Overview
Students accepted into the Master of Arts program in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) may earn an Endorsement in ASD, along with the master’s degree. The Endorsement in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) is K-12. Additionally, other professionals in allied fields may earn a masters degree in ASD without teacher certification.
Eastern Michigan University’s advanced professional education programs support inquiry, advocacy and leadership in education for a diverse and democratic society. In addition, the master’s-level programs in the Department of Special Education produce professionals with the comprehensive knowledge, skills and attitudes to deliver a continuum of habilitative/rehabilitative services to persons with special needs, and to their families, within a multicultural society.
Admission Requirements
Individuals seeking admission to the Master of Arts in Autism Spectrum Disorders program may:
- Possess a valid teacher certification;
- Possess a degree an/or professional licensure in an allied field
- Meet the Graduate School admission requirements including graduation from a regionally accredited college or university;
- Submit two letters of recommendation to include one letter verifying professional competence, and one letter from a faculty member or other person knowledgeable of academic competence;
- Achieve acceptable scores on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE);
- Submit a professionally written personal statement which reflects personal and professional commitment to the field of special education and specifically to students with autism spectrum disorders (ASD)
- International students must provide a score of 90 on the Michigan English Language Assessment Battery (MELAB).
Program Requirements
The individual seeking a Master of Arts in Autism Spectrum Disorders must:
- Successfully complete a minimum of 39 hours of approved graduate credit as outlined on an approved master’s degree program that has been planned with a faculty program advisor;
- Successfully complete a supervised practicum experience;
- Successfully complete the degree requirements within six years of enrolling for the first class applicable to the degree program; and
- Meet all other requirements of the Office of Graduate Studies and Research.
Exit Requirements
Exit criteria include demonstration of acceptable levels of performance in the following areas:
- Describe the identification, classification, etiology and characteristics of ASD
- Describe the language and communication traits, characteristics and interventions related to ASD
- Implement the use of positive behavioral supports and interventions
- Assess, teach and modify instruction and curricula for persons with ASD across school, home and community
- Use creative problem-solving, conflict management and mediation strategies to collaborate with families and service providers in educational and community settings
- Understand the legal system, socioeconomic factors and mental health issues and their resources for independent living, recreation, and vocational education for persons with ASD and their families
- Understand issues related to ASD theory, research and policy, including identification, legislation in collaboration with school systems, community agencies and families of persons with ASD.
Acceptable levels of performance will be determined by course grades, GPA, mid-program competency examination, practicum evaluations and performance in research colloquium, including production at the end of practicum of a comprehensive written document which demonstrates the understanding, synthesis of knowledge and the practical applications of diagnostic-prescriptive planning for K-12 students with disabilities. The product is considered a culminating activity for the degree program.
