Program Overview

Certificate of Graduate Study in Autism

Overview

The Certificate of Graduate Study in Autism is a fully online program that provides a comprehensive overview of autism spectrum disorders, applied behavior analysis, and intervention methods to improve outcomes for individuals with autism.

Program of Study

The program consists of a three-course sequence (9 credits) that focuses on the characteristics of autism spectrum disorders and the science of applied behavior analysis. Students will study empirically validated intervention techniques for individuals with autism that emphasize cultural, ethical, and practice standards.

Required Courses

• Autism I: Overview of Autism Spectrum Disorders (Online)
  • Learn about the characteristics of autism, its biological bases, and historical perspectives.
  • Gain an in-depth understanding of research designs and the process of conducting functional behavior assessments.
• Autism II: Introduction to Intervention (Online)
  • Master evidence-based intervention methods used to improve lives of individuals with autism.
  • Learn about programmatic efforts to increase appropriate behaviors and decrease challenging behaviors.
  • Study how to design interventions allowing an individual with autism to successfully navigate a variety of environments.
• Autism III: Practicum in Intervention (completed at a university-approved location)
  • Utilize knowledge in a supervised human service-agency setting, serving individuals with autism spectrum disorders to gain experience with practical and ethical applications.

Applied Learning

Students will learn and work with faculty who are active researchers in the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD). This university-affiliated resource center integrates research, practice, and training in community settings to provide support to families and professionals through workshops, seminars, and conferences.

Career Outcomes

Earning a Certificate of Graduate Study in Autism will prepare students for positions such as:

• General Education
• Special Education
• Social Worker
• School Psychologist
• Counselor
• Care and Service Coordinator
• Program Management and Behavior Analyst

Admissions Requirements

Deadlines

• Fall: Rolling
• Spring: Not Available
• Summer: Not Available

Required Application Materials

• Transcripts from all schools attended
• Resume
• Statement of goals

Special Notes

• Potential students for the program should hold a bachelor’s degree (or higher) in psychology, education, special education, social work, counseling, school psychology, applied behavior analysis, speech-language pathology, or related field.
• In the Statement of Goals, please include a description of background and how it is related to this program.
• This program is not eligible for federal financial aid.
• This program requires an internship, field experience, study abroad component, or clinical experience requirement. Students who have previously been convicted of a felony are advised that their prior criminal history may impede their ability to complete the requirements of certain academic programs and/or to meet licensure requirements for certain professions.

Student Learning Objectives

• Demonstrate knowledge of and ability to discuss autism spectrum disorders, applied behavioral analysis, and intervention methods for autism and related problems.
• Demonstrate competence in client assessment and the implementation of appropriate interventions for autism spectrum disorders.