Postsecondary education for students with intellectual disabilities: An emerging practice area for occupational therapy practitioners

Occupational therapy resources and interventions predominantly focus on the transition to postsecondary activities, for which occupational therapy scope of practice has been well-established to support transition. After the transition, however, individualized education programs, 504 Plans, and school-based services cease. The question arises, how do occupational therapy practitioners support students with intellectual disabilities (ID) in postsecondary education (PSE) activities? This article will discuss the history of PSE for students with ID, postsecondary options, and occupational therapy’s role in supporting PSE goals. It will include one sample program profile and three case examples of students who transitioned to PSE.

Duke Scholars

Author Emily Kertcher Orthopaedic Surgery, Occupational Therapy