Contents
Introduction
If someone is interested in formal education after high school, they can attend a post-secondary educational institution. There are many post-secondary institutions across Canada. These include universities, community colleges, trade schools, arts schools, institutes, etc. Each type of post-secondary institution can offer its students a unique kind of education and certification.
Post-secondary institutions generally offer services to assist students to succeed in the school environment. Most large post-secondary institutions have a dedicated department in place to support their students with disabilities or ongoing medical conditions. These departments are often known as ‘accessibility’, ‘diversity’, or ‘inclusion’ departments or offices. People who work in these departments are there to help students with disabilities by arranging accommodations, teaching study tips, helping to navigate coursework and classrooms, helping students find employment, etc.
Some students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or intellectual disability (ID) may be able to attend a post-secondary institution – either in a tailored program or with the support of an accessibility department.
This Toolkit briefly reviews post-secondary institutions across the country, by province and territory. Some institutions have specific programs geared towards those with autism and/or intellectual disabilities. Some of these programs or resources may be suitable for someone who needs more support throughout the learning process. We go into more detail on these programs. While not every province/territory has programs like this, remember that most schools will have accessibility departments to support students with disability-related needs. We also provide information on these accessibility departments.
What you’ll see for each province and territory in this Toolkit is the following:
- The provincial/territorial government agency responsible for post-secondary education
- ASD/ID-specific programs in the province/territory
- General accessibility departments of remaining accredited institutions in the province/territory
Where to start on post-secondary education:
Before exploring the hundreds of different programs that are out there in Canada, it may be helpful to start by thinking about whether post-secondary education is right for you or your loved one.
Post-secondary education can be helpful for future career paths or for exploring a particular area of interest. But at the same time, this pursuit of post-secondary education can be stressful and expensive. There are times when preparing for work, gaining work or volunteer experience, or developing other life skills, might be a better alternative for a particular individual. But for others, post-secondary education importantly opens career opportunity.
We’ve compiled a few resources that may be able to help as you consider whether post-secondary education is the right choice:
- Thinking about post-secondary education? Considerations for individuals with ASD and their families: Click on this article, written by Jason Manett & Kevin P. Stoddart, to hear about some key considerations in thinking about post-secondary education.
- College Readiness Assessment Tool (PDF): This self-assessment tool was developed by the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board for secondary students to evaluate their college readiness skills. The questionnaire is designed to help one understand the foundational set of skills, abilities and practices associated with readiness for college.
- Transition Readiness Student Checklist (PDF): These checklists were developed by the Toronto Catholic District School Board and Surrey Place Centre, in partnership with York University. Students can use these checklists to evaluate various transition readiness skills, and set goals to focus on targeted skills.
- Post-Secondary Language Dictionary (PDF): Information and explanations about the language and processes used in the post-secondary environment, as it compares to the language and processes used in secondary school, is offered. This resource offers information, with a specific focus on students with ASD, compiled by York University. While the document focuses on Ontario, much of it is relevant to students anywhere in the country.
- EduCanada: This is the Government of Canada’s official website on post-secondary education. EduCanada has information on study planning, specific programs, costs, scholarships, etc.
Below are examples of programs and resources across Canada (organized by province/territory). Readers are strongly advised to contact the disability services office at your local post-secondary educational institution to check for other programs that may not have come up in our search.
Programs and Resources by Province
The following contains information on post-secondary education programs or resources that may support individuals with ASD/ID in Alberta.
Government ministry: In Alberta, the Ministry of Advanced Education oversees the post-secondary sector. The provincial government, through the Ministry of Advanced Education, maintains a helpful website on post-secondary education in the province.
Specific programs for students with ASD/ID: Alberta has a unique initiative called the Inclusive Post-Secondary Education Initiative (IPSE). Institutions across the province participate in this initiative by offering students with ID the opportunity to take part in typical university/college programming. This program is led by a group called Inclusion Alberta.
As part of this program, students with ID are able to ‘audit classes’ from any of the institution’s course programming. ‘Auditing classes’ means students attend classes as they like, but do not receive grades or a degree for these classes. Students follow the same curriculum as their classmates, but unlike regular auditing students, they complete modified readings, coursework and assignments. Even though students do assignments, they do not receive credit or marks. Instructors will generally provide some feedback and comments to the students on their work.
Students are still able to achieve a certificate of completion and participate in convocation.
Inclusive Post-Secondary Education (IPSE) programs are available for anyone who is PDD (Persons with Developmental Disabilities) - eligible in the province of Alberta. If unsure what this means, please review the eligibility details or contact PDD directly. Please note, tuition is not covered by PDD Funding. Tuition is the responsibility of each student.
IPSE programs are available at several schools in Alberta. These links will take you to the IPSE programs at the following post-secondary institutions:
- Ambrose University– Calgary, AB
- Concordia University of Edmonton – Edmonton, AB
- Northwestern Polytechnic – Grand Prairie, AB
- Keyano College – Fort McMurray, AB
- Lakeland College – Vermilion, AB
- Lethbridge College – Lethbridge, AB
- MacEwan University – Edmonton, AB
- Mount Royal University – Calgary, AB
- NAIT – Edmonton, AB
- NorQuest College – Edmonton, AB
- The King’s University – Edmonton, AB
- University of Alberta– Edmonton, AB
- University of Calgary – Calgary, AB
Other institutions – accessibility departments: In addition to the schools outlined above which offer official Inclusive Education programs, the following links will take you to the disability/accessibility departments of all the post-secondary institutions in Alberta. We encourage you to read the details each one has on their website, and to reach out to them directly for further information.
