Program Requirements

To complete the graduate certificate program in autism spectrum disorders, you must complete the following 9 hours of required course work and attain at least a 3.00 GPA:

Certificate In Autism Spectrum Disorders

Linda Garrison-Kane, Program Director
Park Central Office Building, Room 117; Phone 417-836-6960
LGKane@MissouriState.edu

Program description

A 9 credit hour Missouri State University Graduate Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) is available to nondegree-seeking individuals or as a component of the Masters degree in Special Education, ASD emphasis. Students pursuing a program of study in other areas of education may also complete these courses as electives or in addition to requirements on the respective program of study. The certificate is also offered to support professionals in the fields of psychology, communication disorders, social work, medicine, and other related specialties. The certificate will not lead to teacher certification in autism; however, it is offered to support educators and other professionals who desire greater expertise in the area of ASD. Emphasis is placed on supporting individuals with challenging behavior through positive behavioral supports and supporting communication, learning and sensory deficits through validated, data-based programming. Required course work for the ASD Graduate Certificate follows.

Entrance criteria

To be considered for the program, a student submit a Graduate Application for admission to the certificate program.

Required courses

Course Code Course Title Credit Hours
SPE 625 Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorders 3 hrs
SPE 616 Foundations of Applied Behavior Analysis and Intervention for Teachers in Applied Settings 3 hrs
SPE 627 Research-Based Strategies for Individuals with ASD 3 hrs
  Total (Minimum) 9 hrs

GPA requirements

Attain a grade point average of at least 3.00 on all graduate course work at Missouri State University.