11.3 Postsecondary education options

Postsecondary education offers diverse paths for students with disabilities after high school. Options include two-year colleges, four-year universities, vocational schools, and technical institutes, each with unique benefits and focuses.

Understanding these choices helps special education professionals guide students effectively. Key considerations include admission requirements, support services, transition planning, financial aid, and legal rights in higher education settings.

Overview of postsecondary options

• Postsecondary options provide diverse educational pathways for students with disabilities after high school
• Understanding these options empowers special education professionals to guide students towards appropriate choices
• Aligns with the broader goal of promoting independence and self-determination in special education

Types of postsecondary institutions

Two-year colleges

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Top images from around the web for Two-year colleges

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  Stories of N.C. community college graduates - EducationNC View original

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• 

  The Opportunities of Two-Year College Data Science · Issue 2.4, Fall 2020 View original

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• 

  A look into Nash and Pitt Community Colleges - EducationNC View original

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  Stories of N.C. community college graduates - EducationNC View original

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  The Opportunities of Two-Year College Data Science · Issue 2.4, Fall 2020 View original

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• Community colleges offer associate degrees and certificate programs
• Provide a more affordable and accessible entry point to higher education
• Often have open admission policies, benefiting students with diverse academic backgrounds
• Offer transfer programs to four-year universities (2+2 programs)
• Typically provide more individualized attention and smaller class sizes

Four-year universities

• Grant bachelor's degrees in a wide range of academic disciplines
• Offer more extensive research opportunities and resources
• Provide a broader campus experience with diverse extracurricular activities
• May have more competitive admission requirements
• Often offer graduate and professional degree programs

Vocational schools

• Focus on hands-on training for specific trades or careers (welding, cosmetology)
• Shorter program duration, usually lasting from a few months to two years
• Emphasize practical skills development over theoretical knowledge
• Often have strong connections with local industries for job placement
• May offer flexible scheduling options (evening classes, part-time programs)

Technical institutes

• Specialize in STEM fields (engineering, computer science)
• Combine theoretical knowledge with practical application
• Often feature state-of-the-art laboratories and equipment
• May offer both degree and certificate programs
• Frequently partner with industry leaders for internships and job opportunities

Admission requirements

Academic prerequisites

• Vary depending on the institution and program of study
• May include specific high school courses (math, science, foreign language)
• Grade point average (GPA) requirements differ among institutions
• Some schools consider class rank or academic rigor of coursework
• Certain programs may have additional prerequisites (portfolio for art schools)

Standardized testing

• Common tests include SAT, ACT, and subject-specific exams
• Test scores often used for admission decisions and scholarship considerations
• Some institutions adopt test-optional policies, benefiting students with test anxiety
• Accommodations available for students with documented disabilities (extended time)
• Preparation resources include practice tests and study guides

Application process

• Typically involves submitting an online application form
• Requires official high school transcripts and test scores
• May include essays, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular activities
• Application fees vary, with fee waivers available for eligible students
• Early decision and early action options offered by some institutions

Support services for disabilities

Disability resource centers

• Centralized offices on campus dedicated to supporting students with disabilities
• Assist in coordinating accommodations and services
• Provide guidance on self-advocacy and navigating campus resources
• Often offer workshops and training on disability-related topics
• Serve as a liaison between students, faculty, and staff

Accommodations and modifications

• Tailored to individual student needs based on documented disabilities
• May include extended time on exams, note-taking assistance, or alternative formats for materials
• Classroom accommodations such as preferential seating or sign language interpreters
• Housing accommodations like accessible dorm rooms or single-occupancy options
• Modifications to course requirements while maintaining academic standards

Assistive technology

• Includes software and hardware to support various disabilities (screen readers)
• Text-to-speech and speech-to-text tools for reading and writing support
• Smartpens and digital recorders for note-taking assistance
• Alternative input devices for students with mobility impairments (eye-gaze systems)
• Training and support provided for using assistive technology effectively

Transition planning

IEP goals for postsecondary

• Focus on developing skills necessary for success in higher education
• Include academic goals aligned with college readiness standards
• Incorporate self-advocacy and self-determination objectives
• Address independent living skills relevant to campus life
• Set goals for exploring and choosing postsecondary options

Self-advocacy skills

• Teaching students to articulate their needs and rights
• Developing communication skills for interacting with professors and staff
• Practicing how to request and negotiate accommodations
• Understanding personal strengths, challenges, and learning styles
• Encouraging students to take an active role in their education planning

Career exploration

• Assessing interests, skills, and aptitudes through various tools (career inventories)
• Researching potential career paths and required education levels
• Arranging job shadowing or informational interview opportunities
• Connecting academic subjects to real-world applications
• Exploring internship and volunteer experiences related to career interests

Financial considerations

Scholarships for students with disabilities

• Specific scholarships targeted towards students with various disabilities
• Merit-based and need-based options available
• Offered by disability organizations, foundations, and educational institutions
• May cover tuition, books, assistive technology, or living expenses
• Application processes often require documentation of disability and essays

Federal and state aid

• Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as the primary gateway
• Pell Grants for undergraduate students with financial need
• State-specific grant programs vary by location
• Subsidized and unsubsidized federal student loans
• Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) services can provide financial support for eligible students