- Athabasca University – Online
- Alberta University of the Arts – Calgary, AB
- Ambrose University – Calgary, AB
- Bow Valley College – Calgary, AB
- Burman University – Lacombe, AB
- Concordia University of Edmonton – Edmonton, AB
- Keyano College – Fort McMurray, AB
- Lakeland College – Lloydminster and Vermilion, AB
- Lethbridge College – Lethbridge, AB
- MacEwan University – Edmonton, AB
- Medicine Hat College – Medicine Hat, AB
- Mount Royal University – Calgary, AB
- NorQuest College – Edmonton, AB
- Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) – Edmonton, AB
- Northern Lakes College – Slave Lake, AB
- Northwestern Polytechnic – Grande Prairie, AB
- Olds College – Olds, AB
- Portage College – Lac la Biche, AB
- Red Deer College – Red Deer, AB
- Southern Alberta Institute of Technology – Calgary, AB
- St. Mary’s University – Calgary, AB
- The King's University – Edmonton, AB
- University of Alberta – Edmonton, AB
- University of Alberta (Augustana Campus) – Augustana, AB
- University of Calgary – Calgary, AB
- University of Lethbridge – Lethbridge, AB
A note on tuition: Unlike K-12 education which can be accessed for free, virtually all post-secondary programs in Canada charge tuition fees. Costs vary widely by institution and field of study. However, there are many funding options in place to make it easier for Canadians to access post-secondary education. See the post-secondary education funding Toolkit.
A note on your experience: If there’s information you read in this Toolkit that isn’t reflective of a personal experience you’ve had, please reach out to us so we can update the Toolkit. Similarly, please let us know if a program or school is missing from the list above. Information is always changing, and publicly available information is not always reflective of on-the-ground realities. We want to hear from you.
The following contains information on post-secondary education programs or resources that may support individuals with ASD/ID in British Columbia (BC).
Government ministry: In BC, the Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training is responsible for post-secondary education in the province.
Through the Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training, the B.C. government maintains a very helpful website on post-secondary education in the province. The British Columbia Initiative for Inclusive Post-Secondary Education (BC-IPSE) is a resource for students with ID wishing to pursue post-secondary education in BC.
Specific programs for ASD/ID: In BC, there are several specific programs for students with ASD/ID. These are outlined below.
Simon Fraser University (SFU) – Burnaby, BC
SFU Autism Mentorship Initiative (AMI)
The SFU Centre for Students with Disabilities supports SFU students with ASD in university life. Participants have the opportunity to work one-on-one with a trained student mentor for up to 2 hours per week throughout each semester. To learn more or to participate, please visit the AMI website.
Capilano University – North Vancouver, BC
Education and Employment Access (EEA)
Education and Employment Access (EEA) is a full time, 8-month program operating within the School of Access and Academic Preparation. Students with learning difficulties or other barriers to reaching their goals will be offered specific support in their transition to post-secondary education and employment.
The focus is on developing skills and strategies to be an independent learner in a university setting. Students will finish with a professional portfolio, certifications, and strategies for success in first year courses and current experience in the sector of their choice.
Douglas College – Coquitlam, BC
Career and Employment Preparation (CAEP)
The Career and Employment Preparation (CAEP) program at Douglas College is designed to assist people with barriers to employment. Students are shown how to use their skills and abilities to choose a career and help build their self-confidence to enter the work force or pursue further training. The program includes real-life on-the-job experience. Students will gain practical stress and time-management techniques, learn to communicate directly and effectively, and practice study and note-taking skills. CAEP is a 14-week full-time program.
The Transitions Program is a part-time 16-week program for students with special needs and/or learning difficulties in Grade 12 or Grade 12+. The program is designed to assist students in making a successful exit from secondary school into training or workplace settings.
Students attend the program at the Coquitlam Campus for half days and return to their high school for the remainder of the day. The program is comprised of both classroom engagement and fieldwork.
Douglas College’s Basic Occupational Education program teaches industry-specific skills in the following sectors: Food Services, Electronic and General Assembly, and Retail and Business Services. The program offers knowledge associated with job-related information, industry-relevant skills and certificates, customer service and communication skills.
This self-paced program averages 10 months in length, and students will have the opportunity to experience practicum placements in the field.
Customer Service and Cashier Training (CSCT)
The Customer Service and Cashier Training program is a 14-week training program designed for adults with employment barriers. Training focuses on classroom, lab, and work experience components which prepare students to work in customer service areas and cashiering positions. Classroom instruction includes training in customer service, cashiering, communication and teamwork skills. Students also learn employability skills and job search techniques. There is a practicum placement included in the program. Students will have the opportunity to work in a related work setting.
Kwantlen Polytechnic University – Surrey, BC
Access Programs for People with Disabilities (APPD)
The goal of the Access Programs is to provide post-secondary education for adults with various disabilities. These programs prepare students for employment, volunteer work and further education. APPD offer two ten-month options for adults with a permanent disability or a combination of learning difficulties that hinder scholastic success. Students participate in classes, and have the opportunity to explore a variety of work experiences.
Other institutions – accessibility departments: In addition to the programs outlined above, the following links will take you to the disability/accessibility departments of the remaining post-secondary institutions in BC. We encourage you to read the details of each of these programs, and to reach out to them directly for further information.
- British Columbia Institute of Technology – Vancouver, Burnaby, BC
- Camosun College – Victoria, BC
- Capilano University – North Vancouver, BC
- Coast Mountain College – Terrace, BC
- College of New Caledonia – Prince George, BC
- College of the Rockies – Cranbrook, BC
- Corpus Christi & St. Mark’s College – Vancouver, BC
- Douglas College – New Westminster, Coquitlam, BC
- Emily Carr University of Art and Design – Vancouver, BC
- Fairleigh Dickinson University – Vancouver, BC
- Justice Institute of British Columbia – New Westminster, Chilliwack, Maple Ridge, Kelowna, Pitt Meadows, Victoria, BC
- Kwantlen Polytechnic – Surrey, BC
- Langara College – Vancouver, BC
- Nicola Valley Institute of Technology – Merritt, Burnaby, BC
- North Island College – Campbell River, Port Alberni, Port Hardy, Ucluelet, BC
- Northern Lights College – Atlin, Chetwynd, Dawson Creek, Dease Lake, Fort Nelson, Fort St. John, Tumbler Ridge, BC
- Okanagan College – Kelowna, Vernon, Penticton, Salmon Arm, BC
- Quest University – Squamish, BC
- Royal Roads University – Victoria, BC
- Selkirk College – Castlegar, BC
- Simon Fraser University – Burnaby, Surrey, Vancouver, BC
- Thomson Rivers University – Kamloops, BC
- Trinity Western University – Langley, BC
- University of British Columbia – Vancouver, Kelowna, BC
- University of Northern British Columbia – Prince George, BC
- University of the Fraser Valley – Chilliwack, Mission, Abbotsford, BC
- University of Victoria – Victoria, BC
- Vancouver Community College – Vancouver, BC
- Vancouver Island University – Nanaimo, BC
A note on tuition: Unlike K-12 education which can be accessed for free, virtually all post-secondary programs in Canada charge tuition fees. Costs vary widely by institution and field of study. However, there are many funding options in place to make it easier for Canadians to access post-secondary education. See the post-secondary education funding Toolkit.
