Texas Tech University

Special Education - Autism (M.Ed.)

Utilize evidence-based practices in clinical or classroom settings

Teachers with a Master’s Degree in Special Education with an Autism Concentration will be able to work in general and special education classrooms, or in private agencies that provide educational services to children with autism spectrum disorders. Coursework includes working with low-incidence disabilities to assist students in dealing with a range of issues and address the needs of children with autism.

Teacher and student with autism spectrum disorder.

Learning Model

Online

Credit Hours

36 credits (Master’s)

15 credits (certificate only)

Maximum Transfer Hours

6 credit hours (Master’s only)

Subject to approval.

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Tuition Estimates

Average In or Out of State

$415-500 per credit hour

Tuition rates are based on your residency determination of Texas Resident, Non-Resident, or Foreign. Please consult the Admissions site for more information.

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About This Program

Catalog and Course Details

The Master's in Special Education with a Concentration in Autism prepares students to use evidence-based practices in clinical settings and/or classrooms. It has two applied behavior analysis (ABA) courses, and augmentative and alternative communication course, and additional coursework in working with low-incidence disabilities to equip students in dealing with a range of issues and needs of children with autism spectrum disorders.

This concentration does not lead to a teaching certification or credential. Additionally, a teaching certificate or credential is neither required nor necessary to pursue this degree.


Key Courses

EDSP 5303: ABA I: Applied Behavior Analysis in Special Education

Use of applied behavior analysis in special education programs. Included are techniques for observing and recording behavior testing intervention, effects, and use in learning environment.

EDSP 5345: ABA II: Data Collection Methods and Single-Subject Designs

Teaches the basic data collection procedures and implementation of single-subject research designs in applied settings.

EDSP 5344: Augmentative and Alternative Communication

Prepares graduate students to address issues associated with augmentative and alternative communication systems for use by individuals who do not have or are limited in spoken language.

EDSP 5306: Instructional Strategies for Teaching Students with Low Incidence Disabilities

 Covers strategies for supervising educators who teach students with severe disabilities appropriate functional skills across the domains to improve educational outcomes.

Why earn a Master’s Degree with an Autism Concentration?

Instructor pointing to sticky notes on whiteboard during lesson.

Expert-lead

Expert and nationally-recognized faculty with expertise in applied behavior analysis and evidence-based interventions in autism. They bring extensive research, clinical practice, and school-based experience to the classroom. Learn from leaders shaping the future of autism education.

Man at laptop attending class via video call.

Flexible

Flexible learning format designed for teachers, parents, and other working professionals. The program offers high-quality online coursework. You can complete all requirements from anywhere.

Instructor and child learning at a sand table.

Use of best practices

Aligned with best/evidence-based practices. The program equips students with skills grounded in proven autism interventions. Graduates are prepared for roles in schools, clinics, and community settings.

More info about this program

Please note: This concentration does not lead to any sort of teaching certification or credential. Additionally, a teaching certificate or credential is neither required nor necessary to pursuing this degree.


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Meet the program faculty