Inclusive College Programs in Arizona
Looking for More Options After High School? Think College
Yes, students with intellectual and developmental disabilities can go to college in Arizona! The Arizona Developmental Disabilities Planning Council is supporting efforts to grow and support more programs to make it possible under the umbrella of Think College AZ.
Think College AZ is a new collaborative of inclusive postsecondary education programs for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
A key component will be the development of a stakeholder advisory committee. If you are interested in being part of this initiative, please complete the Think College AZ Stakeholder Advisory Committee Contact Form
Want to learn more about the need for more opportunities for young adults in Arizona to attend university? Read about 5 Ways Arizona Can Help Students with Intellectual Disabilities Pay for College
Arizona Programs for College Students with Developmental Disabilities
L.O.P.E.S. (Learning Opportunities for Participation and Engagement in School) Academy
The L.O.P.E.S. (Learning Opportunities for Participation and Engagement in School) Academy is a two-year, non-degree program for neurodiverse individuals. Participants attend the program twice a week for a total of 10 hours per week. L.O.P.E.S Academy is located at Grand Canyon University in West Phoenix. There are various components of the program which include seven courses, social activities, lunch, chapel and workshops. After the first year and a half in the program the participants receive an internship on campus.
Supporting Inclusive Practices in Colleges (SIP-C)
The Supporting Inclusive Practices in Colleges Program (SIP-C) is a U.S. Department of Education grant-funded program with the mission of empowering individuals with intellectual disabilities to participate and thrive in higher education experiences. Staff work closely with local college campuses in northern Arizona to deliver personalized academic support services and resources. Dedicated educational coaches and peer mentors assist students and their families in “setting the bar high” for successful transitions into college. SIP-C supports individuals with intellectual disabilities who are interested in pursuing an advanced degree, certification, or credential in any field.
Project FOCUS (Focusing Opportunities with Community and University Support), in collaboration with the College of Education and Pima County public school districts, provides a unique post-high school transition opportunity for students (ages 18-21) with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities in southern Arizona.
Project FOCUS provides access to the University of Arizona’s academic courses, community-based internships and campus life social events to increase students' independence, communication and employability.
