A comprehensive survey of current and former college students with autism spectrum disorders.
BACKGROUND
There is a paucity of research concerning individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) pursuing higher education.


METHODS
This study sought to augment this gap in the literature by surveying individuals with ASD who are currently college students or who have previously attended college.


RESULTS
Thirty-five individuals completed an online survey. These individuals reported receiving extensive academic supports that enabled their academic success. Their reported difficulties in the social and emotional domains received less support. In addition, not all areas of campus life were supportive, as study abroad and career service offices were reported to not understand individuals with ASD.


CONCLUSIONS
Overall, the results of this survey indicate the importance of self-advocacy and the need for institutions of higher education to provide comprehensive supports for individuals with ASD in the academic, social, and emotional domains in order to effectively integrate this group into the campus environment.
University of Connecticut Health Center, Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, Farmington, Connecticut.
Nicholas W
NW
Gelbar
University of Connecticut Health Center, Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, Farmington, Connecticut.
Allison
A
Shefyck
University of Connecticut Health Center, Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, Farmington, Connecticut ; University of Florida, Gainsville, Florida.
Brian
B
Reichow
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001007:Anxiety / Q000523:psychology; D000067877:Autism Spectrum Disorder / Q000453:epidemiology*; D003710:Demography; D003863:Depression / Q000523:psychology; D004185:Disability Evaluation; D004192:Discrimination, Psychological; D004522:Educational Status; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010549:Personal Satisfaction; D013334:Students / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014495:Universities; D000078329:Workforce; D055815:Young Adult
autism; higher education; university students