Authorization in Autism Spectrum Disorders

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The Autism Authorization Program is a CCTC-approved program which allows Candidates to advance in research-driven learning environments of cohorts. Programs are developed in collaboration with local school districts and county offices of education to meet the needs of the practitioner. This 12-unit program enriches both the practice and knowledge of the education specialist.

Program Outcomes

The candidate

will be able to identify the unique characteristics of students with ASD.
will be able to demonstrate unique knowledge of cognition and neurology and the core challenges associated with language and communication, social skills, behavior, and processing and their implications for program planning and service delivery.
will be able to demonstrate knowledge, skills, and abilities to become proficient in implementing evidence-based and multi-faceted methodologies and strategies necessary in teaching and engaging students with ASD from acquisition through generalization.
teaching students with ASD will be able to demonstrate the ability to collaborate as a member of a multidisciplinary team with all service providers and effectively interact with families.

Specialized Admissions Requirements

Applicants must possess one of the following California education specialist credentials:

Mild/Moderate Disabilities
Deaf and Hard of Hearing
Physical and Health Impairments
Visual Impairments

Admission to the Autism Authorization Program requires verification of:

Completion the Alliant International University application
Copy of valid Preliminary or Clear Education Specialist: Mild/Moderate Disabilities credential (CCTC) or Certificate of Eligibility for the credential
Participation in an interview with the faculty review panel inclusive of the program director and receive a favorable review / recommendation for admission.
Recommendation for Autism Spectrum Disorders Authorization:
41-4 credential application form
All credential coursework completed (B or higher/ min. GPA of 3.0 required)
Tuition balance paid in full
Proof of valid Level I or Level II Education Specialist Instruction Credential
Program Completion Document

Curriculum and Degree Requirements

12 units are required for the Authorization in Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Degrees are posted to the official university transcript through the Registrar’s Office at Candidate request. All coursework is posted to the transcript at the end of each semester/term. Certificates are issued directly to the Candidate at the conclusion of the certificate programs. Completion of degree program is verified by the Registrar as per the Curriculum Plan. All courses below are three units (3) unless otherwise noted.

Curriculum Plan

Additional Option for Program as CE units OR MAEd credits.

The Hufstedler School of Education at Alliant International University Autism Spectrum Disorders Authorization (ASD-AA) program is open only to experienced and credentialed California special education teachers. This program is a concentrated full weekend workshop series with competency verification portfolio requirements. All participants will be required to complete a professional portfolio upon program completion. This detailed documentation demonstrates and verifies the special education teacher’s capacity and experience in working with children with autism. Participants demonstrating deficiencies in any one area will be required to complete additional online work in preparation for the final portfolio. In addition to the Autism Authorization approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CCTC), participants also earn 15 Continuing Education hours approved by the CCTC.