Autism Resources for Career and Higher Education
Loras College’s ARCH program is a four-year program designed to help students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) thrive emotionally, academically, and socially. Students admitted into the ARCH program will work directly with Loras College Lynch Learning Center staff members designated as Certified Autism Specialists and will hone skills ranging from self-advocacy and organization to stress management and socialization in addition to earning their bachelor’s degree.
The Lynch Learning Center has provided a focused program for students with Learning Disabilities and Attention Deficit Disorder for nearly 30 years. We also have dedicated and experienced staff ready to offer programming specific to students with Autism Spectrum Disorder.”
– Lynn L. Gallagher, Ed.D., CAS, AES (she/her/hers)Director-Lynch Learning Center
Students enrolled in the program attend an individual weekly meeting with an Academic Counselor to help students stay on track academically and attend a small group meeting with a Loras College Mental Health Counselor. First year students in the program work with their Academic Counselor to create an individualized college success plan as well as attend a Transitions to College class in the fall semester and Characteristic of ASD course in the Spring semester. Specialized one credit career building and strategies classes are offered during students’ sophomore, junior and senior years. Job shadowing, career fairs, internships and one-on-one résumé and cover letter counseling are incorporated within the career strategies component.
A mentorship component, peer tutors (as needed), structured social activities, option of a single room, and access to the Lynch Learning Center’s sensory room are included in the program. The Lynch Learning Center also offers students to participate in a five-day transition program (Discovery Week) in August before classes begin. The Discover Week experience overall helps students acclimate to campus and allows them to move into campus housing prior to first-year orientation.
A fee is charged for the ARCH program. Contact the Loras College Financial Planning Office for the current fee and scholarship opportunities. Students interested in the program must first apply for general admission and accepted to Loras College, then apply to the Lynch Learning Center using the button below.