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The Vocational Independence Program (VIP) is an NYIT program for students who have significant learning disabilities. Participants are full-time students and live on NYIT's Central Islip site in a residence hall staffed 24 hours a day by VIP faculty and professionals. VIP students meet regularly with academic, social, and career counselors who help tailor the program to individual needs. Students may enter the vocational program, which encourages independence through a three-year vocational certificate program, or the degree program, which guides students through regular NYIT academic majors:
- Vocational Program: Three-year certificate program with 20 vocational majors such as culinary arts, retail, and small animal care. The first year provides intensive coursework in independent living, social, and academic skills, while the second and third years include skills training and job placements.
- Degree Program: Qualified students in this program have access to all NYIT degree programs, which are generally started in the second semester. The degree program also offers intensive coursework in independent living, social, and academic skills. A highly individualized study program, individualized support, and counseling are integral parts of this experience.
VIP offers a summer program, called Introduction to Independence (I-to-I), which features educational and vocational opportunities for students with learning disabilities
VIP Applications Process
Students should visit VIP before applying to meet students and professors and visit classes and residential facilities. Regular admissions students are notified in May; there is also an early decision option. VIP accepts a freshman class of 25 to 30 students. To be considered for admission, applicants must:
- be at least 18 years old.
- provide a formal application that includes parent application, reference forms, school records, psychological/intelligence test results.
- undergo an on-campus interview, during which potential students complete their application.
For more information, visit the VIP Web site, call 631.348.3354.