Academics

SAIL provides students with a certificate from the University of Tennessee at Martin. This certificate can be earned in two years.

Students will take on campus classes taught by SAIL faculty that will center on independence and work readiness. In addition, SAIL students will audit undergraduate courses that line up with their career goals and person interests.

Audit Courses

Audit Courses for SAIL Students

SAIL students have the opportunity to take undergraduate courses at the University of Tennessee at Martin, taught by UTM’s faculty and staff. These audit courses allow students to learn alongside their peers in subjects that spark their interests or support their goals.

While enrolled, SAIL students are active participants—attending classes, completing homework, projects, and exams, and following the same expectations and procedures as their classmates. This experience not only deepens academic knowledge but also builds confidence and a true sense of belonging in the college community.

Expectations for Audit Instructors

Course Modifications

Audit instructors will receive documentation outlining any necessary modifications for SAIL students in their classes.  Instructors are expected to collaborate with the SAIL program as well as the Accessability Resource Center (ARC) to ensure students can fully engage and benefit from the course. This may include providing exams to the ARC for proctoring and adjusting assignments, due dates, or assessments as needed.  The AIL department will partner with each instructor to assist in making these modifications.  

Equal Opportunities

SAIL students should be treated with the same respect and expectations as all other students. They are to be included in every aspect of the course—assignments, group projects, class activities, and participation opportunities. While some adjustments may be necessary, SAIL students should not be excused or excluded from course requirements.

Ongoing Communication

Instructors are encouraged to maintain regular communication with the SAIL department, who serves as a resource for accommodations, modifications, and any questions that may arise. Sharing both positive feedback and constructive updates about student progress is essential to supporting each student’s academic success.

Career Development

SAIL students take part in internships to gain transferable skills. These internships provide valuable work experiences for their resume.  The relationships built within the internships will also be references for future job applications.

The primary goal of SAIL is to increase the employability of our students. However, securing a job has to do with many factors. The SAIL program can and will provide assistance in obtaining employment during the program and sometimes immediately after; however, it should be noted that participation in and graduation from the program does not guarantee a job placement.

Peer Mentors

Peer mentors within the SAIL program are an important aspect of the program’s success. These volunteers help with the day-to-day campus lives of students, including anything from in-class help to being lunch buddies.

SAIL is always accepting new mentors to join our team. Fill out this form to receive more information.

Campus Visit

The SAIL program welcomes visitors throughout the year. We are especially interested in meeting with prospective students, their teachers, and families. You may contact the program coordinator, Cassie Luna, at cluna3@utm.edu to arrange your visit. Please indicate if you are interested in specific areas of the program so we can tailor your visit to be the most helpful.