Department of Counseling, Special Education & School Psychology
Program Director
For specific questions about the Autism Spectrum & Related Disabilities Certificate, please contact the program director:
Jennifer S. Vaschak, MS, Ed
3312 Beeghly College of Education
(330) 941-1931
jvaschak01@ysu.edu
Certificate Description
This five-course certificate (16 semester hours) is designed to meet the needs of candidates in education or related fields, such as psychology, nursing, school counseling, and speech and language therapy. Candidates complete specialized coursework in characteristics and methods for students with moderate to intensive needs and specifically, autism. During a summer practicum experience, candidates seeking this graduate certificate are required to assess students, analyze data, and apply evidence-based practices as specified by the Council for Exceptional Children. Frequency of course offerings allow most candidates to earn the certificate within two semesters and two summer sessions.
Applicants for this graduate certificate must meet the requirements for admission to the College of Graduate Studies at YSU.
Certificate Requirements
Students must complete the following five courses:
| COURSE | TITLE | S.H. |
|---|---|---|
| SPED 5810 | Introduction to Sign Language | 3 |
| SPED 6914 | Behavior Management for Educators | 3 |
| SPED 6996 | Teaching Strategies/Autism | 4 |
| SPED 6998 | AAC Strategies | 3 |
| SPED 6999 | Field Experiences Autism/Related Disorders | 3 |
| Total Semester Hours | 16 | |