Autism Spectrum Related Studies

CTC Authorization for Education Specialists

The Autism Spectrum Graduate Certificate program offers courses approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) for Education Specialists seeking to fulfill the requirements of the Autism Spectrum Disroders (ASD) Authorization as mandated by the state.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the ASD Authorization?

The ASD authorization is one of six added authorizations in special education instituted by the CTC in 2009. This authorization allows holders of certain Education Specialist credentials to work with K-12 students (up through age 22) with autism spectrum disorders.
2. Who is required to have the Autism Authorization?

The added authorization in ASD is required by CTC for teachers who
(1) work with students with autism spectrum disorders; and

(2) have one of the following credentials issued PRIOR TO JULY 1, 2010:

• Level I or Level II Mild/Moderate credential
• Level I or Level II Deaf and Hard of Hearing credential
• Level I or Level II Visual Impairments credential
• Level I or Level II Physical and Health Impairments credential Old Learning Handicapped (LH), Physical Handicaps (PH), Communication Handicaps (CH), Visual Handicaps (VH) credentials (Ryan)

Teachers in the above categories do not need the added authorization unless they are specifically working with (or want to be qualified to work with) students with ASD, or if required for employment.

3. What are the required courses?

SPED 791 Nature of Autism Spectrum Disorders

SPED 825 Communication, Behavior and Instruction: Autism

SPED 794 Socialization and Imagination: Autism (SPED 791 is a prerequiste)

Click here for more details on the ASD Authorization at SFSU