Think College recently published two resources that are "must reads" if you are planning to start a college or university program for students with intellectual disability. One offers a great overview of important steps and a short summary of the key decisions to make in each step. The other goes into more detail, and shares extensive lists of additional resources that will be relevant for each stage of program development.
You don't need to reinvent the wheel when designing a new program - you can read advice on how to do it from authors who have done it themselves, and see examples and templates for many of the documents, policies and procedures you want to have in place.
The two new resources are both located in our Resource Library - check them out!
A Planning Guide for New Inclusive Programs and Initiatives Serving College Students with Intellectual Disabilities
This guide was created to support the development of postsecondary education programs that are aligned with Program Accreditation Standards and the requirements to be approved as a comprehensive transition postsecondary (CTP) program. It provides a framework for conceptualizing and developing programs which allow for equitable access, membership, rights and privileges for college students with intellectual disability. In the guide you will find information about common issues and challenges programs may face, as well as questions to consider and resources to explore throughout the process of conceptualizing and creating college programs for students with intellectual disability.
Developing a College Program for Students with Intellectual Disability
This resource provides an initial list of areas to consider when developing a postsecondary education program with a robust course of study, a meaningful certificate, and improved employment and quality of life outcomes for non-degree seeking college students with intellectual disability (ID). It focuses on six program development areas with helpful tips, guiding questions, and many resources to support the process.
AND... reading these resources is NOT the only way to get assistance. Reach out to Think College technical assistance at thinkcollegeTA@umb.edu to recieve personal, on-demand support as you work through all the steps of creating a program. We are here to help!