Autism Studies
This fully online, part-time Algonquin College Certificate program provides a thorough understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) across the life span and an overview of current support and intervention strategies used with this population in home, school, and community settings.
- Learn fundamental knowledge in Autism Spectrum Disorder, part-time and fully online from anywhere in Canada
- Benefit from supportive and experienced facilitators who are active in their industry
- Courses are built with flexibility in mind and can be accessed anytime and from anywhere
Program Availability and Schedule
Availability
Availability varies by course. Click here to view availability for courses in this program.
Schedule
Given the part-time delivery of this program, there is not a standard schedule for all learners.
Program Summary
Credential
Program Code
Area of Interest
Work Integrated Learning
Supplemented with additional knowledge and/or experience in early childhood education, developmental services, child and youth care or social services. Graduates from this program may choose to seek employment in a variety of settings that support individuals with ASD, including childcare centres, autism programs, schools, community groups/activities and group home settings.
To qualify for this certificate, you must complete the program within two years....(read more)
Overview
This fully online, part-time Algonquin College Certificate program provides a thorough understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) across the life span and an overview of current support and intervention strategies used with this population in home, school, and community settings. The program covers fundamental support strategies for increasing learning and independence while minimizing behavioural challenges. Students explore the defining characteristics and presentations of ASD, as well as communication challenges, social skill difficulties, sensory processing differences and anxiety challenges that are often faced by individuals with this diagnosis. Through elective courses, students learn strategies for supporting young children in childcare settings, the role of the Educational Assistant (EA) in the classroom and/or common supports and programs available for youth and adults in the community. Students also receive authentic industry experience through participation in a placement within the field.
Supplemented with additional knowledge and/or experience in early childhood education, developmental services, child and youth care or social services. Graduates from this program may choose to seek employment in a variety of settings that support individuals with ASD, including childcare centres, autism programs, schools, community groups/activities and group home settings.
To qualify for this certificate, you must complete the program within two years.
SUCCESS FACTORS
This program is well-suited for students who:
- Are curious about autism and how individuals with ASD think and learn.
- Are interested in supporting individuals with ASD in the community.
- Are non-judgmental, mature, empathetic, and accepting of differences.
- Have strong communication skills.
- Have good observational and problem-solving skills.
- Have patience, can handle stress, and remain calm in difficult situations.
Courses
Registration Note:
If you would like to take courses individually or start the program part time, you are not required to apply to the program. You can register for up to three courses per term by clicking on the course title and selecting "Register Online".
Online  |
| Course Number | Hours | Course Name | Fall | Winter | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FAM2010 | 25.0 | Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder | | | ||
| FAM2020 | 25.0 | Principles of Applied Behavioural Analysis | | | ||
| FAM2030 | 25.0 | Communication, Social Skills & Understanding | | | ||
| FAM2040 | 25.0 | Sensory Processing, Anxiety and Stress | | | ||
| FLD0030 | 100.0 | Autism Spectrum Disorder Practicum |  | | ||
| Elective: choose 1 | ||||||
| FAM2050 | 25.0 | Supporting Preschool Children At Home and in Child Care Settings | | | ||
| FAM2060 | 25.0 | Working with Children in the Classroom | | | ||
| FAM2070 | 25.0 | Supporting Youth and Adults in the Community | | | ||
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
FAM2010 Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder
With rates of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) on the rise, it is becoming increasingly important for childcare providers, educators and parents to learn how to support these individuals. This course provides an overview of the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), as well as the research exploring factors related to ASD. Through case studies, students examine learning styles and challenges common to individuals with ASD. Students also explore some of the common intervention approaches including Floor time, Early Start Denver Model (ESDM), Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT), Verbal Behaviour (VB) and Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA).
FAM2020 Principles of Applied Behavioural Analysis
Using the principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) is essential for understanding and managing challenging behaviours. Students develop a fundamental understanding of the three-term contingency used in ABA (Antecedent-Behaviour-Consequence), and explore how controlling and manipulating environmental variables and consequences can help to reduce challenging behaviours. The concepts of antecedent strategies and consequent strategies are also explored.
