Characteristics of Higher Education Programs Enrolling Students With Intellectual Disability in the United States

Abstract

Significant advancements resulting from various legislative and grant initiatives have resulted in increases in higher education programs enrolling students with intellectual disability (ID). Information about program practices in admissions, academic access, employment, campus housing, and extracurricular activities was gathered via a national survey and offered to the public via a searchable directory. The current study provides a descriptive analysis of these survey data, addressing demographic structure and costs, as well as domains of practice including academic access, career development and employment, campus engagement, and credential attainment in higher education programs for students with ID from a sample of 257 programs. Comparisons to findings from a 2009 survey are offered when applicable and implications for practice, research, and policy are discussed.