Figuring out what your goals are and what you want to learn can help uyou choose a program that’s a good fit.

WHEN A BACHELOR‘S or associate’s degree is not your goal, students on the spectrum seeking a college experience, have a range of options. As of April 2022, just over 300 college-affiliated programs across the country offer a wide range of opportunities and experiences, resulting in a certificate. Figuring out what your goals are and what you want to learn can help you choose a program that’s a good fit.

certificate programs

Certificate programs are great for students looking to focus on improving employment-related skillls.

The focus in these programs is typically that of work, and work preparedness for a specific job or industry. Alternatively, general certificate programs are typically more about the experience and may offer pre-designed academic-based courses of study to be followed or may be more flexible to allow for learning across a broad academic area of interest. For students looking for a traditional college experience, a general certificate may be more fulfilling and appropriate.

This is not a “one-size-fits-all” situation.

build job-related skills

Earning an industry-based certificate is a way to show mastery of job-related skills.

This may increase job opportunities in certain areas depending on the certificate earned; Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Diesel Technician or Automotive ASE Technician, Bookkeeping, Culinary Arts are some examples. Students interested in industry certificates may access accommodations through the institution’s disability services offices and will need to register in order to do so. Accommodations will be determined on a case-by-case basis and might look different than those accessed in high school. It is important to provide all requested documentation to determine what accommodations will be allowed.

An increasing number of inclusive post-secondary education (IPSE) programs affiliated with various institutions of higher education are now available around the country.

general certificates offer an alternative route to college 

For many students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), general certificates offer an alternative route to college.

These programs are often designed for students who are looking for a college experience, and combine academic coursework with social opportunities, independent living skills and employment skill development, but do not meet admissions requirements (certain SAT/ACT scores, minimum Grade Point Average, Standard or Advanced Diploma). These IPSE programs typically have a different admissions process and different application deadlines.

the option to audit classes

These programs may offer the option to audit classes in the college (which means credit is not awarded) or take classes for credit while accessing accommodations. Deciding to audit a class is something to discuss with program staff. Depending on the program and support offered, auditing may mean attending classes and participating in all of the course activities as designed, or there might be the option to adjust learning objectives or assignments. Programs and support services vary, so contact the schools you are interested in.

You have choices.

For some students, an industry certificate might be a stepping-stone that leads to their dream job. For others, it may be the on-campus, social college experience they are looking for.