Beginning in the fall 2023 semester at Slippery Rock University, the Rock Life program, which provides students with intellectual or developmental disabilities a path to competitive employment and lifelong wellness, will institute a redesigned curriculum to become a four-year program.

According to a news release from the university, Rock Life immediately will transition from the College of Education to the Office of Disability Services, within the division of Student Affairs. Additionally, the Rock Life staff is revamping curriculum this summer based on an external program review performed by independent consultants.

The review included interviews with SRU administration and faculty; Rock Life program staff; Rock Life students, coaches and parents; representatives of the Student Affairs and Student Life offices; and community stakeholders, according to the news release.

The new curriculum will be based on a combination of specialized coursework, inclusive and meaningful academic experiences, career exploration and vocational preparation, and functional living skills.