Autism Studies

Post-Baccalaureate Certificate
https://www.towson.edu/chp/departments/health-sciences/grad/autism-certificate/

Program Director: Dr. Connie Anderson
Phone: 410-704-4640
Email: [email protected]

The Autism Studies Post-Baccalaureate Certificate (PBC) provides students with the knowledge and skills to support both children and adults on the autism spectrum.

More than 2% of the U.S. population is on the autism spectrum which means we are all living, learning and working beside people with autism. Professionals who understand autism are needed in schools, clinics, hospitals, universities, workplaces, public agencies and beyond. This PBC provides a stamp of autism expertise that validates your commitment to working in the field and prepares you to broaden your role as an educator, early childhood professional, mental health professional, occupational therapist, speech-language pathologist, agency staff, disability specialist, researcher, advocate or policymaker.

Topics covered include typical traits of individuals on the spectrum, their gifts and challenges, co-occurring conditions, epidemiology, evidence-based interventions, classroom and workplace strategies, family impact, research and key policy issues. 

The 16-unit "live" online program –including five 3-unit courses and one 1-unit course–generally takes 1-2 years to complete. Many courses are offered in the evening to accommodate working professionals. 

In some cases, it is possible to combine this PBC with a Master's or doctoral degree program to enhance your professional credentials. This option may be of particular interest to students in advanced degree programs such as Occupational Therapy, Child Life, Health Science and Early Childhood Education.

1. Students will demonstrate acquisition of knowledge related to the field of autism that addresses epidemiology, etiology, and diagnosis as well as strengths and challenges of individuals with autism, issues faced by their families, and the roles and effectiveness of relevant systems (e.g. public schools, adult service agencies).
2. Students will critically evaluate autism research to identify evidence-based interventions, policies, and practices that contribute to optimal outcomes and enhance quality of life for people on the autism spectrum and their families.
3. Students will effectively communicate autism information, sensitive to whether their audience consists of professionals or laypeople, using technology as appropriate.