Autism Endorsement Program

The Autism Endorsement Program is a 12-credit fully online graduate program designed to provide professionals with advanced training in the areas of autism spectrum disorders and pervasive developmental disorders.

Program Snapshot

Program Type Format Credit Hours
Letter of Endorsement Online 12

Why Earn Your Autism Endorsement at Wilkes?

In 2020, the CDC reported that approximately 1 in 54 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), according to 2016 data. There is a growing need for educators to support diverse learners with early intervention skills and applied behavioral therapies.

Our program has received approval from the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Therefore, satisfactory completion of the 12-credit program, including all course and field experience requirements, will enable candidates to apply to the PDE for an endorsement on their existing Pennsylvania certificates. The four courses may also be taken as electives by other educational and clinical professionals who wish to gain additional knowledge in the areas addressed in each course.

What Will You Learn as an Autism Endorsement Student?

  • You’ll learn how to work directly with learners with autism in collaboration with families, your district, and agencies.
  • After completing your foundational course on the diagnosis and treatment of autism, you’ll advance to courses in applied behavioral analysis, autism scope and sequence, and advanced autism instruction and intervention.
  • You’ll gain a minimum of 80 hours of field experience working directly with individuals.

Thank you for your interest in Wilkes University's Graduate Education programs! To learn more about our program please complete the form. If you have questions, or wish to discuss your education goals, please contact:

Tori Reigle
tori.reigle@wilkes.edu
(570) 408-4311

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Program Highlights

Accelerated Online Classes

In addition to offering classes in a convenient online format, our accelerated course schedule allows for the program to be completed in three semesters.

Affordable Continuing Education Credits

Our program may count toward state continuing education units and Act 48 credits, plus, we offer our courses at state-rate tuition, regardless of a student’s state of residence.

Advance Your Education Career

A letter of endorsement in autism offers graduates distinct recognition in the high-need area of autistic spectrum disorders and pervasive developmental disorders, as well as distinguishes graduates from colleagues in the field of education.

Tuition & Aid

Tuition for graduate programs in education for the 2024-25 academic year is $571 per credit, or $1,713 per course. Deferment is available for employers who reimburse tuition and financial aid is available for those who qualify.

Careers & Outcomes

Graduates of the Autism Endorsement Program are well prepared for careers in supporting students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in schools, organizations, counseling centers, and medical facilities. In the classroom, you’ll have the knowledge and skills to not only be a better educator, but also support the increasing number of students with ASD. Outside of the classroom, you can pursue pathways with state agencies, nonprofits, or other programs that provide support services for individuals with disabilities.

Job Titles: Autism Specialist, Autism Coordinator, Educational Consultant, Early Intervention Specialist