ABSTRACT
Background
Individuals with intellectual disabilities experience dismal rates of employment and independent living in comparison to both their nondisabled and disabled peers. One promising approach for improving these outcomes has been attending post-secondary education (PSE) programs.
Method
This study surveyed 4 years of recent graduates of an inclusive PSE program for students with intellectual disabilities to identify their employment and independent living outcomes. Graduates and their parents were asked to complete an 81-item electronic survey comprised of a combination of yes or no responses, multiple choice, multiple answer, open-ended responses, and Likert-type responses.
Results
Survey results from 30 recent graduates showed 97% were currently employed with one student (4%) enrolled in additional job training. Graduates also reported that two-thirds (67%) were living independently.
Conclusions
Given the recent expansion of PSE programs nationwide and lack of accreditation, there is a great need to identify the types of outcomes and benefits these programs provide. This information will help individuals and families make more informed decisions when selecting a PSE program.