A note on your experience: If there’s information you read in this Toolkit that isn’t reflective of a personal experience you’ve had, please reach out to us so we can update the Toolkit. Similarly, please let us know if a program or school is missing from the list above. Information is always changing, and publicly available information is not always reflective of on-the-ground realities. We want to hear from you.
The following contains information on post-secondary education programs or resources that may support individuals with ASD/ID in Manitoba.
Government ministry: In Manitoba, the provincial government’s Advanced Education and Skills Division is responsible for oversight of the post-secondary education sector.
Specific programs for ASD/ID: In Manitoba, there are two specific programs for students with ASD/ID: one at the University of Manitoba, and the other at Brandon University.
University of Manitoba – Winnipeg, MB
The University of Manitoba offers a program called Campus Life for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities to participate in learning at the University.
The program is an extension of the inclusive education concept practiced in regular elementary and secondary classrooms. It promotes inclusive education at the post-secondary level for students who otherwise may not have the opportunity to attend university. Students are also encouraged to participate in social opportunities available on campus.
Students in the Campus Life program are called ‘auditing students’ – this means they are able to attend a wide range of classes in many disciplines, but aren’t offered grades or a degree for the classes. Students follow the same curriculum as their classmates, but unlike regular auditing students, they complete modified readings, coursework and assignments. Even though students do assignments, they do not receive credit or marks. Instructors will generally provide some feedback and comments to the students on their work.
Students are encouraged to choose courses based on their interests and goals. Once courses are selected, the coordinator approaches the professor or instructor and requests permission for the student to audit the course. If permission is granted, the student is then assisted through the registration process.
On a student’s first day of classes, a Campus Life tutor accompanies them and briefly explains the Campus Life program to the class. The tutor also recruits a volunteer note-taker. As the student continues to attend classes, Campus Life tutors and the director provide academic support by shaping the course content and adapting assignments to meet the student’s unique needs and abilities during regular individual-tutoring sessions.
Brandon University – Brandon, MB
Brandon University offers an Inclusive Post-Secondary Education initiative (IPSE) through a partnership with Inclusion Westman.
Students attending Brandon University through IPSE take courses in a program of study that aligns with their interests.
IPSE allows students to do what’s called ‘auditing’ – meaning they are able to attend a wide range of classes in many disciplines, but aren’t offered grades or a degree for the classes. Students follow the same curriculum as their classmates, but unlike regular auditing students, they complete modified readings, coursework and assignments. Even though students do assignments, they do not receive credit or marks. Instructors will generally provide some feedback and comments to the students on their work.
Students in IPSE at Brandon University audit 1-2 courses per semester, which gives them schedule flexibility. It also allows students to set learning expectations and goals, complete adapted course assignments and exams, participate in practicums, and be part of the culture of student life.
Initiative staff work closely with students and professors to ensure that inclusion in the classroom and campus life is successful and a positive experience for everyone involved.
The initiative runs year-round. During the spring and summer months, IPSE staff support students in building resumes through meaningful volunteer and competitive paid employment opportunities.
Students who have ID come to Brandon University for the same reasons as other students do:
- To continue their learning
- To make connections with their peers and develop lifelong relationships
- To develop new skills and enhance confidence in many areas of their lives
- To be a valued and contributing member of student life
- To make contacts in their desired field of study
- To develop career opportunities through building networks on campus and active participation in practicums and classes
- To ultimately secure meaningful and sustainable employment
Other institutions – accessibility departments: In addition to the programs outlined above, the following links will take you to the disability/accessibility departments of all the post-secondary institutions in Manitoba. We encourage you to read the details each one has on their website, and to reach out to them directly for further information.
- University of Manitoba – Winnipeg, MB
- University of Winnipeg – Winnipeg, MB
- Brandon University – Brandon, MB
- Red River College – Winnipeg, MB
- Assiniboine Community College – Brandon, MB
- University College of the North – The Pas, MB
- Université de Saint-Boniface – Winnipeg, MB
- Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology – Winnipeg, MB
- Canadian Mennonite University – Winnipeg, MB
A note on tuition: Unlike K-12 education which can be accessed for free, virtually all post-secondary programs in Canada charge tuition fees. Costs vary widely by institution and field of study. However, there are many funding options in place to make it easier for Canadians to access post-secondary education. See the post-secondary education funding Toolkit.
A note on your experience: If there’s information you read in this Toolkit that isn’t reflective of a personal experience you’ve had, please reach out to us so we can update the Toolkit. Similarly, please let us know if a program or school is missing from the list above. Information is always changing, and publicly available information is not always reflective of on-the-ground realities. We want to hear from you.
The following contains information on post-secondary education programs or resources that may support individuals with ASD/ID in New Brunswick.
Government ministry: In New Brunswick, the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour oversees the post-secondary education sector. For more information about post-secondary institutions located in New Brunswick, please visit New Brunswick Education.
Specific programs for ASD/ID: There are no specific post-secondary education programs for students with ASD/ID in New Brunswick. However, all the post-secondary institutions in New Brunswick offer accessibility services to students with learning challenges.
The following links will take to the disability/accessibility departments of post-secondary institutions in New Brunswick. We encourage you to read the details noted on their website and directly contact the institution for more information.
