Program start date | Application deadline |
2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Autism & Learning, PgCert
Introduction
This programme is designed for teachers and related professionals involved in supporting individuals on the autism spectrum.
Study Information
At a Glance
- Learning Mode: Online Learning
- Degree Qualification: PgCert
- Duration: 12 months
- Study Mode: Part Time
- Start Month: September
The Postgraduate Certificate in Autism and Learning aims to give practitioners an in-depth understanding of the condition and an insight into the workings of the autistic mind. It will equip participants with practical approaches and interventions that will enable children, young people and adults on the autism spectrum to access learning, participate in learning, experience success, gain independence, and fulfil their potential.
The aims of the programme are:
- To develop knowledge and critical understanding of the concept of inclusion and associated principles of equality, social justice, participation and partnership.
- To develop a deep understanding of the complex conceptual issues in Autism, and the key theories, principles and issues in the field.
- To critically evaluate current research in the field.
- To critically review strategies and approaches and their evidence base.
- To develop collaborative partnerships with individuals on the spectrum, parents, colleagues and other agencies.
- To use acquired knowledge and understanding of autism to reflect critically upon practice.
- To apply acquired knowledge and understanding of autism to formulate effective support for learners on the spectrum.
- To conduct professional enquiries and use research evidence to generate professional knowledge and enhance understanding and practice
- To apply acquired knowledge and understanding of autism to contribute to staff development and school/workplace improvement.
What You'll Study
Year 1
- Compulsory Courses:
- Autism, Inclusion and Participation (ED50HP)
- Autism, Behaviour and Planning for Change (ED55HQ)
Autism, Inclusion and Participation (ED50HP)
- 30 Credit Points
- This course covers a range of conceptual issues fundamental to an understanding of autism in inclusive contexts. Participants will therefore develop a critical knowledge and understanding of policy, literature and research relating to the diagnostic criteria for autism, the key theories of autism, the main strategies used to support learners and the key themes and issues in the field. This will be linked to a critical knowledge and understanding of policy, literature and research on inclusion and issues around its meaning and enactment. The role of interprofessional collaboration and learner participation in facilitating inclusion is emphasised across the course.
Autism, Behaviour and Planning for Change (ED55HQ)
- 30 Credit Points
- This course explores the links between the diagnostic criteria for autism (difficulties with social communication, social interaction, flexibility of thought & sensory integration) and behaviour. We critically explore positive, evidence-based approaches to identifying solutions. We also critically examine the links between the national strategy for autism, theory and practice and the meaning of the notion of the ‘autism friendly workplace’. Students are introduced to strategies for reflecting critically upon workplace provision via structured auditing and action planning for change.
Fee Information
- Fee category | Cost
- UK | £830
- EU / International students | £2,415
Scholarships
- All eligible self-funded international Postgraduate Masters students starting in September 2025 will receive an £8,000 scholarship. Learn more about this Aberdeen Global Scholarship.
Entry Requirements
- All candidates must have a relevant degree, experience in supporting individuals with autism and access to a workplace context for the purpose of the assignments.
- Qualifications: Applicants will be graduates or will be able to provide evidence that they can work at postgraduate level. They must have previous relevant experience and be able to undertake studies and related developments in their workplace setting or other appropriate agency.
English Language Requirements
- IELTS Academic: OVERALL - 6.5 with: Listening - 5.5; Reading - 6.0; Speaking - 5.5; Writing - 6.0
- TOEFL iBT: OVERALL - 90 with: Listening - 17; Reading - 21; Speaking - 20; Writing - 21
- PTE Academic: OVERALL - 62 with: Listening - 59; Reading - 59; Speaking - 59; Writing - 59
- Cambridge English B2 First, C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency: OVERALL - 176 with: Listening - 162; Reading - 169; Speaking - 162; Writing - 169
Document Requirements
- Degree Certificate: a degree certificate showing your qualifications
- Degree Transcript: a full transcript showing all the subjects you studied and the marks you have achieved in your degree(s) (original & official English translation)
- Personal Statement: a detailed personal statement explaining your motivation for this particular programme
- Reference x 2: two reference letters, one of which should be from your university discussing your academic ability. If you have been out of education for a long time you may wish to use your current or most recent employers, or other professional individuals
Careers
- Postgraduate Certificate in Autism and Learning can lead to career development in a wide range of employment settings e.g. the charitable sector, social care, social work, health care, education, autism research, and other services requiring an autism specialism.
Accreditation
- This programme was developed in collaboration with the National Autistic Society (NAS) (Scotland), the Scottish Centre for Autism (University of Strathclyde), local authorities and services, and local individuals on the autism spectrum and their parents.
Our Experts
- Programme Leader: Dr Shannon Babbie
Information About Staff Changes
- You will be taught by a range of experts including professors, lecturers, teaching fellows and postgraduate tutors. Staff changes will occur from time to time.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
- Name: Postgraduate Certificate in Autism and Learning (PgCert)
- Mode: Online Learning
- Duration: 12 months (part-time)
- Start Month: September
- Overall Aim: To equip practitioners with practical approaches and interventions that enable children, young people, and adults on the autism spectrum to access learning, participate in learning, experience success, gain independence, and fulfil their potential.
- Specific Aims:
- Develop knowledge and critical understanding of inclusion and associated principles.
- Deep understanding of the complex conceptual issues in Autism and key theories, principles, and issues.
- Critically evaluate current research in the field.
