Frequently Asked Questions
University of Massachusetts Boston Transition Leadership Program
Courses
What are the two courses of study of the UMass Boston Transition Leadership program?
The UMass Boston Transition Specialist Training leads to either:
- A Master of Special Education (MEd) with a Concentration in Transition Leadership
- A Graduate Certificate in Special Education with a Concentration in Transition Leadership
How do these two courses of study differ?
MEd in Special Education with a Concentration in Transition Leadership:
- 5 online courses in special education and vocational rehabilitation
- 5 online secondary transition-related courses
- Applied learning assignments built-in
- 1-semester practicum (3 credits)
- Total: 33 credits
Graduate Certificate in Special Education with a Concentration in Transition Leadership:
- For those with a master's and a license/certificate
- 5 online secondary transition courses
- Built-in applied learning assignments
- 1-semester practicum (3 credits)
- Total: 18 credits
What courses will I take, and in what order will I take them?
Certificate Track:
- Transition Topics
- Youth Development & Self Determination
- Career Development & Competitive Employment
- Postsecondary Education for Students with Disabilities
- Transition Leadership
- Transition Leadership Practicum
Master’s Track:
- Same core course sequence
- Additional interdisciplinary courses chosen with academic advisor
Credentials, Competencies, and Careers
What credential(s) am I eligible for when I graduate?
Graduates are eligible for:
- CEC-DCDT national certification
- MA DESE Transition Specialist endorsement (for Massachusetts residents)
Note: Contact your state’s DOE to verify certification eligibility if you're outside MA.
What professional competencies will I have?
Graduates will be able to:
- Conduct person-centered planning
- Develop IEPs aligned with postsecondary goals
- Lead transition assessments
- Facilitate transition services
- Coordinate inclusive postsecondary and career development opportunities
- Conduct transition service surveys
- Establish and manage interagency transition teams
The program aligns with both CEC-DCDT and MA DESE transition specialist competencies.
What kinds of jobs would I be eligible for?
- Middle and high schools (public/private)
- Vocational rehabilitation offices
- Youth workforce centers
- Special education
- Social work
- Counseling (school/mental health)
- Occupational therapy
Program Requirements & Logistics
Does this class meet in person or online?
The program is fully online via UMass Boston’s Canvas LMS.
What prerequisites are required for these programs?
- Bachelor’s in special ed, counseling, vocational rehab, or related field
- Experience with youth ages 14–22 with disabilities
- For MA endorsement: initial licensure in a related field
What are other requirements of the program?
- Access to students aged 14–22 with disabilities
- Access to a school system and professional transition staff
- Computer with internet to access Canvas and Zoom
- Ability to complete field-based assignments
How long does it take to finish the course of study?
- Certificate: ~1.5 years (part-time)
- Master’s: ~2 years (part-time)
How many courses can I take each semester?
Certificate Track:
- 2 courses in fall
- 2 in spring
- 1 each in summer and final fall
Master’s Track:
- 2 in fall/spring
- 2–3 in later semesters
- 1 summer course (14 weeks, May–August)
Can I complete this course of study while working full time?
Yes. Expect 4–7 hours/week per course. Practicum hours may overlap with your job.
How much time will I need to commit each week for coursework?
Each 14-week course requires 4–7 hours/week.
Is taking a course in the summer required?
Yes. One required course (SPE G 658 Transition Leadership) is only offered in summer (14 weeks).
Will there be field supervision during the practicum?
Yes. You’ll meet with a university field supervisor at least 3 times during the semester.
Can I complete the practicum in my own school?
Yes, if you’re already in a suitable setting.
Will I be able to get help finding a practicum placement?
Yes. Let program staff know early if you need assistance.
Enrollment & Support
Can I take courses as a guest student without being admitted to the program?
Yes. You may take 1–2 courses as a guest. If accepted later, credits can be applied.
Is the course cost the same for guest students?
Yes. All students pay $1,725 per course.
How do I enroll in the courses?
After admission, your advisor will provide registration instructions.
Will I have access to technical support for the online courses?
Yes. UMass Boston offers tech support for Canvas (LMS). Instructors also assist as needed.
When is the application deadline and when will I know if I’m accepted?
- Application Deadline: June 15
- Decision Notification: Last Friday in July
Can I transfer previously taken course credits?
Yes. You can transfer up to 2 courses (6 credits):
- Not previously counted toward another degree
- Must be approved by advisor and program director
- Must have grade of B or higher
What do I need to do if I’ve taken courses as a non-matriculated student?
- Notify your advisor
- Advisor will submit a “Transfer Credit Approval” form
- Transfer up to 2 courses (6 credits), with grade B or higher
Can I take off-campus courses and transfer them in after I’m admitted?
Yes, with prior approval from your UMass Boston advisor:
- Grade must be B or better
- Submit official transcript
- Advisor completes “Graduate Transfer Credit Form”
Is there any tuition assistance available for the Transition Leadership tracks?
Yes. Some foundation funds are available for first-year students taking 2+ courses.
Contact UMass Boston Admissions & Financial Aid for more financial aid options.