Program Overview

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Program Overview

The program in question is a Certificate of Advanced Studies (CAS) in Autism: Diagnosis, Intervention, and Research. It is a comprehensive program designed to provide participants with in-depth knowledge and practical skills in the field of autism.

Objectives

The program aims to:

• Actualize and develop interdisciplinary knowledge on autism based on current scientific research
• Understand evaluation, intervention, and support models at each stage of life for individuals with autism and their families
• Know the essential dimensions of partnership and alliances with individuals with autism and their family members to promote well-being and quality of life
• Deepen competencies and know-how in diagnosis, evaluation, intervention, and early education
• Learn to evaluate student competencies and adapt school programs
• Work on professional practices based on concepts and methods presented in the training
• Develop specific competencies for professional practice and network work

Target Audience

The program is designed for individuals interested in forming or consolidating their knowledge and competencies to support people with autism, including:

• Professionals in the social, educational, pre-school, school, and health sectors
• Family members of individuals with autism, as well as caregivers
• Peer supporters

Program Structure

The program consists of 3 mandatory modules and 1 optional module chosen from 4 available options.

Mandatory Modules

1. Introduction and Update of Knowledge: This module covers current classifications, early detection, autism from the inside, different approaches based on good practices, understanding of genetic and environmental causes of autism, and information on biological and pharmacological treatments.
2. The Autistic Person and Their Family: Quality of Life and Transitions: Focuses on daily and developmental transitions, methodology and tools for planning transitions, perceptions of families, support for individuals with autism and their families, and well-being and quality of life.
3. Intervention on the Ground and Final Work: Provides a space for participants to question their professional competencies and put into practice the theoretical concepts of the training. This module is linked to the participant's workplace, type of professional activity during the CAS, and the theme of the final work.

Optional Modules

1. Diagnostic Evaluation: Covers the specifics of presentation at different ages and genders, realization of different stages of a diagnostic assessment and complementary evaluations, comorbidity and differential diagnosis, and feedback and recommendations to parents.
2. Early Intervention: Focuses on autism in very young children, early intervention approaches (e.g., the ESDM model), and partnership with parents.
3. School Age: Discusses inclusive practices, school adjustments, support for students and teachers, collaboration between school and family, support for the emergence of desired behaviors, and specifics and adaptations of teaching in French and mathematics.
4. Transition and Accompaniment to Adulthood: Addresses transition to adulthood, evaluation and interventions targeting social skills and emotion regulation, support for autonomous life, affective and sexual life, studies, professional life, and leisure, as well as peer support and mental health.

Evaluation

Each module is evaluated (e.g., analysis of a clinical vignette and written report, QCM). The final work is integrated into Module 3 and takes the form of a written report, allowing participants to deepen a professional theme and personal interest by developing critical reflection and an interdisciplinary approach.

Teaching Methods

Methods include courses, seminars, exchanges, practical workshops, work on vignettes, videos, testimonials, and field experiences.

Partnerships and Collaborations

The program is delivered in partnership with the University of Geneva, Haute École de travail social (HES-SO), and the Fondation Pôle Autisme, among others.

Direction and Coordination

Directed by Prof. Maude Schneider and Prof. Stephan Eliez, with coordination by Stefania Solazzo.

Admission Criteria

To be admitted, candidates must hold a bachelor's or master's degree from a recognized university or equivalent in a relevant field. They must also demonstrate professional practice or associative experience in the field of autism during the CAS period. Strongly recommended is at least one year of full-time or equivalent professional experience in the field of autism.

Tuition Fees

• CHF 5,000 for the entire CAS program
• CHF 3,750 for a registration including Module 1 + Module 2 and one chosen module
• CHF 2,000 for a registration including Module 1 + Module 2
• Additional module: CHF 3,000

Participants may benefit from financial support (annual training check).

Duration and Credits

The program lasts from September 2024 to September 2026, offering 15 ECTS credits.

Language

The program is conducted in French.

Location

The program takes place in Geneva, Switzerland.

Application Deadline

The deadline for application is August 20, 2024. Registration by module is possible.