Since 1986, Miami Dade College's MEED Program (Microcomputer Education for Employment of the Disabled) has provided individuals with disabilities in Miami-Dade County provides customized and competitive employment services. Over 250 MEED Program graduates work successfully at major corporations, government organizations, colleges, small to medium-size businesses, and non-profit organizations.

Eligibility

The MEED Program is open to adults ages 18-65 with a documented disability as defined by the Americans for Disabilities Act.

Participants need:

• High school diploma (standard diploma, special diploma, or GED)
• Florida residency for 1 year
• U.S. citizenship, legal residency, or work permit to work in U.S.
• Ability to benefit from college-based training demonstrated by standardized testing (with accommodations if needed)
• Sponsorship by an agency or self/family/scholarship to pay for tuition, fees, books, and program service charges
• Willingness to search for and maintain competitive employment, part-time or full time, for 90 days or longer

College Certificate and Associate of science degree Training

The MEED Program staff supports adults with disabilities while they complete their choice of more than 25 Miami Dade College Certificate and Associate of Science training programs. These College Certificate and Associate of Science Degrees prepare adults with disabilities for high-demand jobs in:

• Business/Customer Support
• Computer Information System
• Medical Services
• Hospitality

Classes may generally be taken at any Miami Dade College campus. All training programs include internships in local businesses to help students gain practical experience and develop employment contacts.

Employment Services

The MEED Program offers individualized employment services that assist adults with disabilities in finding their first job or in advancing in their employment. Employment services are available college-wide to all Miami Dade College students with disabilities seeking part-time or full-time employment.

Accomodations

The ACCESS Department assists MEED Program clients in gaining equal access to all educational opportunities while enrolled at any Miami Dade College campus. Depending upon their needs, students may be eligible for a note-taker, a reader, or a sign language interpreter. Computer labs equipped with the latest in adaptive technology and software programs are also readily available.

For more information on typical accommodations available through ACCESS, click here.

CONTACT: Dr.Kenneth Marquard, Director, (305) 237-3371, kmarquar@mdc.edu