FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

The College and Career Studies (CCS) program is UK’s Comprehensive Transition and Postsecondary (CTP) program. CTPs support students with intellectual disability who want to attend a college or university to better prepare for employment and independent living.   

CCS students take part in all areas of campus life, from classes and clubs to social events and activities.  

With support from the College and Career Studies team, students work toward their own academic, career exploration, and community engagement goals.   

A: To be eligible for this program, applicants must have a documented intellectual disability as defined by the Higher Education Opportunity Act, 2008.   

“Student with an intellectual disability means a student –   

(1) With a cognitive impairment characterized by significant limitations in –   

(i)     Intellectual and cognitive functioning; and   

(ii)    Adaptive behavior as expressed in conceptual, social, and practical adaptive skills; and   

(2) Who is currently, or was formerly, eligible for special education and related services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) (20 U.S.C. 1401), including a student who was determined eligible for special education or related services under the IDEA but was home-schooled or attended private school.”   

[Source link: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-34/subtitle-B/chapter-VI/part-668/subpart-O/section-668.231]    This resource from Think College may also be useful in determining eligibility: https://thinkcollege.net/resource/admissions-ctp-application-process-program-development/defining-and-documenting

A: The CCS Program is a non-degree program. While the program does not result in a university degree or specific career certification, it supports students to take classes, explore career options, and engage in campus activities. Successful completion of this program results in a meaningful credential that reflects these activities and accomplishments.   

A: No. A person can apply for the CCS program whether they received a standard high school diploma, a Kentucky alternative high school diploma (KRS 156.160(1)(e)), or no diploma.    

A: Yes. Students in the CCS Program can access federal financial aid for which they qualify (such as Pell grants and work-study grants), as well as state financial aid from the Kentucky Educational Excellence Scholarship (KEES), Work Ready Kentucky Scholarship, and College Access Program grant programs, if eligible. Students and families can contact the Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority (KHEAA) at (800) 928-8926 or visit kheaa.com for help with the financial aid process. 

A: The cost of tuition is the same for CCS students as for any other UK students. Since the program is designed to be part-time (averaging about 6 credit hours per semester), the tuition may be calculated per credit hour rather than by full-time status. You can look up tuition information here: https://www.uky.edu/studentaccount/tuition   

Further questions about tuition can be directed to Student Account Services. 

Phone: (859) 257-3406 Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Fax: (859) 257-9590 E-mail: studentaccts@lsv.uky.edu 

A: Completion of the program requires at least 24 hours of coursework, including 3 semesters of career exploration through a practicum, internship, or other work experience. Students who average 6-7 hours per semester should be able to complete the program in 2 years (4 semesters).  

A: Courses are selected through a person-centered process with the support of a full-time Program Coordinator, who is available to the student and faculty. The Program Coordinator maintains contact with students throughout their two-year program, from application to completion.   

For audited classes, course materials and assignments may be modified to align with students’ learning styles and goals. Learning Agreements are developed in collaboration between students, faculty, and the Program Coordinator.  

Course syllabi and assignments are not modified for students taking courses for credit.  

Program support staff can also help students with assignments and help connect them with existing campus resources such as tutoring, career exploration, and writing help.   In addition to the supports described above, students can request accommodations through the Disability Resource Center. Program staff assist students with this process, as needed, at the beginning of the program, and at the beginning of each academic year.