Certificate in Autism Spectrum Studies
Contact:
Barbara Waldron (276) 403-5635
James Madison University's certificate programs in autism are designed to enable those in the field to increase their knowledge and understanding of students with a disability in the autism spectrum, including those with Asperger syndrome, and to engage in the practice of assessing, planning and implementing programming for this population. The course sequence has been developed to provide solid practice recommendations for this quickly growing need in the area of special education. Our certificate programs have been based on competencies compiled by a committee of Virginia statewide stakeholders with a variety of backgrounds and perspectives. The content is suitable for those working with this population anytime along the entire lifespan.
The coursework for these certificates includes:
- early childhood characteristics
- issues and programming
- initial evaluation
- transition
- adult needs
- programming and life planning
- learning
- communication
- behavorial issues
- sensory motor components
- related service needs
- related and co-morbid medical conditions
- social skills and support
- peer network development and support
Graduate level certificate: (11 credit hours of study) -
developed to give an in-depth study of the characteristics, assessment and provision of services for this population. Students complete three courses and a practicum designed to put into practice the skills learned during coursework. This program would be most suitable for those responsible for the direct services, assessment and planning for those with a disability on the spectrum.
Undergraduate level certificate: (9 credit hours of study) -
does not include the practicum work. The undergraduate certificate would be most suited for those without direct responsibility or exposure to students with autism and those who do not hold an undergraduate degree but with a desire to increase their understanding of this population.