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Inclusive Higher Education Solutions (IHES) expands access to meaningful college experiences by advancing academic and community inclusion for all students at ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï. Housed within the School of Education’s Office of Education Solutions, IHES operates as a self-funded social enterprise committed to student success, belonging, and equitable participation for both neurodivergent and neurotypical learners.
IHES offers individualized, strength-based supports that promote academic success, independence, social connection, and preparation for fulfilling careers and engaged community lives. Guided by the belief that motivation, not exclusion, should define access to higher education, IHES provides inclusive coursework, coaching, career development, and supported campus engagement opportunities.
IHES serves all ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï students through a range of supports, including for-credit elective courses such as:
In addition, IHES offers private executive function coaching for students seeking to strengthen study skills, organization, time management, and effective learning strategies.
For motivated students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), IHES offers Inclusive Support Services (ISS), a comprehensive, fully inclusive program that enables students to pursue postsecondary education alongside their peers. ISS students enroll as ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï students and receive individualized academic modifications and support while participating fully in campus life.
Through four pillars – academics, social engagement, career development, and independent living – ISS students work toward the ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï Inclusive Higher Education Certificate, gain real-world work experience, and build self-advocacy and life skills.
The benefits of inclusive higher education for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities are well established. Those who participate in inclusive higher education experience better employment outcomes and enhanced independent living skills, leading to reduced reliance on government assistance. Students with IDD who finish higher education have a 67% employment rate across the country. This is much higher than the 30% rate for students who don’t have these opportunities. Additionally, students in our program report greater satisfaction with their social lives and living situations.
Together, IHES and ISS create an inclusive college pathway that empowers students to thrive at ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï and beyond.
The mission of ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï’s Inclusive Higher Education Solutions is to become the model urban university inclusive higher education support solution for diverse learners. Our goals include fostering accessibility, inclusivity, and innovation while we provide inclusive and equitable higher education opportunities for all ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï students, including our learners with intellectual disabilities.
All ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï students, including IHES supported students, will have access to academic, social, employment, and life skills education through interdisciplinary support systems on campus. IHES Inclusive Support Services expands the breadth of ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï’s inclusive supports by welcoming and including non-traditional students with intellectual and developmental disabilities and empowering all students to develop to their highest potential, govern their own lives, and participate fully and freely in the ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï community.
ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï’s Inclusive Higher Education Solutions (IHES) aims to foster both academic and community inclusion. Located within the School of Education’s Office of Education Solutions, IHES operates as a self-funded social enterprise dedicated to supporting the success and belonging of both neurodiverse and neurotypical students.
We serve all ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï students through a variety of supports. Support for all MSU students includes for-credit elective courses such as
Beyond these courses, IHES provides private executive function coaching tailored for students seeking to elevate their study habits, improve organization, and master effective learning strategies.
For motivated students with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), IHES offers Inclusive Support Services (ISS), which enables learners to continue their postsecondary education alongside their peers, fostering independence and success.
Have you ever wondered whether college might be the right next step for you? Are you curious about higher education programs that can support your unique goals and learning needs? At Inclusive Higher Education Solutions (IHES) at Metropolitan State University of Denver, we offer tailored solutions and supportive resources designed to help you explore your options and find the path that fits you best.
Why Choose College?“This program is awesome. It exceeds any expectation I ever had. I cannot believe [Student’s] level of buy-in. Thank you!” – Family member of IHES student
College is an exciting opportunity for growth and independence. It marks a critical transition from a structured environment driven by parents and teachers to a place where you are responsible for your learning journey. Every student on a college campus faces the challenge of balancing newfound freedom with added responsibilities.
You will navigate important life changes as you move from being a dependent young person to a more independent, capable adult ready to contribute to your community. The skills you develop during this time will support your independence in both your community and the workplace.
Connect with Inclusive Higher Education Solutions to discuss the accommodations, modifications, and support systems you need to achieve your goals—whether they relate to academics, organization, study skills, self-advocacy, communication, employment, or building social connections.
