Master of Arts (M.A.)
Special Education Autism Spectrum Disorder Focus
Program Highlights & Benefits
Hybrid format combines personal experience with convenience of online learning
2 year completion time, including breaks
Cohort model helps facilitate supportive and collaborative learning
Workload designed for full time professional educators
Goals and Focus of the Program
The Master of Arts in Special Education with Autism Spectrum Disorder Focus program focuses on special education theory and evidence-based practices. Special emphasis is placed on the assessment and intervention of core and related deficits of students with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Candidates will gain knowledge and skills related to the diagnosis, program planning, instruction and interventions for students with an ASD. Candidates will develop key assessments and develop clinical decision making skills appropriate for use in the education of students with an ASD. Candidates will develop skills in becoming effective communicators and collaborators with parents, families, community providers and support systems in addition to gaining in-depth knowledge in this area of study.
Program Design
The Master of Arts in Special Education with ASD Focus program follows a cohort instructional model with a hybrid delivery structure. Eight-week courses include a combination of face-to-face as well as online classes determined by course content. This program includes face-to-face sessions that take place from 4:45 PM – 8:45 PM on the same night of the week at a central location. Online sessions may require meeting virtually during this scheduled class time. The duration of the program is approximately two years.
Prerequisites
Students in the Master of Arts in Special Education with Autism Spectrum Disorder Focus program must have a Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 2.5; one year of full time, contracted teaching experience; and access to a classroom and students throughout the duration of the program to fulfill field study requirements.
Degree Requirements and Career Outcome
The degree requirements for this program are successful completion of the program’s respective courses (listed below) and completion of a capstone project as a university requirement, which is embedded within the coursework. Upon completion of this program, students will have earned a Master of Arts degree in Special Education. This is not a licensure or endorsement program, but students who complete the program will be eligible for a University of Saint Joseph Autism Spectrum Disorder Graduate Certificate.
Plan of Study
| Course | Title | Hours | ||
SPEC 560 | Autism: Nature and Characteristics | 3 | ||
SPEC 562 | ACC & AT: Facilitating a Least Restrictive Environment | 3 | ||
SPEC 561 | Behavioral Interventions | 3 | ||
SPEC/IABS 565 | Psychological Interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorders | 3 | ||
SPEC 564 | Autism: Application of Instructional Strategies | 3 | ||
SPEC 540 | Reading Comprehension and Vocabulary Interventions | 3 | ||
SPEC 554 | Research-Based Math Intervention | 3 | ||
SPEC 505 | Assistive Technology for Access to the Curriculum Special Education | 3 | ||
| SPEC 539 | Universal Design for Learning: Proactive Inclusion for All Students | 3 | ||
| SPEC 530 | Research in Special Education* | 3 | ||
| Total Credit Hours: | 30 | |||
Please Note:
*Master’s Capstone Project Included
The courses for this program may be offered in a different order. This list should not be considered the finalized course sequence.
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