What You'll Learn
Life and Career Studies (LCS) 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 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 Life and Career Studies Discovery Day visit.
The application for the 2025-2026 academic year is now available. Please use this application link to request a Life and Career Studies program application.
What Makes This Program Great
- 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.
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.
Admission requirements are as follows:
- Completion of high school with a certificate of completion or high school diploma
- Future goals for living independently and having paid, competitive employment
- Age of entry between 18 and 26 years
- Has an intellectual disability
- Learn about Application and Admissions requirements.
- Financial aid is available. Learn more about financial aid options.
The application link for the 2024-2025 academic year is now active. To receive your application via email, kindly complete the application request form.
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
