Program Overview

Autism Spectrum Disorders (Graduate Certificate)

The graduate certificate program in autism spectrum disorders is ideal for educators, interventionists, paraprofessionals, psychologists, behavior analysts, and family members who want to enhance their preparation for working with individuals living with autism spectrum disorders.

Program Description

This program blends theory with practice, enabling students to conduct helpful interventions and promote specialized learning strategies. Students can complete the graduate certificate within two years while pursuing a graduate degree or as a stand-alone certificate.

At a Glance

• College/school: Mary Lou Fulton College for Teaching and Learning Innovation
• Location: Online
• STEM-OPT extension eligible: No

Degree Requirements

The program requires 15 credit hours, consisting of:

• Required Core (9 credit hours)
  • SPE 521 Foundations of Autism Spectrum Disorders (3)
  • SPE 525 Measurement, Data Display, Interpretation and Experimental Design (3)
  • SPE 540 Family-Centered Practices (3)
• Restricted Electives (6 credit hours)
  • SPE 520 Verbal Behavior (3)
  • SPE 527 Behavior Analytic Assessment (3)
  • SPE 541 Consultation Frameworks and Issues (3)
  • SPE 560 Behavior Change Procedures: Implementing Interventions in Behavior Analysis (3)
  • SPE 564 Controversial Therapies; Science, Fad and Pseudoscience in Educational Settings (3)
  • SPE 566 Applied Behavior Analysis in Inclusive Settings (3)
  • SPE 567 Ethics of Applied Behavior Analysis (3)
  • SPE 598 Special Topics (3)

Admission Requirements

• General university admission requirements: All students must meet general university admission requirements.
• Applicants must have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution.
• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.
• Application materials:
  • Graduate admission application and application fee
  • Official transcripts
  • Personal statement describing the applicant's interests and reason for seeking this degree
  • Resume
  • Proof of English proficiency

Tuition Information

Tuition information can be found on the university's website, and students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:

• Critically evaluate research literature generated in the field of autism.
• Evaluate intervention plans for individuals with autism spectrum disorder.
• Consult with families and other professionals on the care of individuals with autism spectrum disorder.

Career Opportunities

Students gain specialized skills and knowledge to work effectively and compassionately with children and adults, including family members, impacted by autism. Career examples include:

• Adapted physical education specialist
• Clinical psychologist
• Counselor
• Special education teacher
• Speech-language pathologist

Additional Information

• The program is offered online with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year.
• Students interested in sitting for the national Board Certified Behavior Analyst exam should apply for the Master of Arts program in special education with a concentration in applied behavior analysis or the applied behavior analysis graduate certificate.