Federally Funded Oppportunites Master's Program: Autism Spectrum Disorders

---

The master's program in Special Education and Severe Disabilities is pleased to announce graduate study for individuals interested working with learners with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). This program will prepare students to work with learners with ASD in classroom settings.

Students will have the opportunity to learn from leaders in research and teaching in Special Education as well as work hands-on with individuals with ASD from diverse backgrounds.

Major Competencies Addressed:

	Communication and social characteristics of learners ASD
	Current issues and trends surrounding the education of learners with ASD
	Functional academic, community and behavioral assessment
	Advocacy and support to families of individuals with ASD and other disabilities
	Positive Behavior Support

Coursework and Field Experiences

Depending upon professional goals, students may apply for one of the following Master's degree options:

1. The 36 credit hour Master's degree (M.A. or M.Ed.) Specialty program - designed for those already certified in Special Education and wishing to specialize in ASD/severe disabilities and receive a state certificate with an endorsement in Severe Disabilities

2. The Master's degree (MA or MEd) Certification program-45-60 credit hours (depending upon student's background). This option is designed for students who are not currently certified in special education but wish to pursue dual certification in special education and severe disabilities.

Field placements in classrooms are individually designed to meet the professional needs and interests of students. These placements will give students the opportunity to acquire and refine their teaching and support skills with learners with ASD across the lifespan. Performance assessments during these field placements are conducted in accordance with the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) Professional Standards.

Financial Assistance

Full-time graduate fellowships are available on a competitive basis. Tuition remission for up to 24 credits per academic year and stipends requiring 8-10 hours of work per week are included. Awards are made on a semester by semester basis. Tuition fellowships for 3 credits per semester are also available on a competitive basis.

Candidates from underrepresented groups and candidates with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply to our program.

For more information:

Dr. Andrew Egel Project Director Department of Special Education University of Maryland 1308 Benjamin Bldg College Park, MD 20742-1161 (301) 405-6487 aegel@umd.edu