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Ram Scholars

Apply: RAM Scholar

The RAM Scholar Experience

Inclusive training with individualized support in the field of agricultural sciences.

Our goal is to prepare young adults with an intellectual disability for employment pathways in agriculture. We are recruiting students who are 18 years or older who have an interest in a career in agriculture. RAM Scholars will enroll in CSU courses and receive support from peers and CSU faculty members to encourage their success.

RAM Scholars enrollment is full for the 2024 -2025 academic year. Please complete the RAMS Scholars Interest Form to be placed on the interest list for the 2025-2026 academic year. Applications for 2025-2026 will be available in November 2024.

Interest submissions will place you on our email list to hear about when applications open in the fall. RAM Scholars Program applications mirror the process of applying to college. All program activities are connected to the university calendar of CSU.

Thank you for exploring our inclusive higher education program!

Outcomes and Impact

By providing new inclusive pathways to competitive, paid employment for adults with an intellectual disability in Colorado, the RAM Scholars program at CSU will facilitate the pursuit of meaningful careers and the integration of people with developmental disabilities in the economic, cultural, and educational mainstream of the Rocky Mountain region.

Economic integration

Economic integration takes place in the form of employment outcomes that result from the technical training obtained.

One Ram Scholar pushes machinery levers with instructor guidance, while another Ram Scholar places a hand on their shoulder

Cultural integration

Cultural integration is implemented through participation in the rich agricultural history that influences the labor, social, and community engagement opportunities in the Rocky Mountain Region.

Two individuals look at plants while one sits on the dirt.

Educational integration

Educational integration is created through the opportunity to learn side by side with CSU student peers, and to be included as members of the broader campus environment.

Ram Scholar stands at the front of a classroom and gives a presentation

Current Statistics for Students with Developmental Disabilities

Agricultural career training has the potential to address the unmet needs and interests of many adults with developmental disabilities by providing integrated and real-world employment training with an adapted curriculum.  Although a growing number of adults with developmental disabilities live in the Rocky Mountain region, only 1% of those with jobs work in the category of “Farming, Fishing, and Forestry.” These statistics highlight a distinctive unmet need for agricultural career pathways for people with developmental disabilities.  

Employment improves quality of life and well-being for people with IDD
Only 18% of US adults with IDD have paid employment
Students with IDD who receive CTE are 7.4X more likely to obtain paid employment