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Student Accessibility Services

Spectrum Program

About the Spectrum Program

Thank you for your interest in the Spectrum Program at Clemson University. The Spectrum Program provides individualized services beyond standard accommodations for students diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The Spectrum Program is committed to helping students build connections through their college experience that will assist them in achieving academic, social, and career and professional development success.

The Spectrum Program at Clemson University seeks to support students and foster growth and independence in the following areas:

  • Academic Skills and Resilience
  • Personal and Interpersonal Skills
  • Career and Professional Development Skills
  • Independent Living and Social Skills

To be considered for Fall 2025 admission please use our online form.
If you would prefer a paper application or if you have any additional questions, please contact tbeeson@clemson.edu.

Application Form
Online Recommendation Form

Frequently Asked Questions

*Important note: The Spectrum Program is housed under the umbrella of the Student Accessibility Services office. For more information, please contact:

Tom Beeson
Spectrum Program Coordinator
tbeeson@clemson.edu

  • What is the application process?
    • Interested students must apply to the Spectrum Program through the application form. In addition, selected applicants will be invited to interview by the program’s committee. Students will be accepted to the program based on acceptance through Clemson University. If the student is not accepted to Clemson University, then the student will not be accepted to the Spectrum Program. Please note: acceptance into Clemson University does not guarantee acceptance into the Spectrum Program.

    To be considered for admission into the Spectrum Program, the following must be submitted:

    • Application form for the Spectrum Program
    • Current and comprehensive documentation of a disability (related to ASD) according to established documentation guidelines (https://www.clemson.edu/academics/studentaccess/guidelines.html)
    • Copy of transcripts from high school and former college, if applicable. Unofficial and/or official transcripts will be accepted.
    • Copy of most recent Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan, if applicable.
    • At least two (2) completed recommendation forms from someone who has worked with the student in an academic setting. The applicant should submit these forms in a sealed envelope, or the recommendation form can be mailed or emailed directly from the recommender.

    Please send the completed application packet to tbeeson@clemson.edu or send by mail to:

    Student Accessibility Services
    Attn: Tom Beeson
    Class of ’56 Academic Success Center
    836 McMillan Road, Suite 239
    Clemson, SC 29634

  • Who can apply for the program?

    Applicants to the program must apply and be admitted to Clemson University; we recommend that prospective students submit their program application at the same time as their Clemson application. Documentation of an autism spectrum disorder or related diagnosis is required.

  • When is the application due?

    Application review for the 2025-26 Academic Year will begin in December 2024 and will continue until all program slots are filled. Students should submit their application materials as early as possible to ensure that they are considered for admission.

  • How much does the program cost?

    CUSP fees are $3000 per semester; this is in addition to Clemson’s standard in-state or out-of-state tuition and fees. Students who have open cases with Vocational Rehabilitation should speak to their counselor about possible financial assistance.

  • When does the Spectrum Program start?

    Please get in touch with Tom Beeson, , about the summer start date.

    For more information about summer housing and move in and move out dates, please visit: https://housing.clemson.edu/summer-session-housing/
    Note: The summer commitment is for the first year only.

  • How many students are accepted into a program each year?

    The number of accepted students into the Spectrum Program is determined by the program’s committee for each academic year.

  • Do students in the Spectrum Program automatically receive special housing accommodations?

    Students in the Spectrum Program who require housing accommodations can request these through Student Accessibility Services.

  • What is the difference between Student Accessibility Services and the Spectrum Program?

    Student Accessibility Services provides equal access to the campus community, such as reasonable accommodations to students, faculty, and staff as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

    The Spectrum Program provides more intensive support services in other areas where a student might have challenges, such as executive functioning, social skills, communicating with others on campus, etc.