The UMSL Office of Inclusive Postsecondary Education (OIPE) has a variety of college programs for the neurodiverse. Each is designed for students to explore independent living and academic skills building, vocational pathways and readiness, including self-determination and navigating today's rich social climate.
Succeed Program
Succeed was established in 2013 and is our longest running and most-awarded college program. It is designed for non-degree seeking individuals with intellectual disability who are at least 18 years old. Those who qualify for the Succeed Program are eligible to receive a college transcript and a Chancellor's Certificate from the University of Missouri - St. Louis upon completion of this 2-year program. Graduates may opt to continue their studies at UMSL through our Link Program (undergraduate certificate or bachelor's degree), our Plus Program (external certificate and industry credentials), or transfer to other educational institutions.
Plus Program
This is a 1- to 2-year program designed exclusively for career-driven graduates of Succeed and other accredited inclusive postsecondary education (IPSE) programs.
Students in the Plus Program are required to complete 22 credit hours in an academic year. While enrolled, participants are expected to earn industry credentials, gain more vocational experience related to their career interest, and build key life and job skills. Learning comes from field experience, hands-on labs, and full-credit in-person and online courses. Their objective is to earn external certificates and seek out employment in their field of expertise. Self-reflection, goal setting, holistic coaching, and community resources all help Plus Program students to navigate barriers and confidently pursue their chosen career paths.
Link Program
Undergraduate students seeking a certificate or bachelor's degree at UMSL, who may benefit from receiving student support beyond the scope of Disability Access Services (e.g., executive functioning, socio-emotional navigation), are encouraged to apply to the Link Program. Application is two-fold, which involves filling out the standard undergraduate UMSL application form and the OIPE application form.
Please note that student support services for the Link Program are charged separately from UMSL college tuition. Our fee covers 1-on-1 coaching and small group counseling, employment support resources in partnership with UMSL Career Services, time management and coursework organization, and strategies to navigate professional and social interactions.
New Program: OIPE Bridge
Not every individual may be ready for college upon their high school graduation. Some families even extend their student's high school experience with the expectation that more time spent building skills there may better prepare them for the transition to adulthood. This is what inspired us to develop the early admit program through OIPE Bridge.
It is designed for individuals aged 17 years and older, who may still be, or may have already graduated from high school. Participation in this program is for one year, with the objective of preparing students for the demands of a more independent lifestyle, advancement in academics, career exploration, and navigating the socio-emotional aspects of being in a college and professional environment.
The best way to acquaint yourself with our programs is to meet us.
Would you like to join a program preview with the OIPE team?
Would you like to schedule a Day in the Life Visit (includes shadowing class)?
Program Pillars
The comprehensive student support we provide through our programs are grounded on four pillars: Live, Learn, Work, Play. These promote a holistic, immersive college experience for our college students.
Live
- Hands-on workshops on budgeting, grocery shopping, food prep, and basic cooking skills
- Practicing safe commuting via public transportation or ride share (beneficial to students without access to a personal vehicle)
- Personal hygiene, medication management, routine and time management
- Check-ins promoting healthy living space and successful shared housing with other UMSL students
- Financial wellness class
Learn
- Students in the Succeed Program engage in a minimum of 12 academic hours a semester (four classes), three of which are Succeed Certificate Courses and 1 - 2 that are UMSL Catalog Class
- Consistent and regular meetings with Academic Support Coordinator for academic advising and to develop student schedule each semester
- Access to numerous accommodations and modifications (full credit or modified credit) offered by UMSL OIPE staff and volunteers (e.g., First Year Experiences, 1:1 tutoring, academic and peer mentoring lab hours, holistic coaching, enhancing vocational competencies lab, and transitional supports); Disability Access Services
Work
- Classes and workshops:
- Exploring career pathways based on a student's interest and skill set
- Resume writing, elevator pitch, and interview preparation
- Working independently on the job
- Arranging for transportation independently
- Advocating for needed workplace accommodations and modifications and paid positions
- Required attendance at job and internship fairs hosted by UMSL and the surrounding community
- Employment or training opportunities with St. Louis area partner organizations (e.g., St. Louis Zoo, Busch Stadium, Mercy, UMSL Recreation and Wellness Center, etc.)
Play
- Engagement in activities on- and off-campus that promote social interactions and exercising self-determination
- Sign-up and participation in campus-wide UMSL Activities, Clubs and Organizations
- UMSL Social Peers organizes group outings (e.g., bowling), movie/game night, group activities (e.g., Friendsgiving, art workshop, volunteering for local charities), and offers guidelines for disability rights advocacy for all Tritons
- Classes on healthy relationships and sexuality, including promoting boundary-setting and defining consent
- Discussions pertaining to Title IX and disciplinary action and consequences
