HEELS UP
HEELS UP is an inclusive postsecondary education (IPSE) program that offers students with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD) an immersive and inclusive college opportunity. HEELS UP students also participate in social/recreational opportunities on campus alongside other UNC students. IPSE programs are associated with improved adult life outcomes in areas such as self-determination/self-advocacy, community participation, independent living, and employment. Students are supported to pursue their goals for adult life through an individualized, person-centered plan and 1:1 coaching.
Academic Year Program Details
HEELS UP Academic Year: Students enroll in 1-3 courses per semester as a non-degree seeking student at UNC Chapel Hill based on their career and/or personal interests for 2 years (4 semesters). A certificate of completion will be awarded at the conclusion of the program. We accept students for Fall admittance only. Applications for Fall 2026 are open October 1st, 2025 – January 6th, 2026 11:59pm!
We are excited to host two Open House events for prospective students and families to learn more about the program and application process. They will be held on October 18th, 2025 and November 15th, 2025 from 11:00AM – 1:00PM. Sign up HERE!
Apply
Apply for the Fall 2026 program HERE.
The Academic Year program follows UNC Chapel Hill’s academic calendar. The dates for Fall 2026 are August 17th, 2026 – December 2nd, 2026. Students will return for the Spring 2027 semester in January, as well as Fall 2027 and Spring 2028. There will be more information about HEELS UP Student Orientation that will be held the week before Fall 2026 classes start.
HEELS UP Summer
HEELS UP Summer: 6 – 10 eligible HEELS UP students enroll in one Summer Session II course at UNC Chapel Hill based on their career and/or personal interests. A certificate of completion will be awarded at the conclusion of the program. Applications will open on this page in January 2026.
The Summer program follows UNC Chapel Hill’s academic calendar. The dates for Summer Session II are June 22nd, 2026 – July 23rd, 2026. Student Orientation information, which usually occurs the week before, will be shared soon.
Additional Program Details
Format of Delivery: Classes may be in-person or online depending on the course selected, with in-person coaching, goal planning, and social opportunities on campus. HEELS UP also has a residential option.
Eligibility: Must be at least 18 years old with documentation indicating intellectual and/or developmental disability. Applicants should be seeking a well-rounded college experience that results in a certificate of completion (not a degree). See additional eligibility requirements by following the application link above.
Staffing: Small group coaching and peer supports will be provided based on individual support needs.
Our Purpose
Our purpose is to create an inclusive higher education program where students with intellectual disabilities transitioning to adulthood access impactful opportunities to pursue personal goals in academics, employment, community engagement, and beyond. Our students will also benefit from the premier teaching, research, and service conducted throughout the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Our Goals
- To support faculty, staff, and student knowledge surrounding disability as part of the campus culture
- To support the HEELS UP student in designing and implementing their own person-centered plan, based on personal strengths, aspirations, and interests
- To support the HEELS UP students to gain skills and access to achieve their self-determined life
Contact heels2transition@med.unc.edu for more information.