Autism and Developmental Disabilities

The Department of Special Education offers master’s (M.Ed., M.A.) and doctoral (Ph.D.) degrees with a concentration in Autism and Developmental Disabilities (A&DD). Our program curricula are Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) approved and many of our graduates become Board Certified Behavior Analysts at the master’s (BCBA) or doctoral (BCBA-D) level. (View the BCBA Exam Pass Rates for Verified Programs.) Training in these programs emphasizes academic foundations in: 

• education and treatment of individuals with A&DD,
• use of scientist-practitioner methods,
• development of research skills so that graduates can contribute new knowledge on assessment and treatment practices,
• competent, ethical, and multicultural practice.

Coursework and research are led by expert faculty to provide a rich understanding of the design, implementation, and evaluation of effective services offered to those with autism and related developmental disabilities. 

As a graduate of our AD&D program, you will be qualified for several careers in the field of special education. Our alumni are employed as

• Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapists,
• special education teachers,
• professors in universities,
• behavioral consultants, and
• director-level administrators.

Programs

• Master’s Program
• Doctoral Program

Faculty

Laura Estep

Assistant Professor of Practice

Engages in training and supervision of clinicians to support individuals with challenging behavior and difficulty transitioning between activities, particularly for students with autism spectrum disorders.

Terry S Falcomata

Professor

Assessment and treatment of problem behavior displayed by individuals with ASD/DD, methods for increasing behavioral variability in individuals with ASD/DD, and methods for preventing clinical relapse pertaining to challenging behavio

Christina Fragale

Assistant Professor of Practice

Works with culturally diverse individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders to assess and treat challenging behavior.

Mark F O'Reilly

Department Chair

Assesses and supports individuals with intellectual disabilities and develops social skill/communication interventions for children with ASD.

Additional Resources

• How to Apply
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Current Student Resources