A female student in the BGSU master’s program in special education with a specialization in autism spectrum disorders works on a computer with a young man with autism.

Master of Education (M.Ed.)

7-week 100% online

Special Education: Autism Spectrum Disorders

Although autism has been rising in prominence for years, not many educators receive in-depth instruction as a part of their core qualifications.

The 100% online master’s program in special education with a focus on autism spectrum disorders at BGSU equips you with the skills to help individuals with ASD get the best out of their education. You will not only improve your teaching skills. You also will improve your career prospects.

Working professionals typically complete the M.Ed. program online in two years, including summers. Classes are seven weeks long. This innovative, two-in-one program allows you to earn a M.Ed. and a certificate in ASD.

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

Program highlights

  • Flexibility. Work at your own pace and around your schedule. We offer seven-week courses and multiple start dates throughout the year. Complete your master’s degree in 18-24 months.
  • Skill enhancement. Our master’s program helps you:
    • Boost management and leadership skills
    • Sharpen critical thinking and communication skills
    • Use research in planning and teaching
    • Provide the emotional cues and prompts for social norms that can be so elusive to ASD students

Career opportunities

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

Not only do schools have duties of provision for students who have differences, but these other institutions also need educators with proven expertise.

Teachers looking outside of the school system for their next career move will be well prepared with the BGSU Master of Education in special education with an ASD focus.

Career paths

  • Special education teacher
  • Senior professional educator
  • Autism specialists
  • In-home instructors
  • Medical personnel
  • Speech and language pathologists

Curriculum

This 100% online program includes core subjects that emphasize evidence-based teaching practices. You will be shown how to identify and use research in your teaching and planning. There also are opportunities to be involved in research projects with others.

The majority of the credit hours required are devoted to identifying the characteristics of students with ASD and implementing evidence-based practices and strategies to ensure the education system serves all.

Note: This program does not lead to an initial teacher license.

Required courses

Front view on young caucasian woman study in front of the laptop computer at home - Girl reading book preparing exam test having online consultation - education and learning concept

Sample courses

  • Nature and Characteristics of Students with ASD
  • Social, Sensory and Communication Issues
  • Assessment, Methods and Materials
  • Classroom and Behavior Management
  • Evidence-Based Practices and Strategies
  • Research in Education
  • Master’s Capstone

Quality Matters LogoBGSU is the only university in Ohio and one of just nine in the nation to earn the Quality Matters Online Learner Support certificate for all of our seven-week online programs. The certificate recognizes that our programs provide the critical services needed for student success and that we use student feedback to continuously improve those services.

BGSU College of Education and Human Development

The Master of Education in special education with a focus on autism spectrum disorders is a program in the School of Inclusive Teacher Education in the College of Education and Human Development.

Updated: 12/12/2023 02:26PM