The TOPS program at The Ohio State University Nisonger Center offers students with intellectual and developmental disabilities the ability to take Ohio State courses, gain work experiences, and get involved on campus.
TOPS students focus on four areas:
- Academics focuses on classes and learning at Ohio State to support student’s personal and career goals.
- Employment focuses on learning what job a student wants by researching jobs and practicing jobs through internships or paid employment. After graduation our students get jobs in the community.
- Independent Living focuses on learning skills of being an adult. This could be learning to schedule and attend appointments, arranging transportation, and support. Students join campus organizations and attend activities and events.
- Self-determination focuses on speaking up for yourself. Students have a student-led, person-centered plan, mentors, and do community service to learn these skills.
Students accepted to TOPS earn a certificate based on how long they are in TOPS.
- Workforce Development Certificate 2-Year Program (60 semester hours)
- Workforce Development Certificate 4-Year Program (120 semester hours)
With both certificates, students are in 4 credit hours of courses each semester, take part in at least 10 hours per week of work experience, complete 25 hours of community service per semester, join at least 1 student organization, attend campus events, and build self-advocacy skills.
For more information, email transitions@osumc.edu or call 614-685-3185.