Compass Program

Compass is a transformative 4-year inclusive post-secondary education program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). It empowers students to achieve their academic, career, and personal goals through a supportive, person-centered approach. By focusing on their unique strengths, Compass nurtures leadership, independence, and self-advocacy through engaging coursework, active campus involvement, and comprehensive career exploration, equipping students with the skills they need for a fulfilling future.

Application and Program Requirements

• Must qualify for the program through documented diagnosis of an intellectual and/or developmental disability (IDD)
• Must be at least 18 years old
• Hold a high school diploma or equivalent and have received services under IDEA (e.g., IEP or 504 plan)
• Demonstrate self-determination and a desire to attend higher education with an expressed interest in a general course of study
• Demonstrate independence in adaptive behavioral skills, safe navigation, and socially responsible behavior that could impact impact academic performance
• Reside in the Pittsburgh metropolitan area with reliable transportation to campus
• Complete and submit the admissions application, high school transcripts, reference letters, and resume; participate in an on-campus interview
• Utilize Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) or Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) funding or waivers, Federal Financial Aid, or scholarships and other aid to cover tuition and program costs