Welcome to Inclusive Post-Secondary Education (IPSE). Inclusive education offers a unique opportunity for individuals with developmental disabilities to participate in the full polytechnic experience – students attend classes, are involved in campus groups and activities, participate in volunteer opportunities and aspire to obtain meaningful employment in their fields of study. IPSE students attend post-secondary to:

  • continue learning and explore their interests
  • connect with their peers
  • increase their autonomy and improve their self-identity
  • gain experience, knowledge and skills
  • make contacts in their field of study
  • secure meaningful employment

IPSE supports students year-round. During the summer months, students are typically engaged in community activities, volunteer opportunities, work experience placements and employment.

What is inclusive education?

At Lethbridge Polytechnic, all students, regardless of any disability, have the opportunity to access education and contribute to both their community and the workforce. Inclusive education supports students with developmental disabilities as they are fully included in all aspects of polytechnic life. There are no classes or rooms set aside for students in IPSE.

Eligibility requirements

Students who qualify for funding through Persons with Development Disabilities (PDD) and have either a modified high school diploma or no high school diploma may be eligible to audit classes at Lethbridge Polytechnic with the aid of IPSE.

Auditing

When students audit a course, they attend classes and complete coursework, just like other students, but receive neither grades nor credits. This allows our facilitators to work with instructors to modify homework, assignments and tests to meet the student’s individual learning style and needs.

IPSE initiative duration

While most polytechnic programs are two years, students in the IPSE initiative typically attend Lethbridge Polytechnic for four years. This gives them time to proceed through their programs at a more manageable pace.

Applying to IPSE

Applications are accepted on an on-going basis but student intake occurs only as spots become available. To apply to IPSE, follow the steps below.

  1. Contact the IPSE coordinator to obtain an application form.
  2. Fill out the IPSE-specific application form
  3. Return the application to the IPSE coordinator.

IPSE fees

The IPSE initiative does not have a fixed fee. Once accepted into IPSE, students are required to pay the standard Lethbridge Polytechnic registration fee. Like other students, students supported by IPSE are responsible for the cost of their courses and textbooks.

Fees vary from course to course. Please contact the Registrar’s Office for more information regarding fees at 403-320-3323 or toll-free 1-800-572-0103 ext. 3323.