REACH Program

College is Possible!

The REACH Program at the College of Charleston is a four-year, fully-inclusive certificate program for students with mild intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD) that provides an education in academics, social development, independent living, and career development. Our goal is to enable students to become as self-determined and independent as possible while learning the skills they need in a fully inclusive environment. 

Students in the REACH Program participate in activities offered by the College of Charleston, with individualized support for success. These include: 

  • Attending traditional classes (with modifications and support);
  • Living in traditional on-campus housing and residence halls;
  • Completing internships;
  • Participation in campus clubs, activities, and organizations; and
  • Peer-mentoring

Mission and Vision


The REACH Program is dedicated to ensuring students with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities have a quality inclusive postsecondary education that provides support in academics, social development, independent living, and career development, honors their dignity and worth and fosters self-determination. 

The REACH Program at the College of Charleston is a four-year, fully inclusive postsecondary certificate program for young adults with mild intellectual and/or developmental disabilities - students who would otherwise be unable to attend college with their peers. The vision is to take what traditional college students experience and add modifications so students with different learning needs can live and learn on campus and have a true college experience. This endeavor at the College of Charleston has been tremendously successful: students in the REACH Program have been able to participate in every aspect of college life and are learning how to become adults while being challenged and supported through the process. Students have become self-determined and actively engaged in creating and living their lives.