Launch a Career with Education

When your dream job requires education or training, opportunities and resources exist to help you get there.

Colorado Profile: Ashley Mabry graduated from University of Colorado Colorado Springs in May 2020 as one of the first Inclusive Higher Education (IN!) participants.

Colleges and Universities

Certificate, two and four-year degree, and post-graduate programs exist in Colorado’s many universities and colleges. Find your path at My Colorado Journey.

Vocational Trade Schools

Vocational and trade schools provide career-focused training for careers such as allied health, technology, skilled trades, and legal services. Explore vocational trade schools in Colorado.

Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships are industry-driven career pathways, and information about Colorado’s options can be found at the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment.

Inclusive Higher Ed (IN!)

Since 2016, IN! has created inclusive college opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities to foster academic growth, social development, and career advancement. Current IN! Programs exist at the University of Northern Colorado, the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, and Arapahoe Community College.

Resources for Current and Prospective Students

Informational, disability support, and financial resources exist to help students create an educational plan.

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Career Pathways

The Colorado Workforce Development Council adds career pathways to My Colorado Journey each year to help career seekers look specifically at Colorado’s growing industries to understand the required education, training, and skills needed for those careers.

Services for Students with Disabilities

Accommodations for students with disabilities in settings of higher education are common to ensure equal access to the benefits of the postsecondary experience. The National Center for College Students with Disabilities offers free information for students, families, and educators needing information about disability and higher education. Prospective and current students are also encouraged to check out their specific institution’s disability services office.

Education Funding

The Colorado Department of Higher Education has a wealth of information on financial aid for students. Students with disabilities may also receive training and education assistance from the Colorado Division of Vocational Rehabilitation to reach a planned employment outcome.

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The Colorado Office of Employment First sits under JFK Partners, the state’s University Center of Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, a program of the University of Colorado School of Medicine. Its creation was envisioned by Colorado Employment First Advisory Partnership (EFAP), a multi-state agency and stakeholder-led collaborative, and was made possible, in part, by funding from the Colorado Legislature and generously matched through the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) at the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE).

© 2023 Colorado Office of Employment First. All Rights Reserved.

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