- University of New Brunswick Fredericton – Fredericton, NB
- University of New Brunswick Saint John – Saint John, NB
- St. Thomas University – Fredericton, NB
- Mount Allison University– Sackville, NB
- Université de Moncton – Edmundston, NB
- New Brunswick Community College (NBCC) – Fredericton, Saint John, Moncton, Woodstock, Miramichi, and St. Andrews, NB
- The Collège communautaire du Nouveau-Brunswick (CCNB)– Bathurst, Campbellton, Dieppe, Edmundston, and on the Acadian Peninsula, NB
- New Brunswick College of Craft and Design (NBCCD) – Fredericton, NB
A note on tuition: Unlike K-12 education which can be accessed for free, virtually all post-secondary programs in Canada charge tuition fees. Costs vary widely by institution and field of study. However, there are many funding options in place to make it easier for Canadians to access post-secondary education. See the post-secondary education funding Toolkit.
A note on your experience: If there’s information you read in this Toolkit that isn’t reflective of a personal experience you’ve had, please reach out to us so we can update the Toolkit. Similarly, please let us know if a program or school is missing from the list above. Information is always changing, and publicly available information is not always reflective of on-the-ground realities. We want to hear from you.
The following contains information on post-secondary education programs or resources that may support individuals with ASD/ID in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Government ministry: Post-secondary education in Newfoundland and Labrador is administered by the provincial government’s Ministry of Immigration, Skills and Labour.
Specific programs for ASD/ID: There are no specific post-secondary education programs for students with ASD/ID in Newfoundland and Labrador. However, three of the universities/colleges in the province offer accommodation and support services to students with extra learning challenges. The following links will take you to the disability/accessibility departments of these post-secondary institutions. We encourage you to read the details each one has on their website, and to reach out to them directly for further information.
- Memorial University – St. John’s, NL
- College of the North Atlantic – Corner Brook, NL
- Academy Canada Career College – Corner Brook, St. John’s (Harding Road Campus and Kenmount Road Campus), NL
A note on tuition: Unlike K-12 education which can be accessed for free, virtually all post-secondary programs in Canada charge tuition fees. Costs vary widely by institution and field of study. However, there are many funding options in place to make it easier for Canadians to access post-secondary education. See the post-secondary education funding Toolkit.
A note on your experience: If there’s information you read in this Toolkit that isn’t reflective of a personal experience you’ve had, please reach out to us so we can update the Toolkit. Similarly, please let us know if a program or school is missing from the list above. Information is always changing, and publicly available information is not always reflective of on-the-ground realities. We want to hear from you.
The following contains information on post-secondary education programs or resources that may support individuals with ASD/ID in the Northwest Territories.
Government ministry: The Government of the Northwest Territories’ Department of Education, Culture and Employment oversees post-secondary education in the territory.
Programming specific to ASD/ID: There is no post-secondary programming specific to ASD/ID in the Northwest Territories. However, Aurora College (below) offers support services to students with disabilities.
Aurora College is the only post-secondary institution in the Northwest Territories.
Aurora College has three campuses and 23 Community Learning Centres (CLCs) across the Northwest Territories. The campuses serve as regional hubs for the Community Learning Centres in their area, as follows:
- Aurora Campus (Inuvik)
- Thebacha Campus (Fort Smith)
- Yellowknife / North Slave Campus (Yellowknife)
Community Learning Centres are spaces affiliated with Aurora College spread through the Territory. Students may complete their high school upgrading at a learning centre in preparation for enrolling in a full-time program at one of the campuses.
Examples of programs and courses available at the Community Learning Centres include:
- Developmental Studies (high school upgrading)
- Environmental Monitoring
- Simply Accounting training
- Driver training
- Computer training
- Safety training
Disability services: Aurora College offers support to its students through Student Success. The Student Success Centres provide academic assistance to students in the form of tutoring, workshops, other resources and career counselling. To find out more about the Student Success Centres, contact the respective Centre at each of the campuses.
A note on tuition: Unlike K-12 education which can be accessed for free, virtually all post-secondary programs in Canada charge tuition fees. Costs vary widely by institution and field of study. However, there are many funding options in place to make it easier for Canadians to access post-secondary education. See the post-secondary education funding Toolkit.
A note on your experience: If there’s information you read in this Toolkit that isn’t reflective of a personal experience you’ve had, please reach out to us so we can update the Toolkit. Similarly, please let us know if a program or school is missing from the list above. Information is always changing, and publicly available information is not always reflective of on-the-ground realities. We want to hear from you.
The following contains information on post-secondary education programs or resources that may support individuals with ASD/ID in Nova Scotia.
Government ministry: Post-secondary education in Nova Scotia is administered by the Higher Education Branch of the Ministry of Labour and Advanced Education. Accessibility services for higher education falls under the government’s Post-Secondary Accessibility Services division.
To support post-secondary students with ASD, Autism Nova Scotia runs a program called the Post-Secondary Autism Support (PASS) Program
Specific programs for ASD/ID: There are no specific post-secondary education programs for students with ASD/ID in Nova Scotia. However, nearly all the universities and colleges in the province offer accommodation and support services to students with learning challenges.
Other institutions – accessibility departments: The following links will take you to the disability/accessibility departments of post-secondary institutions in Nova Scotia. We encourage you to read the details each one has on their website, and to reach out to them directly for further information.
- Acadia University – Wolfivlle, NS
- Cape Breton University – Sydney, NS
- Dalhousie University – Halifax, NS
- Mount Saint Vincent University – Halifax, NS
- Nova Scotia College of Art and Design University – Halifax, NS
- Nova Scotia Community College – Halifax, NS
- Saint Mary’s University – Halifax, NS
- St. Francis Xavier University – Antagonish, NS
- Université Sainte-Anne (French) – Pont-de-L’Église, NS
A note on tuition: Unlike K-12 education which can be accessed for free, virtually all post-secondary programs in Canada charge tuition fees. Costs vary widely by institution and field of study. However, there are many funding options in place to make it easier for Canadians to access post-secondary education. See the post-secondary education funding Toolkit.
A note on your experience: If there’s information you read in this Toolkit that isn’t reflective of a personal experience you’ve had, please reach out to us so we can update the Toolkit. Similarly, please let us know if a program or school is missing from the list above. Information is always changing, and publicly available information is not always reflective of on-the-ground realities. We want to hear from you.
The following contains information on post-secondary education programs or resources that may support individuals with ASD/ID in Nunavut.
Government ministry: The Government of Nunavut’s Department of Education is responsible for oversight of the post-secondary education sector.
