Autism Education: Online Master’s Degree

Degree details

This completely online program in autism is a 33-hour degree program, including 21 hours of course work specific to children and youth with autism.

Autism focus courses

Through the focus courses, teachers and other professionals will increase the knowledge and skills needed to work effectively with children and youth who exhibit characteristics of autism. Courses cover:

• identifying the earliest characteristics of infants, toddlers and preschoolers with autism
• identifying individuals with autism who are high-functioning and/or have a diagnosis of Asperger's syndrome
• implementing appropriate assessment methods
• providing intervention and supports in home, community and classroom settings
• promoting and enhancing social competence
• examining curriculum and approaches based on current research
• implementing research-based intervention strategies
• addressing problems or challenging behavior using functional assessments and positive behavioral supports

Core course work

The core course work in this program includes study in learning theory, instructional technology, instructional leadership, instructional stragegies and research.

Terminal or comprehensive project

Master of education candidates must complete a terminal project or summative experience at the end of the degree program. The department in which the candidate's major emphasis resides will determine the format of that experience (e.g. comprehensive exam, project, paper, presentation, portfolio or capstone experience). The candidate must be enrolled at the University during the semester in which a master's project is presented or completed.

Students may start the program as either post-baccalaureate (formerly non-degree-seeking) or degree-seeking.