INCLUSIVE EDUCATION
Inclusive Post-Secondary Education
IPSESA offers an Inclusive Education program through our Integrated Post-Secondary Education (IPSE) Program, Students in our IPSE program work with an Education Facilitator, who provides personalized support to help students with developmental disabilities succeed in the post-secondary environment. Facilitators work closely with each student to modify course materials, assist with academic tasks, and support independent learning as the students audit classes.
Facilitators also collaborate with professors to ensure inclusive teaching practices and help adapt course content when needed. Beyond academics, Facilitators support students in engaging with campus life by encouraging participation in clubs, events, and volunteer opportunities. Employment readiness is another key focus, Facilitators help students build essential skills like resume writing, cover letter preparation, and interview techniques, and support them in connecting with job and volunteer opportunities that align with their interests.
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By offering tailored support in education, campus life, and employment, our Facilitators empower students to gain confidence, independence, and meaningful experiences throughout their 4–5 years in the program. Upon completion of the program, IPSE students gain a Certificate of Completion from IPSESA.
Our 3 Pillars
Our Inclusive Education program supports students across three pillars: Education, Campus Engagement, and Employment Preparation.
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This ensures that students build valuable academic skills and have a fulfilling campus life, while also preparing them for their future after they finish our Inclusive Education program.
1
Education
Students audit two classes a semester and participate in classes. Facilitators work with student on modified coursework assignments.
Coursework sessions are typically 2-4 hours a week.
2
Campus Engagement
We work with students to develop a meaningful relationship with the campus community and encourage participation and socialization.​
This can look like attending campus events, joining clubs and asking questions in lectures
3
Employment
Facilitators guide skill development and support students to began building a professional network and participate in volunteer and work opportunities
This includes making resumes and cover letters, job interview practice, and much more
Our Campuses
Our Inclusive Education program operates out of three campuses across Calgary
IPSESA first started at the University of Calgary back in 1992. The large campus at the University of Calgary offers a diverse selection of classes, as well as many different campus engagement opportunities for our students. ​​
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Our first expansion came in 2006 to St. Mary’s University. The smaller campus of St. Mary’s University provides a cozy and relaxed setting for our students and offers opportunities for close connections to fellow students. ​
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Our most recent expansion was to Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) in 2022. At SAIT, our students are able to take a variety of courses within the Business Program, including presentation and leadership skills classes, and much more.
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To learn more, check out the