FUTURE: Postsecondary Education Program

Admissions and Eligibility

The FUTURE Program is a comprehensive program of study for unique learners who are highly motivated young adults whose "disability is characterized by significant limitations both in intellectual functioning and in adaptive behavior, which covers many everyday social and practical skills."
 (AAIDD, 2011)

Eligibility Requirements

In order to be sure that the FUTURE Program at the Univerisity of Tennesse is the best match for our applicants, we require an application packet be completed for each student. Upon entering, it is expected that students will demonstrate the following minimal requirements:

• At least 3rd grade reading level, preferably 4th and above
• Basic mathematics understanding and ability to use a calculator
• Ability to function independently for a sustained period of time
• No severe behavior or emotional problems
• Can handle and adapt to change; not overly stressed when things change
• Ability to be successful in competitive employment situations
• Desire and motivation to complete a postsecondary education program
• Have health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid, or private)
• Be between the ages of 18-29 at the start of the program
  

Additional Information

Letters of recommendation from teachers are extremely important, too, as these describe current levels of performance across many areas. Please see our Application Information page to access our Application and the official FUTURE Recommendation forms.

Applicants will have typically received extensive special education services in their secondary schools, graduating with a Special Education diploma or certificate of attendance, and would have considerable difficulty succeeding in a traditional college degree program.

This is a certificate program (not an accredited college degree program) and exiting students will recieve a vocational certification, NOT a degree from the Univeristy of Tennessee.

Note: Due to space limitations, not all applicants who complete the application and meet the "criteria for admission" can be accommodated in the FUTURE Program; however, these students are welcome to reapply.

This activity is made possible through a grant from the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Postsecondary Education: Award No. P407A100006. The University of Tennessee is an EEO/AA/Title VI/Title IX/ Section 504/ADA/ADEA institution in the provision of its educational and employment programs and services.