UW-Whitewater LIFE Program
The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater LIFE (Learning is for Everyone) Program provides a complete college experience for young adults between the ages of 18-25 who have an intellectual disability. With ample supports, specialized instruction, on-campus residential living, and community integration, the program serves a critical need by providing access and opportunity for students who have historically been underrepresented in higher education. The program has two components, which includes a Basic Program (2 years) and an Advanced Program (2 years) that are designed to facilitate personal growth, independent living, and employment success.
LIFE Program Open House
Join us for our LIFE Open House on Friday, September 26, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Bring your questions and let us show you that the UW-Whitewater LIFE Program can be right for you!
A Day in the LIFE
Student Opportunities
Meet the Staff
Is LIFE Right for My Student?
Areas of Instruction
Tuition & Housing
Application
Donate Now
Program Highlights
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Comprehensive supports that are designed to prepare them for competitive employment and independent living to the greatest extent possible
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Specialized instruction, with an emphasis on skills that students need in order to be successful in personal and professional endeavors
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Expansive resident assistant supports designed to help students develop essential skills in non-academic domains
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Expose students to a college experience, which spans far beyond traditional academics
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Integration with multiple facets of campus life, thereby providing many inclusive opportunities and meaningful networks of support
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Dismantles barriers and creates substantive opportunities for students with an intellectual disability
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Prepares students to live a healthy and balanced lifestyle, including regular exercise and participation in enjoyable leisure activities
Program Mission
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Prepare students for competitive employment
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Prepare students for independent living
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Prepare students to live a healthy & balanced lifestyle
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Exposure to a complete college experience
FAQS
Prepare students for competitive employment, independent living, to live a healthy & balanced lifestyle, and expose students to a complete college experience.
Licensed special educators.
Completion of LIFE application, which includes high school transcript, results from a physical examination, documentation of intellectual disability, proof of health insurance, three letters of recommendation, and a recent photo.
Students receive a certificate of completion from the university (not a degree).
Both the Basic Program and Advanced Program are 2 years
We have limited visit opportunities throughout the academic year. If you are part of a group of 10 or more that would like to schedule a time outside of those visit opportunities, please feel free to request a group tour with UW-Whitewater Admissions. Simply mention that you are interested in UW-Whitewater LIFE, and they will be able to personalize that for you.
LIFE students are eligible for Federal Financial Aid as well as the use of IRIS benefits/self-directed funds.
If students have a legal driver’s license, they are allowed to have a car on campus. Campus permits are required to park and can be purchased through parking services.
The LIFE program is a residential program where students are required to live on-campus in a residence hall.
Please email lifeprogram@uww.edu or call 262-472-1905 if you have any questions about this program. Students who complete this program will receive a certificate of completion, rather than a degree from the university.
