A Think College Brief on Policy, Research, & Practice - Issue No. 66 - A Guide to the Program Credential Development and Approval Process

Oct 15, 2026

A Think College Brief on policy, research, and practice focusing on how postsecondary education (PSE) programs for students with intellectual disability should develop and secure approval for a meaningful program credential. It explains why early credentialing was inconsistent, how the Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA) shaped credential expectations for CTP programs, and what components—such as individualized, person-centered coursework and inclusive engagement—must be in place. It also outlines credential types and the role of accreditation in increasing rigor, recognition, and student value to employers and society.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryResearch & Report

FormatPDF

Pages8

Reading Time20 min

AccessFree to download

Introduction

Credentials from PSE Programs for Students with Intellectual Disability

Postsecondary Education Credentials

Degree

Academic Certificate

License or industry certification

Micro-credential/badge

CTP Program Designation and Requirements

Program Accreditation Standards

Current Landscape

A Think College Brief on Policy, Research, & Practice INSIGHT ISSUE NO. 66 2025 A Guide to the Program Credential Development and Approval Process By Cate Weir, Chelsea VanHorn Stinnett, Matthew L McClellan, and Belkis Choiseul-Praslin Introduction Postsecondary education (PSE) programs for students with intellectual disability should be built around a course of study leading to a meaningful credential. Typically, programs award a non-degree credential available only to students who are attending the program. In addition to or instead of these programspecific credentials, students in these programs may be supported to earn credentials available to all students at their college or university (with and without disability) . In this guide, we focus on the credential that is specifically for students with intellectual disability enrolled in the program. We outline how to develop a robust and comprehensive course of study that culminates in a meaningful credential approved and awarded by the accredited college or university where the program is located. Credentials from PSE Programs for Students with Intellectual Disability PSE programs for students with intellectual disability should culminate in a formal acknowledgment of student learning, just like any other postsecondary program. In the early days of college programs for students with intellectual disability, the awarding of credentials was inconsistent and often lacked formal approval from institutions or credentialing entities. Without standardized requirements, such as a specified number of credits or clock hours, students completing the program were not held to the same level of academic achievement. Additionally, there was a lack of comprehensive assessment of student learning, resulting in certificates that often served as verification of attendance rather than meaningful indicators of student achievement. The Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA) of 2008 significantly impacted the field by defining a comprehensive transition and postsecondary (CTP) program for students with intellectual disability. Postsecondary Education Credentials When students attend a postsecondary institution, they are typically on a path to earn some sort of credential. A university or college credential is an official document approved by the institution that verifies a student has completed a program of study. Credentials can include certificates, diplomas, degrees, certifications, licenses, and microcredentials/badges. Degree An academic credential awarded by a college or university after a student completes a specific program of study. Degrees are considered the gold standard by employers because they are awarded by accredited institutions that meet rigorous academic standards. Academic Certificate A non-degree credential awarded by an educational institution or training provider after a student completes a program of study, including coursework, tests, and other performance evaluations. License or industry certification A non-degree credential that is typically awarded by a professional organization or industry group. These credentials signify knowledge and often application of fieldspecific skills, such as a nursing license or a project management certification. Micro-credential/badge A very flexible credential that allows the user to demonstrate their knowledge of a certain topic. INSIGHT: A Think College Brief on Policy, Research, & Practice • Issue No. 66 “The program credential is about ensuring our students leave with something tangible that demonstrates their value to employers and society.” To receive CTP program designation from the US Department of Education, programs must adhere to this definition, which includes essential components like an individualized course of study based on person-centered plans that encompass career development, inclusive academics, independent living skills, and campus engagement. Additionally, the HEOA require

FAQs

Why should PSE programs for students with intellectual disability culminate in a meaningful credential?

The brief emphasizes that credentials must provide a formal acknowledgment of student learning, with standardized expectations and assessments, rather than functioning only as proof of attendance.

What impact did the Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA) have on CTP programs?

The HEOA established a comprehensive transition and postsecondary (CTP) program definition and required elements such as individualized course of study, assessment of student progress, and a Satisfactory Academic Progress policy.

What inclusive requirements are required for students with intellectual disability in CTP programs?

The brief states that students must spend at least half of their academic time in inclusive college courses or internships alongside students without disabilities, supporting social interaction and practical skill development.

Oct 15, 2026

Uploaded by Maya Linwood