Secondary Transition, Certificate (online)

This online graduate certificate program equips professionals to prepare youth with disabilities to successfully transition to college, careers, and community life. Through the program, students (a) learn to implement evidence-based transition practices; (b) develop skills to collaborate with family, school, and community partners; and (c) engage with peers who share a commitment to promoting positive postschool outcomes for youth with disabilities.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the Secondary Transition Certificate program will demonstrate the ability to:

1. Integrate information about students’ strengths, preferences, interests, and needs to develop effective transition plans.
2. Apply person-centered planning strategies to actively involve students and families in transition planning and IEP development.
3. Plan and implement transition-focused education and services designed to prepare students for competitive employment, postsecondary education, and community living.
4. Collaborate effectively with families, school personnel, adult service providers, and community members on behalf of transition-age students with disabilities.

Admission Requirements

Admission to the Secondary Transition - Certificate (eCampus) program is limited to the First Session of each term (fall, spring, summer). The application fee is waived for K-12 teachers currently employed in a public school in the United States.
By completing this program, you will earn a BGSU graduate certificate in Secondary Transition. Program completers who hold a currently valid standard Ohio intervention specialist, career-technical teaching, or professional pupil services license or certificate are eligible to apply to the Ohio Department of Education (ODE) for the Transition-to-Work Endorsement.
Document required:

• Statement of Purpose (300-700 words) that communicates the following:
  • your motivation to pursue graduate study in secondary transition;
  • your professional goals and how you believe our program can support you in meeting those goals; and
  • your personal attributes, background, and/or experiences that have prepared you for success as a graduate student.

The statement should also indicate your understanding that (a) the program does not lead to initial teacher licensure and (b) some coursework and assignments require access to transition-age youth, ages 14-26. 

All application materials must be received two weeks prior to the semester/session start date.

Application Requirements

Admissions Categories and Grade Point Average Requirements

International Application Information

Degree Requirements