Aiken, South Carolina, September 23, 2025
News Summary
The USCA Learning Is For Everyone (LIFE) program at the University of South Carolina Aiken will enhance education for students with intellectual disabilities by acquiring advanced Apple technology. This initiative, supported by a funding proposal of $512,862, will provide iPads, Apple Watches, and other Apple products to improve college transition programs. The program aims to foster independence for students in employment and daily living. Additionally, professional development for staff and collaboration with other departments will ensure effective implementation of the technology.
Aiken, South Carolina – The USCA Learning Is For Everyone (LIFE) program at the University of South Carolina Aiken will receive state-of-the-art Apple technology for the 2024-25 school year to enhance the educational experience for students with intellectual disabilities. This initiative is a product of a collaborative effort between USCA LIFE, Clemson LIFE, and Coastal Carolina’s LIFE program, which jointly submitted a proposal seeking $512,862 in funding from the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education.
The funding will support the purchase of various Apple products aimed at improving college transition programs designed for students with intellectual disabilities. Each USCA LIFE student and instructor will be provided with an Apple Watch and a 10th generation iPad. Additionally, each on-campus apartment will have a HomePod installed, and the USCA LIFE classroom will feature iMac computers and Apple TV. Staff members will receive either a MacBook Pro or iPad Pro to assist with the delivery of program curriculum.
Melissa Martin, the program director of USCA LIFE, highlighted the importance of these devices, stating that students will learn and practice key skills with the new technology. This integration aims to enhance their independence in both employment and everyday living after graduation. In tandem with these technological upgrades, USCA has arranged for 14 days of professional development and training by Apple for both students and staff within the USCA LIFE program. This training is designed to ensure that all participants are equipped to utilize the new technology effectively.
The iPads will be instrumental in teaching technology literacy skills as part of the USCA LIFE coursework. Furthermore, the USCA LIFE program has partnered with the USCA’s Exercise Sports Science Department to create a new initiative called Movement Mentors. In this initiative, second-year students in the USCA LIFE program will collaborate with exercise sports science majors to develop and pursue physical activity goals. Participants will be using the Apple Watch to track their movements as they work towards these objectives.
The university recognizes that the iPad’s versatility, security, and accessibility provide essential learning opportunities for students, leveling the playing field for all learners. As part of the USCA LIFE program, students moved into their residences on campus in September 2025, and since then, they have been actively engaging in various activities that foster social connections, job skills development, and enjoyable campus events.
During the spring commencement held on May 7, 2025, USCA celebrated the graduation of over 400 students, among them the first cohort from the USCA LIFE program. The inaugural group of graduates received their Promoting Academic, Community & Employment Readiness (PACER) credentials, having participated in an array of experiences which included attending classes and holding jobs within the university. Thirteen students from the program graduated, with some advancing to a leadership and civic engagement program for additional credentials. Moreover, one graduate was successful in securing a job with Savannah River Mission Completion, while others began working or volunteering within the Central Savannah River Area.
Looking ahead, applications for the 2026-27 school year will open on July 1, with a total of 12 students set to begin in the 2025-26 academic year.
Key Features of the USCA LIFE Program’s New Technology Initiative
- Funding: $512,862 from the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education
- Devices Provided: 10th generation iPads, Apple Watches, iMac computers, MacBook Pros, HomePod speakers
- Training: 14 days of Apple professional development for students and staff
- New Initiatives: Movement Mentors with Exercise Sports Science Department
FAQs
What is the USCA LIFE program?
USCA LIFE is a two-year program focusing on learning opportunities, social engagement, independent living, and employment skills.
What technology will the USCA LIFE program receive?
Each USCA LIFE student and instructor will receive an Apple Watch and a 10th generation iPad. One HomePod will be installed in each on-campus apartment, and the USCA LIFE classroom will be equipped with iMac computers and Apple TV.
How will this technology enhance the program?
Students will learn and practice important skills with the new devices, enhancing their independence in employment and living after graduation.
When can students apply for the 2026-27 school year?
Applications for the 2026-27 school year will open on July 1.
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Additional Resources
- WRDW: USCA LIFE Program Students Move In
- World Atlas: Best Places to Call Home in South Carolina 2025
- The Augusta Press: USCA Aiken Graduating Class of 2025
- Fox News: Video on USCA
- Post and Courier: USCA Commencement Graduation 2025
- Wikipedia: Intellectual Disability
- Google Search: USCA LIFE Program
Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
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