Program Design
The Augie Access Program supports students using an intentional design, which includes:
- Admission of a minimum of 5-8 new students each year
- Providing access to catalog courses with credit, non-credit or auditing options
- Utilizing a person-centered planning process
- Creating appropriate support for students in classroom settings
- Assisting students in locating appropriate residential options
- Developing peer-support networks (Peer Navigators)
- Producing on- and off-campus work opportunities and internships, including job coaching services
Augie Access collaborates with Vocational Rehabilitation Services and Department of Labor and Regulation, Disability Employment Initiative, Department of Education and Division of Developmental Disabilities and other agencies.
Careers
By the end of this program, students will demonstrate soft and/or hard skills required to obtain and maintain paid, competitive employment. With a certificate in career studies, Augustana gives students in this program support for finding employment that suits their interests.
Hands-On Learning
All Augie Access students experience employment internships, which are based on preference, strengths and interests.
Students in this program also work toward independent living. They develop and achieve personal goals surrounding the life domains of daily living, employment, community living, safety, security, healthy living, social and spirituality, as well as citizenship and advocacy.
Courses & Organizations
The Augie Access Program uses research-based self-determination/self-advocacy strategies to develop and achieve personal learning goals.
Augie Access students study:
- Inclusive courses from the Augustana University course catalog — chosen based on student interest, strengths and desired career goals
- Specially designed courses with a transitional focus, such as Employment Attainment, Skills for Social Skills, Consumer Math or Leadership
Augie Access students often participate in campus activities based on their own preferences, where they apply interpersonal and social competence skills by engaging as an active participant on a regular basis.
