Certificate Program in Autism Spectrum Disorders
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Specifically designed for those who have successfully completed the Professional Concentration in Autism Spectrum Disorders, this program offers advanced coursework designed to strengthen your clinical competencies. Conduct both observational and literary research on topics related to Autism Spectrum Disorders and demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively about the characteristics, current research and evidence-based practices. Receive guided feedback on your implementation of strategies and techniques learned throughout the program.
Gain practical knowledge and skills that matter
- Increase your awareness of living with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
- Further your research and expertise in a particular topic.
- Hone your skills in using and presenting Autism Spectrum Disorders research.
- Demonstrate your clinical competency in the use of evidence-based practice in educational settings.
- Network with other professionals.
- Learn from industry experts with significant experience in school settings.
Designed for professionals like you
This program is specifically designed for professional educators and licensed clinical professionals who serve children on the Autism Spectrum, as well as those in supervising leadership or consultation capacities for programs serving such youth. This may include credentialed educators, credentialed administrators, speech and language pathologists, school nurses, educational psychologists, educational occupational therapists and other licensed professionals.
Program requirements
You should be currently serving or have the desire to work with students on the autism spectrum in an educational capacity. To earn the certificate you must possess a valid credential or license to work with children with autism spectrum disorders. This includes: State Teaching, Pupil Personnel Services or School Administrator credential authorizing work in public/non-public education in teaching, speech language, school counseling, school psychology, school administration or school nursing. Or you must be a practitioner in non-public/private education possessing a valid license or certification to work with students with ASD in speech language pathology, occupational therapy, applied behavior analysis, educational psychology (LEP), physical therapy/adaptive physical education or therapeutic recreational services.
The Autism certificate is earned upon successful completion of five required courses with at least a "B" average in program coursework, as well as all other required documentation as listed on the program application. Applying coursework towards an award also requires a grade of "C" or better in each course.
To establish candidacy for the award, you must submit an application and pay the nonrefundable application fee. Applications are due prior to enrolling in the third course of the program. Once you complete the last course in the program, please submit a Notice of Completion. This action prompts our offices to review your file and take the necessary steps to get your certificate mailed in a timely manner.
| UNITS | F | W | SP | SU | ||
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| REQUIRED COURSES | Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorders | 3 | 
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| Applied Behavior Analysis Strategies and Interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorders | 3 |
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| Best Practice Strategies and Interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorders | 3 |
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| Advanced Seminar in Autism Spectrum Disorders | 2 | 
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| Practicum in Autism Spectrum Disorders | 4 |
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F=Fall W=Winter SP=Spring SU=Summer;
Schedules subject to change
Classroom format
Online Learning format |
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Required Courses
Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorders
3 quarter units academic credit, X361.10. 30 BBS Hours
Gain an understanding of the characteristics and incidence of autism and the implications for children's learning, behavior and ability to process information. Explore the latest research on potential causes, best practices for assessment and intervention, areas of impairment, as well as current legal and ethical issues related to autism services. Course includes instruction and lectures by faculty from the UC Davis MIND Institute, an international leader in the field of autism research.
This course meets the qualifications for 30 hours of continuing education for MFTs, LPCCs, LEPs, and/or LCSWs as required by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. UC Davis Extension provider number PCE577.
Sections of this course open for enrollment:
- Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorders
starts June 25
Applied Behavior Analysis Strategies and Interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorders
3 quarter units academic credit, X361.11. 30 BBS Hours, 36 BACB CEUs
The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development lists applied behavior analysis among the recommended treatment methods for autism spectrum disorders. Gain a general understanding of applied behavior analysis principles and how they can be used in an educational environment to teach various skills and support student behavior. Examine such strategies as positive reinforcement, teaching of functional-equivalent replacement behaviors, shaping, prompting, errorless learning, discrete trial teaching, as well as other naturalistic behavioral strategies. Apply the concepts and principles you learn in class through role playing and other hands-on activities. This course is ideal for professionals working directly with preschool or school-aged children with ASD and for Board Certified Behavior Analysts and Associate Analysts.
This course meets the qualifications for 30 hours of continuing education for MFTs, LPCCs, LEPs, and/or LCSWs as required by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. UC Davis Extension provider number PCE577.
