Autism Certificate Program
Online
The Lesley University 15-credit Autism Certificate is designed for those seeking to improve their understanding of the disorders. The certificate focuses on theory, best practice and program options for students with ASD, derived from current research in the field. This may be taken as an Advanced Professional Certificate.
The program, implemented entirely online, is appropriate for parents, administrators, specialists, psychologists, social workers, early intervention professionals, special educators and general educators. The program will focus on strategies to improve success in a range of settings, including educational, home, and community. Participants will complete short field assignments in conjunction with coursework.
Prerequisite: Bachelor's Degree
| PROGRAM OF STUDY | CREDITS | |
| Required Courses | 15 | |
| ESPED 5013 | Understanding the Autism Spectrum | 3 |
| ESPED 5014 | Academic and Functional Supports: ASD |
3 |
| ESPED 5015 | Improving Communication and Social Skills: ASD |
3 |
| ESPED 5016 | Promoting Generalization of Positive Behavior: ASD |
3 |
| ESPED 5017 | Advocacy and Collaboration: ASD |
3 |
| TOTAL CREDITS REQUIRED | 15 | |
ESPED 5013 Understanding the Autism Spectrum
This course will include a discussion of the primary and secondary characteristics of the disorders and how they impact the individual across the lifespan, from infancy through adulthood. The course will explore the etiology and prevalence of ASD, as well as the range of academic programs and supports. Recent scientific and medical research will be discussed. The impact on the family system, including supports and age-specific considerations, will be an additional focus.
ESPED 5014 Academic and Functional Supports: Autism Spectrum Disorders
This course will explore a range of supports for improved access to the academic and functional curriculum, with a specific focus on literacy and numeracy. Universal Design, assistive technology, support for transitions and sensory needs are considerations of this course. Topics discussed will range from assigning and completing homework to person-centered planning and strategies.
ESPED 5015 Improving Communication and Social Skills: Autism Spectrum Disorders
This course will explore the inextricable link between communication and social skills strategies. Participants will research language development and communication strategies, issues, pragmatics, communications systems, augmentative and alternative communication systems (AAC) as a means for addressing social deficits in autism, and approaches for teaching social skills.
ESPED 5016 Promoting Generalization of Positive Behavior: Autism Spectrum Disorders
This course will focus on positive behavior supports and strategies in the home, community, and educational settings to support positive behavior for students with ASD. Major behavior change theories will be addressed. Behavior will be considered through the lens of social, emotional, communication, and structural/organizational needs, addressing resistance to change, sensory needs, and rigidity. Strategies to teach and shape appropriate social behavior, responses to anger and stress, and personal remediation strategies designed to provide positive behavior support will be discussed.
ESPED 5017 Advocacy and Collaboration: Autism Spectrum Disorders
This course will focus on successful collaboration among "stakeholders"--the student, parents, education professionals, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, and physical therapists, clinic specialists, medical professionals, etc. There will be a specific emphasis on IEP development and meetings, as well as transitions, focused on advocacy for the student from all perspectives. Participants will examine critical elements of collaboration, explore potential barriers to successful communication, and learn collaboration skills and ideas for troubleshooting miscommunication.
