This certificate plan is appropriate if you desire specialized training in autism spectrum disorders for school-based populations.
This certificate plan is appropriate if you desire specialized training in autism spectrum disorders for school-based populations. This graduate certificate through Northern Arizona University prepares candidates to work with parents, teachers, direct care staff or others who support children with ASD. After successfully completing these courses, you will receive an NAU graduate certificate in the area of autism. Successful graduates are qualified to be an Autism Specialist or Autism Support Professional (ASP).
If you are from a disability-related field, you may complete this plan as part of your graduate studies or as a stand-alone certificate.
In addition to University Requirements:
Students may be able to use some courses to meet more than one requirement. Contact your advisor for details.
| Minimum Units for Completion | 15 |
| Additional Admission Requirements | Required |
| Fieldwork Experience/Internship | Required |
| Some online/blended coursework | Required |
Purpose Statement
Graduate Certificate program in Autism Spectrum Disorders prepares students to provide leadership to school and/or agency teams in order to meet the needs of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders in the school setting. As the number of autism diagnoses continues to climb, the demand for professionals with the knowledge and understanding of the characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorders and the ability to adapt teaching and learning environments to support these students has become a strong need in the educational professions. In our program, teachers and leaders of elementary and secondary institutions learn how to plan and develop meaningful instruction and assessment by using evidence-based instructional strategies that support these students in their classroom and social environments. Our students also learn how to remain on top of their field, using the most current research to adapt their teaching and leadership practices for students having Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Student Learning Outcomes
Understand the Characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorders
Individual program admission requirements over and above admission to NAU are required.
The NAU graduate online application is required for all programs. Admission to many graduate programs is on a competitive basis, and programs may have higher standards than those established by the Graduate College.
Admission requirements include the following:
Visit the NAU Graduate Admissions website for additional information about graduate school application deadlines, eligibility for study, and admissions policies.
Ready to apply? Begin your application now.
International applicants have additional admission requirements. Please see the International Graduate Admissions Policy.
Take the following 15 units:
If you are from a disability-related field, you may complete this plan as part of your graduate studies or as a stand-alone certificate.This certificate may be pursued and completed concurrently with a degree program or as a stand-alone certificate. Federal financial aid cannot be used if the certificate is completed as a stand-alone certificate.
Be aware that some courses may have prerequisites that you must also successfully complete. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.