Online Master's in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which affects nearly one in 68 children in the U.S., impacts learning and development in unique ways.¹ Currently, the best available interventions and treatments for students with ASD are educational in nature, and many are rooted in applied behavior analysis. This means that educators, families and individual advocates play a key part in supporting these students. Special educators, and those trained in identifying and leveraging evidence-based practices, empower learners with ASD by focusing on such students' strengths and interests, and by designing personalized instruction that teaches them to improve their communication and behavioral skills and make the most of their personal strengths.

Whether you are passionate about educating students in the classroom or in other school and community settings, or you simply want to become a more effective advocate for individuals with ASD, advanced training will give you the knowledge and practical skills to do so. Faculty at the University of Kansas Department of Special Education are leaders in research and educational strategies for students with ASD, and they bring their years of experience and expertise to the online master's in autism spectrum disorder.* With access to cutting-edge information from renowned experts in the field, you can be confident that our online graduate programs will prepare you to positively impact the lives of people with autism spectrum disorder and their families.

Learn from the best, and put theory into practice.

The University of Kansas is a pioneer in autism education and educator training, having prepared educators with graduate programs in ASD for over 30 years—and our faculty are highly regarded experts whose internationally acclaimed research and decades of practical experience translate directly into a relevant and meaningful experience for our graduate students.

The online autism education program is designed for current educators and related service professionals who need the skills and expertise to develop and implement programming for students with ASD. Students will advance their understanding of the characteristics of ASD and how it affects development, formal and informal assessment methods, instructional strategies, and effective teaching practices for both students who require intensive and highly individualized education and those who need less intensive supports and services.

The online master's in autism spectrum disorder is intense and thorough, providing a broad foundation in behavioral analysis and then building on that foundation in one of three track directions. Based on your personal career goals and interests, you will be required to choose from one of the following elective tracks: Behavior (understanding and supporting appropriate behaviors in learners with ASD), Leadership (preparing for a leadership position at a school or district) and Secondary/Transition (helping students transition to adult life).

^{*This program is an online Master of Science in Education (M.S.E.) degree in special education with an emphasis in autism spectrum disorder. It does not lead to initial nor advanced licensure in special education in the state of Kansas.}

Note: In order to enroll in this program, a bachelor's degree is required. No program can guarantee licensure. It is each student’s responsibility to determine the licensure requirements in his or her state and to apply for the licenses or endorsements necessary to his or her career goals. Our department staff and licensure officer can provide individual support during the application process to help you understand your state’s requirements.