Autism Spectrum Disorders Certificate


To apply, please click here.

This certificate is designed to enable those in the field to increase their knowledge and understanding of students with a disability in the autism spectrum, including those with Asperger syndrome. The courses will engage participants in the practice of assessing, planning and implementing programming for this population. A course sequence has been developed to provide solid practice recommendations for this quickly growing need in the area of special education. Planning for the certificate programs has been based on competencies compiled by a committee of Virginia statewide stakeholders with a variety of backgrounds and perspectives.

The content is suitable for those working with this population anytime along the entire lifespan.

What will you gain?

  • Information, research and best practice that addresses current needs in the field of special education related to the growing population of students with a disability on the autism spectrum.
  • Training that will prepare you to serve as catalysts in schools for the effective education of learners with a disability on the autism spectrum.
  • Ability to grow and expand the knowledge and skill levels of a variety of service providers and care givers of those with a disability on the autism spectrum.
  • Knowledge and skills necessary to effectively participate on teams addressing the needs of learners with a disability on the autism spectrum.

Certificate Program Coursework

The coursework for both the Graduate and Undergraduate certificates includes:

  • early childhood characteristics,
  • issues and programming,
  • initial evaluation,
  • transition,
  • adult needs,
  • programming and life planning,
  • learning,
  • communication,
  • behavioral issues,
  • sensory motor components,
  • related service needs,
  • related and co-morbid medical conditions,
  • social skills and support, and
  • peer network development and support.

Graduate level certificate: (11 credit hours of study)
-developed to give an in-depth study of the characteristics, assessment and provision of services for this population.

  • Students complete three courses and a practicum designed to put into practice the skills learned during coursework.
  • This program would be most suitable for those responsible for the direct services, assessment and planning for those with a disability on the spectrum.

Undergraduate level certificate: (9 credit hours of study)

  • does not include the practicum work.
  • The undergraduate certificate would be most suited for those without direct responsibility or exposure to students with autism and those who do not hold an undergraduate degree but with a desire to increase their understanding of this population.

If you have specific questions, please contact the JMU program coordinator, Laura Desportes (desporlx@jmu.edu). 

Course Sequence

Course Titles

Overview and Assessment of Autism Disorders (3 credits)
Spring

Communication, Language and Sensory Issues in ASD (3 credits)
Summer

Challenging Behaviors, Positive Behavioral Supports, Functional Behavioral Assessment & Behavior Interventional Plans (3 credits)
Fall

Practical Experience in Autism (2 credits) graduate certificate only
Spring

Contact Information

For questions about the content of the certificate program:

Program Coordinator:
Brenda Fogus
Department of Exceptional Education
JMU MSC 6908
3225C Memorial Hall
395 South High Street
Harrisonburg, VA 22807
540-568-2877
fogusbe@jmu.edu




For questions about applications and registration:

Outreach & Engagement:
JMU MSC 6906
395 South High Street
Harrisonburg, VA 22807
(540) 568-4253 (phone)
(540) 568-4252 (fax)
outreach@jmu.edu
www.jmu.edu/outreach/autism