2027 Pilot Program

 Standard Certificate Program                         Honors Track Options

  • Total Credits Required: 30 credits

  • Each Course: 2 credits

  • Completion: 15 courses

  • Duration: 2–3 years, depending on pace

  • Credential Earned: Certificate

Program Structure

Standard Certificate (30 credits / 15 courses)

  • Core Courses (20 credits / 10 courses):
    Photography, Art Foundations, Digital Tools, and Expression courses

  • Electives (10 credits / 5 courses):
    Chosen from specialized areas (Photography for Social Media, Sculpture, Event Photography, etc.)

Sample Completion Timeline

2-Year Standard Certificate (30 Credits)

  • Year 1: 9 courses (18 credits)

  • Year 2: 6 courses (12 credits)

 

  • Total Credits Required: 60 credits

  • Each Course: 2 credits

  • Completion: 30 courses

  • Duration: 5–6 years, depending on pace

  • Credential Earned: Certificate

 Program Structure

Honors Degree (60 credits / 30 courses)

  • Core Courses (30 credits / 15 courses):
    Expanded foundations in art, photography, digital design, and creative wellness

  • Electives (20 credits / 10 courses):
    Advanced specializations (Portfolio Development, Art Entrepreneurship, Studio Management, etc.)

Capstone (10 credits / 5 courses):

  • Senior Project: Students prepare a gallery show, digital portfolio, or photography exhibition

Sample Completion Timeline

4-Year Honors Degree (60 Credits)

  • Year 1: 6 courses (12 credits)

  • Year 2: 6 courses (12 credits)

  • Year 3: 9 courses (18 credits)

  • Year 4: 9 courses (18 credits, including capstone project)

Honors Degree Benefits

  • Higher-level credential than certificate

  • Leadership opportunities in peer mentoring or exhibitions

  • Portfolio readiness for jobs or graduate study

  • Invitation-only guest lectures, advanced workshops, and special recognition at graduation

Personalized Learning Pathways 

At Living the Dream University, we recognize that each student brings unique experiences, strengths, and learning preferences. To honor this diversity, our courses are designed to be flexible and supportive, allowing students to progress at a pace that works best for them.

Two Levels of Instruction

  • Foundational Level:
    Designed to build core skills and confidence in the subject area. Students receive extra guidance and hands-on support as they develop fundamental techniques and understanding.

  • Advanced Level:
    Offers more challenging projects and deeper exploration of concepts for students who are ready to expand their skills further. These courses encourage creative experimentation, problem-solving, and independent work.

Tailored Learning Pathways

  • Students can choose the level that matches their current skills and experience in each course.

  • Faculty provide individualized guidance, recommending the appropriate level and helping students create a sequence of courses that meets their goals.

  • Progression is flexible, allowing students to move between levels as they gain skills and confidence.

  • Personalized pathways ensure that every student can maximize learning, creativity, and growth, regardless of their starting point.

Key Benefits

  • Honors and standard certificates can both be completed at a comfortable, customized pace.

  • Students feel supported and challenged appropriately in every course.

  • Encourages lifelong learning by giving students ownership over their educational journey.

Course Categories

Basic Math and Reading

Our Basic Math and Reading program focuses on enhancing numeracy and literacy skills through interactive and engaging activities. Join us to boost your academic proficiency!

Our programs are designed to cater to the unique learning needs of special needs adults, ensuring a personalized and supportive educational environment.

  • Interactive learning activities
  • Academic proficiency enhancement
  • Engaging curriculum

Communication and Interpersonal Skills

Our Communication and Interpersonal Skills course teaches effective communication strategies and fosters positive relationships with others. Develop essential social skills with us!

Join a community of like-minded individuals and professionals dedicated to empowering special needs adults with essential life skills.

  • Effective communication strategies
  • Positive relationship building
  • Social skills development

Financial Literacy

Learn the fundamentals of financial management with our Financial Literacy program. Gain knowledge in budgeting, saving, and investing for a secure financial future.

We are committed to fostering independence and confidence in our students, equipping them with the tools they need to succeed in various aspects of life.

  • Fundamentals of financial management
  • Budgeting and saving knowledge
  • Secure financial future

Health and Wellness

This course empowers students to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. Tailored for diverse learning styles and abilities, it includes interactive lessons, real-world applications, and community engagement.

Key Topics Include:
    •    Nutrition & Meal Planning: Basics of balanced eating, reading food labels, preparing simple meals, and understanding dietary needs.
    •    Physical Activity & Movement: Fun, inclusive fitness routines like walking clubs, chair yoga, dance, and adaptive physical education.
    •    Personal Hygiene & Self-Care: Daily routines, grooming, dental care, and healthy sleep habits.

Transition to Work Skills

This course prepares students for the world of work by developing essential employment skills, fostering workplace readiness, and supporting the transition from school to a structured job environment. It emphasizes hands-on learning, community engagement, and self-advocacy to help students achieve personal career goals.

Key Topics Include:
    •    Career Exploration: Identifying interests, strengths, and potential job matches through assessments and guided reflection.
    •    Workplace Behavior & Etiquette: Punctuality, dress code, teamwork, following directions, and workplace communication.
    •    Job Search Skills: Writing resumes, completing job applications, preparing for interviews, and understanding job listings.
    •    On-the-Job Skills: Task completion, time management, problem-solving, using tools and technology, and requesting help when needed.
    •    Self-Advocacy in the Workplace: Knowing rights and responsibilities, asking for accommodations, and setting personal goals.

Vocational Training

We will provide practical training in areas such as:
• Food Service and Culinary Basics
• Office and Computer Skills
• Custodial and Maintenance Work
• Retail and Customer Service

Students will practice skills both on-site and through community partnerships with local businesses offering internships or shadowing experiences.

 Independent Living Skills

We will provide hands-on training in:
• Personal Hygiene
• Time Management
• Meal Planning
• Transportation and Travel Skills
• Conflict Resolution

Students will apply these skills in supervised apartment-style environments on or near campus.