A certificate program at Roberts that offers inclusive academics, campus life, and career readiness for students with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities.
The ARCH Program
Redefining Higher Education for Students with Disabilities
Access, Readiness, and Choice in Higher Education
Students, this is your university.
You’ll take inclusive courses, join clubs, go to chapel, and make friends who will walk with you through it all.
With mentors and coaches by your side, you’ll grow in independence, faith, and career skills.
Who Should Apply?
Students with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD) who:
- Want an inclusive university experience
- Seek growth in academics, independence, and career readiness
- Are ready to engage with peers, classes, and campus life
- Desire a supportive, faith-informed environment
Information for Students
Get A Certificate
You'll graduate with the ARCH Certificate, showing your completion of academic, social, and career skills.
Grow in Your Faith
Be part of a Christian campus with chapel, small groups, and service projects. Explore your purpose while building friendships.
Get Financial Support
Apply for federal and state aid through FAFSA. Medicaid self-direction budgets may help, too.
Belong Everywhere
Go to classes, chapel, athletic events, clubs, and concerts with your peers. Your mentors and coaches will help you jump into campus life.
Build Your Career Skills
Take internships and learn job skills for life after university.
Be Known and Supported
Professors, staff, and mentors know you by name. You’ll always have support.
General Information
Choosing a university program for your student is a big decision. At Roberts, we want you to feel confident that your student will be supported, safe, and growing toward independence.
ARCH students have full access to Roberts’ Accessibility Services and accommodations under ADA policy.
Support
Thoughtful onboarding
We start by getting to know each student’s strengths, needs, and goals. Orientation is designed to build comfort with campus routines and support networks.
Peer mentors & academic coaches
Each student has a small team of peers and staff who offer guidance in academics, social life, and daily living skills.
Personalized Check-ins
Every student’s path is unique. We meet regularly to track progress, celebrate growth, and adjust plans.
Communication
Clear Contacts
You’ll always know who to call with questions.
Open Doors
Families are always welcome at events and encouraged to stay connected with campus life.
Transparency
We communicate clearly about services, supports, and next steps - no surprises.
Planning for What Comes Next
Career Prep
Internships and job skills help students move toward meaningful work.
Community Connections
Our local partnerships open doors for service and employment.
Guidance on Systems
We help families navigate Medicaid waivers, self-direction, and financial aid.
Important Dates
Info Sessions
Spring 2026
Application Opens
Spring 2026
Admissions Decisions
May 2026
Orientation
Fall 2026
Most students graduate in 4 years. Plans are individualized.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply and when?
Students with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities who want a college experience, seek growth in independence, and are ready to engage with campus life with support.
Info sessions will run Fall 2025 and Spring 2026. Applications open Spring 2026 for a Fall 2026 start.
How long is the program, and what credential is earned?
Most students complete in 4 years. Plans are individualized.
Graduates earn the ARCH Certificate, which documents completion of academic, social, and career skills.
ARCH is a CTP-approved program. Eligible students can apply for federal grants through FAFSA.
Some students may use self-directed budgets and other funding sources.
How many students are in each cohort?
We plan to start with 6 students and grow each year.
What supports and experiences are provided?
Students have access to peer mentors, academic coaches, internship opportunities, accessibility resources, and program staff.
Internships are matched to student strengths and interests and include hands-on experience and a career portfolio.
What does student life look like?
A typical day might include a morning class, lunch in the dining hall, an afternoon internship, chapel or a club meeting, and study time with a peer mentor.
Students are encouraged to balance academics, social life, and personal growth.
How is faith part of the program?
Roberts is a Christian university where every student is valued as made in the image of God. ARCH students are welcome in chapel, small groups, and service projects. Faith is woven into academics, campus life, and community service to encourage purpose, character, and belonging.
What's the difference between the ARCH program and the BELL program?
One of the main differences between the ARCH Program and the BELL (Bridge to Earning, Learning, and Living) Program is that the ARCH program typically lasts 4 years, whereas the BELL program typically lasts 2 years.
The BELL program is in partnership with BOCES 2 and CP Rochester, whereas the ARCH program is open to any individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities.
Questions? Contact the Office of Admissions
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