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
Program Information
Compass is a transformative 4-year inclusive post-secondary education program tailored for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
Degree
Certificate
Duration
4-years
Required Credit Hours
48 credits for certificate
The DUQ Days Open House provides an opportunity for you to discover all the ways you
can excel at Duquesne and learn more about the community that will cheer you on along
the way. At Duquesne, it's our responsibility and joy to help students discover what they are
good at and accomplish their goals. We support this by doing our best to provide as
much financial aid as possible to students who apply. For more information on the Compass Program, please reach out to Dr. Pustorino-ClevengerYou're invited - join us for our next Open House on Oct. 26!
Program Costs and Financial Resources
Important Contact Info
Â鶹ֱ²¥ Financial Aid Office
email: faoffice@duq.edu
phone: (412) 396-6607
External ResourcesInclusive Education
Contact Us
Alia Pustorino-Clevenger, Ed.D