UW-Whitewater LIFE Program
The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater LIFE (Learning is for Everyone) Program provides a complete college experience for young adults between the ages of 18-25 who have an intellectual disability. With ample supports, specialized instruction, on-campus residential living, and community integration, the program serves a critical need by providing access and opportunity for students who have historically been underrepresented in higher education. The program has two components, which includes a Basic Program (2 years) and an Advanced Program (2 years) that are designed to facilitate personal growth, independent living, and employment success.
Program Highlights
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Comprehensive supports that are designed to prepare them for competitive employment and independent living to the greatest extent possible
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Specialized instruction, with an emphasis on skills that students need in order to be successful in personal and professional endeavors
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Expansive resident assistant supports designed to help students develop essential skills in non-academic domains
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Expose students to a college experience, which spans far beyond traditional academics
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Integration with multiple facets of campus life, thereby providing many inclusive opportunities and meaningful networks of support
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Dismantles barriers and creates substantive opportunities for students with an intellectual disability
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Prepares students to live a healthy and balanced lifestyle, including regular exercise and participation in enjoyable leisure activities
Program Mission
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Prepare students for competitive employment
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Prepare students for independent living
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Prepare students to live a healthy & balanced lifestyle
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Exposure to a complete college experience
FAQS
Prepare students for competitive employment, independent living, to live a healthy & balanced lifestyle, and expose students to a complete college experience.
Licensed special educators.
Completion of LIFE application, which includes high school transcript, results from a physical examination, documentation of intellectual disability, proof of health insurance, three letters of recommendation, and a recent photo.
Students receive a certificate of completion from the university (not a degree).
Both the Basic Program and Advanced Program are 2 years
We have limited visit opportunities throughout the academic year. If you are part of a group of 10 or more that would like to schedule a time outside of those visit opportunities, please feel free to request a group tour with UW-Whitewater Admissions. Simply mention that you are interested in UW-Whitewater LIFE, and they will be able to personalize that for you.
LIFE students are eligible for Federal Financial Aid as well as the use of IRIS benefits/self-directed funds.
If students have a legal driver’s license, they are allowed to have a car on campus. Campus permits are required to park and can be purchased through parking services. More information can be found here: https://www.uww.edu/adminaffairs/parking-regulations/students.
The LIFE program is a residential program where students are required to live on-campus in a residence hall.
Please email lifeprogram@uww.edu or call 262-472-1905 if you have any questions about this program. Students who complete this program will receive a certificate of completion, rather than a degree from the university.