What is Inclusive Support Services (ISS)?“I’m so happy right now. Success to get some weather station data today. Hard work pays off. I’ve never been happier. It feels like a dream come true.” – Inclusive Support Services Meteorology Student
Metropolitan State University of Denver’s Inclusive Support Services (ISS) is an inclusive, four-year certificate program designed to provide students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) a meaningful and enriching postsecondary educational experience on a vibrant campus.
We achieve inclusion through 4 pillars of support:
Academics
Social engagement
Career development
Independent living
ISS offers a wide range of supports and resources, including student mentors, study halls, and supported access to the same ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï support services, campus activities, social events, and student clubs as all students. These supports aim not only to assist students in achieving academic success but also to promote personal development and establish social bonds.
Through involvement in various events and activities, students have the opportunity to develop lasting friendships and learn important life skills that will benefit them long after graduation.
The main goal of Inclusive Support Services (ISS) is to help young adults with IDD achieve successful, independent lives. This means supporting students in securing competitive, integrated employment, building vital life skills, strengthening their academic abilities, and becoming active, engaged members of their communities.
ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï’s Inclusive Support Services stand out because our students take the same courses as all ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï students, not exclusive classes for those with disabilities.
ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï’s Inclusive Support Services program is designed for motivated students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Is the IHES ISS program right for you? To ensure a good fit, we require each prospective student to complete an application packet. Here are the minimal requirements for admission:
As a student supported by IHES, you will be a full-time ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï student, taking three or more credit-bearing courses each semester alongside your peers without disabilities. If you meet these requirements and are excited to join our IHES Inclusive Support Services, read on to learn about the application process.
To enroll in Inclusive Support Services, you’ll need to submit an Inclusive Support Services application, which includes personal and academic information, a writing sample, and a recommendation from a parent, teacher, and community member about your strengths and support needs. After submitting the online application, you will also need to provide your official high school transcript and documentation of your disability (your Individualized Education Program (IEP) is usually acceptable).
Once your application has been reviewed, the IHES committee will determine whether you are ready for the inclusive higher education experience and if our program can meet your needs. If selected, you’ll be invited for an interview to discuss your expectations and motivation for participating in this rewarding educational journey.
Upon acceptance to the ISS, you will receive a welcome letter and guidance through the enrollment process at ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï, including assistance with financial aid, orientation, Access Center intake, initial student-centered planning, and course registration.
The benefits of inclusive higher education for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are significant and well documented. Students who participate in inclusive college programs are more likely to secure meaningful employment and develop stronger independent living skills, reducing their reliance on government assistance over time. Nationally, students with IDD who complete a higher education program have an employment rate of 67%, compared to just 30% for those who do not have access to these opportunities.
Students in our program also report greater satisfaction with their social lives, reflecting the value of being part of a vibrant college community.
The anticipated outcomes for students participating in ISS are:
Throughout the program, students receive individualized support in academics, employment preparation, social connections, and community participation. This includes guidance from student mentors, advisors, and the Inclusive Higher Education Solutions team. As students move through the program, they are gradually encouraged to take on more responsibility and independence at a pace that feels supportive and appropriate. Families often see this growing independence extend beyond campus—into daily life, work experiences, and increased confidence in the community.
As an ISS student, you are expected to:
Walk at the ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï graduation ceremony!
We’d love for you to explore ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï! While Inclusive Higher Education Solutions doesn’t offer individual campus tours, you can visit anytime by making a reservation. If you’d like to connect with us during your visit, feel free to reach out to IHES to arrange a time to meet. We’re excited to help you discover all that ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï has to offer!
Use our convenient contact form to get in touch.
Email
[email protected]
Phone
303-605-7971
Campus Location
West Classroom Building, Suite 160
Mailing Address
Campus Box 21
P.O. Box 173362
Denver, CO 80217-3362