Masters Degrees (Autism)

Take advantage of one of our 100 Master’s Scholarships to study Autism and Related Conditions at Swansea University, the Times Good University Guide’s Welsh University of the Year 2017. Postgraduate loans are also available to English and Welsh domiciled students. For more information on fees and funding please visit our website.

Autism is a spectrum of lifelong neurodevelopmental conditions that presents various challenges for those people living with Autism and the services in place to provide care, education, training and support. There is an emphasis on the need to increase general awareness and specialist training for all professionals involved in the delivery of autism related services. However, it has been recognised that Autism and its related conditions are prevalent globally, and this programme explores the international context to highlight best practice initiatives.

The Master's in Autism and Related Conditions, which is also available at Postgraduate Diploma and Postgraduate Certificate level as well as on a part time basis, is a unique training and development programme leading to a postgraduate qualification for those professionals who are seeking to advance and specialise their knowledge and practice in Autism.

Key Features of the Autism and Related Conditions Programme

In response to the Autism Act (2009), the UK government produced statutory guidance for health, social care and educational organisations, which highlighted the strategic need for staff training at all levels, service planning and the creation of local leadership. Part of this guidance places an emphasis on the need to increase general awareness and specialist training for all professionals involved in the delivery of autism related services.

Key features of the Autism and Related Conditions programme include:

- Innovative and integrated curriculum that reflects the various aspects in the provision of autism services (i.e. clinical, social care and specialist education).
- Flexibility for you to gain specialist knowledge in your respective professions
- People living with Autism are involved in the delivery of the programme
- Teaching is supported by online learning and support
- Strong links with various third sector organisations
- Research informed teaching
- Multiprofessional teaching team with vast experience and expertise in Autism and related conditions
- Choice between a research project or a work based portfolio for the MSc dissertation
- Available as either a full time or part time study

The Autism and Related Conditions programme is modular and structured in three levels, each building on the next. You can elect to take either the full Master's programme or the Postgraduate Certificate or Diploma, depending on need and circumstances. The programme is designed to allow you to complete either as full time or part time study. For part-time students, each of the three components are scheduled to take a year each to complete.

Who should take this course?

Any health care professionals (medical, nursing and allied health), educators (primary, secondary, FE and HE), social care professionals and psychologists who wish to develop their understanding, skills and leadership in Autism.

Attendance Pattern

Students are required to attend the University for 1 week (5 consecutive days) for each module in Part One (Taught Element). Attendance during Part Two (Dissertation or Portfolio) is negotiated with the supervisor, with a minimum of 4 supervisory meetings. You are also encourage to attend the Postgraduate Taught Induction Event during the induction week and any programme associated seminars.

Modules

Modules on the Autism and Related Conditions may include:

Diagnosis and Assessment of Autism and Related Conditions
Living with Autism and Related Conditions
Critical Appraisal and Evaluation
Data Analysis for Health and Medical Sciences
Management of Autism and Related Conditions
Foundations of Behaviour
Childhood and Adult Services for Autism and Related Conditions
Rights and Responsibilities for Autism and Related Conditions

Additionally, you will be able to choose to complete a research based dissertation or a work based reflective portfolio.‌

Meet our Alumni

Elizabeth Clatworthy was the first person to graduate from the MSc in Autism and Related Conditions course in 2014. She had both a personal and professional reason to be the first person to gain a Master’s degree in a new course that specialises in the study of autism, as she fosters an eight year old boy who has the condition. Elizabeth said: ‘However a five year old boy came to me to be fostered, which resulted in him being placed with me full time. He was non-verbal and had behavioural issues, but now he talks, has learned to manage his own behaviour and now I feel that there is no limit to what he can achieve. This experience led me to apply for my Master’s degree and I have found that my learning has helped me understand more about my foster child, and equally my foster child has helped me gain greater insight into my studies.”

Rhys Jenkins, now aged 24, was diagnosed with Autism when he was 16 years old. He had successfully completed a Law Degree at Cardiff University prior to coming to Swansea University to complete the MSc in Autism and Related Conditions course.

Read less

A distinctive feature of the MA (Autism) Education is the focus on learning from the authentic voices of people with personal experience of autism and the expectation that students will engage critically with received wisdom about autism.

The MA engages with education across the age range from early years to adulthood, and is relevant to a wide diversity of settings. Students on the programme include experienced professionals, people who identify with autism and parents /allies of people on the spectrum.

The close association between the Centre for Educational Research and the MA provides opportunities to work with like-minded research-active peers within a lively and supportive learning community. LSBU is currently partnering with Research Autism and the University of Cambridge on a study which explores the value of mentoring from the perspective of young adults on the autism spectrum.

Opportunities for accreditation of prior learning are available to students with an appropriate background and this should be discussed with the course director who will also explain the CPD processes on request. Individual MA modules and sessions can be taken as Continued Professional Development (CPD).

National Award for SEN Co-ordinator

You can choose to take the recognised 'National Award for SEN Co-ordination' or options that will further deepen your understanding of autism.

Modules

All modules are assessed by a mix of assignments, presentations, research projects and portfolio development.

Year 1

Two optional modules (list below)

• Teaching and learning: The needs of learners with special needs, autism and disability
• Special educational needs and disability
• Understanding autism and learning
• Autism individuality and identity

Year 2

• Research methods (compulsory)
In addition to one of the optional modules listed above

Year 3

• Dissertation

Options

• Part 1 SENCO National Award
• Part 2 SENCO National Award

Study hours

In year one you'll typically study two modules of 36 hours contact time each plus self-managed study hours.

Teaching and learning

You'll be taught by Dr Nicola Martin who has substantial experience in the field of autism including working with Professor Baron-Cohen on the Cambridge University Autism Project. She was also formerly director of the Autism Centre at Sheffield Hallam University. Dr Martin is currently a lecturer at LSBU and is a Principal Investigator for Research Autism.