Work-study programs

• Provide part-time jobs for students with financial need
• Allow students to earn money to help pay for education expenses
• Often offer on-campus positions or off-campus community service jobs
• Can provide valuable work experience related to career goals
• Flexible schedules designed to accommodate academic commitments

Legal rights and responsibilities

ADA in higher education

• Prohibits discrimination based on disability in postsecondary settings
• Requires institutions to provide reasonable accommodations
• Covers all programs and services offered by the institution
• Protects students from retaliation for exercising their rights
• Applies to public and private institutions receiving federal funding

Section 504 protections

• Part of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
• Ensures equal access to education for students with disabilities
• Requires institutions to provide appropriate academic adjustments
• Protects against exclusion from participation in school programs
• Mandates accessibility in physical spaces and digital environments

Disclosure of disability

• Students have the right to choose whether to disclose their disability
• Disclosure necessary to receive accommodations and services
• Timing of disclosure can impact available supports (before or after admission)
• Privacy protections for disability-related information (FERPA)
• Strategies for effectively communicating needs to faculty and staff

Alternative postsecondary pathways

Apprenticeships

• Combine on-the-job training with related classroom instruction
• Offer paid work experience while learning a skilled trade
• Often lead to industry-recognized credentials or certifications
• Available in various fields (construction, healthcare, IT)
• Can provide a direct pathway to employment after completion

Online degree programs

• Offer flexibility for students who need accommodations for physical attendance
• Allow self-paced learning suitable for various learning styles
• Provide access to education for students with mobility or health challenges
• Often include interactive elements and virtual collaboration tools
• Require strong self-motivation and time management skills

Certificate programs

• Short-term programs focused on specific skills or knowledge areas
• Often completed in less time than traditional degree programs
• Can lead to professional certifications or licenses
• May be stackable, allowing students to build towards a degree
• Offered by community colleges, universities, and vocational schools

Campus life considerations

Housing options

• On-campus dormitories with varying levels of accessibility
• Off-campus apartments or houses, which may offer more independence
• Specialized housing for students with specific needs (quiet floors)
• Residential advisors trained to support students with disabilities
• Considerations for proximity to classes, dining facilities, and support services

Social integration

• Student organizations and clubs catering to diverse interests
• Disability-specific support groups and social events
• Inclusive recreational and fitness programs
• Peer mentoring programs to facilitate connections
• Orientation activities designed to welcome and integrate all students

Extracurricular activities

• Adapted sports programs for students with physical disabilities
• Cultural and arts events with accessibility features (audio description)
• Leadership opportunities in student government and campus organizations
• Community service and volunteer programs
• Academic competitions and honors societies

Academic success strategies

Time management skills

• Using digital calendars and planners to organize assignments and deadlines
• Breaking large projects into smaller, manageable tasks
• Prioritizing activities based on importance and urgency
• Creating structured study schedules with built-in breaks
• Utilizing time-tracking apps to analyze and improve productivity

Study techniques

• Active reading strategies (SQ3R: Survey, Question, Read, Recite, Review)
• Mnemonic devices for memorization (acronyms, visualization)
• Concept mapping to visually organize and connect ideas
• Spaced repetition for long-term retention of information
• Collaborative study groups to reinforce learning through discussion

Tutoring services

• One-on-one tutoring sessions with peer or professional tutors
• Subject-specific help centers (math lab, writing center)
• Supplemental instruction programs for challenging courses
• Online tutoring options for flexible scheduling
• Study skills workshops and academic coaching

Employment preparation

Internship opportunities

• Provide hands-on experience in chosen career fields
• Can be paid or unpaid, for credit or non-credit
• Often lead to full-time job offers after graduation
• Help build professional networks and industry connections
• Allow students to apply classroom knowledge to real-world situations

Resume building

• Tailoring resumes to highlight relevant skills and experiences
• Including academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and volunteer work
• Emphasizing transferable skills gained through coursework and projects
• Using action verbs and quantifiable accomplishments
• Considering alternative formats (functional resumes) to showcase strengths

Interview skills

• Practicing common interview questions and developing concise responses
• Learning about appropriate interview attire and body language
• Researching potential employers and preparing thoughtful questions
• Discussing disability disclosure and accommodation requests in interviews
• Participating in mock interviews for feedback and improvement

Long-term planning

Graduate school options

• Exploring advanced degree programs in chosen fields of study
• Understanding admission requirements for graduate programs (GRE, GMAT)
• Researching funding opportunities (assistantships, fellowships)
• Considering the balance between further education and work experience
• Evaluating online vs. traditional graduate program formats

Career development

• Utilizing career services for job search strategies and networking events
• Developing a professional online presence (LinkedIn profile)
• Attending industry conferences and professional development workshops
• Seeking mentorship opportunities within chosen career fields
• Staying current with industry trends and technological advancements

Lifelong learning opportunities

• Continuing education courses for skill enhancement or personal interest
• Professional certifications to maintain and advance career qualifications
• MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) for flexible, self-paced learning
• Employer-sponsored training and development programs
• Community education classes for diverse interests and hobbies