Fitchburg State University will offer a one-year certificate in autism spectrum disorders after receiving approval this spring from the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
The program, which provides an overview of autism including best practices for assessment and intervention, will allow licensed educators to receive the state’s Autism Endorsement for Educator Licensure. This online program is offered through Fitchburg State’s Education Department.
With the Centers for Disease Control now reporting that about 1 in 54 children has been identified with an autism spectrum disorder, it is of critical importance for teaching professionals to possess the skill set necessary to effectively support children on the autism spectrum. Fitchburg State’s Education Department developed this new four-course autism spectrum disorders certificate program to help meet those needs.
This certificate program includes coursework and field experience focused on an overview of autism, positive behavior interventions and supports, and best practices for assessment and intervention in areas including communication and social skills, executive functioning strategies, sensory considerations, and engaging family members and other stakeholders. The program, which can be completed in one year, has been approved by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to allow licensed educators who complete the program to receive the state of Massachusetts’ Autism Endorsement for Educator Licensure.
To learn more, please visit fitchburgstate.edu/academics/programs/autism-spectrum-disorders-graduate-certificate-online.