Autism and Neurodiversity Studies Certificate

The Autism and Neurodiversity Studies Certificate provides interdisciplinary preparation for students pursuing careers supporting neurodivergent learners in educational and community-based settings. Designed to address regional workforce demand, the program prepares students for entry-level roles such as instructional aide, behavior support staff, and educational paraprofessional while also strengthening preparation for continued study in Special Education, Psychology, Speech-Language Pathology, and related human services fields. Coursework integrates disability studies, autism research, inclusive educational practice, literacy and communication support, and foundational principles of applied behavior analysis within a neurodiversity affirming framework. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based instructional strategies, collaborative teaming, and ethical practice in educational contexts. The certificate supports stackable credential pathways and transfer preparation; however, completion of the certificate alone does not confer professional licensure or certification.

Projected Completers:
Year 1: 15–25
Year 2: 25–35
Year 3: 35–45
Regional labor market data projects 6,548 annual openings in related occupations through 2029, supporting sustainable enrollment growth.
 

The Autism and Neurodiversity Studies Certificate prepares students for entry-level employment supporting neurodivergent learners in K–12, early intervention, and community-based settings while also building a foundation for continued study in Special Education and related disciplines. The program emphasizes inclusive, neurodiversity-affirming practice alongside evidence-based instructional and behavioral support strategies used in educational environments.

Program Student Learning Outcomes (PLOs):

Program Requirements

The program builds from foundational knowledge of disability and neurodiversity to applied educational and behavioral supports. Required coursework integrates disability studies, autism research, literacy support, and applied behavior foundations. Electives allow students to tailor preparation toward instructional support roles, SPED preparation, or behavioral service pathways.

15 required units plus 6 elective units 

Total Units: 21

Required (15 units):
EDEL 210 – Disability and American Education
EDEL 225 – Autism Spectrum Disorder and Neurodiversity
EDEL 235 – Applied Behavior Foundations in Autism and Neurodiversity
READ 140 – Reading and Literacy for Autism & Neurodiversity
SLP 115 – Introduction to Behavior Management

Electives (6 units):
EDEL 110; PSYCH 241; PSYCH 271; EDEL/PHIL 215; SLP 218; SLP 221

The certificate complements existing Education, Psychology, Reading, and Speech-Language Pathology coursework by creating a cohesive interdisciplinary SPED-focused pathway. It formalizes an academic sequence that strengthens workforce and transfer preparation.

Regional institutions confer awards in related special education fields; however, supply remains below projected demand. A documented supply gap supports the need for this program locally.

Projected Completers:
Year 1: 15–25
Year 2: 25–35
Year 3: 35–45
Regional labor market data projects 6,548 annual openings in related occupations through 2029, supporting sustainable enrollment growth.

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