Program Overview

Introduction to Think Beach

Think Beach is an inclusive college program for young adults with an intellectual disability (ID). The program is a two-year, four-semester course that includes college coursework, weekly independent living skills workshops, vocational experiences, person-centered planning, and peer mentorship. This program prepares students for successful employment and community integration in adulthood.

Program Overview

Think Beach students will be included in many aspects of college life, including CSULB classes, campus clubs and activities, on-campus jobs, and the Student Wellness and Recreation Center. The program takes a holistic, person-centered, strengths-based approach to supporting students as they work to achieve their goals and dreams. Students who complete the Think Beach program requirements will earn a certificate in Integrated Career Studies.

Ideal Candidates

This program is ideal for young adults aged 18-26 years old with a diagnosis of intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD) who had an individualized education program (IEP), earned a certificate of attendance or an alternative diploma in high school, and live in the Long Beach area. Think Beach students must be able to independently navigate the California State University, Long Beach campus.

Features and Benefits

• Enrollment in college-level CSULB classes
• Inclusion in campus clubs and activities
• Opportunities for on-campus jobs
• Access to the Student Wellness and Recreation Center
• Mentorships and friendships with fellow students
• Students who complete Think Beach program requirements will earn a certificate in Integrated Career Studies

Program Outline

College Coursework

Think Beach students complete two courses per semester, for a total of eight courses throughout the program. Based on a student's individual strengths and needs, they can take courses for credit
o credit or audit. There are three core courses that are required for all Think Beach students, which support the development of students' academic, vocational, and social skills. Additionally, Think Beach students will work with their advisor to select three elective courses based on their career goals and interests.

Sample Program of Study

Independent Living Skills Workshops

Think Beach students will attend weekly workshops with peer mentors that focus on strengthening students' independent living skills. Topics include, but are not limited to, resume building, interview skills, transportation, financial literacy, time management, hygiene, social skills, mindfulness, and food preparation.

Vocational Experiences

A main goal of Think Beach is to prepare students for competitive integrated employment. Therefore, Think Beach students are expected to participate in a variety of vocational experiences, including career exploration, job shadowing, paid/unpaid internships, and/or paid employment. Think Beach faculty and staff will work with students to develop a vocational plan that best fits each student's strengths and preferences.

Person-Centered Planning

Think Beach faculty and staff conduct person-centered planning with students to identify their strengths, interests, and needs. Faculty and staff will assist students in setting goals and developing an action plan to achieve their goals.

Peer Mentorship

Each student in the Think Beach program will be matched with peer mentors. These mentors are CSULB undergraduate and graduate students who are volunteering their time. Mentors will support Think Beach students as they transition to college life and adulthood. Each mentor will have a different role, including academic (tutoring and note-taking), recreational and social, or health-related (working out at the gym, etc.).

Program Details

• Application Period: Fall 2026
• Cost: $4,190 per semester
• Cost Includes: All program components, including CSULB courses, independent living skills workshops, person-centered planning, peer mentors, vocational experiences, student ID card, and membership to the Student Wellness and Recreation Center. Individuals who are Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) clients may be eligible for full tuition assistance through the DOR.