Transition Specialist Certificate Program 15 credits
Able to be completed in two semesters, the Transition Specialist Certificate program prepares educators and counselors to take a leadership role in federally-mandated transition planning and service provision for students with disabilities.
Licensed special educators, guidance counselors, school social workers, rehabilitation counselors, and others with related experiences are eligible to enroll in this program. Participants will engage in study that focuses on the educational and social/emotional needs and the quality of life of students with disabilities, aged 14-22, as they prepare for work, community participation, and post-secondary learning. Through 150 hours of field-based transition-related experiences, candidates develop the knowledge and skills to assess, plan, and deliver transition services; promote the self-determination of people with disabilities; work effectively with culturally and linguistically diverse families; and build partnerships with local agencies and employers. Emphasis is placed on the critical importance of self-determination and self-advocacy in the transition process.
Completion of this program can lead to:
1. Eligibility to apply for the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education for Transition Specialist Endorsement in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
2. Eligibility for a Transition Specialist Graduate Certificate from Lesley University.
Prerequisite requirements for a Transition Specialist Endorsement:
- An Initial or Professional license as a Teacher of Students with Moderate Disabilities, Teacher of Students with Severe Disabilities, Teacher of the Visually Impaired, Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, School Guidance Counselor, or School Social Worker/School Adjustment Counselor and a minimum of 2 years of experience under one of these licenses, or
- A license or certification as a Rehabilitation Counselor and a minimum of 2 years of experience under one of these credentials
Note: In certain states, reciprocity may be offered. It is important to check with your state certification/licensure office, as additional steps may be necessary in order to meet state requirements.
Prerequisite requirements for a Transition Specialist Graduate Certificate:
- An undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited college or university, and
- A minimum of 2 years of experience supporting persons with disabilities
Program of Study
Courses may have prerequisites for registration; please check course descriptions before registering.
Required Courses (15 credits):
| ESPED 6150 | Laying the Groundwork: Fundamentals of Transition | 3 |
| ESPED 6151 | Building Partnerships for Transition | 3 |
| ESPED 7727 | Transition Field Experience I | 1 |
| ESPED 6152 | Individualizing Transition Assessment and Planning | 3 |
| ESPED 6153 | Navigating Transition Systems and Supports | 3 |
| ESPED 7728 | Transition Field Experience II | 1 |
| ESPED 7729 | Transition Field Experience III | 1 |