Training Programs

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Youth and Adult Programs

• 01

  Who can apply to DIVE-VRT?

  This program is open to anyone age 16+ diagnosed with a lifelong or acquired disability. Our youth cohort is for students ages 16-22 enrolled in Hillsborough County Schools. Our adult cohort is for anyone age 18+.

• 02

  What is the cost to participate in DIVE-VRT?

  There is no cost to participate for youth or adults.

• 03

  Where is DIVE-VRT located?

  DIVE-VRT classes are located in Tampa, two miles from the Interstate 75 Fletcher Avenue exit. Adult cohorts are hosted at this location.

• 04

  How long does the program last?

  The classroom component of DIVE-VRT begins in August and concludes in late March. Students then move into employment services with DIVE-VRT job coaches. Students must complete all components of the program to finish.

• 05

  Do I need to be enrolled in Vocational Rehabilitation to participate?

  No, you do not have to be a current Vocational Rehabilitation customer to participate. Vocational Rehabilitation may be able to assist with other services related to your participation. Please consult with your Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor.

• 06

  Is housing available for this program?

  No, we do not offer housing through DIVE-VRT. If you are not local to the Tampa Bay area, but would like to participate, you can explore off-campus student housing options here: offcampushousing.usf.edu/

• 07

  Is transportation provided?

  Please contact us to speak more about transportation options in your area and/or speak to your Vocational Rehabilitation counselor.

• 08

  What do I need to enroll?

  First, please complete our interest application. If you meet the eligibility criteria, you'll be automatically directed to complete the full application. After you submit an application, you will attend a mandatory Screening Session to ask questions, participate in an interview, complete a reading and math assessment, try the virtual reality headsets and complete a fine motor skill assessment. During the screening session, you can decide if DIVE-VRT is a fit for you. We will send acceptances after the session. Classes begin in August and run until late March.

• 09

  Can I sign up if I have never used Virtual Reality headsets before?

  Yes! During the Information and Demonstration, you will have the opportunity to learn more about virtual reality and try out a headset.

• 10

  Are classes offered in-person or virtually?

  DIVE-VRT is offered in-person only in Tampa, Florida.

• 11

  Do I have to live in Hillsborough County to participate?

  Our adult age classes (18+ and out of high school) are open to any county as long as you have transportation and can attend our classes in-person in Tampa. Students in our youth cohorts (16-22 and enrolled in school) are required to be in Hillsborough County.

• 12

  Can I get help with finding a job?

  Yes, our program has job coaching embedded. You can begin meeting with your job coach as early as the start of the program to get individualized support and become employment ready. After the classroom component of the program is complete, you will continue to work with your job coach to find employment.