Frequently Asked Questions

What comprehensive services are offered at CIP?

CIP is a year-round residential program which focuses on social, academic, career and life skills. Besides our in-house curriculum specifically for LD students, academic services include tutorials, counseling, academic liaison with colleges or universities, study halls and study groups.

For students taking an alternative or adjoined career pathway, we provide career counseling, employment skills class, internship/job liaison, job coaching and internship/job support groups. Also included is social mentoring, social thinking and a social transition group for students transitioning to a college dorm or job. Residentially students receive life skills support such as one-on-one cooking and cleaning instruction, food shopping and menu planning.

Staff is on-call 24-hours a day for emergencies. Each student has an advisor which supports them with banking, budgeting, weekly assessments and personal issues. Medication consultation and individual therapy with a licensed psychologist are part of CIP tuition. An average of three recreational weekend activities, yoga, art classes and an optional spring break trip are fun ways students to relax or expend some energy.

What are the criteria for admissions?

• Documented diagnosis of a Learning Difference such as Asperger's syndrome, ADHD, high-functioning autism, nonverbal learning disorder, PDD-NOS and/or dyslexia.
• Low-average to high intelligence
• Emotional, behavioral, and psychological stability
• High level of motivation to meet program goals
• Potential to live and attend college or vocational program independently
• Ages typically 18 to 26 years old

--> More information on the admissions process

How long does a student usually attend?

Students generally remain at CIP from 2 to 4 years. Students are assessed in 1 of 4 levels of support. A yearly assessment and the student's individual progress determine their level of support. When a student is ready to live off campus or in a college dorm, our continuum levels ensure that they retain the crucial supports necessary to succeed.

--> More information on Levels of Support

How many students finish their degrees?

Most students leave CIP with their A.A. degree or a certificate through a specialized program in the area of their interest. Students who do not wish to attend college particpate in our career program.

What types of internships are available?

CIP works hard to develop relationships with local businesses to provide a wide selection of internships opportunities to students. Generally, a students special interest is pursued in the form of an internship with the intention of obtaining a job. Examples of internships include computer repair technician, florists assistant and landscape designer.

What social activities are available?

An average of three weekend activities per week, weekly student senate meetings and a weekly Grill 'N' Chill potluck, social mentoring, community service and a yearly spring break trip. CIP students form a tight knit community and develop relationships that can last a lifetime.

What is the student to staff ratio?

Our average student to staff ratio is 1:1.

How much supervision is there?

We offer supervised weekend activities, health club visits, food shopping, cooking and cleaning. CIP provides 24-hour on-call staffing and overnight staff that live close by. Incoming students have a curfew of 11 pm on weeknights and 1 am on weekends for the first semester.

Do students live in dorms?

Most students live in 2-bedroom apartments with 1 roommate. Apartments are close to CIP offices and other student residences. All students pay for their utilities monthly and share cleaning and cooking responsibilities. Weekly roommate meetings are scheduled to maintain a healthy and happy living situation for all. Students in continuum levels live off campus or in a dorm.

Do students have to bring their own furniture?

All apartments are fully-furnished. Students should bring bedding, cooking utensils and dishes, bathmats and other personal items. Most beds are twin sized with extra long beds available. A TV and Internet access are also provided. TV's are not allowed in student's bedrooms.

Do students get breaks?

CIP is a year-round program. Since some students have jobs or internships that do not follow the academic calendar, they have the option of staying in their apartments during breaks, with a staff member on-call for emergencies. CIP offices are closed a few times year for major holidays and staff training and development.

What is not included in tuition?

Room + Board and apartment utilities are not included in tuition. A 1 year apartment lease is signed by the student on orientation day. Students also pay for their college classes, books and any extra vocational programs.