You'll benefit from an up to date Virtual Learning Environment via Moodle and be actively encouraged to make use of the extensive range of support services across the university. You'll have access to a supervisor during the dissertation phase.

Placements

Access to the workplace (including voluntary work) is essential for most of the modules within the MA. Prospective students who are not currently in (paid or unpaid) employment should talk to the course director.

Professional links

The department has wide professional links within and beyond the university and the UK. Examples include:

• The Equality Challenge Unit
• The Alliance for Inclusive Education
• Equality and Diversity Forum Research Network
• The Leadership Foundation
• Research Autism
• Theorising Autism Project
• Teacher Education for Equality and Sustainability Network (TEESNet)
• National Association of Disability Practitioners
• Commonworks (for a just and sustainable world)

Recent guest lectures have been given by researchers from Research Autism and The Theorising Autism Project.

Employability

This programme will contribute to your employability and the National SENco award may be a requirement of your workplace.

The Autism Act 2009 and The Adult Autism Strategy 2009 require professionals from a wide variety of disciplines to understand autism. The MA could open up opportunities in areas within and beyond educational settings. Professionals with an MA providing an in-depth and critical understanding of autism may achieve promotion or develop a career in education. Universities are beginning to advertise for autism specific posts within disability services.

Students wishing to achieve promotion or develop a career in education benefit from having a higher degree. Progression from the MA to the Doctorate in Education. further enhances employability and promotion prospects, particularly in academia and research. CVs are improved by having publications in referred journals and this is encouraged and supported on the MA as well as the Doctorate in Education.

The MA in Education - Autism is designed to deepen your understanding of working with pupils /students in any educational setting, across the age range into adult education. It is therefore relevant to employment in school, college, alternative education settings and to work with disabled students at university. Content is applicable to teachers and staff in non- teaching roles, such as mentor, disability officer or learning support assistant. The content is also relevant to staff in strategic and operational leadership roles.

LSBU Employability Services

LSBU is committed to supporting you develop your employability and succeed in getting a job after you have graduated. Your qualification will certainly help, but in a competitive market you also need to work on your employability, and on your career search. Our Employability Service will support you in developing your skills, finding a job, interview techniques, work experience or an internship, and will help you assess what you need to do to get the job you want at the end of your course. LSBU offers a comprehensive Employability Service, with a range of initiatives to complement your studies, including:

• Direct engagement from employers who come in to interview and talk to students
• Job Shop and on-campus recruitment agencies to help your job search
• Mentoring and work shadowing schemes.

Read less

The Autism MA at Northumbria is designed to support ASD professionals and carers develop their knowledge and critical thinking around the characteristics of autism spectrum disorders. Students explore the needs arising from ASD and the different approaches to meeting these needs, particularly through teaching and learning.

This course offers motivated, passionate people working in the field of autism the opportunity to study for a specialist qualification that will accelerate and focus their contribution towards better lives for people with ASD.

You will learn from leaders in the field of autism. In addition to the highly respected staff based at Northumbria, you will have contact with a cohort of visiting lecturers with key specialisms including aging and autism, the biochemistry of autism, and anxiety and anger management.

Northumbria University is the largest North East provider of CPD in Education, and Ofsted has rated our department ‘outstanding’ for the past 14 years. We are the only university in the UK to have held this accolade for so long.

Learn From The Best

Staff are all leading experts in the field of autism, specialising in areas such as psycho-education, Asperger syndrome and the development of inclusive methodologies. Academic standards are high, but you will also benefit from a practitioner viewpoint.

The Autism MA is for people with experience of ASD, so teaching is at an advanced level. We invite visiting lecturers to connect students with exceptional people and practice in the field of autism. You will learn from specialists in contemporary issues such as mental health resilience, ageing and autism, regional services and communications needs of autistic children.

Teaching And Assessment

The Autism MA offers a flexible framework for busy professionals studying part time. You will benefit from adult learning approaches such as work-based learning. The focus is on enabling students to tailor the course to their own needs.

In the classroom you will engage in a mixture of teacher-led discussions, peer group work and individual presentations. With the core modules we aim to engender Master's level critical understanding of the complex issues around research, policy and practice in autism.

In many cases you will be able to customise the project modules towards your specific area of interest through the selection of your research questions.

In all of the modules that constitute the course, there are both formative and summative assessments. A variety of approaches are used across the framework, including assignments, presentations, portfolios and reports, which will show evidence that you have achieved the learning outcomes.

Module Overview
Year One
TE7046 - Understanding Autism (Core, 30 Credits)
TE7047 - Autism: Social Behaviour and Promoting Learning (Core, 30 Credits)

Year Two
TE7038 - Research Methods in Education and Training (Optional, 30 Credits)
TE7048 - Autism - Analysing Issues in Teaching & Learning (Core, 30 Credits)
WB0715 - Preparation for Project Management (Optional, 30 Credits)

Year Three
PP0724 - The Empirical Project (Optional, 60 Credits)
TE7039 - Systematic Appraisal in Education and Training (Optional, 60 Credits)
WB0716 - Work Based Dissertation (Optional, 60 Credits)

Learning Environment

Northumbria University is the largest North East provider of CPD in Education.

Specialist facilities include the Library and the experiences of fellow students who are all professionals in the field of autism. Peer support is important in developing understanding from a range of perspectives and educational contexts and developing your skills in working collaboratively with others.

You will benefit from technology enhanced learning. Each module within the course will have its own e-learning site. This will enable the sharing of all learning materials, enhance rapid communication with all group members and enable students to use peer forums.

Research-Rich Learning

The Department of Education and Lifelong Learning has a range of research experience and interests. Academic staff have extensive experience of leading, conducting and managing autism research in all areas of education, from early years and schools to post-compulsory and higher education.

During the course your research will be supported by rigorous critical enquiry and discourse. As a result you will extend, develop and enhance your ability to evaluate and challenge the underlying assumptions surrounding educational policy and practice within the context of autism. In addition, you will develop your capacity to re-interpret practice through participation in the learning and teaching strategies employed throughout the course.

