after college by practicing employment 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.