Specific programs for ASD/ID: There is no post-secondary programming specific to ASD/ID in Nunavut. However, Nunavut Arctic College (below) strives to support students with disabilities.
Nunavut Arctic College is the only post-secondary institution in Nunavut. The College has five campuses:
- Kitikmeot Campus, Cambridge Bay
- Kivalliq Campus, Sanatuliqsarvik (Nunavut Trades Training Centre), and Kivalliq Hall, Rankin Inlet
- Nunatta Campus, Iqaluit
- Nunavut Innovation & Research Institutes, Iqaluit, Arviat, Cambridge Bay, Rankin Inlet, and Igloolik
- Piqqusilirivvik Inuit Cultural Learning Centre, Clyde River with satellite locations in Baker Lake and Igloolik.
In addition to the five campuses, Arctic College has Community Learning Centres located in each of Nunavut’s 25 communities. These Centres provide community members with an opportunity to connect with the College’s program close to home.
Each Community Learning Centre is staffed by an Adult Educator who can provide information and guidance to anyone seeking further education beyond high school. Adult Educators are able to conduct academic assessments and assist people in making educational choices. They can also help individuals find information on career programs through Nunavut Arctic College or other community colleges and universities.
Read about the programs offered at Arctic Collegehere.
Disability services: While Arctic College doesn’t have a dedicated accessibility department, they have a stated policy indicating that they strive to provide individuals with disabilities, with opportunity to participate fully in the College’s programs and services.
Students are required to identify the special requirements they may need at the time of application to the College, as well as demonstrate their ability to undertake program activities. Once a student is admitted to the College, the staff and student will work together to establish a plan to create a positive learning environment. The College will make attempts, wherever possible, to identify alternative equivalent activities for students.
A note on tuition: Unlike K-12 education which can be accessed for free, virtually all post-secondary programs in Canada charge tuition fees. Costs vary widely by institution and field of study. However, there are many funding options in place to make it easier for Canadians to access post-secondary education. See the post-secondary education funding Toolkit.
A note on your experience: If there’s information you read in this Toolkit that isn’t reflective of a personal experience you’ve had, please reach out to us so we can update the Toolkit. Similarly, please let us know if a program or school is missing from the list above. Information is always changing, and publicly available information is not always reflective of on-the-ground realities. We want to hear from you.
The following contains information on post-secondary education programs or resources that may support individuals with ASD/ID in Ontario.
Government ministry: Post-secondary education in Ontario is administered by the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities (MTCU).
Specific programs for ASD/ID: In Ontario, there are several specific programs for students with ASD/ID. These are outlined below.
Algonquin College – Ottawa, ON
Algonquin College has a special centre called the Transition Support Centre (TSC), which provides support to assist students with ASD in their transition to post-secondary education. This is for students enrolled at Algonquin College who have an ASD diagnosis.
TSC staff offer outreach to prospective post-secondary students and their support network as they prepare for the transition to a post-secondary environment. Students who are accepted to an Algonquin College program have the opportunity to visit the College throughout the summer, before their first semester, for orientation activities. During the summer and their first year, students access services from Learning Strategists and Disability Counsellors who are trained to understand the potential needs of individuals on the spectrum.
As part of these services, students can access academic accommodations and guidance regarding social interactions; receive direct instruction in self-advocacy skills required to interact with professors, staff, and classmates in the college setting; and make use of a sensory-friendly drop-in space. The TSC also hosts a series of workshops during the school year, with a focus on skill building (topics include starting the semester off right, weekly time management, mindful gaming, job fair preparation, employment strategies, etc.).
By the end of the first year, supports provided by TSC will fade as Algonquin College students begin to access existing supports as provided by the Centre for Accessible Learning.
Eligibility
Any student with ASD who plans to attend post-secondary education at Algonquin College is eligible to receive support and/or information from the TSC, but priority is given to Ottawa-area students.
York University – Toronto, ON
York University has a number of support services specifically designed for students with ASD/ID, including Strengthening Transitions for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder, which is outlined below.
York University requests that students with ASD reach out prior to entering the school environment to discuss which programs might work best. York University’s ASD Coordinator will meet with prospective York students and their families to determine how they might be supported if/when they start their studies at the school.
Strengthening Transitions for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders is a program that supports students with ASD (including Asperger’s) in their transition from high school into a post-secondary program at York University.
Integrated support services are provided through the full calendar year, starting in high school, as early as grade 10. Services range from individual to group and community resources. These services include, but are not limited to, mentorship programs, workshops and support groups to one-to-one coaching, parent information hubs, sensory spaces, therapy dogs and paid work/study opportunities. Programming is open to future and current York University/Seneca College students, as well as their families and communities.
What is offered?
- Access to a computer lab equipped with assistive technology, computers, internet and printing;
- Access to a quiet workspace with computers and low sensory pods available for booking;
- Access to Assistive Technology lending library (including iPads, Live Scribe, Noise-Cancelling Headphones, Laptops (both Windows and MAC) with Kurzweil 3000™ and Nuance® Dragon Naturally Speaking);
- Weekly or bi-weekly academic check-in appointments with an ASD Academic Coach (focus on skill building, developing and implementing time management, study strategies, organization skills and problem-solving strategies);
- Access to an ASD Support Group (opportunity to meet and speak with peers living with ASD); and,
- Access to employment training and paid work-study experience.
Community Integration through Co-operative Education (CICE)
Several colleges in Ontario provide a program called Community Integration Through Cooperative Education (CICE).
CICE is a two-year certificate program designed for adults with developmental or intellectual disabilities who wish to further their education in a community college setting.
Students enrolled in the CICE program have the opportunity to complete an individualized program of study made up of courses from an area of concentration selected from the specific college’s program offerings.
CICE also offers support finding placement experiences, to help students refine their abilities in potential work environments. Program staff will support students in these work environments.
Students enrolled in the CICE program receive support including curriculum modification, note-taking, tutoring, and other related academic services as needed. Upon successful completion of all courses and the field placement requirements, students will graduate with an Ontario College Certificate in CICE. Students will receive course summaries from each successfully completed course.
