Integrative Community Studies

Self-Determination. Life Planning. Career Development.

Integrative Community Studies (ICS), also known as Beyond Academics, is a program for students with intellectual disabilities who are interested in furthering their education. Integrative Community Studies is a four-year certificate program – awarded by UNCG’s Office of the Provost –  that emphasizes self-determination, life planning, and career development. Enrolled students develop a personalized college support plan to optimize their curricular and co-curricular experiences  while enrolled in the program of study.

Early Application Deadline: November 1

UNC Greensboro’s Integrative Community Studies Certificate program is for students with intellectual disabilities who are interested in furthering their education past secondary education (high school).

Comprehensive transition and postsecondary education programs like ours empower students as they transition into emerging adulthood. The Integrative Community Studies certificate is a four-year certificate program – awarded by UNCG’s Office of the Provost –  that emphasizes self-determination, life planning, and career development.

With access to an array of campus and community resources, each student develops a college support plan to optimize their curricular and co-curricular experiences while at UNCG. Resources include individualized support, available during the week and weekends, focusing on co-currricular activities, including campus involvement, and personal skill development.

By the Numbers

Students with intellectual disability can go to college!

Over 300 US colleges and universities offer programs for students with intellectual disability. Students with intellectual disability are achieving their college goals when provided with access and high expectations. College provides the opportunity for students to explore new things, become more independent, and prepare for a bright future.

315

programs across 49 States

thinkhighered.net

8,000

students with intellectual disability are attending college or University each year

thinkhighered.net

22,899

inclusive courses taken between 2010 and 2020 from students at

TPSIDs

59%

find competitive integrated employment 1 year after leaving college

COMPETITIVE INTEGRATED EMPLOYMENT

Mission and Vision

The Integrative Community Studies (ICS) Certificate program fosters the development of engaged citizens by centralizing the student experience in:

  • Inclusion & integration
  • Curricular & co-curricular learning
  • Diversity & equity
  • Natural resources
  • Student created tools & strategies
  • Professional development

Our vision is that ICS Graduates leave UNCG prepared to engage with and adapt to the ever changing world around them.

Upon successful completion of the ICS program of study, graduates will communicate and actively engage in their plans in the following areas:

  • Financial
  • Career
  • Interdependent living
  • Resources/Support
  • Leisure
  • Civic Engagement/Advocacy
  • Relationships

**Updated and approved by Director Lisa Pluff, July 15, 2021 **

The department of ICS is committed to fulfilling the larger mission and vision of UNCG, found here.

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