The GOALS Program at Columbus State University is a two-year inclusive certificate program that provides a college experience for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The GOALS Program at Columbus State University is a two-year certificate program that provides a college experience for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Typical applicants are tho
se who received special education services for a developmental disability (i.e., intellectual disability) through most of their K-12 schooling and have graduated high school with an alternative diploma (i.e., special education diploma, certificate of attendance, etc.). Using a person-centered planning process, GOALS provides students with developmental disabilities the opportunity to set and work toward their personal post-secondary goals as a foundation for active, lifelong career and community participation. The GOALS Program at CSU represents an inclusive, university-based program built upon the four principles of personal advocacy, career development, health education, and civic engagement. Students complete 36 credit hours of inclusive and program-specific courses, along with work-related internships that are designed to support the academic and personal leadership development of students. Students accepted into the GOALS Program at CSU are those who meet the following minimal requirements to assure they will benefit from the program:
*Be a graduate of an accredited high school and served under IDEA
*3rd grade reading level preferred
*Knowledge of basic mathematics and ability to use a calculator
*Ability to function independently for a sustained period of time
*No significant behavioral or emotional problems that would impact school performance
*Potential to be successful in competitive employment situations
*Understanding of college and motivation to complete a college program
*Strongly recommended that applicant be on an active Vocational Rehabilitation caseload
*Have a willingness to complete all academic assignments with support
