Autism Specialist Certificate
Program Highlights & Benefits
Fully online format
Eight-week courses
Leads to the Autism Specialist Endorsement
MTEL scores are not required
For:
This certificate is designed for those special educators and support staff interested in a deeper understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Meeting the standards and competency requirements for the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) Autism Endorsement, this program will address the complex needs of students with ASD in a variety of school settings, across age and grade levels, and ranges of academic and behavioral functioning. Students who do not seek endorsement will receive a certificate of program completion issued by Curry College.
What You’ll Learn:
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that 1 in 68 children in the United States have been identified with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Advocacy groups such as Massachusetts Advocates for Children and Advocates for Autism of Massachusetts have pushed legislation to protect students with autism and to promote equal education and life opportunities for individuals with ASD. Currently the endorsement is voluntary however, school officials may require the Autism Endorsement in addition to basic licensure to ensure that schools can meet the unique needs of students in the least restrictive environment.
How You’ll Learn:
High-Tech, High-Touch, High-Quality: Our unique online format allows you to attend synchronous online classes and gives you the freedom to form valuable connections no matter where you are.
Career Outcomes:
Gain a deeper understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and meet the standards and competency requirements for the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) Autism Endorsement. Become an Autism Specialist in your school or district, open doors to new career opportunities, and champion opportunities for students with special needs.
Degree Requirements:
| Course | Title | Hours |
| SPE 6810 | Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder | 3 |
| SPE 6820 | Effective Educational and Behavioral Strategies Designed to Instruct Students with ASD | 3 |
| SPE 6830 | Autism Spectrum Disorder: Diagnosis and Assessment | 3 |
| SPE 6840 | Meeting the Needs of Students with Autism: A Collaborative Approach | 3 |
| SPE 6845* | Practicum and Seminar in Autism Spectrum Disorders | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 15 |
*For DESE Endorsement track only
Admission Requirements:
If you do not have a teaching license, you can still enroll in this certificate program. Students must hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree from an accredited institution. For DESE Endorsement Track, a minimum of two years experience under one of the following initial or professional licenses is required: Teacher of Students with Moderate Disabilities, Teacher of Students with Severe Disabilities, Teacher of the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing, Teaching of the Visually Impaired.
Please Note:
This is not an official course schedule. Program and course requirements are subject to change to comply with College and DESE requirements and policies.
