UPCOMING EVENTS

Click on a date for event details.

Just for Business! Employer Workshop!
Mar 13, 2012 at 9:00AM
Work Ability Career Preparation & Job Fair
Apr 10, 2012 at 10:00AM
Statewide Transition Conference - Day 1
Apr 19, 2012
Statewide Transition Conference - Day 2
Apr 20, 2012

Colleges and Universities

Going to college can be one of the most exciting and challenging times of your life. To be successful and complete college you must be responsible for your own learning. You need to be committed to pursuing your knowledge and expectations of the institution's codes and academic conduct. Colleges and Universities offer a variety of coursework that can lead to your career goals. From High School, this can be a continuation of your SEOP (Student Education Occupation Plan).

Even if it has been some time since you were in high school, there are some major differences between high school and college. For students with disabilities these differences can include the following:

High School

Services are delivered to the student
Services are based on an agreed upon time allotment and menu of choices
Case manager acts as advocate
Annual review & IEP
Regular parent contact
Entitlement law (IDEA)
Educational and Psychological testing is provided

College

Student must seek out services
Services are based on situational/individual needs
Student acts as advocate
No annual review or IEP
No parent contact
Anti-discrimination law (ADA)

A major difference between high school and college is the type of education you receive. Colleges and universities do not offer "special" education. They offer accommodations. They do not offer instruction that is different from what all other students receive.

Accommodations in College

Under Section 504 and the ADA, colleges and universities are prohibited from discriminating against a person because of disability. Institutions must provide reasonable modifications, accommodations, or auxiliary aids which will enable qualified students to have access to, participate in, and benefit from the full range of the educational programs and activities which are offered to all students on campus.

Services for People with Disabilities at Schools/Colleges/Universities

If you have a disability and need assistance, the college can provide a reasonable accommodation to give you access to the school and the material presented. You will need to apply and may be required to provide documentation of your disability. Examples of services that might include: parking, special testing centers, interpreters, note-taking services, Braille text books and accessibility to classrooms. If you wish to access these services, you must contact them and apply for services.

Considerations for College

Things to think about

Why do I want to attend a college or University?
Do I have a major in mind?
How long does it take to earn a degree or certificate?
- Do most students graduate in 4 years?
- What is the school's retention rate?
What are the admissions requirements?
Do I want a career that requires college?
Do I prefer a large or small campus?
Do I prefer to stay near my home or to experience a new part of the county?
How is the campus security?
What about transportation to and on the campus?
What housing is available? Will the housing meet your needs?
What activities, fraternities, sororities are available?

Choosing the right school

Research the different colleges online. Choosing a College That's Right for You is one source of information. Some resources are free and some have a cost.
Going to College
Choosing a Post-Secondary School
Navigating the College Transition Maze: A Guide for Students with Learning Disabilities (PDF) which was written for students with learning disabilities
Things to Consider Before Deciding About College is a great website to help you answer some of these questions.
College Comparison Chart

College Fairs

Go to college fairs. Be prepared to ask questions to help you decide which colleges interest you. Write down the comparison between the colleges. Collect brochures and business cards so you can contact them later.

Campus visits

Visit the colleges you might want to attend. This will give you a chance to see what the college is like before you make a commitment.

Schedule your visit. Call the admissions office and arrange a tour.
Visit some classes if possible.
Ask a lot of questions.
Take notes and bring a camera.

In Utah there are public or private colleges and universities. You can get more information by going to their websites directly or by clicking on the links below.