WIPSE | Westfield State University

Inclusive Higher Education. Self-Determined Futures.

The Westfield Inclusive Postsecondary Education (WIPSE) program is an inclusive college experience at Westfield State University for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Through meaningful participation in university life, students build the academic, career, independent living, social, and self-advocacy skills needed to achieve greater independence, meaningful employment, and active community participation.

WIPSE is part of the Massachusetts Inclusive Postsecondary Education (MAIPSE) initiative, a statewide network of inclusive college programs established through Massachusetts legislation and overseen by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education (DHE). MAIPSE expands access to higher education for students ages 18 and older with severe intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, and other developmental disabilities by creating authentic college experiences that prepare students for adult life.

At WIPSE, students are fully engaged members of the Westfield State University community. Although students are not degree seeking, they enroll in college courses alongside their peers, participate in campus organizations and events, develop employment skills through internships and career experiences, strengthen independent living skills, and build lasting social connections. Students may participate as part of their school district transition services, adult service supports, or through other individualized planning processes.

By the Numbers:

Over 120 students with ID/D participated since 2013
An average of 18 students with ID/D per semester

Why Inclusive Higher Education?

More than 420,000 school-age children have an intellectual disability, yet fewer than 2% attend college. Students with intellectual disabilities have the desire and ability to succeed in higher education when given the opportunity.

Students with intellectual disability who attend college are far more likely to obtain competitive employment, earn higher wages, and live more independently than those who do not have access to inclusive higher education.
Employment outcomes for graduates of inclusive college programs are up to three times higher than for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities nationally.
Inclusive higher education isn't simply about access to college, it's a proven pathway to employment, independence, community inclusion, and a higher quality of life.