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Where the Learning Continues

Where the Learning Continues

Where the Learning Continues (WTLC) at West Texas A&M University is a higher education experience committed to empowering students with intellectual disabilities by strengthening their academic knowledge, social skills, and unique abilities in a way that nurtures confidence and inspires independence.

wtlc-two-students-tankAbout the class

WTLC students are proud to belong to the WTAMU community! Classes are held on both WTAMU campuses where they enjoy meeting other Buffs and reuniting with former classmates. Students receive free admission to sporting and fine arts events, and participate in the annual Homecoming parade. Paid internship opportunities are even available through dining services and the physical plant.

Class is held Monday through Thursday.  On Mondays students attend class at the WTAMU Amarillo Center from 8:00 to noon where their time includes an integrated class with communications disorders majors.  One day per week class goes from 8:00 to 3:00, which includes lunch at the Caf and an integrated class with degree-seeking students.  (The specific integrated class changes from semester to semester.)  During their time on campus, students engage in coursework that includes:
handley-graduate
  • mathematics
  • science
  • writing
  • computing
  • social studies  
  • life skills
  • social skills
Students also participate in
  • Paid internship opportunities on campus through Aramark and SSC, if desired
  • Homecoming parade
  • and receive free admission to all sporting and fine arts events
After completing 8 semesters, students participate in the WTAMU commencement ceremonies where they cross the stage to shake the WTAMU President's hand and receive their certificate of completion in a degree cover.
Transportation to and from Amarillo on Panhandle Transit is available for a nominal fee. Students meet the bus at a central Amarillo location in the morning and are taken home or to work after school. Unfortunately, housing is not available on campus.

Tuition is approximately $2000 per semester. Neither financial aid nor scholarships are available because the students do not earn university credit in their classes.

To apply for WTLC

An applicant must:

  • Be between the ages of 18-23
  • Have completed a 4-year high school program
  • Have minimal medical and no behavioral issues
  • Have a minimum level of independence
  • Diagnosis, Date 

Prospective students and parents are encouraged to visit the program prior to applying so they can determine whether the program is right for the student.  It also gives the instructor an opportunity to observe the student's level of independence and his or her ability to work within a group setting. To schedule a visit, call (806) 651-2037.

Applications for the fall semester are due May 1; applications for the spring are due November 1. 

A selection committee composed of the WTLC instructor, two current or former student parents as well as a representative of WT Extended Studies and WT Speech Clinic interview the applicant and parent(s)/guardian separately and together.  The committee assesses communication skills, level of interest and independence.

Contacts

Office of Extended Studies

WT Main Campus, Old Sub

Office hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

(806) 651-2037
Michelle Vinyard
Director for Extended Studies
Jessica Hanke
Academic Program Coordinator
Vanessa Gonzalez
Camps Program Coordinator