Autism Spectrum Disorders Graduate Certificate

Autism Spectrum Disorders Graduate Certificate
12.15.2024
15
01.13.2025
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UC Online’s Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) Graduate Certificate offers a program open to individuals with a bachelor’s degree in an education-related field. Though this certificate compliments UC Online’s Master of Education in Special Education, a special education background is not required. In fact, the program is designed for not only professionals (special education teachers, general education teachers, school psychologists, speech-language pathologists, paraeducators/class support staff) but also family members of individuals with ASD.

Why study Autism Spectrum Disorders?

The Autism Spectrum Disorders Graduate Certificate program supports students in:

  • Understanding the characteristics of ASD.
  • Locating and linking evidence-based instructional practices (e.g., structured learning environments, visual supports, systematic instruction) to the characteristics of ASD.
  • Implementing interventions for individuals with ASD.

At the end of the program, students will be able to:

  • Describe the components of a well-structured learning environment for individuals with ASD.
  • Locate and evaluate research related to ASD.
  • Describe the characteristics of ASD and link these to evidence-based interventions (including assessments) for individuals with ASD.
  • Implement evidence-based interventions with individuals with ASD.

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that affects communication and behavior. Although autism can be diagnosed at any age, it is said to be a “developmental disorder” because symptoms generally appear in the first two years of life. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), people with ASD have:

  • Difficulty with communication and interaction with other people.
  • Restricted interests and repetitive behaviors.
  • Symptoms that impact the person’s ability to function in work and life.