New / Prospective Students

New students begin in the Fall Semester. Applications for the 2026/27 academic year will be accepted and reviewed beginning November 1, 2025. Applicants are encouraged to tour the campus and participate in an Information Session prior to submitting an application. 

Prospective student applicants must meet the following criteria to be considered for admission:

  • Have a documented diagnosis of an intellectual disability or other developmental disability as defined by the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.
  • Be at least 18 years old before August 31st of the academic admission year and hold a GED, Diploma or Certificate of Completion.
  • Have basic safety skills in unsupervised settings.
  • Have support from family and a personal desire to work on skills related to self-determination.
  • Be able to navigate the Penn State Harrisburg campus.
  • Must have participated in an Career Studies Information Session (held in November and March of each year).
  • Upon receipt of a completed application (including application, 3 recommendations, most recent IEP and evaluation report), an in-person interview will be scheduled for early January 2026.
  • After the in-person interview, an on-campus ½ day interview will be scheduled in which the student will come to campus to participate in parts of the program. This portion does not include a parent or guardian.
  • The IEP and reevaluation report must document the Intellectual Disability or developmental delay that is a requirement for admission.
  • Note: Participation in the interview process does not guarantee admission to the Career Studies Program.