Interdisciplinary Transition Specialist, Adv. Cert.

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Associate Professor Nerlich, Program Director, 516-463-6492

The Advanced Certificate for the Interdisciplinary Transition Specialist is designed for professionals who work with students with disabilities preparing to make the transition to adult life-roles following high school. The Department of Counseling and Mental Health Professions has developed this program for those in preschool, kindergarten, elementary, middle, and/or secondary school special education teachers, rehabilitation counseling, school counseling, and related fields to learn collaboratively across disciplines and develop competencies in transition best practices. The goal of this program is to cross train professionals within these disciplines to appreciate the myriad roles and functions interdisciplinary team members perform in an attempt to bring the educational system and community closer together. Course work is designed around principles of transition, collaborative partnerships, advanced techniques and individualized services, contemporary transition issues, and evidence-based research practices.

On average, students complete this program in one and one-half academic years.

Admission Requirements

A completed graduate application with written personal statement of professional intent.
Master’s degree in special education, rehabilitation counseling, school counseling, psychology or related field.
Current letter of recommendation from an individual who can attest to the applicant’s professional achievement and potential.
A detailed resume of professional, clinical and related experiences.
A minimum grade point average of 3.0 for prior graduate work.
Personal interview with department faculty member.

Prerequisite Requirements

REHB 230 ; SPED 210 ; or equivalent course.

Program Requirements – Total Semester Hours: 18

CMHP 203 - Foundation of Transition Services and Interdisciplinary Collaboration Semester Hours: 3
CMHP 204 - Interdisciplinary Collaboration and Community Partnerships Semester Hours: 3
CMHP 205 - Individualized Transition Services for Diverse Student Needs Semester Hours: 3
CMHP 206 - Process and Techniques in Transition Semester Hours: 3
CMHP 207 - Contemporary Issues in Transition for Youth With Disabilities Semester Hours: 3
RES 264 - Action Research in Transition Settings Semester Hours: 3

Graduation Requirements

Completion of all program requirements.
A minimum grade point average of 3.0 in overall graduate course work.