 REACH
The University of Iowa REACH Program is a two-year, transition certificate program for students with multiple intellectual, cognitive, and learning disabilities. REACH provides a campus experience to empower young adults to become independent, engaged members of the community. Courses, campus life, and career preparation assist students in reaching their full potential. Post-graduation support assists students as they transition to work and self-sufficiency.  Mission To create an authentic, inclusive living-learning experience that builds career skills, academic achievement, personal responsibility, interpersonal competence, and a promising future for young adults with intellectual, cognitive, and learning disabilities. REACH contributes to the strategic mission of The University of Iowa and the College of Education through training future generations of educators and professionals and the creation and dissemination of innovative, evidence-based best practices. REACH aspires to be nationally recognized as a leader in educating young adults with intellectual, cognitive, and learning disabilities. Philosophy The REACH philosophy and educational approach focuses on fostering independence while helping students learn to make positive life choices. Self-determination for each student can be acheived with the development of problem solving skills, independent and interdependent learning, self-awareness, self-advocacy, and leadership opportunities. Strategic Goals Our curriculum and faculty promote the development of self-determination as the cornerstone of self-sufficiency in our students. This focus enables the REACH student to become a responsible and participating citizen in contemporary society. Students are encouraged to develop independence and actively seek what is required for their personal fulfillment. Univeristy of Iowa faculty and staff emphasize positive expectations and equip students with an education and aspirations that promote continued career progress, social involvement and lifelong learning. Program Goals - To achieve improved readiness for entry into meaningful and sustained employment.
- To attain expanded academic competencies, age-appropriate social experiences, and life skills which promote self-determination and self-advocacy.
- To provide a person-centered quality education and related supports.
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Why Iowa?  The University of Iowa REACH program offers a unique and life-changing college experience on a Big 10 Campus. Former student Ali chose REACH because she wanted “to be more independent and get help finding a job. I felt like it was an opportunity I had to take.” The REACH program emphasizes life skills and career development courses. Ali says, “I can do a lot of things I couldn’t do before coming to REACH.” Ali states she learned how to better manage money and how “to interview for a job.” REACH students find campus life exciting. They attend campus activities and student organizations. “Campus Activities Board was a lot of fun and I met a lot of new friends,” says Danny, a second-year REACH student who joined the CAB last fall. “The football games on the weekend were a lot of fun.” REACH students also create lasting friendships with their peers. “I have many friends to hang out with,” says Kevin. “We have had the best time in the world going to different places together.”
In the News REACH is #1 According to Best Colleges Online For Students With Intellectual Disabilities, Programs Provide New Paths to Careers UI REACH Program Serves Many Chicago-area Students REACH Dorm Named Outstanding
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Key Features of REACH
- Big Ten University experience
- Integrated, on-campus residence hall living
- Inclusive academic learning opportunities
- Generous scholarship support
- Quality College of Education instructors and advisors
- Specialized core curriculum and service learning
- Employment preparation and training
- Community-based internships
- Transition portfolio
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