Integrated Studies Program for Students with Autism
Misericordia University offers a new, inclusive, post-secondary certificate program designed specifically for students with moderate Autism, with or without co-morbid disorders, and Intellectual Disability.
The certificate program, Misericordia Integrated Studies at Misericordia University, is a full-time, college-based, 2-year program specifically designed for students between the ages of 18–26 who are Level 1 Mild to Level 2, Moderate Autism, and gives prospective students access to a full-time inclusive and supported program of study.
Approved by the Department of Education
Misericordia University is proud to announce the Integrated Studies Program is a Comprehensive Transition Program (CTP) approved by the Department of Education!
A comprehensive transition postsecondary (CTP) program is a designation sought and approved by the Department of Education at Misericordia University for students diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and intellectual disabilities who wish to offer access to federal financial aid to its students. The comprehensive transition postsecondary (CTP) program is to earn this designation as it is a critical component of making college attendance more affordable for students and families.
Student Experience and Outcomes
Students will participate in college courses and experiences that will allow them to work towards living an independent life. The program will provide meaningful courses and seminars that will support their transition, education, and social skills development. A choice of several pathways will be made available for the students to select including liberal arts, early childhood education, and vocational/employment opportunity exploration. The program aims to prepare each student for gainful employment.
Additional scholarships are available if you apply.
In 1994, Clair and George Shadie, inspired by their son who was diagnosed with autism, Co-founded SAFE, Inc (Supporting Autism and Families Everywhere).
Inspired by Shadie‘s leadership and vision, SAFE has grown into a leading autism organization in Northeastern Pennsylvania.
Along with the help of Senators Specter and Santorum, the Shadie and Gans families helped raise funding for groundbreaking scientific-based therapeutics. They also raised funding for effective advocacy and extensive family services, enhancing lives now and into the future for all families in Northeastern PA.
Our mission is to support and empower families affected by autism spectrum disorders. We work to identify services and activities specific to their needs. Our goal is to provide a sense of inclusion and opportunity for those families within the local ASD community.
One of the needs identified was local scholarships for individuals specifically with an Autism diagnosis. We created the SAFE Scholarship Program!
Please find attached the SAFE Scholarship Packet for sharing with students with Autism in the Northeastern PA region.
3. Children Service Center Scholarship Opportunities
4. Autism Awareness NEPA scholarship
Integrated Studies Program Photogallery
Integrated Studies Program student listening to the lecture of First-Year Experience class
Integrated Studies student and academic coach walking on campus
Integrated Studies student speaking with Professor Godlewski
Transporting on the shuttle from lower campus to upper campus with other Misericordia students
Exploring the inside of a patrol car during a lesson plan from Life Skills class
Contact
For more program and admissions information or to schedule a campus tour, please contact Orley Templeton, OTD, OTR/L, CAS, Assistant Professor and Program Director for Master of Occupational Therapy, at (570) 674-8154, or email: otempleton@misericordia.edu.