Program Overview

Mason Autism Support Initiative (MASI)

The Mason Autism Support Initiative (MASI) is a comprehensive, fee-based program that provides additional support services to students on the Autism Spectrum beyond typical higher education accommodations. MASI uses a team-based approach to assist students in achieving their goals in college. The cost of MASI for the academic year is $7200.

Program Components

The MASI program includes the following components:

• Learning Strategist: Graduate students or professionals that support students with developing academic and social strategies, making connections to campus resources, and facilitating communication with faculty. Learning Strategists meet with students 1-2 times a week.
• Office & Program Assistants: Undergraduate and graduate students that support MASI participants by providing weekly social opportunities to get them connected with MASI peers and to campus life.
• UNIV Courses: Each academic year, students take a 1 credit UNIV course that focuses on topics related to the transition into college, campus resources, social skills, identity development, and career readiness with an emphasis on independence.
• Social Events: Monthly social activities for students that consist of activities on and off campus, in-person and virtual, and are planned by a Social Event Planning Committee that consists of MASI Participants and Office & Program Assistants.

Application Window

The MASI application window for the academic year is now open and will close Friday, March 13, 2026.