Autism Spectrum Disorder Certificate Program
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability characterized by impairments in social communication and social interaction, and restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2018), approximately one in 59 children are diagnosed with ASD.
Description
The Graduate ASD Certificate Program is an interdisciplinary program between Special Education and Speech Pathology & Audiology in the College of Education, Health and Human Services (EHHS). The program was designed for professionals in the fields of Special Education, Speech-Language Pathology, Psychology, Counseling, and other Health and Human Services Fields who are involved in the education, assessment, and/or treatment of individuals with ASD and their families.
The ASD Certificate coursework prepares participants for understanding and addressing the needs of individuals with ASD across the spectrum and across the lifespan, in varied contexts including general and special education classrooms and community settings. Individuals participating in the ASD Certificate will gain knowledge and skills related to:
- Diagnostic and learning style characteristics
- Theoretical models for understanding ASD and implications of those models for intervention
- Evidence-based intervention practices
- Family characteristics and experiences
- Causes and medical intervention
- Early signs and assessment protocols
- Social communicative development and disorders of ASD
Admissions
The ASD Certificate Program accepts applications on a rolling basis (all semesters), although a fall semester start is recommended. Applicants must have completed a bachelor's degree with a minimum of a 3.0 GPA. Applicants will submit all required materials (goal statement, 2 letters of reference, official transcripts) using the online application system.
Coursework Requirements
The ASD Certificate Program includes the following 6 courses:
- SPA/SPED 64309 ASD: Theory and Diagnosis (should be completed first in the sequence)
- SPED 53030 Applied Behavior Analysis I
- SPED 6/73959 Medical Aspects of Lifespan Development
- SPA 64310 ASD: Lifespan Interventions
- SPA 54010 Social Communicative Development and Disorders in ASD
- SPED 6/73949 ASD Capstone or other approved coursework
For more information, Contact Dr. Sloane Burgess
Email: sburges8@kent.edu
Phone: 330-672-0610
Important Links
ASD Certificate Plan of Study Form (PDF)
Frequently Asked Questions (PDF)