College Navigator
Our College Navigator program helps students build skills beyond the college classroom and into their communities to prepare them to reach their educational and employment goals.
Overview
Easterseals College Navigator program provides individualized services to college students with disabilities based on their goals, strengths, and needs.
Our Navigators assist students in identifying barriers, advocating for each student's needs, and accessing college services and resources to successfully reach graduation. Services are delivered in person, virtually, or blended to meet the student’s needs.
College Navigator can help by:
- Providing information to students and their families about what to expect as college students, including their rights and the kinds of resources and supports that might be available to them
- Connecting students to on- and off-campus resources and helping them develop their communication and self-advocacy skills
- Helping students to develop time-management and planning skills that they will need to be successful in college and in employment
- Assisting students with accessing online databases such as Blackboard, Moodle, etc.
- Supporting students with getting appropriate accommodations
- Teaching students new ways to be social: connecting with friends, writing emails/ discussion boards, interacting with peers/ professors
- Facilitating the student's need to be more self-directed
All services are customized based on the student's individual goals and tailored to their strengths to help them build lifelong skills. We can meet in person, depending on geographic location, offer virtual services to students anywhere, or design a hybrid support plan incorporating both types of meetings.
Our Programs
Explore eligibility and funding options below:
-
Department of Developmental Services
Students who receive services from the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) may be eligible for College Navigator services. Please read the eligibility requirements and how to get started. -
Grant Funding at Partnering Community Colleges
Students with disabilities at partnering community colleges can access grant‑funded College Navigator services. -
Private Pay
Easterseals can contract directly with a family, student, or organization to provide College Navigator services.
Our Stories
More than 1,500 students have participated in College Navigator since the program began in 2018. In 2025, ESMA helped 31 students graduate, and 90% of our students remained enrolled while receiving College Navigation support. Read the stories of students who achieved their goals and built independence through the College Navigator program.
-
John Finds College Success with Easterseals Support
Easterseals supported John with assistive technology, helping him regain independence, improve mobility, and manage daily life more safely. -
Nicole’s Inspiring Journey Living and Learning Independently
Nicole was introduced to Easterseals AT through her DDS case manager. Victoria identified her needs, shared devices, and inspired hope for independence and college. -
Easterseals Helps Adam Navigate College and Pursue His Musical Dreams
Adam thrives at Berklee College of Music with Easterseals’ College Navigator, gaining independence, self-advocacy skills, and support for college success. -
Holly Finds Confidence and Independence Through College Navigation
Holly finds support, guidance, and confidence through the College Navigator Program, helping her succeed academically, pursue art, and advocate for others.
Resources
Discover helpful information, FAQs, and guidance on services and supports for people with disabilities
-
Frequently Asked QuestionsCollege Navigator FAQ
Easterseals’ College Navigator program offers personalized support for college students with disabilities, helping them reach their goals with confidence. -
The Bridge CenterEasterseals Massachusetts & DDS Self-Directed Services for Therapeutic Care
Easterseals Massachusetts partners with the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS) to deliver personalized Therapeutic Services through the Self-Directed Services program. From Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy to innovative approaches like hippotherapy, we help individuals and families design flexible, goal-driven plans that fit their unique needs.
Other Areas of Support
Join Our Newsletter
Get exciting news, helpful resources, & inspiring stories on ESMA and The Bridge Center delivered to your inbox each month.