Autism Studies (Distance Learning) - PCert, PDip, MA

The Autism Studies MA provides the academic background necessary for good practice both with autistic individuals and organisations that provide or arrange support.

Overview

Our programme is designed for graduates and practitioners, giving you the confidence to apply an advanced level of knowledge to many real-life situations. Gain a specialist, vocational qualification that will develop your career in the field of intellectual disabilities and autism.

What you'll learn

You study a combination of academic modules and (if doing the MA/PDip) carry out a case study and/or dissertation which may be empirical or library-based. PDip students do the case study, while MA students do the case study and the research project.

Programme aims

This programme aims to:

• provide you with a detailed knowledge of autism and other developmental disabilities
• provide you with experience of conducting research or intervention in the field of autism.

Students will also achieve PgCert and PgDip awards during this course.

Careers

Our postgraduate courses improve employability prospects for both those with established careers and new entrants to the field. Many of our students already work with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in professional, management or supporting capacities.

Our programmes support their continuing professional development and enhance their opportunities for career advancement. Other students, who are at the beginning of their careers, move on to a range of professional roles in health and social care including working as psychologists in learning disability or behavioural specialists in community learning disability teams; service management of development roles; clinical psychology training or a PhD.

Career destinations include working as a clinical specialist, special needs advisor, autism teacher and ABA tutor for various health and special needs organisations such as the Step by Step School, Special Help 4 Special Needs and WA Health.

A good honours degree, typically in psychology or other relevant social sciences, or comparable professional qualifications and experience. All applicants are considered on an individual basis and additional qualifications, professional qualifications and relevant experience may also be taken into account when considering applications.