Many students choose to research the key areas of difficulty in autism: social understanding, sensory issues, communication, sexuality and forensic issues.

Give Your Career An Edge

Most students who enrol on the Autism MA are currently employed, and seeking to enhance career opportunities through a specialist knowledge of autism. There is significant evidence that this course will give your career an edge.

Assessments throughout the course offer you opportunities to consider, discuss, analyse and evaluate your practice in relation to theoretical concepts and ideas. This process facilitates critical reflection on work related problems and how they might be resolved.

The skills that are required in such assessments reflect many of the component features of employability, such as independent learning, team working, communication, analysis, critical reflection and self-awareness.

These advanced skills are valued in many fields including teaching, speech therapy, occupational therapy, nursing and social services.

Your Future

The Autism MA will equip you with a valuable range of transferable skills from the academic to the practical and interpersonal. The focus on independent, critically reflective learning, teamwork and self-awareness will ensure that your employability and potential for career progression is escalated.

By undertaking the Masters in Autism, you are laying strong foundations for career development as a leader in autism in organisations such as schools, hospitals, the community, social services inspectorate, the police service, charities and parent organisations.

Whatever you decide to do, you will have strong employability as a result of having acquired the characteristics of a Northumbria graduate. These include the ability to think creatively while at the same time applying rigorous structure to solve complex problems. You will be a big step closer to your goal of improving the lives of people with ASD.

Read less

These programmes are consistent with the philosophy and criteria set out in the Autism Act (2009) and Autism Strategy (2010). The philosophy and outcomes are also consistent with the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence 2012 guidelines on autism.

Course details

The overall aims of the programmes are to:
-Facilitate your acquisition of substantial knowledge and skills appropriate to postgraduate study and integrates your advanced knowledge and skills related to autism practice
-Develop the skills and attitudes necessary for you to promote evidence-based practice and research in autism practice
-Develop your critical understanding of the necessary research methodologies to locate and critically appraise research to advance practice when working with people with autism spectrum conditions
-Foster your commitment to lifelong learning and encourages an inquisitive approach to practice

You focus on the person-centred support of service users and apply supportive interventions and strategies in ways that build on your previous study, employment and/or practice experiences. You are prepared to conduct research that is linked to the field of autism practice and to advance your knowledge of the discipline of specialist autism practice. You will apply theories and constructs related to autism in a workplace setting to make sense of complex situations and enhance your skills development through action or problem-based projects and practical experience. These programmes also facilitate the development of leading change and service improvement, developing services to meet diverse needs of people with autism, underpinned by a sound ethical framework.

What you study

You focus on the person-centred support of service users and apply supportive interventions and strategies in ways that build upon your previous study and employment/practice experiences. You are prepared to conduct research linked to the field of autism practice to advance your knowledge and understanding of autism spectrum conditions, enabling you to develop your knowledge of specialist autism practice. You ares also enable to apply theories and constructs related to autism in a workplace setting to make sense of complex situations and enhance your skills development through action or problem-based projects and practical experience.

The programme is underpinned by a sound ethical framework and facilitates the development of leading change and service improvement, developing services to meet diverse needs of people with autism.

Core modules
-Advancing Practice When Working with People with Autism Spectrum Conditions
-Designing Research Projects
-Evidence-based Practice
-Service Improvement for Autism Spectrum Conditions

MSc only
-Dissertation

Modules offered may vary.

Teaching

These programme use e-learning as a key resource to enhance your learning and support. You use our virtual learning environment, [email protected] for all of your modules. we provide links to useful online resources and web-based interactive activities related to autism.

You also learn through discussion boards remotely from your home or at your practice placement site. In addition you learn through keynote lectures, seminars, case-study and scenario-based discussions and critical incident analyses in the form of group work. This enhances your learning and provides support for your modular assessment.

We use debate and argument to stimulate you to be an active participant in your reflective learning process. The programme team includes members with research experience and there is an emphasis on research-informed teaching.

Each module carries an assessed element which is integrated with the learning outcomes of the module and award. It requires a critical appreciation of the subject matter and its implications for practice.

Your work is assessed through essays, case studies, project work and a final dissertation if you are enrolled on the MSc Autism Practice.

Employability

You must work in a practice setting for this programme within your own area of employment. Career opportunities include a range of services in health and social care settings where individuals with autism require support.

Read less

Study autism in all aspects of theory, research and practice on this specialist postgraduate course. You reflect on how autism affects the way in which people experience the world and analyse these experiences in the context of wider disability debates. The course helps you to identify and consider the barriers in society that hinder individuals with autism in terms of learning and achieving their goals.

If you are from a professional background the course supports you in developing a range of academic skills, a professional knowledge base and employability skills that link closely to your specialism and career goals. If you are interested in this course from a personal perspective as an individual with autism, a parent or carer, we support your developing understanding of the autism spectrum.

This course is ideal if you are:
-A graduate interested in a career in education or a related field with an autism specialism.
-Currently involved in working with people who are on the autism spectrum.
-If you are coming to this course from a personal perspective as an individual with autism, a parent or carer.

The course focuses on the UK education and education-related systems, but also places these in an international context.

You study:
-How the autism spectrum is conceptualised.
-The way that autism impacts on the individual's thinking and learning.
-How autism might affect how people experience the world around them.

Assessments can be linked to your own work so you can specialise in a particular age bracket or education or support role. For example, you can choose to focus your study and placement experience on:
-The early years.
-Primary education.
-Secondary education.
-Further education.
-Higher education sectors.

Or you can focus on professions linked to education such as:
-Learning mentor.
-Education welfare officer.
-Arts education officer.
-Education-related health roles.

The course provides a relevant qualification for anyone holding or intending to hold a management position in the field of autism. You reflect on current theory relating to the autism spectrum and evaluate how you might use new learning to develop your own practice.

