Autism

Further your expertise in supporting autistic individuals with the online autism graduate certificate from Bowling Green State University. Complete the 100% online program in under a year to enhance your credentials and expand your career opportunities.

The graduate certificate is designed for educators and other professionals who work with autistic people across educational, clinical and community settings. It provides practical, evidence-based knowledge you can apply immediately in your work.

You'll learn strategies to support autistic individuals across the lifespan while deepening your understanding of autistic culture, communication, advocacy and inclusive practices.

Earn the autism certificate as a standalone credential or apply the credits toward a BGSU master's degree in special education.

This certificate does not lead to Ohio educator licensure or endorsement.

Why study autism at BGSU in Ohio?

100% online. Complete all coursework online while balancing work and personal commitments.
Finish in less than a year. Complete four 7-week courses (12 credit hours) in as little as one year.
Three start dates each year. Begin the program when it fits your schedule.
Learn from autism experts. Faculty are active in national autism organizations. This helps ensure coursework reflects current research and best practices.
Advance your career. Build specialized knowledge that strengthens your credentials and expands opportunities in education, healthcare and community services.

Apply

Tuition Estimator

Request Information

Additional Resources

Have questions?

Our online enrollment specialists are here for you from registration to graduation. Contact us with questions about applying, financial aid, program details, student support and more. online@bgsu.edu | 419-372-3226

Public university in Ohio for career prep

The Wall Street Journal

Career opportunities

There is a growing demand for highly trained professionals with the knowledge and skills to meet the educational and psychosocial needs of individuals with ASD.

Our graduates further their career as advocates for individuals with autism spectrum disorders and their families in schools, hospitals, social service agencies, nonprofits and research organizations.

Career paths

Autism specialists
Consultants
Educators
Psychologists
Therapists
Medical personnel
Speech and language pathologists

Curriculum

The autism graduate certificate consists of four courses (12 credit hours) and can be completed entirely online.

Coursework explores topics including:

Autistic culture and theory
Social and communication experiences
Behavior and sensory experiences
Disability advocacy across the lifespan

Upon completing the program, you'll be able to:

Analyze the history, theories, characteristics and societal perspectives of autism
Develop instructional plans that build on an autistic person's strengths while addressing individual needs
Collaborate effectively with autistic individuals, families, educators and community partners
Design advocacy strategies that support autistic people and their families across school and community settings
Defend autistic individuals’ self-advocacy and self-determination
Apply instructional, technological and support strategies that promote positive outcomes for autistic people

Required courses

Sample courses

Introduction to Autistic Culture & Theory
Autistic Social & Communication Experiences
Understanding Autistic Behavior and Sensory Experiences
Disability Advocacy Strategies Across the Lifespan

BGSU is one of only a handful of universities in the nation – and the only one in Ohio – to earn the Quality Matters Online Learner Support certificate for all of our online programs. This recognition reflects our commitment to providing the critical support and academic services that online students need to succeed.

The autism online graduate certificate is a program in the School of Inclusive Education in the College of Education and Human Development.

Accreditation | Professional Licensure

Updated: 09/03/2026 02:37PM