Pre-requisites: FAM2010
FAM2030 Communication, Social Skills & Understanding
Communication difficulties and social skill deficits are two defining characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Knowledge of typical language development provides a foundation for understanding expressive and receptive communication deficits of individuals with ASD. Students also learn about the social challenges experienced by many individuals with ASD and how these impact social communication. In addition, students gain awareness of strategies that can support effective communication and social skill development.
Pre-requisites: FAM2010
FAM2040 Sensory Processing, Anxiety and Stress
Stress, anxiety and inhibited self-regulation and sensory integration are common causes of challenging behaviours. Students learn about the sensory processing challenges that individuals with ASD may experience, as well as the strategies, tools and programs that can support development in this area. The concepts of stress and anxiety are explored, and learners gain an understanding of how these impact individuals with ASD. Students develop skills to identify the symptoms of anxiety and select appropriate strategies to prevent and respond to anxiety.
Pre-requisites: FAM2010
FLD0030 Autism Spectrum Disorder Practicum
This placement provides students with a practical opportunity to demonstrate the vocational learning outcomes. Students gain experience observing and working with individuals with ASD in the setting of their choice (child-care centre, school, community setting or residential setting). This placement provides students with the opportunity to apply their theoretical learning to real-world settings. Students observe ethical practices in the field of ASD.
Pre-requisites: FAM2010 and FAM2020 and FAM2030 and FAM2040 and FAM2050 or FAM2060 or FAM2070
FAM2050 Supporting Preschool Children At Home and in Child Care Settings
Front line workers play an important role in supporting individuals recently diagnosed with ASD, and their families and care providers. Students develop strategies that can be used to support parents in the immediate post-diagnosis stage. Students also learn about the importance of play-based learning and develop an understanding of why play and social skills can be difficult for individuals with ASD. Strategies that can be used to teach play and social skills are examined.
Pre-requisites: FAM2010
FAM2060 Working with Children in the Classroom
Educational Assistants (EAs) play an important role in the success of individuals with ASD in the school environment. Students examine the role of the EA and gain an understanding of how to work effectively with families and on multidisciplinary teams as well as with individuals with varying skills and challenges. Ethical and safety considerations (i.e., school safety plans) of EAs are explored and the importance of supporting inclusion and empowering individuals with ASD and their teachers are discussed.
Pre-requisites: FAM2010
FAM2070 Supporting Youth and Adults in the Community
Youth and adults with ASD have access to a variety of community support programs, educational options, employment opportunities and residential services. Students explore these programs, opportunities and services and learn how individuals with varying needs can benefit from them. Students also gain an understanding of the importance of teaching self-advocacy and independent living skills to this population and how to work effectively on multidisciplinary teams. Ethical and safety considerations are also explored.
Pre-requisites: FAM2010
Careers & Pathways
Careers
Graduates from this program may choose to seek employment as a respite worker, special needs worker, a residential support worker or related employment opportunities. As well, supplemented with additional knowledge, qualifications and/or experience in early childhood education, developmental services, child and youth care or social services, graduates may also find employment as an educational assistant, developmental service worker and child youth worker.
Pathways
Please use our Pathways tool to search for pathway options.
Learning Outcomes
The successful completion of this program will enable the graduate to:
- Identify challenges and skill deficits based on an individual`s behaviour.
- Modify performance in consideration of individuals with ASD`s presenting needs and situation.
- Use strategies and resources to support individuals with ASD.
- Work collaboratively with families, teams, service providers and the broader community to respond to the learning and behavioural needs of individuals with ASD.
- Use sensitivity and flexibility with regards to culture, race, ethnicity, language, religion and socio-economic status when interacting with individuals and families.
- Conduct oneself ethically when interacting with individuals with ASD and their family/team.
Tuition & Fees
2024/2025 Academic Year
Fees are subject to change.
Fees for part-time programs are charged on a course-by-course basis and are published on each individual course page. For questions related to fees, please call the Registrar`s Office at 613-727-0002.
Graduation Fee:Once you have completed all the courses in the program, it is the responsibility of the student to complete a credential application (https://www.algonquincollege.com/online/certificationgraduating/). A graduation fee is charged when the application is submitted. After your credential application has been approved, you will be invited to Convocation.
Admissions Requirements
All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.