For more information, see the website: https://www.shu.ac.uk/study-here/find-a-course/mapgdippgcert-autism-spectrum

Course structure

Part time – typically 1 year to certificate, 2 years to diploma, 3 years to masters, maximum 6 years.
Each module is taught 5–7.30pm once a week typically over eight to ten weeks. For groups of 15 students or more, it may be possible to deliver the course at your organisation if it is in the local region. Starts September.

Modules
The modules you take depend on whether you are pursuing a PgCert, PgDip or MA.
-Critical reflections on the Autism and Asperger Syndrome
-Autism, policy and practice
-Autism, challenging behaviour and communication
-Reflecting on Professional Practice
-Educational Enquiry

Assessment: assessment varies between modules but includes a mixture of professional work-based tasks and academic and critical reflection. There are no examinations.

Read less

Introduction

Autism is a developmental disorder diagnosed on the basis of social-communication impairments, and fixated interests and repetitive behaviours. Recent studies estimate that around 1 in every 100 individuals in the UK have autism. Research in autism spectrum disorders is important, not just to understand the causes and symptoms of autism, but to make sure that individuals with autism receive the best possible support.

This MSc in Autism Research is a unique course designed to provide students with an in depth understanding of the autism spectrum. While studying on the course, students will learn about key areas of theory and research in autism, from classification and diagnosis, to socio-cognitive and developmental theories of autism, and interventions.

The course’s innovative approach combines training and teaching in psychological research methods with hands-on experience during a practical placement in an autism-relevant context, and the opportunity to engage in an autism-based research project.

Key information

- Degree type: MSc, Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma
- Study methods: Full-time, Part-time
- Start date: September
- Course Director: Dr Catherine Grainger

Bursaries are available: http://www.stir.ac.uk/scholarships/.

English language requirements

If English is not your first language you must have one of the following qualifications as evidence of your English language skills:
- IELTS: 6.0 with 5.5 minimum in each skill
- Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): Grade C
- Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): Grade C
- Pearson Test of English (Academic): 54 with 51 in each component
- IBT TOEFL: 80 with no subtest less than 17

For more information go to English language requirements https://www.stir.ac.uk/study-in-the-uk/entry-requirements/english/

If you don’t meet the required score you may be able to register for one of our pre-sessional English courses. To register you must hold a conditional offer for your course and have an IELTS score 0.5 or 1.0 below the required standard. View the range of pre-sessional courses http://www.intohigher.com/uk/en-gb/our-centres/into-university-of-stirling/studying/our-courses/course-list/pre-sessional-english.aspx .

Structure and content

Psychology has powerful methods to help better understand the puzzling condition of autism. The course comprises modules designed to provide training in the fundamentals of research methods and how these apply to the study of autism. Our styles of teaching research skills range from explicit hands-on demonstrations of tools, to discussion of different approaches to research.

The modules include:
- Autism Research
- Psychological Research Methods I and II
- Advanced Statistics
- Qualitative Research Methods
- Key Skills for Psychology Researchers
- Research placement

Alternative modules from the other taught MSc courses can also be taken for credit or audit with the agreement of the Course Coordinator.
Approximately half of your time is devoted to a research project, leading to a substantial dissertation.

Delivery and assessment

Delivery is by seminars, lectures, a research placement in a relevant context, and research supervision. Master's students have their own dedicated suite and are integrated into the thriving research culture of the Division.

Why Stirling?

REF2014
In REF2014 Stirling was placed 6th in Scotland and 45th in the UK with almost three quarters of research activity rated either world-leading or internationally excellent.

Strengths

Psychology at Stirling is one of the leading psychology departments in the UK. It ranked in the top 20 in the recent research assessment (REF 2014) and is one of only seven non-Russell group universities to do so (Birkbeck, Royal Holloway, Sussex, Essex, St Andrews and Bangor; source Times Higher Education magazine). Its quality of research publications ranked third in Scotland after Aberdeen and Glasgow. Furthermore, the relevance of its research activity to society received the highest possible rating which only four other psychology departments in the UK achieved (REF 2014 results).

Psychology at Stirling University is small enough to fully involve MSc students in our lively and collegial community of research excellence.

Your three month full-time dissertation is supervised by leading UK academics.

Career opportunities

The course is designed for those going on to do further research in autism or as the foundation for a career as an autism professional. The structure of the course includes both a placement and research project, allowing you to develop relevant skills for both research and applied careers.

Read less

Why this course?

Our multi-professional programme in autism is the first of its type in Scotland. The course is available on a full-time, part-time and distance learning basis and is open to:
- teachers
- medical and healthcare staff
- educational psychologists
- speech and language therapists
- residential, community care or social work staff
- voluntary sector personnel

The course aims to promote effective practice and develop empathy and understanding of the needs of individuals with autism and their families and carers.

Applications from parents, family members and individuals on the spectrum are welcome.

Study mode and duration:
- Full-time MEd: 12 months
- Part-time PgCert: 12 months, PgDip: 24 months (PgCert, plus further 12 months)
- MEd: additional 12-18 months

See the website https://www.strath.ac.uk/courses/postgraduatetaught/autism/

You’ll study

On the Certificate programme you’ll study three compulsory modules.
At the Diploma stage you’ll take one further compulsory module, along with two options modules. These two option modules are offered based on those selected for that academic year.
If you’re interested in continuing to Masters level, you’ll undertake the compulsory Research Methods module followed by an individually supervised research project.

Research projects

MEd research projects can be undertaken within your place of employment, nationally or internationally. You’ll be supported in your projects through University links within a range of organisations, such as Autism Initiatives and Scottish Autism.

