Garden State Pathways
Garden State Pathways (GSP) is a two-year, inclusive, post-secondary transitional program at Camden County College designed for students ages 18-24 with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities who are eligible for Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) funding.
The GSP program is designed to prepare students for independence and employability through classes in socialization, functional learning, financial literacy, work skills, life skills and more.
After completing all required courses and work experiences in the program, students will receive a Certificate of Postsecondary Studies from Camden County College that will confirm their job readiness, and a career-ready portfolio to take with them as they enter the workforce.
Benefits
COST
GSP at Camden County College is less than half the cost of our competitors, while providing the same high-quality education and support to our students.
STUDENT CENTERED
Inclusive programming, curriculum, and a supportive learning environment.
SOCIAL SKILLS
Students will receive an authentic college experience at GSP through non- restrictive, integrated classrooms while working and learning with peers their own age. Students are encouraged to attend all CCC social events and activities.
ACADEMICS
GSP students are provided a well-rounded, specialized curriculum that is appropriate for a range of students with intellectual and or developmental disabilities. Students will leave the GSP program prepared to access CCC student resources and advising assistance should they decide to continue their education.
ELECTIVES
Students will have the opportunity to explore their interests in a wide range of classes, including art, music, and physical fitness.
CAREER EXPLORATION
Job shadowing through community and business partnerships help your student receive hands-on experience that helps them build their portfolio for after they leave the GSP program. Students are required to complete 120 hours of vocational exploration each year.
Support
Our Job Coach plays a crucial role in supporting our students by assisting them in workplace skill development, problem solving, confidence building and helping students determine what career path is best for them.
By pairing currently enrolled students with experienced GSP alumni, students are provided with valuable guidance,
encouragement, and resources from their peers. Peer mentors serve as advocates and classroom support to current students, and foster a sense of community within the program.
Curriculum
CLASSROOM INSTRUCTION
Students will take specialized classes including Consumer Mathematics, Computer Fundamentals, Life Skills, Employment Basics, and more.
SOCIAL INTERACTION
Students will have the opportunity to enjoy an authentic college experience at Garden State Pathways while working and learning with peers their own age. Students are encouraged to attend all campus social events and activities and are typically escorted to events as a group.
PHYSICAL EXERCISE
Physical Education courses are built into the curriculum, and may include yoga and weight training.
ELECTIVES
Students can take a number of electives that reflect their own personal interests, including music, art, and more.
VIEW THE COMPLETE CURRICULUM
Testimonial
“When our son, Tyler, graduated from high school, we weren’t sure what the right next step would be. We wanted a program that would help him continue learning while building the independence, confidence, and life skills he would need for the future. Choosing the Garden State Pathways Program at Camden County College turned out to be one of the best decisions our family could have made.
Over the past year, we have watched Tyler grow in ways we never imagined. At the beginning of the program, I spent a lot of time helping him stay organized, prepare for classes, complete assignments, and arrange transportation. By the second semester, he was managing every aspect of his college experience on his own. Seeing him become more confident, responsible, and independent has been one of the most rewarding experiences for our family.
The Garden State Pathways Program provided so much more than a college experience. It gave Tyler the opportunity to develop real-world skills, build self-confidence, strengthen his self-advocacy, and prepare for greater independence. The staff and instructors created a welcoming, supportive environment where they genuinely cared about his success and encouraged him every step of the way. Their guidance and belief in his abilities made a lasting impact.
As Tyler moves forward into the next chapter of his educational journey, we know he is far more prepared than he was just a year ago. Looking back, I truly believe the Garden State Pathways Program gave him exactly what he needed at the right time.
We will always be grateful to the Garden State Pathways Program for believing in Tyler and helping him become the young man he is today. We wholeheartedly recommend this program to families looking for a supportive and inclusive college experience that truly helps students reach their potential.”
Tricia Wilson
Additional Information
If you need further information or have additional questions please feel free to reach out to us using the contact information below or complete our Garden State Pathways Information Request Form.
Contact
Taryn Burkholder, MS, CRC
Director, The Accessibility Center
Taft Hall, Room 103
accessibilityservice@camdencc.edu
(856) 227-7200, extension 4430
Kimberly Whitham
Assistant Director
The Accessibility Center/Garden State Pathways
Taft Hall, Room 103
gardenstatepathways@camdencc.edu
(856) 227-7200, ext. 4430
