Transition from K-12 to Adulthood

Graduate Certificate in Transition from K–12 to Adulthood

The Graduate Certificate in Transition from K–12 to Adulthood at Washington State University prepares educators and related professionals to improve postschool outcomes for youth with disabilities. Grounded in evidence‑based practices and aligned with the Council for Exceptional Children’s Division on Career Development and Transition (CEC‑DCDT) national standards, this fully online certificate equips practitioners with advanced skills to support career development, postsecondary education pathways, self‑determination, and independent living. As the first program of its kind in the Northwest to pursue national CEC‑DCDT accreditation, the certificate offers a flexible, high‑impact learning experience delivered through the WSU Global Campus—ideal for K–12 educators, adult service providers, vocational rehabilitation specialists, and others committed to strengthening transition services and reducing persistent disparities in employment, education, and community participation.

The certificate is open to students in any WSU graduate program. Students not in degree programs may also earn the certificate by applying and enrolling as non-degree/non-matriculated student. This is a Global campus only program. Students are required to maintain the minimum GPA requirement of at least 3.0 while enrolled in the certificate program. To qualify for the graduate certificate a prospective student must have a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited post-secondary institution and meet all prerequisite requirements or demonstrate equivalent knowledge before enrolling in any courses which require these. For non-current WSU students, please apply through the GradCAS, submit a current Resume or Curriculum Vitae, unofficial transcripts from colleges/universities and a Letter of Intent with a brief statement of your professional objectives and how you believe they will be promoted by admission to the prospective WSU program.

Note: This certificate program does not accept State of Washington Employee tuition waivers.

A note on classes required for certificates: The WSU Graduate School Policy regarding certificates indicate that other courses cannot be used as substitutes to meet the core course requirements. Please note that we process your application for the certificate during the semester/term in which you take the your last required course.