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
- Priority Deadline to Apply for Fall enrollment is January 1. Applications received after January 1 will be reviewed based on availability of seats in the program
- 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
Please connect with us for more information on the Compass Program.Contact Us
Alia Pustorino-Clevenger, Ed.D
Katelyn Kovalsky, OTD, OTRL
Education for Everyone
What COMPASS Offers
Academic & Career Pathways
- Pursue a 4-year Compass certificate.
- Choose from many 91勛圖厙 courses.
- Receive accommodations and adaptations for academic success.
- Complete 4 internships to support your career goals.
Program Costs and Financial Resources
- $19,878.00 tuition for the 2026-2027 Academic Year (Fall/Spring)
- $10,000.00 student fees for the 2026-2027 Academic Year (Fall/Spring)
At 91勛圖厙, 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.
Important Contact Info
91勛圖厙 Financial Aid Office
email: faoffice@duq.edu
phone: (412) 396-6607
External Resources