- Review strategies and approaches with their evidence base.
- Develop collaborative partnerships with individuals on the spectrum, parents, colleagues, and other agencies.
- Use acquired knowledge and understanding of autism to reflect critically upon practice.
- Conduct professional enquiries and use research evidence to generate professional knowledge and enhance understanding and practice.
Outline:
- Year 1:
- Compulsory Courses:
- Autism, Inclusion and Participation (ED50HP): Covers conceptual issues, policy, literature, and research on autism, diagnostic criteria, key theories, strategies, and main themes and issues in the field. Also explores policy, literature, and research on inclusion, meaning, and enactment. Emphasizes interprofessional collaboration and learner participation in facilitating inclusion. Critically examines positive, evidence-based approaches to identifying solutions. Examines links between national strategy for autism, theory and practice, and the meaning of 'autism friendly workplace'.
- Amendments to Program and Courses: Information available in "Amendments to Programmes and Courses" document.
Assessment:
- Formative and summative assessments: Designed to arise naturally from course content and learning.
Teaching:
- Learning Methods: Group projects, individual projects, lectures, peer learning, research, workshops.
- Assessment Methods: Formative and summative assessments.
- Faculty: A range of experts including professors, lecturers, teaching fellows, and postgraduate tutors.
- Unique Approaches:
- Focuses on interprofessional collaboration and learner participation.
- Emphasizes critical reflection and application of acquired knowledge to professional practice.
- Offers opportunities for active learning, group work, presentations, peer feedback, and discussions.
Careers:
- Can lead to career development in a wide range of employment settings, including:
- Charitable sector
- Social care
- Social work
- Health care
- Education
- Autism research
- Other services requiring an autism specialism
Other:
- Professional Links: http://www.autism.org.uk
UK
Tuition Fees for 2023/24 Academic Year Charged on a modular basis per 30 credits £790
EU / International students
Tuition Fees for 2023/24 Academic Year Charged on a modular basis per 30 credits £2,300
University of Aberdeen
Overview:
The University of Aberdeen is a renowned institution of higher learning located in Aberdeen, Scotland. It boasts a rich history, having been established in 1495, making it one of the oldest universities in the UK. The university is known for its commitment to research and teaching, offering a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines.
Services Offered:
The university provides a comprehensive range of services to support students in their academic journey. These include:
Academic Support:
Access to libraries, study resources, and academic advisors.Student Life:
Opportunities for extracurricular activities, clubs, societies, and sports.Accommodation:
On-campus and off-campus housing options for students.Career Services:
Guidance and support for career planning and job hunting.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, bursaries, and other financial assistance programs.International Student Support:
Dedicated services for international students, including visa assistance and cultural integration programs.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at the University of Aberdeen can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university offers a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, including:
Sports:
Participation in various sports teams and leagues.Societies and Clubs:
Joining student-led clubs and societies based on interests.Events and Activities:
Attending social events, concerts, and cultural performances.Student Union:
Engaging with the student union for representation and advocacy.Key Reasons to Study There:
Academic Excellence:
The university is recognized for its high-quality teaching and research.Global Reputation:
It holds a strong international reputation, attracting students from around the world.Beautiful Campus:
The university is situated on a picturesque campus with historic buildings and modern facilities.Vibrant City:
Aberdeen offers a lively city environment with a rich cultural scene.Strong Research Focus:
The university is a leading research institution, with a focus on innovation and impact.Academic Programs:
The University of Aberdeen offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate Degrees:
Bachelor's degrees in various disciplines, including Arts, Science, Engineering, Medicine, and Law.Postgraduate Taught Degrees:
Master's degrees and postgraduate diplomas in specialized fields.Postgraduate Research Degrees:
PhD programs and research opportunities in various research areas.Online Learning:
Flexible online programs for students who prefer distance learning.Other:
The university is committed to sustainability and has been recognized for its efforts in this area. It is also a member of the Russell Group, a group of leading research-intensive universities in the UK.
Student Life and Campus Experience:
While the context mentions some aspects of student life, it does not provide a detailed description of the campus experience.Key Reasons to Study There:
The context mentions some advantages, but it does not explicitly highlight the main reasons to study at the University of Aberdeen.Entry Requirements:
UK/EU Students:
- Applicants must possess a relevant degree, experience in supporting individuals with autism, and access to a workplace context for assignments.
- Qualifications:
- A degree demonstrating the ability to work at postgraduate level.
- Previous relevant experience.
- Ability to undertake studies in a workplace setting or other appropriate agency.
International Students:
- Requirements vary depending on the applicant's country of origin.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- IELTS Academic: Overall score of 6.5 with individual scores of:
- Listening: 5.5
- Reading: 6.0
- Speaking: 5.5
- Writing: 6.0
- TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 90 with individual scores of:
- Listening: 17
- Reading: 21
- Speaking: 20
- Writing: 21
- PTE Academic: Overall score of 62 with individual scores of:
- Listening: 59
- Reading: 59
- Speaking: 59
- Writing: 59
- Cambridge English B2 First, C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency: Overall score of 176 with individual scores of:
- Listening: 162
- Reading: 169
- Speaking: 162
- Writing: 169
Document Requirements:
- Degree Certificate
- Degree Transcript (original & official English translation)
- Personal Statement
Contact Information:
- Student Recruitment & Admissions
- University of Aberdeen
- Regent Walk
- Aberdeen
- AB24 3FX