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Added Authorization/Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders
	Autism is a complex developmental disability characterized by difficulties in communication and social interaction. It is considered a “spectrum disorder” because it affects individuals in varying ways. In addition to autism, the spectrum includes Rett syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder, pervasive developmental delay, and Asperger's syndrome. As California, the nation and, indeed, the world, grapple with the increasing incidence of autism spectrum disorders, it is clear that there will continue to be a growing need for trained professionals to work with individuals with these challenges.

Overview

Cal Poly Pomona is pleased to announce its online, CTC-approved Added Authorization/Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). The ASD Authorization/Certificate will consist of three courses: Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorders; Teaching Students with ASD; Home/School/Community Collaboration in Special Education. All courses include field experience observing and working with individuals with ASD. This program has been approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) for the Added Authorization in Special Education (AASE) for Autism Spectrum Disorders.

The Added Authorization and Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders is offered through the College of the Extended University in partnership with the College of Education & Integrative Studies. For more information on this program, go to the Education Specialist credential programs page.

Transcript evaluations of courses in autism taken from another university will be considered for students requesting to waive a Cal Poly Pomona Autism Authorization course and substitute a course taken from another university. Students must complete the Course Equivalency Request form, available from the Credential Services Office (Bldg. 5, Rm. 228) or website . Students may request equivalency for only one course; only one course substitution is allowed. The course should closely match the description and learning outcomes of the Cal Poly Pomona course. Attach a copy of transcripts along with a copy of the catalog course description for the year taken. Submit these materials to the Credential Services Office.

Summer 2013 courses will be offered as follows:
Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorders – Online, June 24 - August 29, 2013
Teaching Students with ASD – Online, June 24 - August 29, 2013
Home/School/Community Collaboration in Special Education – Online, June 24 - August 29, 2013

Fall 2013 courses will be offered as follows:
Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorders – Online, September 26 – December 6, 2013
Teaching Students with ASD – Online, September 26 – December 6, 2013
Home/School/Community Collaboration in Special Education – Online, September 26 – December 6, 2013

There are three required courses, all of which are offered online only. Each course requires 5 hours of fieldwork with students with autism disorders. Please note that each of these courses is 4 units of graduate credit. As such, each entails a significant amount of work including textbook readings, discussion boards, online assignments, collaborative work (for EDS 526) and video projects (for EDS 532). It is strongly recommended that students DO NOT take all three courses at the same time. EDS 531 (Introduction to ASD) is a pre-requisite for EDS 532 and EDS 526.

Benefits / Objectives

This program is designed for teachers, parents, and other professionals to gain additional expertise in the area of autism spectrum disorders. Courses cover the causes and characteristics of ASD, instructional strategies and educational approaches, behavior management, and collaborating with home, school, and community partners who provide educational services for students with ASD. Through coursework and embedded field experiences, participants have the knowledge and skills to meet the educational needs of these students.

The Autism Authorization will allow holders of Levels I and II Mild/Moderate and other credentials to work with K-12 students (up through age 22) with autism spectrum disorders. The Added Authorization in ASD is required by CTC for teachers who (1) work with students with autism spectrum disorders; and (2) have any of the following credentials:

Level I or Level II Mild/Moderate credential
Level I or Level II Deaf and Hard of Hearing credential
Level I or Level II Visual Impairments credential
Level I or Level II Physical and Health Impairments credential
Old Learning Handicapped (LH), Physical Handicaps (PH), Communication Handicaps (CH), Visual Handicaps (VH) credentials (Ryan)

Teachers in the above categories do not need the Added Authorization unless they are specifically working with (or want to be qualified to work with) students with autism spectrum disorders, or if required for employment. The AASE remains valid as long as the prerequisite credential remains valid. Note: Teachers who do not have any of the credentials listed above are not authorized by CTC to earn the Added Authorization. However, you are most welcome to take any or all of the courses, and you may earn a Certificate of Completion (issued by Cal Poly Pomona) upon satisfactory completion of all three courses.

Course Information & Registration

Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorders (Summer 2013)

Teaching Students with ASD (Summer 2013)

Home/School/Community Collaboration in Special Education (Summer 2013)

Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorders (Fall 2013)

Teaching Students with ASD (Fall 2013)

Home/School/Community Collaboration in Special Education (Fall 2013)

Intended Audience

The ASD program is designed for special educators, general education teachers, paraprofessionals, and school administrators. It is also designed for social workers, psychologists, parents, and others working with or interested in children and young adults with autism spectrum disorders.

Awarded Certificate

Upon successful completion of all three courses, participants will receive a certificate of completion in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Eligible candidates will earn the Added Authorization in ASD.