Autism: Online Master’s Degree

Master of education with an emphasis in learning and instruction and a focus in Autism (M Ed)

Since autism was first described in 1943, this “spectrum disorder” has been a mystery to doctors, parents and teachers of those who are afflicted with symptoms of impaired communication and social interaction. Although diagnosed cases of autism have greatly increased, the number of professional personnel being trained to work with them has not kept pace.

An internationally recognized symbol for autism is the puzzle piece. As an educator, you can now learn how to help put together the pieces and to equip students and families with the skills they need to better succeed in life. Become a part of this developing field and enhance your career path — all from your home or office -- with online classes from the University of Missouri.

This graduate degree program will provide you with a foundation of knowledge on what is known about autism and how to help individuals with the disorder. The methods you learn will broaden your instructional repertoire and will apply to many individuals beyond those on the autism spectrum.

Course work covers the understanding of autism, methods of teaching individuals with autism, high-functioning autism and Asperger syndrome, social competency and applied behavior analysis, plus learning theory, instructional leadership, instructional technology and research.

Just as autism appears in many forms and degrees that vary by individual, a widening range of jobs is available to professionals who are trained in the different aspects of coping with the disorder. This degree program will prepare you for work in education or in other related professions such as therapy, social work, health care, mental health and rehabilitation.