The National Centre for Autism Studies

The centre has been responsible for a number of key policy and research outputs aimed at improving autism practice throughout Scotland. You’ll have access to these projects which include:
- A National Training Framework for Autistic Spectrum Disorders, Dunlop, A-W & MacKay, T. A. W. N. (2004)
- The Autism Toolbox: An Autism Resource for Scottish Schools, Dunlop, A-W., Tait, C., Leask, A.; Glashan, L., Robinson, A. & Marwick, H. (2009)
- Policy into Practice: Accreditation Project Report. A Collaborative Autism Education & Training Project Supporting the Development of ASD Accreditation Standards for Trainers and Developing personal accreditation routes for ASD training participants, Dunlop, A-W., Tait, C. & Robinson, A. (2009)

Guest lecturers

We work with leading autism professionals to provide expert input throughout the modules.
Visiting lecturers include Professor Tommy MacKay who is a practising Educational Psychologist. In addition, Dr Mike McCreadie has a visiting role in the Pg Diploma module. He’s Consultant Clinical Director of Studio III and Lead ATLASS Trainer and his area of specialism is stress management in Autism.

If English is not your first language, you'll need an IELTS score of 6.5 with no area less than 6.0

Pre-Masters preparation course

The Pre-Masters Programme is a preparation course for international students (non EU/UK) who do not meet the entry requirements for a Masters degree at University of Strathclyde. The Pre-Masters programme provides progression to a number of degree options.

To find out more about the courses and opportunities on offer visit isc.strath.ac.uk or call today on +44 (0) 1273 339333 and discuss your education future. You can also complete the online application form. To ask a question please fill in the enquiry form and talk to one of our multi-lingual Student Enrolment Advisers today.

Learning & teaching

The course is available on a full-time, part-time and distance learning basis.
Campus-based modules are taught one evening each week during term time.
Online learning involves attendance at an induction day after which learning is web-based.

Assessment

The nature of assessment is in accordance with the learning outcomes for each specific module. This typically takes the form of a 4,000-word essay or equivalent submission.

Careers

As a graduate, you’ll be able to take an educated understanding of autism into your profession. This course exists to provide professional development to teachers, carers and professionals working with or aiming to work with individuals affected by autism.

Where are they now?

Here’s some roles our graduates are working in:

Job titles include:*
- Deputy Head Teacher
- Family Support Worker
- Primary School Teacher
- Secondary School Teacher
- Specialist Support Leader
- Unit Manager

Employers include:
- Local authorities
- Autism Initiatives
- Riverside Childcare
- South Lanarkshire Council

*Based on the results of the national Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education Survey.

Find information on Scholarships here http://www.strath.ac.uk/search/scholarships/

Read less

Our Autism postgraduate certificate is designed to support your career progression, increase your subject knowledge and help you to make a direct difference to your school and students. Modules on offer will benefit you if you work in professional or voluntary education and training, and want to enhance your skills and knowledge.

The Autism PGCert is a stand-alone qualification and counts as one-third of a master’s degree.

This course is suitable if you are a mainstream teacher or working in learning support, responsible for supporting children with autism and wishing to deepen your knowledge and develop your career progression.

Flexible work-based learning enables you to fit studying around your existing work or voluntary commitments.

Teaching and mentoring is delivered by a successful teaching team with an outstanding national reputation and comprehensive research profile that informs and advances course content.

Scholarships

Scholarships are available for this course. Please click the link below for more information.
https://www.brighton.ac.uk/studying-here/fees-and-finance/postgraduate/index.aspx

Course structure

The PGCert is a one-year part-time programme. You will undertake three 20-credit modules combining academic study with work-based action learning and action research. Your day-to-day professional activity will shape your development through reflection and peer discussion.
The course is designed to fit in with your working patterns and usually includes twilight and Saturday sessions.

All the specialist PGCerts are offered at Falmer campus subject to meeting the minimum numbers of participants. They can also be offered off site to an organisation, school or a cluster of schools.

Areas of study

You will deepen your understanding beyond a more practical ‘hints and tips’ approach which will enable you to link study to the priorities of your educational setting.

This programme will focus on the following areas of study:

• developing knowledge of the theoretical basis of contemporary approaches to autism and practical application of this learning through
exploration of your work with learners with autism
• consideration of the historical perspective, exploring some of the latest research on autism. There will be an explanation of the diagnostic criteria for autism
• exploration of communication skills focusing on development of language and the use of signs and symbols, sensory perception and difficulties, challenging behaviour and social relationships
• developing techniques required to study at masters level.

The programme will enable you as a practitioner to:

• extend and enhance your current practice
• gain knowledge of current thinking in the understanding of autism
• develop frameworks for understanding the range of issues surrounding working with learners with autism
• increase your confidence and effectiveness in supporting learners with autism
• learn how to implement change in a range of policy contexts
• develop your capacity for masters level study
• develop lasting support networks and share knowledge with other professionals and the university’s postgraduate community
• gain credits towards an MA Education.

Modules

Engaging in Professional Practice
This module is designed to facilitate postgraduate study. The emphasis is on developing critical thinking and approaches to learning. You will explore your understanding of autism and consider strategies to address your own professional learning and development needs.

Reflective Practice
This module looks at the historical perspective and introduces current research on autism providing an insight into the impact it can have on the child. A variety of strategies and interventions will be considered in the light of research into good practice in autism education.

Case study
This module provides you with an opportunity to apply the learning from module 2 in order to facilitate positive change in your professional practice. You will undertake a case study of an individual learner and plan a series of interventions to support the learner’s needs. This will require you to identify, explore and develop theoretical and reflective understanding of the issues presented; consider solutions and implement and evaluate changes made.

Careers and employability

Our Autism PGCert is designed to support your career progression, increase your subject knowledge and help you to make a direct difference to your school and students.

Graduates of the course are well placed to take on subject development and leadership positions.

Read less

Gain a critical, theoretical and practical understanding of the diverse learning requirements of pupils and students who identify with the wide spectrum of autism. Develop a critical understanding of autism, relevant legislation, education policy and interventions.

