Transition Programs and Career Readiness for Individuals with Disabilities

Academic School Year Transition Program Information 

Through the College of Education, William Paterson University’s Transition Program offers schools the opportunity to enroll their students ages 18 - 21 with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) or 504 plans, looking for a bridge graduating high school to beginning either a collegiate or professional career. With a focus on the importance of teaching students how to advocate for themselves within professional environments, they may lead successful, independent lives.

 

*Program is available to young adults ages 21+ on a case-by-case basis*

 

Program Goals

The goal of the program is for students to earn a certification or an accreditation in a specific career field, along with getting essential life and social skills. Achievement of certifications or accreditations are determined by successful completion of the course, achieving a passing score on the certification exam and other determining factors, if applicable to pathway

Program Benefits

Along with preparing them for academic life post-secondary education, where they build on research and writing skills, students will benefit attending the WP Transition Program through the following opportunities:

  • Earn a professional certificate in a credentialed career path of their interest.
  • Exposure to a university environment to help develop social and life skills including, but not limited to, time management, healthy relationship management, public speaking skills, and goal setting.

Summer Transition Program Information

William Paterson University is offering a week-long Summer Transition program for high school students with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and/or 504 plans. The program’s designed to provide students with guidance, self-awareness, and self-advocacy skill development; as well as exposure to a college environment and the development of the tools they would need for academic success. The programs are open enrollment based on fit and availability; with both a Resident and Commuter offering.



Frequently Asked Questions

  • Who can attend the program?
  • Students ages 18 to 21 who have an IEP or 504 Plan.

  • Where is the program held?
  • The program runs at William Paterson University. Monday – Thursday we run the program at one of our satellite campuses, 1600 Valley Road. On Fridays we are located on our Main Campus, at 300 Pompton Road.

  • How many days a week does the program run?
  • The program runs Monday to Friday; students have the option to attend between the minimum of 3 days, or for all 5 days.

  • How long is the program?
  • We offer the Transition Program from early September to early June and follow both the district and University schedules for holidays and breaks. Students can attend for just one year or all three years depending on their age and needs.

  • What does this program offer?
  • We offer both college and career readiness. Through this program students can receive an industry certification and learn about the college landscape. Students develop self confidence through this program and the ability to enhance their individual levels of independence.

  • Does the student need to be sponsored by their district to attend?
  • No! We accept private registration as well as district sponsorship.

  • How do I enroll my child?
  • If they are sponsored through their school, you initiate the process during an IEP meeting the year prior to attending. All students need to submit an IEP as part of the enrollment process. If you are enrolling them privately, contact us for the intake survey and registration link.

  • When does enrollment open?
  • We have a rolling enrollment process so you can enroll any time for next academic year (FA23 & SP24)

  • I am interested in the program but not sure of the next steps. What should I do?
  • Contact us at TransitionProgram@wpunj.edu for a recommendation on the next steps and to chat with one of our team members!

 

 

Contact Information 

Cassandra Carleton, MPA

Director, Pre-College Youth Programs

College of Education

William Paterson University

1600 Valley Rd., Wayne, NJ 07470

973-720-3804 (office)

TransitionProgram@wpunj.edu

Contact Us

(973) 720-3804
Youthprograms@wpunj.edu