CSUSM Aspiring Scholars Program

The California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) Aspiring Scholars Program is a non-degree, four-year university program for students with intellectual disabilities seeking an inclusive college experience. Students participate in academic courses, vocational internships, independent living skills instruction, and campus wide social activities with the goal of competitive integrated employment. They will learn and grow alongside their CSUSM peers, becoming an active part of the CSUSM community. Upon completion, students will earn an academic and career studies higher education certificate. The CSUSM Aspiring Scholars Program will provide students with intellectual disabilities the knowledge, skills, and opportunity to follow their aspirations and to live their lives inclusively in their community. Peer mentors, faculty, and staff will become advocates for change to create and maintain an equitable and inclusive world. The CSUSM Aspiring Scholars Program is committed to fostering a welcoming, inclusive post-secondary education environment where students with intellectual disabilities are provided meaningful, inclusive access to university life and are successfully prepared for competitive integrated employment in their chosen career. This program aims to provide the campus community with an understanding of the value and impact of an inclusive campus and the collective voice that is required to ensure all students are provided an equitable education.