Master of Science in Education: Autism Specialization with Severe Disabilities Licensure - Partner Program
Off-site Program at The New England Center for Children (NECC) - Partner Program
Faculty
Christine Evans, Professor of Practice and Director, Autism Specialization Graduate Program at The New England Center for Children (NECC)
Heather Fortin, Assistant Professor of Practice and Practicum Coordinator, Autism Specialization Graduate Program at The New England Center for Children (NECC)
Description
The Autism Specialization Program is an employee-based program offered to The New England Center for Children’s (NECC) Partner Program employees. Employees work full-time while enrolled in Simmons University courses via a hybrid model (practicum experience will be held in person).
The program consists of 14 courses in addition to a full-year, full-time practicum experience providing direct instruction with learners in the licensure area sought. Detailed practicum requirements will be provided upon applying to the program. To be granted the license, teacher candidates must complete all requirements mandated by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE); passing the Communication and Literacy and the General Curriculum tests of the Massachusetts' state licensure exam.
The severe disabilities program provides preparation for initial licensure in teaching learners with severe disabilities (PreK-12). The Autism Specialization Program offers specific coursework with a concentration in autism and evidence-based related practices based on the principles of applied behavior analysis. Successful program graduates will receive an autism specialization designation on their transcripts. The program is a three-year sequence with courses that include fieldwork in diverse settings and grade levels. Teacher candidates participate in a full-year practicum within one of their NECC partner classrooms. In addition, inclusive placements within their same public school provide diverse experiences with English Language Learners and learners with a wide range of learning abilities.
Learning Outcomes
The Master of Science in Education addresses Subject Matter Knowledge and Professional Standards for Teachers required by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
Requirements for Entry into the Program
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. All grade point averages are considered, but a B (3.0) average or higher is preferred.
Degree Requirements
Master of Science in Education: Autism Specialization with Severe Disabilities Licensure - Partner Program - 50 credits
| SPND 400DL | Digital Literacy Modules | 0 |
| SPND 490 | Introduction to Exceptionalities | 4 |
| SPND 412 | Inclusion, Consultation and Collaboration for Meaningful Access to Curriculum | 4 |
| SPND 443 | Special Education Laws, Regulations, and Process for Teachers | 4 |
| SPND 491 | Behavior Analytic Strategies for Teachers of Learners with Autism | 4 |
| SPND 492 | Assessment and Curriculum Development for Learners with Autism | 4 |
| SPND 493 | Methods of Behavior Assessment | 4 |
| RDG 410 | Multisensory Structured Language Strategies for Reading | 4 |
| SPND 494 | Applied Autism Research I & Lab | 4 |
| SPND 495 | Applied Autism Research II and Lab | 4 |
| SPND 448 | Foundations of Transition Education & Services | 4 |
| TESL 417 | Sheltered English Instruction | 4 |
| SPND 496 | Practicum: Severe Disabilities / Autism I | 2 |
| SPND 498 | Seminar / Autism I | 2 |
| SPND 497 | Practicum: Severe Disabilities/Autism II | 2 |
| SPND 499 | Seminar/Autism II | 2 |