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How do I apply to be a member of the FOCUS program?
To be eligible for the FOCUS program, students must first meet the admissions requirements of Ursuline College and be accepted to Ursuline College. Once admitted to Ursuline College, students should contact the Disability Specialist to apply.
Is FOCUS available during the summer?
FOCUS Stage 4 is available during the summer semesters. Schedules will be based on the student’s needs. Please contact the Disability Specialist to get more information.
What is required to be in the FOCUS program?
Students must have a diagnosed disability and provide up-to-date appropriate documentation stating the disability.
Is there a fee to participate in the FOCUS program?
The fee for the FOCUS program varies depending on the phase that a student enrolls in. FOCUS Stage 1 is $760 per semester, FOCUS Stage 2 is $1450 per semester, FOCUS Stage 3 is $2000 per semester, and FOCUS Stage 4 is $400 per semester.
Do FOCUS students take the same classes that other students take?
Yes, students enrolled in the FOCUS program must take the same classes and meet the same expectations as any other student at Ursuline College.
What if I haven’t been diagnosed with a learning disability but still think I need to be in FOCUS?
Only students with documented disabilities can be accepted into the program. However, students who believe they may have a disability could be evaluated to determine if they have a disability. Contact the Disability Specialist for local testing center information.
Why are there different levels in FOCUS?
The FOCUS program is structured to meet the individual student’s needs. Therefore, students choose which phase they feel will best meet their academic needs. Students are under no obligation to stay in any specific stage during their academic careers. Different stage levels provide coaching and mentoring with the Disability Specialist at a more or less intensified level. Students can fluctuate between levels at the start of the new semester.
How do I find out more about the FOCUS program?
Students and parents can find out more about the program by contacting Morgan Weber, Disability Specialist, at morgan.weber@ursuline.edu or 440.449.2046. We hope to hear from you soon!
How are testing accommodations provided?
You should discuss your specific needs for testing accommodations (e.g. extended time, separate location) with the disability specialist within the first two weeks of a semester. It is in your best interest to self-identify to professors at the beginning of the semester. Current students who need to arrange a test or quiz with URSA should click here to download and complete the URSA Test Arrangement Form.
Will I be assisted in choosing the courses I should take?
All students are assigned an Academic Advisor to assist with scheduling classes. Students can choose to disclose to their advisors that they have a disability, but are not required to do so. If a student would like assistance talking about his or her disability with his or her Academic Advisor and/or instructors, please contact the Disability Specialist.
Additionally, it is helpful for all students to be mindful of their strengths and weaknesses when planning their schedules. Students should work with their academic advisors to plan a balanced course load each semester.
Are there smaller classes for students with LD?
All students with disabilities are fully integrated within every program at Ursuline College. There are no separate classes. Academic standards are not modified.
Can I request a single room in a residence hall?
See the Resident Life portion of the Student Handbook. Priority is based upon the nature of your disability. Single room charges may be applied.
What is self-advocacy?
If you received accommodations in high school, teachers, counselors or parents sometimes made decisions and arrangements for you. At the College, it is important that you play a more active role in your own education. You may not know where to begin. You may never have needed to explain your disability or personally request accommodations or services. Fortunately, the Disability Specialist is committed to helping you learn to be an advocate for yourself in a variety of academic, work and social settings. You will be assisted in understanding your disability so that you can describe its impact on your learning to professors. The Disability Specialist may also offer suggestions about services and accommodations that are appropriate for you. Once you learn to be an advocate for yourself, you will find many people at the College who will offer support, understanding and services which can help you succeed in college.
For more information, please see the Handbook for Students with Disabilities, or contact Beth Thompson, MSSA, LSW, Director of Disability Services, at beth.thompson@ursuline.edu or 440-449-2046.