Autism Spectrum Disorders Endorsement (Online)

Overview and Mission 

Neumann University’s Autism Spectrum Disorders Endorsement Program prepares teachers and other certified school personnel to develop the skills and proficiency required to educate the increasing number of students in today’s schools being diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Neumann’s Autism Endorsement Program provides appropriate assessment and research-based strategies with an emphasis on skill development and behavioral modification for students of all ages who have been diagnosed on the autism spectrum. Coursework will include providing students with a comprehensive understanding of foundations in Autism, Instructional Strategies and Curriculum for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders, Assessment and Instructional Planning for Students, and Collaborative Relationships for Students with Autism. Each course has a required 20-hour field component to help students connect course context in an experiential learning setting. ​

Neumann University’s graduate program leading to the Autism Spectrum Disorders Endorsement is consistent with, and driven by, the University’s Mission Statement. Grounded in the Franciscan tradition, this program emphasizes compassionate service, respect for the dignity of each individual, and a commitment to fostering inclusive learning environments where every student can thrive.This program prepares candidates to teach in a variety of special education settings supporting learners with Autism Spectrum Disorders.  Students completing the program are eligible to add the state-approved Autism  Spectrum Disorders endorsement to their teaching certificate.  

Admission Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited, degree granting institution.
• A completed Graduate Student Application online through www.neumann.edu/apply.
• Official transcripts from each regionally accredited, degree granting institution attended.
• Entry into this program may be done on a matriculated or non-matriculated basis.
• The candidate must hold a valid Pennsylvania Level I or Level II Teaching Certificate in order to have the endorsement added or can receive certificate of completion from Neumann University. The student can also earn Act 48 hours for the completed courses.

Progression/Retention Requirements 

For the Autism Spectrum Disorders Endorsement, continued progress requires that the student maintain an overall “B” average (cumulative 3.00 GPA) in the required courses and satisfactory participation in the program. Completion of all course requirements for the program is not to exceed five years. Exemption to this time limitation must be applied for in a written request to the School Dean. The student must maintain an overall “B” average (cumulative 3.00 GPA) in all required courses, with no more than two grades of “C” level work. If the student’s GPA falls below a 3.0, the student will be put on probation. The student will have one semester to bring his/her GPA up above a 3.0. If this does not occur, the student will be dismissed from the program.