Professional Concentration in Autism Spectrum Disorders
More children than ever before are being classified as having autism spectrum disorders. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, one in 88 children in the U.S. has an autism spectrum disorder. The Professional Concentration in Autism Spectrum Disorders addresses the critical professional development need of therapists, educators, parents and medical professionals who provide interventions and support for this special population of children.
Gain practical knowledge that matters
- Understand the many behavioral and neurological elements of the disorder.
- Learn to assess a child’s level of involvement.
- Determine baseline data for progress measures.
- Discover specific intervention treatment programs and strategies for addressing the myriad presenting behaviors.
Designed for professionals like you
This program is designed for teachers, administrators, speech and occupational therapists, paraprofessionals and parents. It is also available on a contract basis through school districts, county offices of education and regional special education units.
Program requirements
To earn the Professional Concentration award, you should be currently serving or have the desire to work with students on the autism spectrum in an educational capacity.
The Autism Professional Concentration award is earned upon successful completion of three required courses with at least a "B" average in program coursework. 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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F=Fall W=Winter SP=Spring SU=Summer;
Schedules subject to change
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:
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 in Autism Spectrum Disorders program demonstrates an outstanding level of excellence in purpose, design, practice and adaptability. Distinctive features such as an innovative partnership between UC Davis Extension and the UC Davis MIND Institute, the identification of a vital need for autism education for the teaching workforce, and the effective transition from a traditional classroom format to a fully online version of the program establishes the Professional Concentration in Autism Spectrum Disorders program as a clear role model for quality and effectiveness in online learning."
—UPCEA Distance Learning Program of Excellence Award Committee
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.
Autism Spectrum Disorders Certificate Program
Specifically designed for those who successfully completed the Professional Concentration in Autism Spectrum Disorders, this program will further your research and expertise in a particular topic and will hone your skills in using research related to autism spectrum disorders.
FAQs
Get answers to frequently asked questions.
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
"The material covered is well organized and gives just enough detail about all the important concepts. The instructors are down to earth, accessible and knowledgeable. They bring terrific real-life experiences to the classroom and teach lessons that can't be read in any book. They are also understanding of the fact that most of us taking these courses work full-time and make allowances for this accordingly."
Maria Sasaki, M.P.H., BCBA, Autism Spectrum Disorders Certificate Program candidate, behavioral consultant, San Jose, Calif.
"I thoroughly enjoyed the Autism Spectrum Disorders Professional Concentration because it was flexible and accommodating to my hectic teaching schedule. The readings were invaluable and the assignments were interesting and relevant to my job. I especially appreciated the ability of the instructors to meet our needs. They gave clear agendas and requirements, encouraged us to collaborate through the forums, and offered up-to-date research and expert knowledge."
Evelyn Margolin, special education teacher, inclusion grades K-5, San Juan Unified School District
"I have had some amazing employment changes happen after taking courses in the Autism Spectrum Disorders program. People have started to ask my advice! All in all I had a great experience with the instructors and my cohorts. I really hope to be able to continue working with the autism spectrum disorders population. Thanks for providing an extraordinary program."
Susan J. Sparrow, 2010 Autism Spectrum Disorders Professional Concentration student