This qualification is designed for people with an interest in autism and practitioners in the field of education, who have experience of working with learners with autism across the age range (in keeping with the 0-25 framework in the Children and Families Act 2014).

The course content is informed by the experiences and voices of those with autism and our approach is underpinned by the inclusive principle "nothing about us without us".

You'll apply theory to practice – and in so doing you'll have the opportunity to reflect on inclusive practices and their efficacy in assisting diverse learners with autism to be successful in education.

This course will develop your ability to analyse critically and build upon your own attitudes, professional experience and practice including the promotion of social justice, inclusion, and equity as a policy and a practice.

The programme is suitable for:

• Newly qualified and experienced teachers in a range of educational settings
• Those of you working in post compulsory education
• Those of you working with children and young people with ASD/SEND in a variety of recognised settings, or those of you who have an interest in doing so and have appropriate experience and qualifications to meet the programme’s entry qualifications.

On completion of the PgCert Autism you'll be able to progress onto the MA Autism Education, if you wish to.

Modules

Students need to complete two 30-credit modules to achieve a postgraduate certificate; one core module and select one of the option modules:

• Understanding autism and learning (compulsory)
• Autism, individuality and identity
• Special educational needs and disability
• Teaching and learning: the needs of learners with special needs, autism and disability

Teaching and learning

Typically we learn in face-to-face seminars with small groups (approx. 20 students). And 1:1 tutorials are also provided to support you when planning your assignment.

You'll have access to:

LSBU support for learning service where relevant
LSBU Library and the Learning Resources centre
All seminar-based materials will be available via the LSBU VLE (Moodle)
Elements of e-learning are built into all modules and some modules could include elements of Distance Learning.

Study hours

Your study (per 30-credit) module will typically include:

24 hours of taught content (University-based taught sessions)
252 hours of private study.

Employability

Most participants likely to join this course will already be employed in settings providing for children and young people with SEND, be that in a mainstream education setting across the age range into adulthood, or in SEND specialist provision.

However, it is anticipated not everyone who wishes to undertake the programme may be in this situation; there will be those who, for many reasons wish to develop their skills, knowledge and understanding at Masters level in relation to current SEND and Autism provision and theory.

Whatever your reasons for taking the course, you can be sure that the programme is carefully designed to ensure a synthesis of practical understanding and critical analysis current theory and policy in the subject area. It will deepen your understanding of your own (and colleagues) practice.

The programme will equip you to be both skilled and knowledgeable in your work with children, young people and their families. Your practice will be underpinned by your theoretical understanding of concepts and principles associated with SEND and autism spectrum conditions (ASC). This, in turn will open-up career development possibilities to you in the field.

During the course you'll also have the opportunity to achieve the National SENCO award, a recognised qualification that would further enhance your career development.

LSBU Employability Services

LSBU is committed to supporting you develop your employability and succeed in getting a job after you have graduated. Your qualification will certainly help, but in a competitive market you also need to work on your employability, and on your career search. Our Employability Service will support you in developing your skills, finding a job, interview techniques, work experience or an internship, and will help you assess what you need to do to get the job you want at the end of your course. LSBU offers a comprehensive Employability Service, with a range of initiatives to complement your studies, including:

• Direct engagement from employers who come in to interview and talk to students
• Job Shop and on-campus recruitment agencies to help your job search
• Mentoring and work shadowing schemes.

Read less

This programme is aimed at people interested in developing their knowledge and skills in the field of autism spectrum, including Asperger syndrome. This specialist pathway is ideal for professionals working in early years, primary or secondary schools, further and higher education, voluntary sector, advisory roles, and residential settings. It would also be available (subject to entry qualifications) to people with a personal interest, for example individuals on the autism spectrum and family members.

Course content

This programme provides in-depth knowledge and understanding of various aspects related to autism. The modules place specific emphasis on understanding autism from the individual and their family perspective. Theoretical perspectives related to autism and learning are explored in order to better understand the strengths and needs of individuals. A thorough analysis of evidence based approaches will be included in order to evaluate best practice in this field. The aim of the programme is to help participants to reduce the barriers that individuals with autism face in education and wider society. Participants will be encouraged to critically reflect and analyse their practice.

The modules undertaken will vary depending upon the selected exit award (PG certificate, diploma, MA). Each module is 30 level 7 CATs points, the final Dissertation is 60 CATs points. Students progressing to MA will undertake a Research Methods module and will complete a dissertation as part of their study.

Course modules (16/17)

-Understanding Autistic Spectrum Disorders
-Autism in the Early Years
-Understanding Challenging Behaviour in People with Autism and/or Learning Disabilities
-Evaluating Approaches for Individuals on the Autism Spectrum
-Research Thesis
-Dissertation
-Research Methods

Students on PG Diploma or MA will study another optional module such as Key concepts in Inclusion or Understanding Severe and Profound Multiple Learning Difficulties. Students on the MA route will then complete an independent research project, either the Dissertation on its own, or the Research Thesis and Research Methods modules together.

Methods of Learning

Modules will be taught through a combination of approaches such as lectures, seminars, group work, case studies, tutorials and independent enquiries. A key strength of our programme is our blended learning approach. This provides the opportunity to learn collaboratively both face to face and online.

Schedule

For this programme taught study would be a combination of lectures, seminars and online activities which is usually 3 hours per week, per module. We recommend students to spend 10 hours per week, per module in self-directed study time.

PG Certificate– one year full time or between one to two years part-time.

PG Diploma– one year full time or between two to three years part-time.

MA – one year full time or between two to four years part-time.

September, 2016/ 2017, Full-time and Part-time.

Assessments

Assessment procedures are flexible and sensitive to either personal interests or existing professional workloads. Modules are assessed on the basis of essays, case studies, portfolios or reports and small-scale research projects.

Facilities and Special Features

Facilities available
-Virtual Learning environment.
-Fantastic library facilities.

Special features
The course is taught by senior lecturers who have extensive professional experience of working with individuals on the autism spectrum across the age and ability range. In addition, lecturers have an extensive research background.

