Courses
Autism Friendly
We are committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment where autistic students can thrive. ATU has been awarded Autism Friendly accreditation at our Sligo, St Angela’s, Letterkenny and Killybegs campuses, and we continue to work towards becoming an Autism Friendly Higher Education Institution (HEI) across all nine campuses.
What does it mean to be Autism Friendly?
According to AsIAm, an Autism Friendly HEI is one that is committed to:
- Supporting and understanding the needs of autistic students and staff.
- Continually making adaptations to improve accessibility.
- Building a positive culture that celebrates autism.
Read about the nine principles of an Autism Friendly HEI.
Each ATU campus has a local Autism Friendly action plan and a committee to support the implementation of the nine principles.
Disability and Learning Support Service
Students with an autism diagnosis are encouraged to register with the Disability and Learning Support Service. The service can provide information on reasonable accommodations and other supports available during your studies.
Inclusion Learning Support Tutor
Inclusion Learning Support Tutors provide specialised support for students registered with the Disability and Learning Support Service who have an autism diagnosis and/or ADHD.
Inclusion Learning Support Tutors also play a key role in developing and supporting ATU’s Autism Friendly HEI initiative.
Students have shared the following feedback about their experience with an Inclusion Learning Support Tutor:
“Thank you so much for being my advocate, for checking in on me.”
“I cannot understate the amount I appreciate the work and effort you’ve put in on my behalf, and thanks to you I’ve learned a lot about myself and overall the experience has been a greatly positive one in my life…”
“I am genuinely grateful for the support and guidance I have received, which has significantly contributed to my confidence and progress.”
ALTITUDE Charter
ATU has adopted the ALTITUDE Charter, a framework that supports Higher Education Institutions in developing a Universal Design approach to teaching, learning and institutional practice.
The ALTITUDE Charter helps us create a more accessible and inclusive environment for all learners, including autistic students.
Specialisterne Partnership
ATU has an ongoing partnership with Specialisterne, a non-profit organisation dedicated to supporting autistic and other neurodivergent students and graduates, including those with ADHD, Dyspraxia/DCD and Dyslexia.
Specialisterne offers free online support to help students prepare for work placements and employment.
To find out more about Specialisterne support, contact your local Inclusion Learning Support Tutor.
Visit the Induction page for information on tailored orientation events in September for autistic and other neurodivergent students. Here’s what some students found helpful about these sessions:
“Meeting others who are neurodivergent and not feeling alone”
“A more intimate approach and understanding of what the different officers do – very helpful”
“Having a tour around the building when it’s a little less busy, along with learning about supports available.”
Have Your Say
If you are autistic, or think you may be autistic, we’d like to hear about your experiences at ATU. Your feedback helps us improve our services and create a more inclusive environment for all students.
You can get involved by:
- Joining a local Autism Friendly committee
- Sharing feedback on services and facilities
- Participating in consultations and focus groups
Contact us
To find out more about supports, services or opportunities to get involved, contact the Disability and Learning Support Service using the details below.
Donegal campuses
Tel: 074 918 6171
disability.donegal@atu.ie
Galway and Mayo campuses
Tel: 091 742 499
disabilitysupport.galwaymayo@atu.ie
Sligo campus
Tel: 071 930 5098
disability.sligo@atu.ie
St Angelas campus
Tel: 071 917 9633
disability.stangelas@atu.ie