Reach Your Students on the Autistic Spectrum

Gain a deep understanding of autism and the varying needs of students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Learn how to assess and understand the unique needs of each student on the autism spectrum, developing a curriculum that reaches them. Become an advocate for students on the autism spectrum and the resources needed for their education. The Master of Arts in Education, Autism positions educators in special education roles throughout their careers.

  • Improving Your Assessment: Our faculty are experienced special education instructors who connect individually with students, providing concepts immediately applicable to the student’s teaching and understanding of ASD.
  • Individual Engagement: Coursework uses evidence-based practices for ASD to develop strategies to engage these students, who often struggle with social interaction, sensory, and behavioral challenges.
  • Online Coursework + Fieldwork: Your coursework is online, providing flexibility as you earn your master's degree. It is combined with fieldwork for each of the autism emphasis courses. 

At a Glance

Online
30 Credits
$730/Credit
Help me estimate my cost
Next Start Date
Summer II (Jun 23, 2025)

Program Benefits that Benefit You.

UMass Global Legacy

Legacy of Learning

Legacy of Learning UMass Global — 65-year academic legacy of educating adult students; 15 years pioneering online education.

Scholarships

Scholarships, Grants, Other Discounts

Save money and time by transferring credits, applying for up to $20k in scholarships/grants, and through possible employer discounts.

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Education Leader

Since 1958, UMass Global has been a consistent leader in education, providing degrees, teaching credentials, and authorizations. 

Career Outlook for MA in Education (Autism)

Results for:
Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA
Median Salary2
Job openings (in the last 12 months)
Top Companies Hiring
Median Salary2
Job openings (in the last 12 months)
Top Companies Hiring
Median Salary2
Job openings (in the last 12 months)
Top Companies Hiring
Median Salary2
Job openings (in the last 12 months)
Top Companies Hiring

Data source: Lightcast™ 2025 www.lightcast.io

The pathway information provided through this website is based partly on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data licensed by the University of Massachusetts Global from Lightcast. While the University of Massachusetts Global believes this data to be reliable, some of the data is based on estimates made by Lightcast when actual data is unavailable. Those estimates and the corresponding data may need to be corrected.

  1. Change in employment projections 2022 - 2032
  2. Based on BLS Occupational Employment Statistics and updated quarterly
  3. The University of Massachusetts Global does not guarantee a job to graduates upon completion of any program

Courses You Might Take

EDUU 575

Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorders: Etiologies and Characteristics

3 Credits
EDUU 675

Assessing Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders

3 Credits
EDUU 676

Autism Spectrum Disorders: Programming and Strategies, I

3 Credits
EDUU 677

Autism Spectrum Disorders: Programming and Strategies, II

3 Credits

What it’s like going to UMass Global?

Instructor-Led, Session-Based

This program is delivered in an instructor-led format, with eight-week sessions and multiple start dates per year for flexibility. In each class, you'll focus on one topic at a time and can take a session off if needed—no penalty. Courses include online lectures, group discussions, and structured assignments with set deadlines. This format offers clear milestones and peer interaction, making it ideal for students who thrive in a structured learning environment.

Personalized Support Services

UMass Global meets you wherever you are in life, with dedicated support at every step. From enrollment coaching and financial aid to academic advising and career services, we're committed to your success. Access personalized guidance, flexible resources, and a supportive community, empowering you to achieve your educational goals, no matter your starting point.

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Employer-Aligned Curriculum

At UMass Global, our employer-aligned curriculum ensures that coursework is directly relevant to today’s workplace. Designed with input from industry experts and faculty who are also working professionals, our programs focus on practical, career-advancing skills. Using a “backwards course design,” we tailor coursework to meet current job market needs. Our diverse faculty provides real-world insights and mentorship, ensuring that the skills you learn are immediately applicable to your career or future career changes.

Instructor-Led, Session-Based

This program is delivered in an instructor-led format, with eight-week sessions and multiple start dates per year for flexibility. In each class, you'll focus on one topic at a time and can take a session off if needed—no penalty. Courses include online lectures, group discussions, and structured assignments with set deadlines. This format offers clear milestones and peer interaction, making it ideal for students who thrive in a structured learning environment.

Personalized Support Services

UMass Global meets you wherever you are in life, with dedicated support at every step. From enrollment coaching and financial aid to academic advising and career services, we're committed to your success. Access personalized guidance, flexible resources, and a supportive community, empowering you to achieve your educational goals, no matter your starting point.

Woman shaking hands with man

Employer-Aligned Curriculum

At UMass Global, our employer-aligned curriculum ensures that coursework is directly relevant to today’s workplace. Designed with input from industry experts and faculty who are also working professionals, our programs focus on practical, career-advancing skills. Using a “backwards course design,” we tailor coursework to meet current job market needs. Our diverse faculty provides real-world insights and mentorship, ensuring that the skills you learn are immediately applicable to your career or future career changes.

