Eastern Michigan University has created a new academic program focusing on Autism Spectrum Disorders. The new master's degree program was approved by the Board of Regents at its regular meeting Jan. 15.
"In a recent report from the Centers for Disease Control, one out of every 150 children is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)," said Sally Burton-Hoyle, professor of special education at EMU.
While the number of diagnosed children is increasing, the same report indicates a shortage of special education personnel.
"There are estimated to be more than 1,000 unfilled special education teaching positions in Michigan," Burton-Hoyle said. The personnel shortages noted in Michigan are also reflected in national data compiled by The American Association for Employment in Education. That report referred to a 'considerable shortage' in special education teachers.
"Obviously, this is a vital need and we want to help fill that need," Burton-Hoyle said.
The 39-hour degree program is designed to prepare highly qualified special education teachers and allied professionals to meet the needs of pre-K through 12th-grade students with Autism Spectrum Disorders and their families.
The master of arts degree consists of a 12-credit core, common to all masters programs in special education, a nine-credit research component, and an 18-credit concentration in Autism Spectrum Disorders.
"It is anticipated that this program will admit its first 20 graduate students in the 2008-09 academic year. Within three years program enrollment is anticipated at 60 students," said Burton-Hoyle.