Careers

If you are already working in the field of autism then the in-depth knowledge you will gain from this programme can help you to improve your practice or apply for management positions. A range of other career options in education, social care and voluntary sectors will be possible, such as being an advocate, learning mentor, or family adviser. For those who want to pursue further post-graduate research there is also a possibility of studying for a PhD.

Work Experience - For students who do not have any practical experience in the field, optional opportunities to visit settings can be arranged.

Read less

This course is suitable if you are an individual with autism or Asperger Syndrome or a parent, teacher, clinician or professional associated with people with autism and Asperger Syndrome. It gives you an in-depth understanding of what autism and Asperger Syndrome is and some of the associated issues.

It gives you an insight into some of the ways of developing appropriate support for individuals, as well as how to develop appropriate professional practice across all disciplines.

You explore some of the specific cognitive differences and sensory and perceptual issues in autism and Asperger Syndrome. Risk assessment and forensic issues are examined as well as behavioural problems and ways of supporting individuals.

You also explore developmental issues and ways of developing social skills and diagnosis as well as being offered the perspectives of individuals with a diagnosis. You are given the opportunity to explore current autism practice as related to your circumstances.

For more information, see the website: https://www.shu.ac.uk/study-here/find-a-course/pgcert-autism-and-asperger-syndrome

Course structure

Part time – typically 1 year
The course is delivered on rotation at different locations around the UK. Call us to find out the location of the next course. Your studies are part taught and part online learning with online tutor support. Two cohorts per year - see National Autistic Society website for details.

Course content
-Autism and Asperger Syndrome and the relationship with
-Critical reflection on autism theory
-Sensory processing
-Ethical considerations
-Social behaviour
-Communication
-Cognitive differences
-Relationships
-High risk and offending behaviour
-Diagnosis
-Implications of autism policy on current practice

In addition, individuals on the spectrum present on their lived experiences.

Assessment:
-Autism and Asperger syndrome module one – 6,000 word assignment.
-Policy and practice module two – 6,000 word assignment.

Read less

If you are involved with people on the autistic spectrum, you know the importance of being able to properly communicate and work alongside them. Our course will help improve your understanding of autism and those on the spectrum, developing your skills to enable proper consideration of their needs. By gaining conceptual knowledge and practical understanding of techniques of enquiry, you'll develop critical analysis and problem solving skills that will improve your ability to work alongside autistic individuals.

Professionals consistently argue that widespread knowledge and understanding of autism and better access to training will help fight the ignorance towards those on the autism spectrum. We intend to give you the relevant training and knowledge to ensure that you have the abilities necessary for effectively working with autistic people, giving you the right skills to ensure a successful future.

Course outline

Our course is suitable for anyone, including people with autism, who wish to expand their knowledge and skills in understanding autism. Driven by lived experience of people on the autism spectrum, we will help you gain a better consideration of how to work alongside autistic people.

We offer an individual negotiated pathway to ensure the course is appropriate to your personal and professional development. There is a minimum attendance requirement of 85% of all thought sessions within the first three modules.

Graduate destinations

You'll have opportunity to critically evaluate the broad theoretical and conceptual base underpinning current understanding of the Autism Spectrum, reviewing that knowledge within relevant national standards and multi-professional frameworks. By reflecting on the voice of people on the autism spectrum, you will play a vital role in challenging discrimination and researching appropriate patterns of support for individuals.

Other admission requirements

This level 7 programme is designed for anyone with a passion to develop their knowledge skills and ability to improve the lives of individuals on the autism spectrum.

Applicants must have to a computer and to the internet.

Applications will be reviewed on an individual basis and potential students will be offered advice by an academic tutor on the suitability of the award and their module choice within the award, dependent on factors such as currency of prior learning, and their personal and professional development needs. Students should be able to show potential benefit from studying for the award and a commitment to attempting the assessment items.

International applicants will need to demonstrate evidence of study at a level equivalent to the general entry requirements. These will be in accordance with NARIC Guidelines (The British Council 2007 and revised annually) and International Qualifications for entry to Higher Education (UCAS, 2007 and revised annually) as well as satisfying the English Language requirements for admission which include any of the following:
-The British Council International English Language Testing System (IELTS) with a score of 6.5.
-Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English, Grade A only.
-Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English, Grade C or above.
-Oxford - Arels examination (higher level), Credit or Distinction.
-TOEFL: American Test of English as a foreign language, Minimum score of 550 (for written tests) or 213 (for computer tests).

Read less

In 2005, several faculty members of West Chester University of PA met to discuss the need for and probability of offering a certificate in autism studies. Since that first meeting, faculty members from the departments of Early Childhood & Special Education, Communicative Disorders, Psychology, and Kinesiology have collaborated in the development of an interdisciplinary, empirically-based certificate in autism studies. The university is now proud to offer the Certificate of Specialization in Autism Spectrum Disorders. This Post-Baccalaureate Certificate program is geared towards community members who currently work with, or will work with, individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The 18-credit certificate provides students with the skill sets necessary to build and work within an interdisciplinary approach to effective and empirically-based treatment of individuals with autism spectrum disorders. Students learn strategies for implementing the interdisciplinary approach, as well as methods to assess the effectiveness of the approach, i.e. the effect of education/treatment on the person's quality of life. The program is be provided from the view point of several disciplines including psychology, special education, communicative disorders, and kinesiology.

Overview

The mission of this program is to provide professionals, parents, and other members of the community access to empirically validated educational approaches for teaching persons with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), strategies for implementing these approaches, as well as methods to assess the effectiveness of these approaches, i.e. the effect of education/treatment on the person's quality of life.

