Inclusion Program
Program Type
- Professional Certificate
Format
- In Person
Area of Study
Cost
$6,200, Varies Based on Funding
Average Completion Time
Two to Four Years
When to Start
Fall
About this program
Build your future in the Inclusion Program, a college certificate program for students with intellectual disabilities. You’ll take college classes from across the SFSU curriculum and learn alongside other SFSU students. Through internships, campus activities and individualized support, you’ll build the knowledge and skills for employment, independent living and lifelong learning. When you complete the program, you’ll earn the Integrated Career and Community Studies Certificate.
What You'll Do
In the Inclusion Program, you’ll:
- Choose SFSU classes that match your interests, strengths and goals
- Develop career skills through internships and other work-based learning experiences
- Join clubs, attend campus events and participate in University life
- Develop friendships and become part of the SFSU community
You'll work with program staff to create an individualized academic and career plan based on your goals. Together, you’ll decide whether a two-year or four-year certificate pathway is the best fit.
Roadmap for Success
You’ll have support from program staff, peer mentors and campus resources as you learn, grow and become more independent. The program provides:
- Academic advising
- Peer mentoring and tutoring
- Career planning
- Self-determination instruction
- Supported work experiences
You’ll gain the confidence and skills to make informed decisions, advocate for yourself and achieve your goals.
Achieve Your Goals
At SFSU, you’ll pursue goals that matter to you, contribute to the University community and shape your future through college, employment and community engagement. When you complete the program, you’ll graduate with the Integrated Career and Community Studies Certificate, work experience, stronger self-advocacy and leadership skills, professional connections and a plan for your future.
Sample Semester Schedule
You'll follow an individualized pathway based on your interests and goals. Below is one example of what a semester might look like for a student pursuing a pathway in Recreation, Parks and Tourism.
| Courses | Career Development | Support | Campus Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| CE 9096: Career Planning and Self-Determination HTM 421: Food, Wine and Culture in CA RPT 200: Foundations of Recreation, Parks and Tourism | Outdoor Resource Center Internship, Mashouf Wellness Center | Person-Centered Planning Meetings (2 each semester) Weekly peer mentor support, tutoring and job coaching Regular goal-setting meetings with program staff | Volunteer with Gator Groceries (weekly) Attend at least 2 on-campus social events |
Inclusion Program Details
SFSU Partners
- Department of Special Education
- Department of English Language and Literature
- Program in Disability Studies
- College of Professional & Global Education
- Office of Research and Sponsored Programs
- Marian Wright Edelman Institute
- Disability Programs and Resource Center (DPRC)
Community Partners
- San Francisco Unified School District
- Oakland Unified School District
- Albany Unified School District
- ARC of San Francisco
State and National Partners
- Think College (Institute for Community Inclusion)
- California Center for Inclusive College (CCIC)
- California Department of Developmental Service (Regional Centers)
- California Department of Rehabilitation
Estimated Cost per Semester (2026-27 School Year)*
Estimated costs include:
- Tuition for two SFSU courses: $2,700
- Career and Self-determination Course: $1,300
- Peer Mentor Salary: $2,000
- Wellness Center (optional): $200
Estimated total: $6,200
*Estimate does not include books, course materials, lab fees (typically $20–$50 per course, if applicable), transportation or food.
How to Pay for It
Program costs, including tuition, peer mentors and other program support, may be funded through a combination of private payment and authorizations from the California Department of Rehabilitation and Regional Centers.
Funding is determined individually and varies based on your eligibility. We encourage you and your family to begin exploring funding options as early as possible. Inclusion Program staff are available to help you navigate the funding process.
The Inclusion Program is for students with documented intellectual disabilities. Documentation, such as an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Regional Center records, is required as part of the application process.
The program is designed for students who want to develop career skills, build independence and pursue personal and employment goals through college. During the application process, you'll have the opportunity to tell us about your goals and how you think the Inclusion Program will help you achieve them.
The program leads to the Integrated Career and Community Studies Certificate rather than a bachelor's degree. The program does not currently offer on-campus housing. Priority is given to students who can commute to campus independently.
Application Timeline
- New cohort: Each fall
- Fall 2027 applications open: Oct. 1, 2026
- Application deadline: March 1, 2027
How to Apply
- Complete the Request Information form to start the application process.
- Join a Prospective Student Information Session.
- Submit a completed application. Family members or other supporters may assist you if needed. As part of the application, we will ask you to:
- Provide documentation of your intellectual disability, such as an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Regional Center record.
- Write a brief personal statement.
- Provide two letters of reference.
- Participate in an interview with program staff.
Before You Apply
We encourage you to contact your local Regional Center and the California Department of Rehabilitation to explore funding options before you apply. Program staff are available to answer your questions and guide you through the application process.
Contact
Email Inclusion@sfsu.edu
Instagram @SFSU_Inclusion
Facebook SFSU Inclusion Pilot
Inclusion Team
- Co-Founder and Director: Julie Paulson, Ph.D., Professor of English
- Program Coordinator: Linden Cady, MPH
- Outgoing Director (Currently on Sabbatical): Mayumi Hagiwara, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Special Education
- Co-Founder (Retired): Kathleen Mortier, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Special Education