Coordinator: Maria Peterson-Ahmad

Mission

Prepare special education professionals to meet the requirements for licensed ASD Specialists by advancing their knowledge and skills to train, coach and lead comprehensive educational services for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate knowledge and skills in evidence-based methods to teach students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and the knowledge and skills to train, coach and lead other school personnel in meeting the unique needs of students with ASD.
2. Demonstrate mastery in all ASD standards and competencies to meet requirements for the ASD Specialization by Oregon Teacher Standards and Practices Commission.
3. Demonstrate commitment to professional excellence and leadership through establishing goals for ongoing professional development in the field of ASD.

This program consists of graduate-level courses designed to meet the requirements for TSPC Specialization: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). To be eligible for recommendation for Specialization: ASD, candidates must hold a teaching license in Special Education and successfully complete all program requirements and coursework (20 credits).

Upon completion of this advanced program and recommendation to TSPC, ASD Specialists will be prepared to train, coach and lead comprehensive educational services for students with ASD, from early childhood to adulthood. They will demonstrate knowledge and skills in evidence-based methods to teach students with ASD and further demonstrate knowledge and skills to train, coach and lead other school personnel in meeting the unique needs of students with ASD. Primary demonstration of their leadership skills will be assessed in the four supervised field experiences. Candidates will complete a professional portfolio and upon exit, exhibit their professional skills and develop a plan for ongoing professional development.

Candidates who complete this graduate program will join a pool of ASD Licensed Specialists who are highly trained in nationally recognized evidence-based interventions to train and coach local district personnel and work to assure fidelity of implementation of comprehensive educational services.