RISE is an inclusive program to help individuals with intellectual disabilities complete college courses and prepare for sustainable employment. RISE students are fully included with the campus community through classes, academic support, and student life involvement.
The RISE program application for fall 2025 can be found on this page under Admission. The application deadline is January 31, 2025.
Click here to watch a recording of the RISE Program information session from 12/4/24.
For additional questions about RISE, please send an email to eicherlaFREEWESTMORELAND.
Click below for more information:
- A series of technical training courses in one of the following career areas:
- Baking/pastry
- Culinary arts
- Early childhood education
- Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning
- Office administration
- Plumbing
- A series of personal development courses designed to help students build skills needed for employment, such as communication, conflict resolution, and on-the-job etiquette.
- A series of general elective courses of the student’s choice.
RISE students have access to weekly academic coaching, tutoring, and a structured study lounge to help them complete their coursework. Students are also supported as they participate in all areas of campus life, including clubs, activities, and events.
RISE students have access to all of Westmoreland’s advising and support resources.
RISE has a separate admission process, where students need to apply and be accepted to participate. Students who are not accepted into the RISE program are still eligible to be students at Westmoreland.
The fall 2025 application includes 4 parts that must all be submitted by January 31, 2025:
- Student application form
- TWO support staff recommendation forms
- ONE caregiver recommendation form
- Evaluation report or IEP documenting a disability of Intellectual Disability or Autism
Application items should be emailed to eicherlaFREEWESTMORELAND with the subject line of “RISE application.”
RISE students are responsible for paying standard tuition and fees for their courses. They also pay a separate fee for the academic support that RISE provides. The estimated support fee for the 2025-2026 academic year is $6,500 per semester.
Westmoreland anticipates being able to accept funding from federal financial aid, Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, ID/Autism Waiver, and other sources.
Scholarship opportunities are available for students with disabilities.
For more information on inclusive college programs for students with intellectual disabilities, please visit the Think College site.
The mission of RISE is to provide supported pathways for students with intellectual disabilities to earn a college credential and seamlessly transition into sustainable employment and independent living.