Inclusive Post-Secondary Education in Alberta
Inclusion Alberta is a family-based, non-profit federation of more than 40 organizations across Alberta. Inclusive post-secondary education is only one part of what they offer. Alberta has more inclusive post-secondary initiatives than any other area.

Students with developmental disabilities go to college for the same reason that other students do:

• to grow their knowledge
• to explore career opportunities
• to pursue interests and explore passions

Inclusive post-secondary works as a partnership. We want students, instructors, families, and staff to work together to make sure that participants have a positive experience while going to school here at Portage College.

Inclusive Post-Secondary Education at Portage College
We believe in creating a welcoming setting for all people. In partnership with Inclusion Alberta’s inclusive post-secondary education initiative, we have supported students with intellectual and developmental disabilities to attend Portage College since 2018!

Interested in attending Portage College?
Inclusive Post-Secondary Education is open to individuals who are eligible for Persons with Developmental Disabilities (PDD) Support. Please do not think you or your family member might be left out based on high support needs. We believe everyone can learn.

How it works
Enhanced auditing is taking classes, but not for credit. You complete assignments, exams and practicum placements modified to your abilities. At the end of your studies, you receive a certificate of completion, rather than a degree or diploma. You choose a program of study based on your interests and career goals. Support from the Inclusive Post-Secondary Education Coordinator, Student Learning Services, and more are available to you. On average, employment rates for students completing their studies are between 70-80%.

• You set your own pace, taking as few as two and as many as five classes per semester.
• Assignments, exams, and other class requirements are modified to meet your needs.
• If you choose a program with practical training, you complete a placement just as your classmates would.

Tuition is not covered by PDD Funding. Tuition is the responsibility of each student. Students should budget about $2000/year for tuition, textbooks, and associational fees. If this is a barrier for you or your family, please contact Inclusion Alberta to discuss payment options.

If you or someone you know is interested in learning more about inclusive education, please contact Inclusive Post-Secondary Education, Katie Bhar Jacobsen.

Call: 780 573-7856 or Email: kbjacobsen@inclusionalbera.org

Definitions
Inclusion - is creating spaces for everyone to learn and participate together.

Audit - participate in classroom activities, but do not complete assignments or exam components of a course.

Enhanced Audit - participating in all classroom activities including exams, assignments and practicums while completing a course not for credit.

Developmental disability - a group of conditions due to an impairment in physical, learning, language, or behavior areas. A developmental disability is not the same as a physical disability, a health condition, or a mental health disorder.