Autism Spectrum Disorders
Online Certificate
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Overview
The Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) Certificate is designed to certify that participants have specialized knowledge and skills regarding the characteristics and methods of assessment and teaching individuals with ASD. This graduate certificate includes two areas of focus: Early Childhood (birth through 5) and School-Aged (K-12). Through a combination of coursework including sensory and motor issues, assessment, characteristics, curriculum development, and social and behavioral interventions, graduates become outstanding professional educators who serve students on the autism spectrum and their families.
Cost
$406*
- Total per credit hour
18
- Credit hours
-
Total tuition = $7,308*
*Cost per credit hour and total tuition is based on 2024-2025 academic year tuition rates and assuming all coursework is completed online in the 2024-2025 academic year. Cost per credit hour and total tuition will vary if studies span over one or more academic year.
Additional information
- About Certificate
- Career Options
The Autism Spectrum Disorder Certificate consists of 18 graduate credit hours offered through a hybrid online program (on demand and live online class meetings). This program is geared around age ranges, rather than ability. We believe that each child has his/her own unique talents and challenges, and educators and service providers teach individuals with a broad array of needs. Each student in the program will select an age group to focus on while completing the certificate.
The Autism Certificate - Early Childhood is an 18 credit hour program for educators, home- and community-based providers, and family members. This certificate is designed to certify that the individual completing the program has developed specialized knowledge and skills regarding the characteristics, methods of assessment, and evidence-based practices for teaching young children, ages 0-5, with autism spectrum disorders and developmental delays.
The Autism Certificate - School-Aged is an 18 credit hour program that focuses on children, adolescents, and young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders. The state of Kansas does not offer an Autism teaching license or an endorsement to a teaching license for Autism.
The Autism Certificate coursework was developed in collaboration with professionals from the TASN-Autism and Tertiary Behavior Supports, KU Med - Center for Child Health and Development, Kansas Parent Information Resource Center, Families Together, Inc., Kansas Center For Autism Research and Training, Kansas early childhood special educators, and parents.
This program is open to candidates outside of Kansas and those living internationally. Non-native English speaking candidates must submit a passing TOEFL score at the time of application. The state of Kansas does not offer an Autism teaching license or an endorsement to a teaching license for Autism.
Teaching and working with children and students on the autism spectrum is identified nationally and in Kansas as a high need field. Graduates of the ASD Certificate program leave with the knowledge, skills, and strategies required to enhance their ability as a:
- Teacher – early childhood, general, or special education (teaching license required)
- Counselor– school counselor or family counselor (teaching or other license required)
- Psychologist– school psychologist (license required)
- Art therapist
- Music therapist
- Advocate for children/students on the autism spectrum
About Teaching and Leadership Department
Whether you are beginning your career with a Bachelor of Science in Education or want to grow professionally with a Master's Degree or Educational Specialist, we believe this is the place for you! With accredited programs, campus, online and hybrid classes, caring faculty and staff to guide you, you can begin or continue your journey toward a rewarding life in the field of Education and Leadership.
The department offers Alternative Teaching Licensure programs in Special Education and Secondary Education. Certificates that lead to an endorsement to a teaching license in a variety of educational areas are available.
Pitt State has been ranked in the Top 25 Best Online Graduate Education Programs by U.S. News & World Report. The best online master's in education degree programs were chosen based on factors such as accreditation, admissions selectivity and academic and career support services offered to students.