Starting this summer, Georgia Southwestern State University and the School of Education will offer a new post Baccalaureate Autism Education Endorsement program for certified teachers online.

“With the increase in the number of children diagnosed with autism or on the autism spectrum, educators need to have the skills and knowledge to meet the needs of children with autism spectrum disorder,” said Dean and Associate Professor Rachel Abbott, Ph.D.

The online program consists of three courses, EDSP 4410, EDSP 4420 and EDSP 4430, and is an approved program with the Georgia Professional Standards Commission. Upon successful completion of the program, certified teachers will apply for the autism education endorsement add-on to their Georgia teaching certificate.

“This new program is an exciting first addition to our School of Education in terms of endorsement programs,” said GSW President Neal Weaver. “These courses will allow certified teachers to leave GSW with added expertise and knowledge in this area.”

The courses will help general and special education certified teachers increase their knowledge in the area of teaching students with autism spectrum disorder. The nine credit hours in the program will focus on the identification of characteristics, classroom and behavioral strategies, and planning for instruction for individuals on the autism spectrum.

“We believe [the program] will provide teachers with the knowledge and practical experiences to successfully plan, teach, and assess children with autism spectrum disorder,” said Abbott.