Our Faculty

All Faculty
Shari Farris Ed.D.
Dr. Shari Farris, EdD
Associate Dean, School of Education, Associate Professor of Education
Dr. Shari Farris EdD
Portrait of Dr. Sasha Crowley
Dr. Sasha Crowley
Clinical Practice Director, Assistant Professor of Education
Dr. Sasha Crowley
Demo

Ready to pursue your Master of Arts in Education degree?

Admission Requirements

Applicants for this master's degree program must complete the formal application process with all required documents, which include:

  • Completed application
  • 2.75 grade point average (GPA)
  • Official transcripts from all regionally accredited institutions where baccalaureate and/or post-baccalaureate coursework was completed or attempted

Graduate Level Exams

This Master’s degree program does not require applicants to take costly exams like the GRE/GMAT. Why? Because we value your professional and life experience. You should get credit for what you already know.

WASC Senior College and University Commission

University of Massachusetts Global is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

California Commission on Teaching Credentialing

University of Massachusetts Global's School of Education is accredited by the California Commission on Teaching Credentialing (CTC).

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Testimonials

Amy J.

I took the Autism classes [through Extended Education] and found the passion of special education, which I really never thought of as an option. I finished the Autism program and enrolled in the Master of Special Education. I have learned to reflect on my teaching and determine if I am reaching all students and on how to better reach any struggling students.

Amy J.
Special Education, MA
North Orange County ROP, Career Technical Education Teacher in the Education Pathway
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Compared to a brick and mortar, the professors are more open and I was able to learn better from them. The online community is what kept me going. I think this is the first time in my life that I can say I am proud of myself.

Leonard W.
Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis, MA

 

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Frequently Asked Questions

A Master of Arts in Education, Autism can open a variety of career opportunities in the field of autism spectrum disorders. Some of the potential job roles include:

  • Autism Specialist: An individual with a master’s degree in autism studies can work as an autism specialist in schools, clinics, or non-profit organizations. They can provide support and guidance to families, educators, and other professionals working with individuals on the autism spectrum.
  • Researcher: A master’s degree in autism studies can be a stepping stone for those who wish to pursue a Ph.D. and become a researcher in autism.
  • Educator: A master’s degree in autism studies can be helpful for educators who want to specialize in teaching students with autism in special education programs or inclusive classrooms if they have the appropriate teaching credential.
  • Community Services Coordinator: A master’s degree in autism studies can be helpful for those who want to work in community-based organizations that provide support services to individuals with autism and their families.

Overall, a master’s degree in autism studies can be a good foundation for a career in various roles that involve working with individuals on the autism spectrum and their families.

A Master of Arts in Education, Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorders or ASD, is a graduate-level degree focused on
studying autism and related disorders. The program typically covers a range of topics, including the causes and characteristics
of autism, assessment and diagnosis, intervention and treatment strategies, and the social and educational implications of
autism.

The curriculum of a master’s degree in autism typically includes courses such as "Introduction to Autism and Related
Disorders," "Assessment and Diagnosis of Autism", "Behavioral Interventions for Individuals with Autism," "Social and
Communication Development with Autism," "Educational and Community-Based Interventions for Individuals with Autism,"
"Creating Positive Learning Environments for Individuals with ASD," and "Ethics in Autism Studies."

Additionally, a master’s degree program in autism usually includes a clinical or fieldwork component, where students gain
hands-on experience working with individuals on the autism spectrum and their families.

A master’s degree in autism can be helpful for those who currently work or wish to work in fields such as special education,
applied behavior analysis, speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, or psychology, as well as for those who want to
pursue research or administrative roles in the field of autism.






To teach students with autism, the minimum requirement is a bachelor’s degree in education and a teaching certification in the state where you plan to work. However, many states and school districts require or prefer teachers who have specialized training in working with students with autism or special needs.

A master’s degree focusing on autism spectrum disorders (ASD) can be beneficial for teaching students with autism. This degree program provides advanced training in understanding the unique needs of students with autism, assessment diagnosis, evidence-based interventions, and strategies for creating inclusive learning environments.

Some school districts may also require or prefer that teachers have a certification in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), a behavioral approach to working with individuals with autism. Board Certification for ABA requires specific coursework, supervised field experience, and passing a national certification exam. Please see the information on UMass Global's ABA program.

Additionally, states may have specific requirements for special education teachers and for Applied Behavior Analysts, such as passing a specialized certification exam or completing additional coursework.

It’s important to note that requirements may vary by state, so it’s essential to check the specific requirements in the state where you plan to teach.

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