Little research has examined the popular belief
that individuals with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
are more likely than the general population to gravitate
toward science, technology, engineering, and mathematics
(STEM) fields. This study analyzed data from the National
Longitudinal Transition Study-2, a nationally representative
sample of students with an ASD in special education.
Findings suggest that students with an ASD had the highest
STEM participation rates although their college enrollment
rate was the third lowest among 11 disability categories
and students in the general population. Disproportionate
postsecondary enrollment and STEM participation by
gender, family income, and mental functioning skills were
found for young adults with an ASD. Educational policy
implications are discussed