Master’s in Autism Spectrum Disorders Degree

Master of Arts in Autism Spectrum DisordersAdvanced Program for Continuing Professional Education

Offered By: College of Education

The prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) continues to grow.1 This means that the need for educators trained in understanding the unique characteristics of students with ASD and the core challenges associated with language and communication, social skills, behavior and processing is also growing. 

Earn Your On-Campus or Online Master’s Degree in Autism Spectrum Disorders at GCU

Graduates of this advanced online master’s degree in autism spectrum disorders program will study the special transitional skills needed to help students with ASD transition from school to independent living. The proven and innovative approaches in this MA in ASD degree are delivered by faculty and staff who are experts in the field. In addition, graduates will complete field experiences throughout the program and a capstone to apply techniques directly. The program integrates an action research project specific to the field and in consideration of becoming an ASD specialist. 

What is a Master’s Degree in Autism?

This 32-credit ASD degree from Grand Canyon University (GCU) is designed for licensed teachers who understand the importance of educating students on the autism spectrum. You will be immersed in research-based learning techniques and inclusive teaching strategies, including effective instructional strategies, that equip you to teach students with autism spectrum disorders.  

The proven and innovative approaches in this MA in ASD degree are delivered by faculty and staff who are experts in the field. In addition, you will complete field experiences throughout the program and a capstone in order to apply techniques directly teaching students with ASD. The program integrates an action research project specific to the field and in consideration of becoming an ASD specialist.

Earn Your On-Campus or Online Master’s Degree in Autism Spectrum Disorders at GCU

In this advanced online master’s degree in autism spectrum disorders program, you will study the special transitional skills needed to help students with ASD transition from school to independent living. 

This program is conveniently designed for professionals who already hold a teaching license, allowing you to continue working while pursuing a professional, advanced degree. If you’re seeking a degree that leads to licensure, consider pursuing an MEd in Special Education or an MEd in Special Education Moderate to Severe degree. In addition, financial aid and scholarships are available to help you follow your calling to support or teach students with autism.

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TOTAL CREDITS & COURSE LENGTH:
Total Credits: 32
Online: 6 weeks
[More Info]
TRANSFER CREDITS:
Up to 12 credits or 1/3 of the total program requirements in transfer (whichever is less)
TUITION RATE:
Online: $590 per credit [More Info]

 

What You Will Learn in GCU’s Master’s in ASD Degree Program

Building knowledge, skills and abilities in implementing evidence-based and multi-faceted methodologies to engage with and teach students with ASD is at the heart of the master’s degree in autism program at GCU. Additionally, as part of the capstone course, an action research project will be completed throughout the program. The purpose of this action research project is for educators to investigate scholarly research in an autism area of interest and conduct their own action research. The culminating action research project and capstone course in the MA ASD program emphasizes leadership and advocacy opportunities, such as an ASD specialist, for professional educators working with the many stakeholders involved in the delivery of services for students with autism spectrum disorders.

As an ASD specialist, you need to be highly qualified in the areas of inclusive practices, instructional practices, data-driven assessments, assistive technology, behavioral supports, collaboration, advocacy with policies and ethics for students with autism spectrum disorders. In this ASD degree you will learn how current research and policies translate into classroom and school environments, as well as supporting students and families with post-secondary options. The importance of leadership and collaboration in working with or teaching students with ASD ensures you are well prepared for a career in advocating for, working with or teaching students with ASD. 

As a future graduate of this advanced online master’s degree in autism spectrum disorders program at GCU, you will be prepared to develop future professional goals and apply knowledge of professional literature and research to promote professional development opportunities. In addition, you will be able to apply best practices in collaboration with stakeholders, conflict resolution strategies and creating and sustaining productive work environments for everyone who works with students with ASD. 

The program of study will cover the following content areas specific to working with ASD students:

  • Survey of special education including ASD
  • Inclusive practices and curriculum interventions
  • Instructional and communication strategies
  • Data-driven assessment
  • Assistive technology and communication strategies
  • Positive behavior support
  • Transitions and life skills
  • Advocacy, policy and ethics
  • Leadership and collaboration
  • Capstone and action research project
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Career Options for Master’s in Autism Spectrum Disorders Degree Graduates

The need for people with high-specialized special education training is growing. With this advanced master’s in autism spectrum disorders degree, you may find various career opportunities in the field, such as a postsecondary education teacher or a special education teacher in a preschool, elementary or middle school environment.

As an ASD specialist, you may find work in many different environments. Schools and private special education programs are common workplaces for people with a master’s in autism degree, but there are number of career paths to consider.

Families who have children with ASD need educators who will understand and advocate their developmental, educational and transitional needs. Specializing in ASD will support these needs as you will be able to develop relationships with students and families as you support them through their K-12 education and post-secondary goals. 

If you are ready to pursue this meaningful line of work, sign up for the Master’s in Autism Spectrum Disorders degree non-licensure program at GCU today. 

