DSS Core Classes

Making success accessible for every student.

At NOCE, DSS offers noncredit college classes that help students with mild intellectual disabilities (ID) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) gain independence in school, work, and the community.

The DSS Core Classes lay the building blocks for an inclusive life, which includes:

• The skills needed for participating in noncredit and credit college classes
• Obtaining competitive and integrated employment
• Living more independently. 

DSS Core Class Focus Areas

• Career Exploration

  Students get hands-on learning experiences in many career fields, including:  

  • Animal care
  • Childcare
  • Customer service
  • Digital marketing
  • Foodservice
  • Retail
• Interpersonal Skills

  Students build skills to strengthen their relationships with others and to advocate for themselves. Learn more on topics such as:  

  • Building social and communication skills 
  • Literacy 
  • Maintaining safe relationships 
  • Self-advocacy at work 
• Independent Living Skills

  Lessons focus on helping students live more self-sufficiently. Classes include:  

  • Academic and vocational skill-building
    
  • How to manage money 
  • Maintaining mobility 
  • Personal health and wellness