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Employment Preparation of Students with Intellectual Disability in Federally-Funded Higher Education Programs

Employment Preparation of Students with Intellectual Disability in Federally-Funded Higher Education Programs

In addition to academic programming, Transition and Postsecondary Programs for Students with Intellectual Disabilities (TPSID) have a directive to ensure that enrolled students with intellectual disability (ID) are prepared for gainful employment. One study found students with ID who obtained a paid job while enrolled in a college or university program were almost 15 times more likely to have a paid job at exit than those who did not obtain a paid job while enrolled (Grigal, Papay, Smith, Hart, & Verbeck, 2018). Given the importance of including employment in postsecondary experiences, the National Coordinating Center used a qualitative approach to better understand the perspectives of employment services staff who provide career and job supports to students with ID in inclusive higher education programs. The results of that study are shared in this Insight Brief, but generally illustrate that there are a wide array of strategies being used by TPSIDs to develop job opportunities for students with ID.

APA Citation: 

Domin, D., Haines, K., & Taylor, A. (2020). Employment Preparation of Students with Intellectual Disability in Federally-Funded Higher Education Programs. Think College Fast Facts, Issue No. 29. Boston, MA: University of Massachusetts Boston, Institute for Community Inclusion. 

Year of Publication: 
2020
Media Type(s): 
Publication Type(s): 
Project: 
National Coordinating Center