The autism certificate program is based on the following assumptions:

-People with ASD and their families have a wide range of disability-specific strengths and needs
-Assessment and intervention must be based on evidence-based practices
-Professionals who specialize in the treatment of individuals with ASD must understand the ASD profile, its history, and the challenges faced by families of individuals with ASD
-Professional who support individuals with ASD must collaborate with each other
-Specialization in autism requires course work, guided observation, and supervised clinical practicum

Read less

This programme is an advanced professional development programme involving some or all of the following: distance learning; study workshops; service placement visits; and a clinical placement (which can be in your home area). Autism Studies can be completed mainly by distance learning.

2016 Postgraduate Tizard programmes will close to applicants at 23:59 hrs on Thursday 21 April 2016. Applications received after this time will be held for consideration for 2017 entry. The final tranche of interviews for 2016 will be held during the week of 23 May 2016. Applicants unable to make themselves available this week (in person or via skype or telephone) will be considered for 2017 entry.

Visit the website https://www.kent.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/95/autism-studies

About the Tizard Centre

The Tizard Centre is part of the School of Social Policy, Sociology and Social Research (SSPSSR) and has excellent links with health and social care organisations, and other relevant establishments.

The Centre is at the forefront of learning and research in autism, intellectual disability and community care, and in 2013 received a Queen’s Anniversary Prize in recognition of its outstanding work in these areas.

The Centre has excellent links with health and social care organisations, and other relevant establishments. Our primary aims, through research, teaching and consultancy, are:

- to find out more about how to effectively support and work with people with learning disabilities

- to help carers, managers and professionals develop the values, knowledge and skills that enable better services

- to aid policymakers, planners, managers and practitioners to organise and provide enhanced services.

The Tizard Centre is recognised as leading the field in deinstitutionalisation and community living, challenging behaviour, quality of staff support, sexuality and autism, and has had a significant impact on national policies in these areas. We are committed to addressing issues arising from social inequality.

Course structure

Coursework is taught through a mixture of web-based resources, directed reading, videos, lectures, seminars and practical sessions, supported by a number of workshops, where you work with skilled professionals and have the opportunity to share ideas and experiences with fellow students.

Modules

The following modules are indicative of those offered on this programme. This list is based on the current curriculum and may change year to year in response to new curriculum developments and innovation. Most programmes will require you to study a combination of compulsory and optional modules. You may also have the option to take modules from other programmes so that you may customise your programme and explore other subject areas that interest you.

TZ830 - Research Methods (15 credits)
TZ862 - Behaviour Analysis and Intervention (10 credits)
TZ863 - Service issues in Intellectual and Development Disabilities (10 credits)
TZ865 - Extended Essay (15 credits)
TZ866 - Social Psychology of Autism by Distance Learning (10 credits)
TZ867 - Case Study and Intervention Project (DistanceLearning) (60 credits)
TZ994 - Research Project in Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (60 credits)
TZ995 - Extended Research Project in Intellectual andDevelopment Disabilities (120 credits)

Assessment

Each of the four taught modules is assessed by a one-hour, web-based, multiple-choice exam and an extended essay. In addition, the Research Methods module involves short assignments and a worked problem. Placements are assessed by two 2,000-word service reports and one 4,000-word case report, plus feedback by placement supervisors.

Programme aims

This programme aims to:

- provide you with a detailed knowledge of autism and other developmental disabilities

- provide you with experience of conducting research or intervention in the field of autism.

Research areas

Current research areas include: social inequalities and community care; intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Careers

Our postgraduate courses improve employability prospects for both those with established careers and new entrants to the field. Many of our students already work with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in professional, management or supporting capacities.

Our programmes support their continuing professional development and enhance their opportunities for career advancement. Other students, who are at the beginning of their careers, move on to a range of professional roles in health and social care including working as psychologists in learning disability or behavioural specialists in community learning disability teams; service management of development roles; clinical psychology training or a PhD.

Career destinations include working as a clinical specialist, special needs advisor, autism teacher and ABA tutor for various health and special needs organisations such as the Step by Step School, Special Help 4 Special Needs and WA Health.

Find out how to apply here - https://www.kent.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/apply/

Read less

If you are working with children, young people and adults and have an interest in Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC), this course is for you.

Taught at our Riverside Campus in Chester, this course aims to help professionals and carers develop their knowledge of the characteristics of Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC), including the different approaches to meeting individual needs – particularly through teaching and learning.

Why Study Autism with us?

You will study all aspects of ASC, particularly as it relates to educational context, and gain an in-depth perspective of autism theory, research and practice.

You will have opportunities to explore and discuss current educational developments in relation to the needs of children and young people with ASC, which will help you to develop your existing professional experience.

We will encourage you to develop knowledge and skills which will enable you to reflect critically on current practice. You will also make informed assessments of the implications of research on professional practice.

What will I learn?

You will study three modules:

Origins and Theory of Autism examines the history and clinical epistemology of autism, looking at the current psychological, sociological, neurological and clinical theories.

Pedagogical Models of Working with Autism explores the impact behaviourist approaches have had upon the teaching and learning of individuals with autism.

The Wider Issues of Autism considers the sensory differences of those with autism, including the effects of emotion, stress and anxiety and their response; and evaluates the support for an individual’s support network by looking beyond the child or young person.

How will I be taught?

Teaching approaches on the course are designed to engage you as a self-directed learner, and include:
- lectures
- group work
- discussion
- independent research
- personal contextualised reflection
- tutorials
- use of the University’s Moodle virtual learning environment.

You will attend two weekends per module on a Friday evening (5-7pm) and Saturday (9.30am-4.30pm). You will also be expected to undertake 184 hours’ non-contact-guided study per module.

How will I be assessed?

Assessments are varied and include: a case study; portfolio and critical commentary and an essay.

Postgraduate Visit Opportunities

If you are interested in this courses we have a number of opportunities to visit us and our campuses. To find out more about these options and to book a visit, please go to: https://www1.chester.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/postgraduate-visit-opportunities

Request a Prospectus

If you would like to know more about the University please request a prospectus at: http://prospectus.chester.ac.uk/form.php

Read less