Bachelor's Degree program at UMass In Mental Retardation / Developmental Disabilities

The Bachelor's degree program in Human Services, with concentration in mental retardation / developmental disabilities, at the University of Massachusetts / Amherst, is seeking qualified applicants who are interested in completing their college degree. Now in its fifth year, this program is run through the University Without Walls, a department of UMass which has specialized for thirty years in supporting adult learners towards their degree. The concentration in mental retardation / developmental disabilities will provide the graduate with a general background in the field, as well as concentrated work in the student's particular area of interest. Students also have the opportunity, through this program, to earn college credits for prior learning achieved through work or other life experience, and for formal trainings that they have had in the field. Classes will be offered at times that will be convenient for the working adult, as much as possible, generally on evenings or Saturdays. Courses are offered through the Continuing Education Division at UMass. This program is ideal for students who have some college credit already in hand, and wish to complete their degree.

“The program has been a great relief as I work in it, and it works for me. It has allowed me to perform my full- time duties within my agency and maintain family responsibilities, with manageable tasks toward earning my degree.” (Sean Hemingway, CHD, UWW graduate 2003)

Visit the UMass Amherst campus and attend a one-hour information session for further details. Applications for the program are accepted in both Spring and Fall semesters. Currently applications are being accepted, with an application deadline of November 1 2005, to begin classes in January 2006. Make room in your life to realize a life-long ambition. For further information, please call: Lee Manchester, at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst: 413 545-3962, or email: [email protected].

“The University Without Walls program is truly remarkable as an ongoing resource to ensure strong, professional and competent staff to lead in the field of Mental Retardation / Developmental Disabilities.” (Melissa Wilson, Director of Residential Operations, RRI)

A collaboration between the Massachusetts Department of Mental Retardation and the University of Massachusetts / Amherst