Life and Career Studies

Life and Career Studies Certificate, Comprehensive Postsecondary Education Certificate

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Life and Career Studies Certificate

Life and Career Studies Certificate, Comprehensive Postsecondary Education Certificate

Degree Overview

Life and Career Studies is a Comprehensive Transition and Postsecondary program that equips students with intellectual disability to flourish in life.

Through active participation in campus life, person-centered planning, and individualized learning, the Life and Career Studies (LCS) program empowers you to transition successfully into a fulfilling post-school life. At Calvin, you’ll find a learning environment that cultivates your gifts and fosters skills you’ll need to thrive.

You will learn alongside your peers in the college classroom and take specialized courses that address practical skills like financial literacy, employment readiness, relationships, and independent living. You have the opportunity to earn one of two non-degree certificates—and as you do, you’ll grow in confidence and independence.

For more details about the Life and Career Studies program, browse the information on this page, reach out to us with your questions, or follow this link to schedule a Calvin LCS Discovery Day visit.

The application link for the 2024-2025 academic year is now closed.

Program Distinctives

Achieving Goals - The LCS program is a four-year program in which students pursue one of two certificates—Life and Career Studies or Comprehensive Postsecondary Education. Students can choose from seven different concentrations aligned with their personal interests.
Connected to Community - LCS students don’t learn in isolation—they take classes, engage in community events, volunteer, live in the residence halls, work in community internships, and take part in campus life alongside their peers.
Well-being and Independence - Students will develop healthy habits that balance individual responsibility and social experiences.
Transitioning Well - A dedicated team of support staff works with each student to help them gain the skills and knowledge to make the transition into adult life. Calvin faculty value each student’s unique gifts and situation, and work with students individually to help them achieve their goals.

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Degree Information

Life and Career Studies Certificate
  • Overview

    The Life and Career Studies (LCS) program at Calvin University engages college students with intellectual or developmental disability in life and career education. Through person-centered planning, students have the opportunity to explore various career paths, select courses supportive of career goals, and experience supports designed to enhance life skills. The Life and Career Studies certificate requires completion of the program requirements and at least 16 elective credits in inclusive college courses. The LCS program serves students who desire to expand their independence, learning, and community membership through postsecondary education.

  • Courses
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  • Learning Outcomes

    Students who complete the Life and Career Studies certificate will experience:

    • Improved self-confidence, independence, communication, and community awareness
    • Meaningful friendships across campus
    • Community inclusion
    • Person-centered planning and customized internships
    • Opportunity to grow academically, physically, socially, and spiritually
  • Admission

    The application link for the 2024-2025 academic year is now active. To receive your application via email, kindly complete the application request form. Please be aware that all applications must be submitted by December 15, 2023.

  • Additional Details

Comprehensive Postsecondary Education Certificate
  • Overview
    Life and Career Studies (LCS) at Calvin University engages college students with intellectual or developmental disability in comprehensive transition education. By engaging students through person-centered planning, students have the opportunity to explore various career paths, select courses supportive of career goals, and experience supports designed to enhance life skills competencies. The Comprehensive Postsecondary Education Certificate requires completion of the program requirements, LCS core, and of one of seven concentrations:


    The LCS program serves students who desire to expand their independence, learning, and community membership through postsecondary education.

  • Courses
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  • Learning Outcomes

    Students who complete the Comprehensive Postsecondary Education certificate will experience:

    • A course of study tailored to individual interests, gifts, and abilities
    • On- and off-campus internships, beginning in the first year of the program, customized and aligned with the course of study
    • Improved self-confidence, independence, communication, and community awareness
    • Meaningful friendships across campus
    • Community inclusion
    • Person-centered planning
    • Opportunity to grow academically, physically, socially, and spiritually
  • Admission

    The application link for the 2024-2025 academic year is now active. To receive your application via email, kindly complete the application request form. Please be aware that all applications must be submitted by December 15, 2023.

  • Additional Details

Advisor

Michelle Terrill's staff picture
Michelle Terrill

Ready For Life Network

Calvin's Life and Career Studies program partners with the Ready For Life Network, which provides opportunities for young adults with cognitive, learning and social disabilities. Learn more »

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