EMU Today

YPSILANTI — Eastern Michigan University’s College Support Program has been ranked No. 4  among the best programs in the nation by Best Value Schools for students with autism. The program has many components work together to provide a comprehensive and individualized program based on the student's needs. 

"The college support program was created specifically around the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder," said Sally Burton-Hoyle, professor of special education and communication sciences and disorders at EMU. "Services and support of our students encompass academic, residential and behavioral supports. Staff within the college support program receive frequent training on autism spectrum disorder and students' overall well-being. Therefore, understanding and knowledge of student strengths and weaknesses is the basis of every student's individualized support plan." 

Best Value Schools, a website for students and parents, considers the cost of attendance, faculty experience and student feedback as factors when deciding a college ranking. 

According to Best Values Schools, Eastern students can receive the one-on-one support they need in every aspect of student life, including nutrition and hygiene training. The website reports that students involved in the program will have all the support they need to perform well in their classes. That support comes in the form of faculty and counselors and other students with autism.

EMU’s College Support Program has a high student retention rate of 99.13%. In 2021-2022, the program had its largest graduating class from which many students enrolled in graduate programs such as library science, environmental science and law school. 

The college support program strives to increase student admissions, retention, and full enrollment for adults with autism spectrum disorder through an individualized fee-for-service supportive program. The program supports student achievement, the development of social-emotional and communication skills, and the development of daily living skills necessary for adult independence, primarily focusing on supporting executive functioning for participants.

For additional information about the program, visit EMU College Supports Program.

About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 14,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. Visit the University’s rankings and points of pride websites to learn more. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website. To stay up to date on University news, activities and announcements, visit EMU Today.