University of Kentucky®
The prevalence of ASD, autism spectrum disorder, in children is about 1 in 36 (CDC Statistic.) Due to the growing prevalence, there is a growing need for teaching professionals who can provide effective teaching strategies to help children attain their educational goals. An updated graduate certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorder, offered fully online from the College of Education, hopes to provide this training for future and current teachers.
What is autism?
Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by differences in social interaction, communication, and behavior. It encompasses a wide range of symptoms and abilities varying greatly from person to person.
It’s commonly seen in early years of a child’s educational life as they are introduced to the social world. Some of the most common features of autism include:
- Social communication challenges
- Repetitive behaviors and restricted interests
- Sensory sensitivities
- Varied cognitive and intellectual abilities
What will this program teach?
This is a fantastic program for those who are special educators and related service providers who serve the ASD population. It’s a great way to expose and widen one’s knowledge about autism and effective teaching strategies.
The certificate is an online program that creates an environment for students to get real world experience and involvement with topics central to ASD.
Adaptability is an essential skill to have if you’re interested in working or being involved with the ASD population. And this program offers just that. It allows graduate students to learn how to adapt to the communication, social, behavior, and accessibility barriers that children with ASD face.
Online Format
This is a SYNCHRONOUS program. Students are expected to log on to live classes via Zoom during scheduled times to meet with their faculty and classmates. Our digital classrooms provide an integrated experience for our online students.
The certificate requires 15-credit hours in the following courses:
- EDS 660 - Contemporary Topics in ASD
- EDS 661 - Advanced Instructional Strategies for Individuals with ASD
- EDS 663 - ASD Institute
- 2 approved electives of your choice
This graduate certificate is offered during the fall, spring, and summer semesters.
Can this certificate program be taken by itself?
This program can be completed by itself. Meaning that students do not need to be enrolled in a degree-seeking program. This program is designed to provide essential skills in working with children with ASD, and was designed to be taken as a stand-alone program, or in conjunction with another graduate degree program. In order to be admitted, students are required to have a bachelor’s degree.
