315.443.​4058 taishoffcenter@syr.edu 300 Huntington Hall, Syracuse NY 13244

Transition Program

InclusiveU provides a specialized transition program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Costs are based on your path of entry into InclusiveU. No matter how you join us, InclusiveU allows you to participate in campus life, internships, social activities, and a college certificate with an individualized curriculum according to your interests.

Academics and Career Readiness

Transition-Specific Planning Process

Every student receives direct instruction and support in our Person-Centered Planning Process. Students receive advising that mirrors typical college advising.

Inclusive Coursework

InclusiveU students take between 1 to 3 Syracuse University classes per semester. Students who complete the Transition Program receive a non-credit certificate attesting to campus-based learning and career development experience, making the certificate meaningful to potential employers. Upon program completion, InclusiveU students participate in graduation ceremonies with the School of Education. Visit our Academics page to learn more about taking classes at Syracuse University.

InclusiveU funds all necessary books and materials. All InclusiveU students have access to campus technology and the Center for Disability Resources for accommodations.

Extended Learning Opportunities

Students have the opportunity to connect and collaborate with other Syracuse University students based on interests and hobbies. Previous have topics have included advocacy, team building, safety, technology, communication skills, health and wellness, sports, arts and volunteerism.

Integrated Employment Preparation

In their final year of InclusiveU, seniors participate in the job-readiness program, completing two semester-long internships. Students learn pre-employment skills through daily coursework such as writing a resumé, job-hunting, collaborating with colleagues, and interview skills.

Campus and Social Experience

Social Support

InclusiveU provides social opportunities and facilitates community through Peer2Peer, a program that brings together traditionally enrolled students and students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Students are fully included in on-campus events and activities. InclusiveU students have access to all parts of campus, including fitness and recreation centers. The transition fee covers access to campus clubs, organizations, activities, and special events. InclusiveU students also have access to free or discounted special events much like any other college student, such as sporting events, festivals, and recreational activities.

Self-Determination Skill Development

InclusiveU students have the opportunity to learn about a variety of self-management and adaptive skills such as locating information, listening, teamwork, and applied technology. Students receive instruction in self-advocacy skills and opportunities to work with other students and community members on self-advocacy efforts. Students receive instruction on self-determination skills that will help them transition to more independent lives in the community after graduation.

Transition Support for Individuals and Families

We as a team in conjunction with students and families throughout each students’ time at Syracuse University. Advisors work with an individual’s community support providers (Care Manager, Broker, FI, Community Habilitation, etc.) to maximize transition success.

Mentor Support

  • Peer2Peer: Social, recreational, and personal skills support is available through Peer2Peer, a voluntary program that matches matriculated Syracuse University students with non-matriculated InclusiveU students.
  • Campus Support: The Taishoff Center is able to coordinate mentoring and assistance during class and throughout campus. Here are some popular options:
    • InclusiveU Student Support Assistants: This is an additional service provided directly through InclusiveU. We hire, train, and manage a team of Syracuse University students and professional staff to provide support for our students. More details on associated costs can be found on our Cost & Aid page.
    • If you are a student utilizing an NYS Self-Direction budget, you can also hire a mentor through our community partners, the Kelberman Center and Springbrook. Both agencies hire Syracuse University students as campus mentors.
    • Other students prefer to bring their own support through campus. This might be a current Community Habilitation worker or a family friend. If you are considering this option, please let us know.
    • Please reach out to Academic Coordinator Sam Roux if you have questions or to further discuss your options.
  • Residential Mentors: InclusiveU students who live on campus are eligible for our Residential Mentor service. Residential Mentors (RMs) are Syracuse University students who are hired to be roommates or neighbors of InclusiveU students and act as a specialized peer support. RM’s help students organize their daily schedule, attend social activities and assist in maintaining a safe living environment.

Our students use a combination of mentor support options according to their support needs and schedule, we will work with you to select the best fit. All mentors are provided a training by InclusiveU staff and are expected to follow the guidelines of the University and InclusiveU.