Find answers to commonly asked questions about CIP's comprehensive programs for young adults with Autism and Learning Differences
What comprehensive services are offered at CIP?
CIP is a year-round residential program specifically for young adults on the autism spectrum or with learning differences. Student's receive individualized supports within the areas of social skills, executive functioning, college academic supports, career development, and life skills training.
What are the criteria for admissions?
All CIP students have a documented diagnosis autism (ASD), ADHD, NLD, dyslexia or other learning differences, low average to high intelligence, and the potential to live and attend college or career program independently.
The evaluation we require in support of an application should include a WISC or WAIS with subtest interpretation, either a Woodcock Johnson or WIAT, and a thorough psychological evaluation/mental status examination that clearly expresses diagnoses and indicates any emotional and/or behavioral issues of which we should be aware of in considering a young person for admission.
How long does a student usually attend?
On average, students attend CIP for two to three years. Students are required to attend for no less than 1 year. Students can transition to less supported levels of support as they gain the competencies they need to be successful.
How many students finish their degrees?
Many students leave CIP with their associate, bachelor's and occasionally a master's degree or a certificate through a specialized program in the area of their interest.
What types of internships are available?
CIP has relationships with local businesses which provide a wide selection of internships opportunities. Each student's special interest is pursued in the form of the job search process, resume development, community service, and internships with the goal of working toward paid employment.
What types of social activities are available?
In addition to the average of four to five weekend activities planned each week, weekly student council meetings, and potluck dinners occur. Students are required to take turns cooking for their apartment-mates. Individual social mentoring outings and group social skills classes are part of CIP's curriculum offerings. Regular scheduled community service activities take place and an optional annual Program for Global Engagement trip is offered when students can travel abroad with students from across CIP’s locations. CIP students form a tight-knit community and develop relationships that can last a lifetime.
What is the student to staff ratio?
The average full-time equivalent staff to student ratio is 2:1.
How much supervision is there?
CIP’s day staff is typically available from 8AM to 5PM daily. Evening life skills staff work with students during scheduled appointments from 4PM to 9PM. After 9PM, overnight on-call staff check in with students and are available for emergencies. New students have a curfew of 11PM on weeknights and 1AM on weekends during the first term.
Do students live in dorms?
The majority of students live in furnished apartments with one to three roommates. Each student has their own room and shares the common space which includes bathrooms, kitchens, living rooms, and laundry. Student apartments are at most a short walk to CIP offices and other student residences. Students share responsibilities in maintaining a clean household and create a schedule to manage cleaning and cooking duties. Students who have completed the on-campus program and met certain benchmarks can live in their own apartment or a dorm on campus and continue to receive supports through CIP’s Graduate Living Program (GLC).
What kind of therapeutic support is available?
CIP offers Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) by licensed staff clinicians. Our clinicians use CBT as a light form of therapy for “life maintenance” issues such as anxiety and depression that are common with and ASD or LD diagnosis. Other therapies are listed on our wellness page. Therapy sessions generally occur in 45 minute sessions per week (included in tuition).
Do students have to bring their own furniture?
All apartments are fully-furnished. Students bring bedding, cooking utensils and dishes, bathmats and other personal items to help make themselves at home. Most beds are twin sized with extra long beds available. A TV (in the common area) and wireless Internet access are also provided.
Do students get breaks?
CIP is a full-year program following a 43 week calendar. Regularly scheduled break times typically occur for a few weeks in between the Winter, Spring and Summer Terms. CIP offices are closed throughout the year for major holidays, staff training, and program development.
What type of financial assistance is available?
While some parents/guardians can afford to send their student to CIP, many find the costs overwhelming and/or out-of-reach. Visit our financial resources page for more information.
What is not included in tuition?
Student housing is a separate cost from tuition. Students who choose to enroll in college pay for their college classes and books separately from CIP tuition. CIP’s C-STEP career program track is an additional cost for students not attending college. Visit our tuition and fees page for more information.
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