ASTEP

Welcome to ASTEP (Advancing Students Toward Education and Employment Program)! ASTEP is an inclusive college program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). Located at Minot State University since 2010, ASTEP partners with MSU and Dakota College at Bottineau to provide the first program in North Dakota supporting young adults with I/DD to attend college. Twenty students attend annually from all over the state and neighboring states.

Academic Support: In inclusive college classes, peer mentors support students to learn and collaborate in a welcoming environment. They celebrate diversity, help students succeed academically, and personally, and promote inclusivity

Job Coaching: Job coaches guide and support students, helping them develop job-specific skills. Together with mentors and natural supports, students acquire the knowledge and tools necessary to succeed in their chosen careers and find fulfilling paid employment.

Independent Living Skills: Students will work with mentors to acquire learn essential skills for independence. Individual needs will be identified in person-centered planning meetings, guiding their focus on developing abilities for living at independently as possible.

On-Campus Living Options: Students have the choice to live in on-campus dorms alongside their peers. They can opt for a roommate or request single room accommodations based in their individual needs and preferences.

Social Skills: Students will participate in social events on campus, support by mentors who assist them in growing their social skills. Peers help our students make new friends and nurture those friendships, as well as help them find their sense of belonging within the campus community.

Wellness and Recreation: Students have access to on-campus facilities like the Wellness Center to exercise with their peers or on their own. They will also receive support to explore and cultivate their personal interests through various recreational programs.