Applicants must meet the following requirements to be eligible for admission to these programs:
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)/Certificate (OSSC), or be at least 19 years of age on the first day of classes
- Demonstrate academic needs which require curriculum modification, accommodation, and Learning Facilitator support in order to succeed
- Demonstrate a level of independence that does not require constant supervision
Several schools in Ontario have CICE programs. The following links will take you to the websites of CICE programs in Ontario. If you are interested, we recommend you take a look at the college that works best from a location perspective because the programs are all designed similarly.
Conestoga College – Kitchener, ON
For more information on CICE at Conestoga College, visit the website above.
Confederation College – Fort Frances, Kenora, Thunder Bay, ON
For more information on CICE at Confederation College, visit the website above.
Durham College – Oshawa, ON
For more information on CICE at Durham College, visit the website above.
Fanshawe College – London, ON
For more information on CICE at Fanshawe College, visit the website above.
Georgian College – Barrie, Orillia and Owen Sound, ON
For more information on CICE at Georgian College, visit the website above or contact the Program Coordinator from each specific Georgian College campus.
Humber College – Toronto, ON
For more information on Humber College, visit the website above.
Lambton College – Sarnia, ON
For more information on CICE at Lambton College, visit the website above.
Loyalist College – Belleville, ON
For more information on CICE at Loyalist College, visit the website above.
Mohawk College – Hamilton, ON
For more information on CICE at Mohawk College, visit the website above.
Niagara College – Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON
For more information on CICE at Niagara College, visit the website above.
Sault College – Sault Ste. Marie, ON
For more information on CICE at Sault College, visit the website above.
St. Lawrence College – Brockville, Cornwall or Kingston, ON
For more information on the CICE program, visit the website above or contact the Program Liaison for the desired campus:
- Brockville Campus
- Cornwall Campus
- Kingston Campus
St. Clair College – Windsor, ON
For more information on CICE at St. Clair College, visit the website above.
Other institutions – accessibility departments: In addition to the programs outlined above, the following links will take you to the disability/accessibility departments of all the post-secondary institutions in Ontario. We encourage you to read the details each one has on their website, and to reach out to them directly for further information.
- Algoma University – Sault Ste. Marie, ON
- Algonquin College – Nepean, ON
- Brock University – St. Catharines, ON
- Cambrian College – Sudbury, ON
- Canadore College – North Bay, ON
- Carleton University – Ottawa, ON
- Centennial College – Toronto, ON
- Collège Boréal – Sudbury, ON
- Conestoga College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning – Kitchener, ON
- Confederation College – Thunder Bay, ON
- Durham College – Durham, ON
- Fanshawe College – London, ON
- Fleming College – Peterborough, ON
- George Brown College – Toronto, ON
- Georgian College – Barrie, ON
- Humber College – Toronto, ON
- La Cité collégiale – Ottawa, ON
- Lakehead University – Thunder Bay, ON
- Lambton College – Sarnia, ON
- Laurentian University – Sudbury, ON
- Loyalist College – Belleville, ON
- McMaster University – Hamilton, ON
- Mohawk College – Hamilton, ON
- Niagara College – Welland, ON
- Nipissing University – North Bay, ON
- Northern College – Timmins, ON
- Ontario College of Art & Design – Toronto, ON
- Queen’s University – Kingston, ON
- St. Clair College – Windsor, ON
- St. Lawrence College – Kingston, ON
- Sault College – Sault Ste. Marie, ON
- Seneca College – North York, ON
- Sheridan College – Oakville, ON
Universities
- Toronto Metropolitan University – Toronto, ON
- Trent University – Peterborough, ON
- Trent University (Durham GTA) – Oshawa, ON
- University of Guelph – Guelph, ON
- University of Ontario Institute of Technology – Oshawa, ON
- University of Ottawa – Ottawa, ON
- University of Toronto – Toronto, ON
- University of Toronto (Mississauga Campus) – Mississauga, ON
- University of Toronto (Scarborough Campus) – Scarborough, ON
- University of Waterloo – Waterloo, ON
- University of Western Ontario – London, ON
- University of Windsor – Windsor, ON
- Wilfrid Laurier University – Waterloo, ON
- York University – Toronto, ON
A note on tuition: Unlike K-12 education which can be accessed for free, virtually all post-secondary programs in Canada charge tuition fees. Costs vary widely by institution and field of study. However, there are many funding options in place to make it easier for Canadians to access post-secondary education. See the post-secondary education funding Toolkit.
A note on your experience: If there’s information you read in this Toolkit that isn’t reflective of a personal experience you’ve had, please reach out to us so we can update the Toolkit. Similarly, please let us know if a program or school is missing from the list above. Information is always changing, and publicly available information is not always reflective of on-the-ground realities. We want to hear from you.
The following contains information on post-secondary education programs or resources that may support individuals with ASD/ID in Prince Edward Island (PEI).
Government ministry: Post-secondary education in PEI is administered by the Department of Education and Lifelong Learning.
Specific programs for ASD/ID: There are no specific post-secondary education programs for students with ASD/ID in Prince Edward Island. However, both the University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) and Holland College offer accommodation and support services to students with extra learning challenges. The following links will take you to the disability/accessibility departments at UPEI and Holland College. We encourage you to read the details each one has on their website, and to reach out to them directly for further information.
- University of Prince Edward Island – Charlottetown, PEI
- Holland College – Charlottetown, PEI
A note on tuition: Unlike K-12 education which can be accessed for free, virtually all post-secondary programs in Canada charge tuition fees. Costs vary widely by institution and field of study. However, there are many funding options in place to make it easier for Canadians to access post-secondary education. See the post-secondary education funding Toolkit.
A note on your experience: If there’s information you read in this Toolkit that isn’t reflective of a personal experience you’ve had, please reach out to us so we can update the Toolkit. Similarly, please let us know if a program or school is missing from the list above. Information is always changing, and publicly available information is not always reflective of on-the-ground realities. We want to hear from you.
The following contains information on post-secondary education programs or resources that may support individuals with ASD/ID in Québec.
Government ministry: Post-secondary education in Québec is administered by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education. For more general information about post-secondary in the province, please visitthis link.
