Autism Spectrum Disorders Concentration

Master of Education with a Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders, 36 credits

As educators, we are challenged by the special needs of our students and the increasing demands on us and on our school systems. This is particularly true as we face the complex and quickly developing arena of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). In a few short years we have seen an escalation in the number of children identified with ASD and an increased need for teachers, schools, and families to develop educational strategies and interventions for meeting these students' needs.

The ASD Certificate MEd degree is a 36-credit program for teachers, counselors, nurses, and other education professionals. The program gives a broad overview of Autism Spectrum Disorders with a core foundation of education theory and practice. The program emphasizes working with students that are on the higher functioning end of the autism spectrum, especially High Functioning Autism, Asperger Syndrome, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified.

ASD Certificate students complete the same core course of study as Experienced Educators students in the General Program, including practicum and master's project with a special focus on ASD interventions. The Department of Applied Psychology's Autism Spectrum Disorders certificate courses are taken in fulfillment of the elective course requirements. ASD Certificate students work with faculty from the Departments of Education and Applied Psychology. Students consult with faculty regarding certification requirements and supervise students' practicum experiences.

Enrollment in this program is contingent on space availability. The application deadline for the ASD Certificate MEd program is June 1.

Core Requirements

Learning Theory
Social & Political Issues
Curriculum Theory & Application
Teacher Leadership
Philosophy of Education
School Change
Action Research
Data Collection & Analysis
Master's Project

ASD Requirements

Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorders
Sensory Issues of Individuals on the Autism Spectrum
Clinical and Educational Assessment
Training in the Social Use of Language
Educational Interventions Part I & II
Working with Older Teens and Adults on the Spectrum
Introduction to Counseling Interventions
Advocacy Applications for Individuals on the Autism Spectrum
Advanced Seminar in your area of specialty

Degree Requirements

Last Updated: 5/6/09