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Inclusive Futures Program

Our Mission

The Inclusive Futures Program (IFP) is a comprehensive postsecondary education program for individuals with intellectual disability in Southeast North Carolina. The program is designed to provide an inclusive opportunity for participants to continue their education, increase independence and self-determination, and achieve competitive employment through evidence-based practices and community partnerships.

During our program, students will work on increasing their levels of independent living. They will work on life skills focused on, but not limited to, transportation, budgeting, financial literacy, meal preparation, navigation around campus, and other independent living skills.

Students will be involved in creating a plan based on their needs and strengths to guide them on their respective living, academic, and career development goals.

Throughout our program, the student will identify and explore career interests and be able to identify the basic requirements to enter their profession of interest. They will also have opportunities to learn about their prospective careers through internships and take courses around those interests, like other current UNCW students.

To earn a certificate, each enrolled student must complete 55 credit hours over a two-year period. The credit hours are composed of a foundational curriculum core, similar to the first two years of college.

Students must also meet requirements in other subject areas to receive a well-balanced education. Required credit hours include career development credits specific to the program and a required semester-long internship. This career portion will take two semesters to complete.

Foundational Curriculum Core Courses (22 credits)

  • IFP 101: Skills and Knowledge for Greater Independence (3)
  • IFP 102: Relationships and Human Sexuality (3)

Minimum of 13 elective credits in inclusive, traditional General Education UNCW Courses

Career Development (18 credits)

  • IFP 103: Career Development: Exploration (3)
  • IFP 104: Career Development: Preparation and Participation (3)
  • IFP 105: Career Internship I (6)
  • IFP 106: Career Internship II (6) 

Career Concentration (15 credits)

  • Minimum of 15 elective credits in inclusive, traditional UNCW courses in a preferred career.

Meet Our Team

K. Ryan Wennerlind
K. Ryan
Wennerlind

K. Ryan Wennerlind

Director for Comprehensive Transition Postsecondary Program

No photo available
Ali L
Arostegui

Ali L Arostegui

Assistant Director for Comprehensive Transition Postsecondary Program

No photo available
Cindy
Korabik

Cindy Korabik

Temporary Staff

  • Education

    Student has been enrolled in a high school special education program (earning High School Certificate of Attendance or Certificate of Completion) that does not allow students to complete the requirements necessary for standard admission to UNCW.
  • Age 18-28 at the time of admission with a documented intellectual disability (IQ – 70 or lower).
  • Interest in attending college to learn and grow with peers.
  • Interest in working in integrated competitive employment opportunities.
  • Family support to engage in the program (admission, goal setting, transition from the program)
  • Demonstrations of emerging safety, communication, and social skills in college and community settings
  • Information Session

    Attend a program informational session and meet with program staff for a one-on-one campus visit.

    Please contact our office to schedule:

    910.962.2151

    ifp@uncw.edu

  • Submit official copies of transcripts from each institution attended in the prior five years at the time of application, including high school, community college, university, and other post-secondary education or training.

  • Submit two recommendations from individuals familiar with applicants’ skills, disposition, career goals, and areas for future growth. One professional (e.g., teacher or other professional) One Personal (e.g., family member or friend)
  • Submit documentation of an intellectual disability (e.g., most recent IEP or most recent psychological report).
  • Submit a letter of interest or verbal letter of interest in video form (preferred) indicating interest in attending an inclusive college program and intent to gain employment based on person-centered goals.
  • Family member completes Parent/Guardian assessment.

Contact Us