Daemen University’s ASCEND program provides students with intellectual and developmental disabilities the opportunity to develop their academic, career, and independent living skills for employment and active community participation.
- Inclusive Classroom Experiences
- Campus & Community Engagement Opportunities
- Career Exploration Internships
Over five (5) semesters, students will take part in a program of study that will culminate in a Career Exploration Credential.
Fall 2026 Start. Application Deadline March 30, 2026
ASCEND will welcome 6 (six) students into our program each Fall.
Applications Open December 1, 2025
Program of Study
Academic Learning
Students will audit Daemen University courses along with Student supports including Student Success Specialists through a partnership with People Inc., Group Structured Learning, and Supported Study Time.
Career Preparation
Students will develop Individualized Career Action Plans, participate in Career Readiness workshops, Job Shadow experiences and two (2) Internships in their Career Pathway.
Personal Development
Students will have supported Person-Centered Planning activities to develop individual goals and skills. Students will also participate in Self-Advocacy Workshops, partnering with The Art of Advocacy.
Campus Engagement
ASCEND students are supported by Peer Mentors for enhancing an active campus life including participation in Campus Activities and Events, as well as University Clubs and Organizations.
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Career Exploration Credential Pathway Options
Students in the ASCEND program complete a comprehensive, individualized program of study leading to a Career Exploration Credential that integrates academic learning, career development, and personal growth. Students audit up to 30 credit hours of college coursework, engaging in classes alongside Daemen students while building knowledge and confidence in academic settings. In addition, students participate in structured career readiness activities, job shadowing, and internships that support exploration of a wide range of career interests and the development of practical workplace skills such as communication, problem solving, and professional behavior. Students may explore career areas such as business and customer service, health and human services, education and childcare, creative arts, recreation, with opportunities tailored to their interests and goals. This flexible, student-centered approach allows each individual to identify strengths, make informed choices about their future, and move toward meaningful employment while strengthening independence and active participation in campus and community life.
Program Specifics
- Complete Online Application with supporting documents
- Students will be asked to share more about themselves and their goals by submitting supplemental materials
- On Campus Interviews
**An interview does not guarantee admission to the program. Admission is granted based upon availability and the intake team's assessment of the applicant.
- Tuition: $3,729
- Transition Program Fee: $4,000
- Cost per Semester: $7,729
**Additional university and student activity fees will apply for all Daemen University students.
ASCEND is a program for highly motivated students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In order to be sure that ASCEND is the best match for applicants, admission will take into consideration the following criteria:
- Has a diagnosis of an intellectual and/or developmental disability with supported documentation
- Has completed their high school program or equivalent
- Desire to participate in postsecondary education at college
- Identifies employment as their primary desired outcome for attending the ASCEND
- Committed to an average of 20 hours per week for program activities such as coursework, academic and other supportive services, professional internships, and campus events
- Ability/willingness to follow the Daemen University Student Code of Conduct policies, including self-regulation
- Ability/willingness to attend classes, engage in internship and other campus activities regularly and reliably
- Ability to function independently for a sustained time and is motivated to participate with instructors and students
- Ability to navigate campus and campus neighborhood independently
- Able to access their own transportation or use of public transportation independently to and from campus