Contact

Julianne Sullivan, M.Ed.
Coordinator K-12 Early College Initiatives
Enrollment Management
978-934-2451
Email: Julianne_Sullivan@uml.edu

Students sitting in desks in classroom

The Massachusetts Inclusive Postsecondary Education (MAIPSE) program at UMass Lowell expands access to college for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. MAIPSE provides meaningful participation in university coursework, campus life, and career exploration within the UMass Lowell community.

Students enroll in authentic college experiences alongside their peers and receive individualized academic and social support. Through collaborative planning, peer mentorship, and career-focused learning, MAIPSE supports growth in independence, confidence, and professional readiness.

MAIPSE reflects UMass Lowell’s commitment to access, belonging, and opportunity for all learners.

UML's MAIPSE program is currently partnered with the Westford Public Schools and is accepting applications from eligible students in this partner district. Districts interested in exploring a future partnership are encouraged to contact email Julianne_Sullivan@uml.edu.

Program Benefits

Students enrolled in MAIPSE at UMass Lowell are full members of the university community and gain access to the academic, social, and professional opportunities available across campus.

  • Academic Engagement: Students enroll as non-degree seeking students and enroll in courses aligned with their academic interests and career goals.
  • Comprehensive Campus Access: Participants may access advising, tutoring, the library, student organizations, campus events, and other university resources that support a meaningful college experience.
  • Career Exploration and Preparation: Students engage in structured career planning and job exploration designed to build professional skills and long-term employment pathways.
  • Individualized Support Model: An education coach, provided through the partnering school district or state agency, supports students in coursework and campus engagement. Peer mentors and program staff provide additional guidance to promote confidence and independence.
  • Person-Centered Planning: Students participate in an ongoing planning process that identifies long-term goals and establishes actionable short-term steps toward greater independence and career readiness.
  • Skill Development for Adult Life: Through real college experiences, students strengthen organization, time management, self-advocacy, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ongoing Program Coordination: Regular check-in meetings with the MAIPSE Coordinator ensure goal progress, problem-solving support, and connection to university resources.

  • Students age 18-22 who have a documented intellectual disability and/or autism and are enrolled in a partnering school district while receiving special education services.
  • Individuals over the age of 22 who did not receive a high school diploma, have a documented intellectual disability and/or autism and are receiving adult services.
  • All participants should demonstrate an interest in engaging in college coursework, campus life, and career development opportunities. 

If you are interested in participating in MAIPSE at UMass Lowell, we encourage you to begin by contacting the MAIPSE coordinator to discuss eligibility, partnership requirement, and program fit.

Students and families who are currently enrolled in a school district should connect with their special education team to confirm district partnership and support. Individuals receiving adult services should coordinate with their adult service provider to ensure alignment of support.

Eligible applicants will be invited to:

  • Complete a MAIPSE application
  • Participate in an informational meeting and interview
  • Engage in person-centered planning planning for coursework and supports

Following acceptance, students will work with program staff to register for classes and finalize their semester plan.

Enrollment is limited to maintain a personalized and supportive cohort experience.