Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) Certificate
Autism has become a focus of attention for the general public, families, and schools. There is a growing interest in understanding autism, developing education programs and supports, and providing opportunities for inclusion of individuals with autism into their communities.
Great Choice for
This certificate is designed to serve as a foundation for the pursuit of potential careers in special education or therapeutic service provision in community based agencies. The course work and field experiences are designed to increase the knowledge and awareness of individuals who live and work with individuals with ASD in different settings.
- Special and general education teachers
- Childcare workers
- Job coaches
- Birth to three staff
- Family members caring for individuals with ASD
- Therapist working with children in home, school, and community settings
- Individuals interested in learning more about ASD
Eligibility
The Autism Spectrum Disorders Certificate is intended to enhance a bachelor's degree. It is open to all undergraduate students at UW-Milwaukee and to students who previously have received a bachelor's degree from UW-Milwaukee or any other accredited college or university.
If NOT a current UW-Milwaukee student you will need to apply to the university as a visiting student.
Interested students will need to have a minimum GPA of 2.5 or higher
Certificate Requirements
Students must complete 15 credits in approved ASD courses with grades of C or better.
1. Complete 9 credits of three core courses required. Students MUST take EXCEDUC 560 and 561 in sequence and both before the field experience course, EXCEDUC 585.
2. Complete a minimum of 6 credits of elective courses (list of options in the brochure link above)
The content of the core courses are aligned with the Council for Exceptional Children's Standards for Developmental Disabilities and Autism.
The elective courses offered across the collaborating departments are specifically related to child learning, development, behavior, and communication. The content in these courses are important to understand the characteristics and interventions associated with ASD.
Through courses, field experiences, and other planned learning experiences, you will...
- Critically examine the characteristics, etiology, and prevalence of ASD and related disorders
- Learn how to work with family members of individuals with ASD
- Understand assessment, diagnosis, and intervention
- Understand the language, communication, and social needs of individuals with ASD
- Understand ethical issues that families and professionals face
Awarding of the Certificate
Students need to successfully complete the 15 credits with grades of C or better and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 or higher. Current undergraduate students who successfully complete the requirements will be awarded the certificate at the time of graduation. Students who already have a bachelor's degree will receive the certificate upon completion of the requirements. The certificate is posted on the transcript not mailed.
