UMass Boston

Learn how to teach students with moderate disabilities in pre-K through grade 12.

UMass Boston's Special Education Certificate is designed for teachers seeking a secondary license, as well as those seeking initial licensure to work with special populations. We offer two concentrations:

• Moderate Disabilities, pre-K-8
• Moderate Disabilities, grades 5-12

The Certificate offer students a 27-credit sequence of coursework, including 75 hours of monitored pre-practicum field-based experience, and a minimum semester-long supervised practicum (including hours in an inclusive setting). For teachers who currently hold an initial licensure in early childhood, elementary education, and middle/secondary education, a portion of their practicum hours will be waived. 

At the end of this one-year program, you’ll be awarded a Certificate in Special Education. The certificate will demonstrate your expertise in the field on your résumé, as well as in interviews and workplace evaluations. Upon completion of the Moderate Disabilities, pre-K-8 and Moderate Disabilities, grades 5-12 certificate programs, you will be dual licensed.

Ready to talk? Email kristin.murphy@umb.edu to schedule a call with the program director.