Certificate in Autism Studies for Nurses and other Allied Health Professionals
This program will provide registered nurses and other allied health professionals with information about autism so they can provide more effective care for patients with this disorder. Participants will learn about the latest research findings and conclusions. Upon completion of this program participants will be able to describe how autism is diagnosed, identify medical interventions for autism, discuss the role of nurses in autism interventions, and demonstrate clinical competency in the use of the most current evidence-based practice in clinical and educational settings. Participants will understand how the integration of research findings, professional judgment, data-based clinical decision-making, and the values and preferences of families are critical in making treatment decisions.
Autism Certificate for General and Special Education Teachers and Paraprofessionals
The purpose of this Autism Program is to provide advanced, specialized training for Education Specialists credential holders who work with K-12 pupils with Autism Spectrum Disorder and who need to add expertise in the areas of special education that were not part of their original credential authorization. Candidates will learn about and understand Autism Spectrum Disorders in addition they will be able to conduct a functional
behavioral assessment and then Develop, Implement, and Monitor a Positive Behavioral Intervention Plan using person-centered approaches. Using Applied Behavior Analysis and Positive Behavior Supports, Candidates will be able to apply specific support strategies such as Discrete Trail Teaching, Pivotal Response training and create optimal learning environments for the students they teach. As a candidate moves through the program the competencies are presented and then tested. These competencies will build upon one another to ensure a solid foundation in the understanding and application of the specific support and teaching strategies for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.