Requirements
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Learning Work?
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Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders Graduate Program
Classes Begin: January 5, 20261 year
Fully Online
15
Approved by the PA Department of Education
Within the past decade the number of children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders has increased drastically, as has the need for professionals trained in this specialized area. This accredited certificate equips students with the fundamental skills, knowledge, teaching methods, interventions, and supports needed to work with students in this critical-need area.
Teacher certification is not a requirement for admission to this program. Students who have an active PA Instructional I or Instructional II teaching certificate are eligible to apply for the PA Autism Spectrum Disorders endorsement upon completion of the program.
Program Features
- Online coursework supplemented with required fieldwork in K-12 classrooms
- Named one of “America’s Best Graduate Schools” preparing today’s educators by U.S. News & World Report
- Drexel’s teacher education programs are approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education
- A highly interactive online learning method allows extensive interaction with faculty and other classmates
- If you possess an Instructional I or II Certification in Pennsylvania, you'll be eligible for the Pennsylvania Department of Education Autism Spectrum Disorders Endorsement
Archived Webinars
- How is it only January? Survival Strategies for the Classroom Teacher
- Online Open House: Applied Behavior Analysis Programs
- Online Open House: Special Education Programs
State restrictions may apply to some programs.
Curriculum
This program is organized into four 10-week quarters per year (as opposed to the traditional two semester system) which means you can take more courses in a shorter time period. One semester credit is equivalent to 1.5 quarter credits.
| Required Courses | ||
| EDEX 555 | Teaching Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder | 3.0 |
| EDEX 556 | Characteristics & Methods: Autism | 3.0 |
| EDEX 558 | Characteristics & Methods: High Functioning Autism | 3.0 |
| EDEX 560 | Communication & Language Interventions: Autism Spectrum Disorders | 3.0 |
| EDEX 562 | Behavior & Sensory Support: Autism Spectrum Disorders | 3.0 |
| Total Credits | 15.0 | |
A field component is required in each course.
Admissions Criteria
- A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution
- Undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher (graduate degree GPA will be considered along with undergraduate GPA)
- If you do not meet this requirement, you’re still encouraged to apply and your file will be reviewed on an individual basis by the Program Director
Required Documents
With multiple ways to submit documents, Drexel makes it easy to complete your application. Learn more by visiting our Completing Your Application Guide.
- A completed application
- Official transcripts from all universities or colleges and other post-secondary educational institutions (including trade schools) attended
- Two letters of recommendation (professional or academic)
- Resume
- Essay describing why you're interested in pursuing this program
- Additional requirements for International Students
Tuition
The tuition rate for the academic year 2025-2026 is $1144 per credit. (A 25% tuition savings off Drexel's regular tuition rate of $1525 per credit)
For the academic year 2025-2026, students enrolled in an online graduate academic program will be charged a graduate online program fee of $125 per year.
- This program is eligible for Financial Aid.
- Special tuition rates available for Drexel University Alumni, Military members, and members of our Partner Organizations
- These rates apply only to new online students and students being readmitted.
- Tuition rates are subject to increase with the start of each academic year in the fall term.
- All students must contact applyDUonline@drexel.edu within the first two weeks of the term to request tuition savings for which they qualify.
- Special rates cannot be combined. If you qualify for more than one special rate, you'll be given the one with the largest savings.
- When receiving special tuition plans, you may not be able to combine them with other tuition benefits that may be available from Drexel University.
Academic Calendar
2025-2026 Academic Year
Term
Classes Begin
Classes End
Exams Begin
Exams End
Fall 2025
September 22, 2025
December 6, 2025
December 8, 2025
December 13, 2025
Winter 2026
January 5, 2026
March 14, 2026
March 16, 2026
March 21, 2026
Spring 2026
March 30, 2026
June 6, 2026
June 8, 2026
June 13, 2026
Summer 2026
June 22, 2026
August 29, 2026
August 31, 2026
September 5, 2026
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