Autism Spectrum Disorders Graduate Certificate Program

Graduate Curriculum Committee

Lyndsey Benharris, PhD, Co-chair
William Cortezia, PhD
Danette Day, EdD
Anne Howard, PhD
Ruth Joseph, EdD, Co-chair
Richard Masciarelli, MEd
Nancy Murray, EdD
Robert Shapiro, PhD, BCBA-D
Annette Sullivan, EdD

Program Description

The Autism Spectrum Disorders Graduate Certificate Program is designed to provide licensed educators with specialized knowledge and skills in order to meet the unique and complex needs of students with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Educators who hold a teaching license at the Initial or Professional level who have at least three credits related to special education are eligible to apply for this certificate program. This program will lead to an Autism Endorsement for Educator Licensure through the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

This program consists of a four course sequence (12 credits total) in order to meet the Subject Matter Knowledge requirements for the Autism Endorsement put forth by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

These courses will be offered in a sequential 7-week online format. Following the course sequence as scheduled, a candidate could complete this program in two semesters (fall, spring).

Admissions Standards and Criteria

To apply for enrollment in the Autism Spectrum Disorders Graduate Certificate Program, a student must submit documents as outlined in the Graduate Admission section, as well as:
•Official transcripts of a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
•Personal Statement
•Note: MAT/GRE exams are not required

Students must complete an essay of no more than one page in response to one of the following questions/statement:
1.Tell about a positive situation in which you helped a person and made a significant difference in that person’s life.
2.What are the most important factors in establishing a long-term working relationship with students, friends, etc.?
3.Tell us about a significant event that involved you in a teaching or helping role.
•Describe the situation as it occurred at the time.
•What did you do in that particular situation?
•How did you feel about the situation at the time you were experiencing it?
•How do you feel about the situation now?
•What would you change, if anything?

Required Courses

SPED 8040   - Foundations and Characteristics of Autism
SPED 8041   - Assessment of Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders
SPED 8180   - Positive Behavioral Supports for Students with Disabilities
SPED 8042   - Interventions for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Note:

Upon completion of the program, candidates must have completed a minimum of 75 hours in an inclusive setting with students with autism, and 75 hours of additional experience in any type of school setting working with students with autism.