College Eligibility
The following requirements are recommended to ensure success in the program:
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent; OR
- Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate; OR
- General Educational Development (GED) certificate; OR
- Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program).
Program Eligibility
The following requirement is recommended to ensure success in the program:
- English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent).
- It is recommended applicants with international transcripts have the following IELTS or TOEFL scores to ensure success: IELTS-International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band OR TOEFL-Internet-based (iBT) Overall 80, with a minimum of 20 in each component: Reading 20; Listening 20; Speaking 20; Writing 20;OR Duolingo English Test (DET) Overall 110, minimum of 110 in Literacy and no score below 95.
Application Information
Registration Note:
If you would like to take courses individually or start the program part time, you are not required to apply to the program. You can register for up to three courses per term by clicking on the course title and selecting "Register Online".
Additional Information
Program Resources
International students wishing to study online should visit https://www.algonquincollege.com/online/international for information related to International online students and for international fees information prior to registering. Please note that AC Online programs do not qualify international students for new study permits or study permit extensions.
The Autism Studies program consists of four mandatory courses, one elective course and a placement.
PRE-PLACEMENT REQUIREMENTS:
- Submit proof of valid Police Records Check for Service with the Vulnerable Sector (PRCSVC).
- Complete a safety management training course such as Non-Violent Crisis Intervention (NVCI) or Safe Management. These certifications are typically valid for one year (12 months).
- Complete the Algonquin College Health Assessment form and/or immunization form. This document is typically valid for one year (12 months).
To ensure that an appropriate placement opportunity can be arranged, all students are required to begin preparing for placement four months in advance. Please contact the Online Field Placement Officer four months before you plan to complete a placement. The Online Field Placement Officer will provide you with information about how to complete the pre-placement requirements and will request additional information about your placement preferences to organize an appropriate placement for you.
WORK INTEGRATED LEARNING (WIL):
The final requirement of the Autism Studies certificate program is a 100-hour Autism Spectrum Disorder Practicum course. This course is designed to provide you with an opportunity to apply the knowledge, skills, and attitudes that you have learned throughout the prerequisite courses.
As a field placement student, you will be responsible for completing 100 experience hours on-site at your assigned field placement agency. Field placement hours can be completed all at once or in varying time periods throughout the term. All placement hours must be completed by the final day of the term.
This field placement experience is designed to provide you with an opportunity to observe and gain experiential learning on the concepts that you have learned so far in the program.
PLACEMENT ELIGIBILITY:
In order to be eligible for field placements, students must meet the following requirements prior to the placement deadline:
- Academic Clearance: Students must complete all required prerequisite courses prior to the placement start date.
- Placement Request Form: Students are required to submit a placement request form prior to the placement deadline.
- ParaMed Clearance: Students are required to meet the following medical and non-medical requirements. Upon completion, these requirements must be confirmed through ParaMed, our partner organization: a. Immunization Records; b. Police Records Check for Service with the Vulnerable Sector (PRCSVS); c. Non-violent Crisis Intervention Training.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
Further placement information for online students can be found on the Online Field Placement Centre: https://www.algonquincollege.com/online/field-placement.
PRIOR LEARNING AND RECOGNITION (PLAR):
Students who wish to apply for PLAR need to demonstrate competency at a post-secondary level in all the course learning requirements. Evidence of learning achievements for PLAR candidates may include a comprehensive challenge examination and/or completion of a portfolio.
ACADEMIC PLANNER:
The Academic Planner provides registered part-time students the ability to declare into a program of study. The Academic Planner outlines successfully completed courses to date, as well as courses that need to be completed in order to meet graduation requirements. It is therefore, essential that all part-time students declare to their program of study, allowing administrators to plan course offerings. The tool is available on ACSIS, located under `Part-time Students` on the left-hand toolbar.
PROGRAM PROGRESSION:
As per policy AA39: Program Progression and Graduation Requirements when students are admitted to a program, they are assigned to the Program of Study that aligns with their start date. If a student takes a break for two or more consecutive terms the Program of Study is reset to align with the current version (when studies are resumed). To qualify for this certificate, you must complete the program within two years.
Contact
For additional information, please contact AC Online at online@algonquincollege.com or 613-727-4723 ext. 3330.