What is the Vocational Independence (VIP) Program?

NYIT offers the Vocational Independence Program (VIP) for students who have moderate to severe learning disabilities as well as functioning autism and spectrum disorders. Students may enter either the vocational certificate program or the NYIT Degree Program. The certificate program offers over 20 vocational majors; the NYIT degree program places students on an associate or bachelor’s degree track. Students in both tracks are full-time students and live on the Central Islip campus in a residence hall staffed by VIP faculty and professionals. They participate in the full range of student life offerings, including social and recreational activities.
 
In addition to NYIT activities, VIP offers specialized trips and activities: from day trips to weekend outings to a week in Europe. Upon entering the program as freshmen, VIP students are assigned academic, social and career counselors, and financial advisors who meet with them weekly and on an “as needed” basis.

The Vocational Independence Program accepts a freshman class of approximately 45 students. It is recommended that students apply as early as possible as space is limited. Prospective students may visit the school with their parents prior to making formal application. These visits provide an opportunity to meet with the administration, view classes, talk with students, and tour the campus.

Formal application includes a parent application, references, school records, and psychological/intelligence testing results. A student application is completed during the required on-campus admissions interview. SAT or ACT tests are not required. Admission decisions are made on a rolling basis.

For information about the application procedure and/or to make an appointment to visit the campus, please call Sheree Incorvaia 631.348.3139 or e-mail sincorva@nyit.edu. Click here to visit the VIP pages on our Web site.