Leading individuals toward fulfilling employment through personcentered development.
LIFE Bridge supports individuals with learning challenges as they pursue college coursework, develop independent living skills, and prepare for meaningful employment.
Many students want to attend college but worry that it may be too difficult or that they will not receive the support they need. LIFE Bridge provides structured guidance, academic support, and skill development to help students succeed in a college environment.
If you want to build independence, prepare for employment, and feel ready to participate in college classes with support, LIFE Bridge may be a great option for you.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for LIFE Bridge, a student must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a documented intellectual, developmental, or cognitive disability that impacts their ability to successfully progress through college due to academic, social, or adaptive behavior concerns
- Have been eligible for special education services at some point during K–12 education
- Have exited K–12 education
What to Expect
Students enrolled in LIFE Bridge may pursue any Western Iowa Tech program of study as long as they meet the program’s admission requirements.
Program participation includes:
- A minimum of 6 credit hours per semester
- Supported study hall sessions
- Biweekly progress meetings
- Regular use of campus support services
- Job shadowing and internship opportunities
- Social engagement activities
How LIFE Bridge Supports Learners
LIFE Bridge provides individualized guidance and support to help students reach their academic, personal, and career goals.
Program supports include:
- Collaboration with each student’s support team to create a person-centered plan
- A person-centered plan that guides individual goals throughout the program
- Academic advising to assist with program and course selection
- Supported study hall hours
- Individual instruction in college organization and study skills
- Courses focused on developing independent living, learning, and employment skills
- Connections with on-campus mentors, support services, and social engagement opportunities
Program Finances
Students enrolled in LIFE Bridge are responsible for program costs. These costs include standard tuition for enrolled courses plus a $200 per credit hour LIFE Bridge program fee, which supports the services provided by the program.
Students may qualify for financial assistance through:
- Federal Financial Aid (FAFSA)
- Western Iowa Tech scholarships
- Last Dollar Scholarship Program
- Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation Services
- Private scholarships
- Private loans
Campus Activities
Students who sign up for LIFE Bridge agree to participate in campus activities in the areas of academics, careers, personal development, and campus engagement. Some possible activities for each of these areas include:
Academics
- LIFE Bridge classes
- Degree field classes
- Assigned study hall
- Learning groups
Careers
- Career coach meetings
- Job shadows
- Internships
Personal Development
- Person-centered goal meetings
- Individualized skills training
- Personal challenges
Campus Engagement
- Lifelong Learning courses
- Clubs
- Sporting events
- Campus activities