Québec has a slightly different post-secondary education system than the rest of the country. In Québec, high school students graduate upon completion of Grade 11 (compared to Grade 12 in every other province/territory).
Should students wish to pursue higher education, they attend what’s called a CEGEP (Collège d’enseignement général et professionnel). In English, this translates to a College of Vocation Education. Students attend this pre-college university program to prepare for further education. It offers a bridge between compulsory schooling (until Grade 11) and university.
Students from Québec wishing to receive post-secondary education either in or outside of Québec must first enroll in and complete a CEGEP program for at least one year. Accordingly, Québec students may not attend university with just a secondary education diploma; they must have completed a CEGEP program as well.
Since the pre-university CEGEP programs usually take two years to complete, most Bachelor degree programs in the province of Quebec require three years of study. This way, Quebec students receive the same total number of years of education as students from other North American jurisdictions.
The aim of CEGEP is to offer academic preparation for university and increased accessibility to higher education. CEGEP education is highly subsidized by the government and is almost free to students.
Specific programs for ASD/ID: There are no specific post-secondary education programs for students with ASD/ID in Québec. However, nearly every single post-secondary institution (CEGEP, college and university) in the province offers accommodation and support services to students with learning challenges.
Other institutions – accessibility departments: The following links will take you to the disability/accessibility departments of post-secondary institutions in Québec. We encourage you to read the details each one has on their website, and to reach out to them directly for further information.
Cégep/College
- Cégep André-Laurendeau – Montreal, QC
- Cégep Beauce-Appalaches – Ville de Saint-Georges, QC
- Cégep de Baie-Comeau – Baie-Comeau, QC
- Cégep de Chicoutimi –Chicoutimi, QC
- Cégep de Drummondville – Drummondville, QC
- Cégep de Granby – Grandby, QC
- Cégep de Jonquière – Jonquière, QC
- Cégep de la Gaspésie et des Îles – Carleton, QC
- Cégep de La Pocatière – La Pocatière, QC
- Cégep de l'Abitibi-Témiscamingue – Rouyn-Noranda, QC
- Cégep de Lévis-Lauzon – Lévis, QC
- Cégep de l'Outaouais – Hull, QC
- Cégep de Maisonneuve – Montréal, QC
- Cégep de Matane – Matane, QC
- Cégep de Rimouski – Rimouski, QC
- Cégep de Rivière-du-Loup – Rivière-du-Loup, QC
- Cégep de Rosemont – Montréal, QC
- Cégep de Sainte-Foy – Sainte-Foy, QC
- Cégep de Saint-Jérôme – Saint-Jerome, QC
- Cégep de Saint-Laurent – St-Laurent, QC
- Cégep de Sept-Îles – Sept-Îles, QC
- Cégep de Sherbrooke – Sherbrooke, QC
- Cégep de Sorel-Tracy – Sorel, QC
- Cégep de St-Félicien – Saint-Félicien, QC
- Cégep de St-Hyacinthe – Saint-Hyacinthe, QC
- Cégep de Thetford – Thetford Mines, QC
- Cégep de Trois-Rivières – Trois-Rivières, QC
- Cégep de Valleyfield – Valleyfield, QC
- Cégep de Victoriaville – Victoriaville, QC
- Cégep du Vieux Montréal – Montréal, QC
- Cégep Édouard Montpetit – Longueuil, QC
- Cégep François-Xavier Garneau – Québec, QC
- Cégep Gérald-Godin – Saint-Geneviève, QC
- Cégep John Abbott – Saint-Anne-de-Bellevue, QC
- Cégep Limoilou – Québec City, QC
- Cégep Lionel Groulx – Ste-Thérèse, QC
- Cégep Marie-Victorin – Montréal, QC
- Cégep Montmorency – Laval, QC
- Cégep régional de Lanaudière à Joliette – Joliette, QC
- Cégep régional de Lanaudière à L'Assomption – L’Assomption, QC
- Cégep régional de Lanaudière à Terrebonne – Terrebonne, QC
- Cégep Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu – Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, QC
- Champlain Regional College - Campus Lennoxville – Sherbrooke, QC
- Champlain Regional College - Campus Saint-Lambert-Longueuil – Saint-Lambert, QC
- Champlain Regional College - Campus Saint-Lawrence – St. Lawrence, QC
- Collège d'Alma – Alma, QC
- Collège Dawson – Montréal, QC
- Collège Héritage – Hull, QC
- Collège Shawinigan – Shawinigan, QC
- Vanier College – St-Laurent, QC
- Campus Notre-Dame-de-Foy – Saint-Augustin-de-Desmaures, QC
- Collège André-Grasset (1973) inc. – Montréal, QC
- Collège Bart (1975) – Québec City, QC
- Collège Ellis – Drummondville, Longueuil, QC
- Collège Ellis, campus de Trois-Rivières – Trois-Rivières, QC
- Collège Jean-de-Brébeuf – Montréal, QC
- Collège Laflèche – Trois-Rivières, QC
- Collège LaSalle – Montréal, QC
- Collège Marianopolis – Montréal, QC
- Collège Mérici – Québec City, QC
- Collège O'Sullivan de Montréal inc. – Montréal, QC
- Collège O'Sullivan de Québec inc. – Québec City, QC
- Collège Universel - Campus Gatineau – Gatineau, QC
- Collégial international Sainte-Anne – Montréal, QC
Universities
- Bishop’s University – Sherbrooke, QC
- Concordia University – Montréal, QC
- Université Laval – Québec City, QC
- Université de Montreal – Montréal, QC
- Université McGill – Montréal, QC
- Université du Québec a Montréal (UQAM) – Montréal, QC
- Université du Québec à Chicoutimi – Chicoutimi, QC
A note on tuition: Unlike primary and secondary-level education which can be accessed for free, virtually all post-secondary programs in Canada charge tuition fees (aside from CEGEP). Costs vary widely by institution and field of study. However, there are many funding options in place to make it easier for Canadians to access post-secondary education. See the post-secondary education funding Toolkit.
A note on your experience: If there’s information you read in this Toolkit that isn’t reflective of a personal experience you’ve had, please reach out to us so we can update the Toolkit. Similarly, please let us know if a program or school is missing from the list above. Information is always changing, and publicly available information is not always reflective of on-the-ground realities. We want to hear from you.
