Path to Independence

Path to Independence (P2I) is an inclusive, two-year, non-degree certificate program offering a college experience to students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

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About

Founded in 2013 by Mary Bryant, Path to Independence (P2I) began as a mother’s vision to create opportunities for her daughter, who has Down syndrome, to pursue a college education alongside her peers. What started as a small pilot program with just a handful of students has grown into a vibrant, supportive community offering a fully inclusive college experience for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Today, P2I is one of only two inclusive postsecondary education programs in Nevada. Since its founding, the program has celebrated more than 50 graduates—each gaining academic skills, career readiness and the confidence to live more independently. In 2024–2025, we proudly celebrated our 10th graduating class, marking a decade of creating meaningful pathways to higher education, employment and community inclusion.

Group of Path To Independence students outside

Who we serve

P2I serves students with intellectual and developmental disabilities who want to continue their education after high school, gain job skills and develop greater independence. Our students come from across Nevada and represent diverse backgrounds, cultures and experiences. Whether living on campus, commuting or coming from rural communities, P2I students share one goal: building the skills and confidence to thrive in college, at work and in life.

Path To Independence student using a computer

Program requirements

To be eligible for P2I, students must:

Be at least 18 years old and have completed high school or earned a certificate of completion
Have an intellectual or developmental disability
Be able to participate safely in a college campus environment with appropriate supports
Show motivation to learn, work, and participate in campus life
Commit to meeting program attendance and participation expectations

Two Path to Independence students at the N sign.

Tuition

P2I tuition covers participation in inclusive academic courses, individualized educational coaching, employment readiness training and independent living supports. Costs vary depending on housing choice and individual support needs. Many students access funding through school district transition programs, Vocational Rehabilitation, Medicaid waivers, federal student aid (P2I is a federally approved Comprehensive Transition Program), scholarships or a combination of these sources. Our team works with each student and family to explore funding options and reduce financial barriers.

Program components

Academics

Students take a combination of inclusive university courses and specialized P2I seminars designed to build academic skills, career readiness and independence. Peer mentors provide in-class support, and students have access to campus resources such as the library, tutoring centers and the Disability Resource Center.

Employment

Through Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) and Work-Based Learning Experiences (WBLEs), students explore careers, gain hands-on experience and develop professional skills. Our Employment Coordinator and job coaches work closely with local employers to create meaningful, integrated job opportunities that prepare students for competitive employment after graduation.

Independent living

P2I is the only program in Nevada to offer fully inclusive on-campus housing for students with IDD. Students live alongside their peers in university residence halls and receive support from trained Residential Coaches—fellow university students who provide guidance in daily living skills, social engagement and navigating campus life.