Academics

P.A.C.E. students attend classes two days each week in an undergraduate university environment. Teaching and learning in a formal classroom are designed to provide content, promote critical thinking skills in a structured environment, and challenge students at all levels in courses that are rigorous, but manageable.

Classes, which focus on real concept-based learning, include homework and participation requirements. Students receive feedback directly from their instructors on the quality and content of their work—as well as create and present a portfolio each quarter for evaluation.

College Credit

Faculty encourage students to become active learners and to invest themselves in their own education. P.A.C.E. students earn twelve credits during their two-year program. Three hours of additional credit are offered to students specializing in the fields of early childhood, business or hospitality to enhance their employability.

Highly motivated students who have demonstrated excellent performance in their P.A.C.E. classes are encouraged to register for specific NLU undergraduate classes, usually in the liberal arts or early childhood education. P.A.C.E. faculty work with the instructors of these for-credit courses to provide the necessary accommodation and tutoring support for their students.

The Path to Growth, Opportunity and Independence

The P.A.C.E. curriculum has three objectives:

• Education and professional training necessary to work as an aide/professional assistant
• Development of independent living skills
• Development of age-appropriate social skills

Sample P.A.C.E. curriculum

First-Year Academic Classes: *

• Freshman Studies
• Social Skills I
• Consumer Mathematics
• Introduction to Human Development
• Humanities elective
• Health and Wellness

First-Year Laboratory Classes *

• Computer Technology
• Life Skills
• Learning Lab
• Language Lab
• Assertiveness Training

- Internship Seminar I

Second-year academic programs build upon basic theories and practices; concepts are discussed in some depth in the context of current experiences and future life plans.

Second-Year Academic Classes: *

• Independent Living Seminar
• Advanced Human Development
• Contemporary Issues Second-Year Laboratory Classes: *
• Advanced Life Skills
• Study Strategies
• Assertiveness Training

- Senior Seminar

• Internship Seminar II
• Humanities elective

- These classes may change as curriculum is updated.