Certificate in Career and Community Studies

The programmatic focus of this pre–baccalaureate certificate is to develop knowledge and competencies for adult life and employment through inclusive academic, career development/employment, and social/community engagement experiences. Each student's CCS certificate program of study begins with a person-centered planning (PCP)  meeting that includes: a) the student’s choices of coursework to take, finding/maintaining paid employment and getting involved on campus; b) identification of needed  individualized support services for college success (e.g., advising, individual learning plans (ILP) for college courses, academic coaching, career development and employment supports, etc.) and c) prepare for the start of college life. Each year across the 4-year college experience, students will participate and eventually lead their PCP meetings to fully engage in their college experience, establish goals, envision life after college, and develop their capacity to manage their individualized supports and make informed decisions about their future. Academic success, meaningful, integrated employment and social engagement within their communities are the anticipated outcomes after certificate completion. The CCS certificate culminates in an ePortfolio summarizing the student’s academic and career/employment experiences and competencies.