Prerequisites:
Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Sections of this course open for enrollment:
Best Practice Strategies and Interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorders
3 quarter units academic credit, X361.12. 30 BBS Hours
Review the many best practices and methodologies for instructing students with autism. A number of evidence-based strategies are covered, including: structured teaching, accommodations, modifications, peer-mediated interventions, self-advocacy and self-awareness training, and strategies for addressing social, play and leisure activities. Participate in simulations and demonstrations, and interact with other students in a cooperative learning environment.
This course meets the qualifications for 30 hours of continuing education for MFTs, LPCCs, LEPs, and/or LCSWs as required by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. UC Davis Extension provider number PCE577.
Prerequisites:
Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Sections of this course open for enrollment:
Advanced Seminar in Autism Spectrum Disorders
2 quarter units academic credit, X361.13.
Increase your depth of knowledge about Autism Spectrum Disorders, including current educational research and practice. Conduct both observational and literary research reviews. Develop your capacity to communicate effectively about the autism characteristics, current research and evidence-based practices by giving oral and written presentations about identified topics. You are evaluated not only on the accuracy of your research and information in the presentations, but on the level of effectiveness in presenting the content to intended audiences.
Prerequisites:
Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorders, Applied Behavior Analysis Strategies and Interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorders, Best Practice Strategies and Interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorders.
This course is not currently scheduled.
Practicum in Autism Spectrum Disorders
4 quarter units academic credit, X361.14. 0 GEN CEUs, 0 GEN Hours, 48 BACB CEUs
Receive guided feedback on the implementation of the evidence-based practices and strategies learned in prior courses including positive behavior supports and functional assessments, implementation of ABA strategies for teaching skills, use of visual supports and work systems, assessment and teaching of functional communication and social skills. Participants will utilize the skills and tools learned to effectively implement evidence based practices with students and troubleshoot implementation of evidence based practices using fidelity measures and implementation checklists.
Prerequisites:
Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorders, Applied Behavior Analysis Strategies and Interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorders, Best Practice Strategies and Interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorders, Advanced Seminar in Autism Spectrum Disorders, or consent of instructor.
This course is not currently scheduled.
FREE INFORMATION SESSION - AUG. 2
Learn about coursework and requirements for the Autism Spectrum Disorders Professional Concentration and Certificate Program as well as the Early Start Denver Model Workshops.
Multimedia
(1 MB)Awards
UC Davis Extension’s online Professional Concentration in Autism Spectrum Disorders has been recognized by the University Professional and Continuing Education Association (UPCEA) as its 2011 Distance Learning Program of Excellence. The Professional Concentration comprises three of the five required courses in the certificate program.
FAQs
Get answers to frequently asked questions.
Also of Interest
Supporting Transition for Youth (Ages 16-25)
Examine the transition process for students with high-functioning autism (HFA) and Asperger syndrome (AS) who are leaving the K-12 education setting and entering higher education or the workforce. Develop your understanding of the disability and eligible support services for transitioning youth and learn to determine accommodations and needs based on 504/IEP educational intervention plans.
ESDM certification
Learn how to become certified in the Early Start Denver Model.
CCTC Added Authorization
Earn your CCTC-Approved Added Authorization
UC Davis Extension is pleased to announce an articulation agreement with Project Impact at the San Joaquin County Office of Education, which provides our graduates an immediate option for completing the requirements for the CCTC-Added Authorization.
Contact us for more information:
(530) 757-8512
Partners
testimonials
"After completing the Autism Spectrum Disorders Professional Concentration, I have already given two workshops: one to the general education teachers and one to the assistants. I have created work systems, behavior plans, task boxes and visual schedules for my students. I've even consulted with teachers and assistants on effective prompting and reward techniques. I feel I can now help students reach independence and achieve their goals."
Evelyn Margolin, special education teacher, inclusion grades K-5, San Juan Unified School District
"Having worked with autism for nearly a decade, I have a good deal of knowledge about autism and behavioral treatments. However, I also have gaps in my knowledge about treatments that I don't directly provide. These classes helped to fill in the gaps. As an instructor, I really appreciate the way the lessons are laid out, and I've gotten terrific ideas for when I teach classes in the future. As an administrator and business owner, I hope to see my staff enroll in these same classes."
Maria Sasaki, M.P.H., BCBA., Autism Spectrum Disorders Certificate Program candidate, behavioral consultant, San Jose, Calif.
