Career and Community Studies Certificate
The programmatic focus of this pre–baccalaureate certificate is to develop knowledge and competencies for adult life and employment through inclusive academic, career development/employment, and social/community engagement experiences. Each student's CCS certificate program of study begins with a person-centered planning (PCP) meeting that includes: a) the student’s choices of coursework to take, finding/maintaining paid employment and getting involved on campus; b) identification of needed individualized support services for college success (e.g., advising, individual learning plans (ILP) for college courses, academic coaching, career development and employment supports, etc.) and c) prepare for the start of college life. Each year across the 4-year college experience, students will participate and eventually lead their PCP meetings to fully engage in their college experience, establish goals, envision life after college, and develop their capacity to manage their individualized supports and make informed decisions about their future. Academic success, meaningful, integrated employment and social engagement within their communities are the anticipated outcomes after certificate completion. The CCS certificate culminates in an ePortfolio summarizing the student’s academic and career/employment experiences and competencies.
Admission to this program is limited; please contact the College of Education for information.
The Certificate of Career & Community Studies is designed as a four-year college experience as shown below:
Year 1
| | Freshman Inquiry | 15 |
| SpEd 120 | Career and Community Studies First Year of Study | 6 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 21 |
Year 2
| SpEd 220 | Career and Community Studies Second Year of Study | 6 |
| | Courses that support career and other interests | 12-18 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 18-24 |
Year 3
| SpEd 320 | Career and Community Studies Third Year of Study | 6 |
| | Courses that support career and other interests | 12-18 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 18-24 |
Year 4
| SpEd 420 | Career and Community Studies Fourth Year of Study | 6 |
| | Courses that support career and other interests | 12-18 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 18-24 |
Total Credit Hours: 75-93