Welcome to our University Resources for Neurodivergent Students and SCSU Community Members!
As a student-centered institution, we believe that every student deserves the support and tools to succeed. At Southern, we are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all students, including those who are neurodivergent, feel valued and empowered to thrive. We're continuing to develop resources and programs to support a neuroinclusive campus.
Explore the programs and services below that are designed to help you navigate your academic journey with confidence and success.
Student Resources:
- Center of Excellence on Autism Spectrum Disorders
- Science of Autism series
- Routine Traffic Stop Practice (Open to the community)
- Autism Appreciation Month (April)
- Center for Academic Success and Accessibility Services
- Registering & Intake
- Residential/Housing Accommodations
- Center for Educational and Assistive Technology (CEAT)
- Sensory Space and Zen Den
- Student organization Neurodiversity Club
- Identity and Career Resources from the Office of Career and Professional Development
- Buley Library: Library Guide on Neurodiversity and the Library
- First-Year Student Orientation: Lo-Fi Orientation Experience is a lower-sensory, more relaxed experience designed to reduce overstimulation. The Lo-Fi Orientation Experience runs concurrently throughout the two-day orientation session and is not a separate program. The concept is inspired by lo-fi music, known for its calming, retro sound and steady, downtempo rhythm. The Lo-Fi Orientation Experience creates a calm, inclusive environment through smaller groups, softer visuals and sounds, and a more focused pace. Students receive the same information and overall experience that meets different needs and expectations.
Academic Programs:
- Hamden Transition Academy: School link and recent article
- Department of Inclusive Education and Behavior Science Programs
- Minor in Adapted Physical Activity and Sport
- Adapted Physical and Health Education, Graduate Certificate
- Critical Disability Studies Minor
- Institute for Adapted Sports and Recreation
- Assistive Technology, Graduate Certificate
- Department of Speech, Language, Hearing Sciences (SLH) Undergraduate and Graduate Programs (updated department change effective August 2026)
- Music Therapy, BS
Employee Resources:
- Faculty/Staff Neurodiversity Group: The Faculty/Staff Neurodiversity Group is a safe space and community connection for those who are neurodivergent (autism spectrum, ADHD, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, dyslexia, dyspraxia, OCD, sensory processing disorders, Tourette syndrome, and more) and anyone wanting to discuss neurodiversity-related topics, such as navigating the sensory terrain of campus events and classrooms. This employee group was formed in April 2023. The group meets monthly virtually and has a Teams group.
- Workplace accommodations for employees should be directed to the Office of Diversity and Equity programs. Visit this link for policies and procedures.
Other notes:
- The University tests the siren/public address system and emails a campus announcement along with a statement on sound sensitivity, which began in Spring 2025. For those experiencing sound sensitivity, the Buley Library check-out desk has headphones and earplugs.
Southern News
- A Connecticut professor is adapting toys so children with disabilities can play (12/24/25)
- SCSU and Chapel Haven Team Up for Inclusive Tech Training (8/4/25) and Video clip from WTNH News8
- Together in Triumph: Southern Celebrates the Class of 2025 (5/23/25)
- In Praise of Perseverance (3/5/25)
- Sleep Smart, Study Hard (3/4/24)
- Disability Rights Activist Remembered (4/27/23)
- Creating Inclusive Community in the Performing Arts (11/29/23)
- All-Veterans League Brings Wheelchair Basketball to Southern (11/12/22)
- Wheelchair Basketball Camp Brings Young Athletes to Campus (7/20/22)
- National Disability Film Festival Comes to Southern (3/6/18)