If seeking licensure or certification, applicants to the program are responsible for contacting their state department of education for licensure requirements and program approval. In addition, fingerprint and background clearance is required.

Course List

Major:
32 credits
Degree Requirements:
32 credits

Core Courses

Course Description

This course is designed to prepare students for the graduate learning experience at Grand Canyon University. Students have opportunities to develop and strengthen the skills necessary to succeed as graduate students in the College of Education. Emphasis is placed on utilizing the tools for graduate success.

Course Description

This course orients professional educators to the theoretical foundations of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Educators will focus on the exceptional needs of students with ASD and teacher's responsibilities in determining eligibility and assessment. This course also examines diagnoses and evidence-based practices in the school environment. An emphasis is placed on ethical behaviors and looking at different perspectives within ASD. Practicum/field experience hours: 10. Fingerprint clearance required.

Course Description

In this course, professional educators will look at how individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) experience difficulties in the areas of social acceptance and social communication. Emphasis is placed on how interactions with their typically developing peers can allow for opportunities to learn social skills and increase communication skills. Educators will determine the definition of inclusion and research how it impacts students with disabilities. Specific focus is placed on how to support students with ASD in an inclusive environment, including supports in the areas of environmental, social/emotional, behavioral and communication. Practicum/field experience hours: 10. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: SPD-504.

Course Description

Professional educators will determine strategies to align with the different ways individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) think, learn, and behave in the classroom. Educators will use differentiated instruction and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) strategies to design interventions based on process, content and product, including specific strategies for engagement and speech and language support. Educators will support an inclusive environment with all instructional strategies. Practicum/field experience hours: 10. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: SPD-507.

Course Description

This course provides professional educators the opportunity to explore how behavioral, academic, and social assessments are used when determining effective instructional strategies and interventions for students with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). A focus is placed on synthesizing data to make instructional decisions that support students in a variety of settings. Educators will look at how to gather data during instruction and monitor progress of students' IEP goals. Practicum/field experience hours: 10. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: SPD-511.

Course Description

This course explores functional communication training and specific strategies to promote effective communication behaviors or skills of students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In addition, professional educators will survey assistive technology in relation to enhancing communication of students with autism spectrum disorders. Consideration of how to manage challenging expectations, show respect and improve ethical practice to promote advocacy and collaboration will extend to the home environment for life-skill application. Practicum/field experience hours: 10. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: SPD-517.

Course Description

This course explores how individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) may require specific sensory and behavior supports in order to be successful in the classroom. Professional educators look at Positive Behaviors Interventions and Supports (PBIS), including strategies that encourage and support desired behaviors. Educators will review the principles of PBIS and research interventions and supports for students with ASD in all school environments. Additionally, they will determine how to assess a student and best support their needs when creating behavior accommodations for the inclusion classroom. Practicum/field experience hours: 10. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: SPD-567.

Course Description

This course addresses key requirements of the postsecondary transition plan and collaboration with stakeholders in school and the community. Professionals will learn about age appropriate assessments, aligned activities, and preparation for adult life. In addition, professionals explore postsecondary options, adult services, and living options for adults with autism spectrum disorder. Practicum/field experience hours: 10. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: SPD-527.

Course Description

Professional educators acquire knowledge of legal policy and ethical practices associated with students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This course focuses on rights and responsibilities, trends, and advocacy for students with ASD. Educators will also review creation and delivery of individualized education plans for students with ASD. Practicum/field experience hours: 10. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: SPD-557.

Course Description

This course addresses leadership and advocacy opportunities for professionals working with the many stakeholders involved in the delivery of services for students with autism spectrum disorders. Professional educators describe strategies to promote the advancement of the profession. Collaborative practices with stakeholders, conflict resolution strategies, and creating and sustaining productive work environments will be emphasized. Practicum/field experience hours: 10. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: SPD-537.

Course Description

This course is the culminating course in the Master of Arts in Autism Spectrum Disorders that emphasizes leadership and advocacy opportunities for professional educators working with the many stakeholders involved in the delivery of services for students with autism spectrum disorders. Educators will develop future professional goals and apply knowledge of professional literature and research to promote professional development opportunities. Collaborative practices with stakeholders, conflict resolution strategies, and creating and sustaining productive work environments will be investigated. Experience will culminate in a completed electronic portfolio. Practicum/field experience hours: 30. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: Completion of all other courses required for the Master of Arts in Autism Spectrum Disorders program.

Locations

GCU Online Student


Pursue a next-generation education with an online degree from Grand Canyon University. Earn your degree with convenience and flexibility with online courses that let you study anytime, anywhere.

GCU Evening Student


Grand Canyon University’s evening programs cater to the demands of working professionals who prefer an in-person learning environment. Our night classes meet just once per week and offer the interaction and discussion of a typical college classroom.

* Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.

* Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change.

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