REAL Certificate

REAL Certificate Program Supports and Fees

The REAL Certificate is a two year program that requires four (4) full semesters of study. Individual planning sessions guide the selection of courses and activities for each semester the student is registered in the certificate. Students spend approximately 20-30 hours per week on campus attending classes, gaining work experience, receiving academic tutoring and socializing with peers. Students in the REAL Certificate program have the opportunity to live in residence halls or commute to campus. Courses are selected based on student interest for vocational or personal development. Students follow the regular Fall/Spring semester calendar.

The following describes the requirements that will be completed each semester (for 4 semesters):

1. Academic:

• Students will audit two undergraduate courses each semester.
• Students will complete job skills development and career readiness activities.

2. Vocational:

• Students will participate in on- or off- campus internships or work experiences.
• Students will complete job skills development and career readiness activities.

3. Social opportunities:

• Students will meet with their peer mentors 4-8 hours per week.
• Students have the opportunity to participate in University clubs and activities.

Supports

Supports are provided by the REAL Certificate staff and peer mentors. Courses are usually audited, but may be taken for credit if the student is capable of meeting the requirements of the course without modification of its content. Supports for accessing courses, vocational experiences and other instruction are individually addressed.

Fees

The 2024-25 program cost of this certificate is $7,955 per semester. The program fee includes the costs associated with auditing classes, taking part in work-related experiences and community-based social instruction. It does not include the cost of living on campus, materials needed for classes, meals or other activities that require additional charges. Students also pay the General Student Fee of $425 each semester. 

Real Certificate Eligibility Criteria

Upon applying to the program, it is expected that students will demonstrate the following minimal requirements: 

• Be between the ages of 18-26 at the start of the program. 
• Provide documentation of intellectual and/ or developmental disability.
• Express desire and motivation to complete a post-secondary education program. 
• Have proof of eligibility for IDEA while in school (i.e., the student had an IEP).
• Demonstrate ability to communicate with staff, faculty, and mentors. 
• Have the ability to function independently for a sustained period of time (i.e., able to sit through 90 minute courses, be independent in social settings on campus and navigate campus independently).
• Have sufficient emotional stability and independent living skills to participate in all aspects of the REAL Certificate program and campus environment.
• Be able to handle and adapt to change; not overly stressed when schedules or people change. 
• Express desire to be part of the workforce. 
• Be able to provide transportation to and from campus.
• Have proof of health insurance (Medicaid, Medicare, private).
• Be able to follow the University Code of Conduct and to behave respectfully towards others.

Admissions Process

To apply for the Fall semester, complete and submit the application, supporting documents, and teacher reference form. Upon receipt and review of the completed application packet, applicants meeting eligibility requirements may be contacted to schedule an interview.

Following all of the interviews, the application screening committee will review the applications and select students for admission. The decision to offer or deny admission to the program will be made by the admissions committee in their best judgments and in the best interest of the applicants. Final decisions will be communicated through email to all applicants. 

Application Packet