The following contains information on post-secondary education programs or resources that may support individuals with ASD/ID in Saskatchewan.
Government ministry: In Saskatchewan, the provincial government’s Ministry of Advanced Education is responsible for oversight of the post-secondary education sector. For more general information about post-secondary education in the province, please visit this link.
Specific programs for ASD/ID: In Saskatchewan, there are two specific programs for students with ASD/ID: one at the University of Regina, and the other at Saskatchewan Polytechnic University.
University of Regina – Regina, SK
The University of Regina offers a program called Campus For All (CFA), in conjunction with the Regina and District Association for Community Living and People First of Regina.
This is a program for adults with ID aged 18 years or older.
This four-year program is meant to support an authentic student experience and the positive possibilities of life-long inclusion. CFA is a good fit for students who want to be included, want to develop connections with classmates, like to learn, and want to study something offered at the University of Regina.
Students supported by Campus For All:
- Are fully engaged in class learning experiences
- Belong to their classes
- Pursue a coherent course of study
- Benefit from and contribute to campus life.
Campus for All students have access to the campus facilities and services, participate in campus activities, and can receive literacy tutoring from non-disabled classmates. Campus for All students do what’s called ‘auditing classes’. This means they attend classes, but do not receive grades or a degree for these classes.
Students follow the same curriculum as their classmates, but unlike regular auditing students, they complete modified readings, coursework and assignments. Even though students do assignments, they do not receive credit or marks. Instructors will generally provide some feedback and comments to the students on their work.
Information on eligibility for Campus for All can be foundhere, and application information can be foundhere.
Saskatchewan Polytechnic University - Regina, SK
Saskatchewan Polytechnic University offers employment readiness training for adults with unique needs, including ASD and/or ID.
Through the Employment Readiness program, a student will enjoy one-on-one support and small group learning. The university collaborates with local businesses and industries to give students learning and work placements.
This employment readiness program helps students identify current skills and build new abilities through classroom and work placements. The focus is on employment skills evaluation and training, including resume and portfolio development, computer and job search skills, certificates and training in:
- First Aid/CPR Level C
- WHMIS
- FoodSafe Handling
For more information, check out the website.
Other institutions – accessibility departments: In addition to the programs above, the following links will take you to the disability/accessibility departments of all the post-secondary institutions in Saskatchewan. We encourage you to read the details each one has on their website, and to reach out to them directly for further information.
- Campion College – Regina, SK
- Carlton Trail College – Humboldt, Southey, Watrous and Wynyard, SK
- Cumberland College – Nipawin, Melfort, Tisdale and Hudson Bay, SK
- Luther College – Regina, SK
- North West College – Battlefords and Meadow Lake, SK
- Parkland College – Canora, Esterhazy, Fort Qu'Appelle, Melville and Yorkton, SK
- Saskatchewan Polytechnic – Moose Jaw, Prince Albert, Regina, Saskatoon, SK
- Southeast College – Assiniboia, Estevan, Indian Head, Moosomin, Weyburn and Whitewood, SK
- St. Thomas More College – Saskatoon, SK
- The First Nations University of Canada – Regina, Prince Albert, Saskatoon, SK
- University of Regina – Regina, SK
- University of Saskatchewan – Saskatoon, SK
A note on tuition: Unlike K-12 education which can be accessed for free, virtually all post-secondary programs in Canada charge tuition fees. Costs vary widely by institution and field of study. However, there are many funding options in place to make it easier for Canadians to access post-secondary education. See the post-secondary education funding Toolkit.
A note on your experience: If there’s information you read in this Toolkit that isn’t reflective of a personal experience you’ve had, please reach out to us so we can update the Toolkit. Similarly, please let us know if a program or school is missing from the list above. Information is always changing, and publicly available information is not always reflective of on-the-ground realities. We want to hear from you.
The following contains information on post-secondary education programs or resources that may support individuals with ASD/ID in the Yukon.
Government ministry: In the Yukon, the territorial government’s Department of Education has an Advanced Education Branch which is responsible for oversight of the post-secondary sector.
Programming specific to ASD/ID: There is no post-secondary programming specific to ASD/ID in the Yukon Territory. However, Yukon University (below) offers support services to students with learning difficulties.
Yukon University is the only post-secondary institution in the Yukon, and is the only university in Canada’s North. Yukon University offers a variety of academic and vocational programming, including part-time continuing studies courses, certificate, diploma, and degree courses, and career/job readiness programs.
The University has 13 campuses located throughout the Territory: Faro Campus, Whitehorse Correctional Centre Campus, Teslin Campus, Watson Lake Campus, Mayo Campus, Ross River Campus, Pelly Crossing Campus, Carmacks Campus, Haines Junction Campus, Carcross Campus, Old Crow Campus, Ayamdigut Campus (in Whitehorse), and Dawson City Community Campus.
Disability Assistance: Yukon University’s Learning Assistance Centre offers a range of services to students with disabilities or medical conditions.
The Learning Assistance Center offers a range of services to help a student develop the personal learning and study habits needed to meet the academic challenges faced during one’s studies. It has employees called Learning Strategists, who help provide study tips and strategies to support academic success for students. Learning Strategists can provide individualized or small group coaching.
Learning Strategists can help a student with:
- Creating a time budget and personalized assignment calculator.
- Finding a note-taking template that fits one’s style.
- Reading textbooks more effectively.
- Learning and applying techniques to reduce test anxiety.
- Developing a customized study schedule.
- Learning to study for different types of exams.
- Applying a “post-test analysis” technique to improve performance on future tests.
A note on tuition: Unlike K-12 education which can be accessed for free, virtually all post-secondary programs in Canada charge tuition fees. Costs vary widely by institution and field of study. However, there are many funding options in place to make it easier for Canadians to access post-secondary education. See the post-secondary education funding Toolkit.
A note on your experience: If there’s information you read in this Toolkit that isn’t reflective of a personal experience you’ve had, please reach out to us so we can update the Toolkit. Similarly, please let us know if a program or school is missing from the list above. Information is always changing, and publicly available information is not always reflective of on-the-ground realities. We want to hear from you.
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