Top 11 Higher Education Institutions Offering Support for Executive Function Skills
For neurodivergent students facing executive function challenges, finding the right college or university can be a daunting task. However, several top institutions in the United States are stepping up to offer comprehensive support programs that cater to these students' unique needs.
These programs, found in colleges such as Washington University in St. Louis (WashU) and those collaborating with the Center for Neurodiversity, offer a range of tailored services. These services include academic coaching, executive function skill development, personalized accommodations, and more.
Key Features of Effective Programs
When evaluating these programs, there are several key features to look for:
- Individualized Support: Personalized academic coaching and executive function strategy training tailored to students’ unique cognitive profiles.
- Comprehensive Assessment: Use of thorough neuropsychological evaluations and psychoeducational assessments to inform programming.
- Strength-Based Frameworks: Approaches that leverage student strengths and promote self-advocacy and social-emotional development.
- Faculty Training: Programs that include professional development on neurodiversity awareness and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles to create inclusive classrooms.
- Life Skills and Transition Planning: Support for independent living, self-determination, and career readiness integrated with academic goals.
- Community and Family Engagement: Workshops and resources that empower families and build understanding around neurodivergence.
Shining Examples
WashU, for instance, provides dedicated career engagement and personalized coaching for neurodiverse students. Meanwhile, the Franklin Academy’s Center for Neurodiversity, while focused on secondary education, is influential in shaping higher education approaches to neurodivergent support and readiness.
These programs go beyond merely offering accommodations; they teach students how to build executive function skills in a supportive, structured environment. They are designed to empower students, fostering independence rather than creating long-term dependency.
Finding the Right Fit
While the search results do not list a ranked top 10 college list, WashU and institutions collaborating with the Center for Neurodiversity illustrate strong support models. When considering a program, it's important to verify if it offers resources like executive function coaching, accessible career services, accommodations coordination, peer mentorship, and holistic planning for post-graduation success.
By asking the right questions, exploring programs thoughtfully, and focusing on fit over prestige, families and educators can help students find a school that not only accepts them but empowers them.
Sources:
- Center for Neurodiversity at Franklin Academy: focus on college readiness and executive function support curriculum design [1]
- WashU Center for Career Engagement: personalized coaching and career resources for neurodivergent students [5]
- Universal Design for Learning and faculty training programs (e.g., CSU Fullerton) boosting accessible instruction [3]
(More sources available upon request)
This article aims to provide a starting point for families and educators seeking to support neurodivergent students in their college search. By understanding the key features of effective programs and exploring the examples provided, you can help ensure a successful college experience for neurodivergent students.
- Effective college programs for neurodivergent students should offer individualized support in the form of personalized academic coaching and executive function strategy training.
- To be considered effective, college programs for neurodivergent students should also provide comprehensive assessment through thorough neuropsychological evaluations and psychoeducational assessments.
- In addition to academic support, these programs should focus on life skills and personal development, offering resources for independent living, self-determination, and career readiness.
