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Empower Exceptional Learners. Advance Your Career.
The Graduate Certificate in Severe Developmental Disabilities and Autism is designed to meet the need for professionals trained to support individuals with severe developmental disabilities and autism to lead, teach and advocate across a variety of settings, including schools, clinics and community organizations.
Advance Your Impact with Specialized Expertise
If you are a certified special education teacher, a professional working in schools or advocacy or an educator seeking Missouri DESE certification in Severe Developmental Disabilities (K鈥�12), the Graduate Certificate in Severe Developmental Disabilities and Autism at 大众彩票 is designed for you.
This 18-credit, fully-online program equips you with advanced, evidence-based strategies to support learners with the most complex needs across classrooms, communities and care systems.
- Earn add-on certification in Missouri
- Deepen your practice with real-world functional skills
- Lead changes in inclusive education and advocacy
Program Snapshot
- Format: 100% Online (Asynchronous)
- Credits: 18 (Graduate Certificate) or 33 (MA in Special Education)
- Discounts: Eligible for Webster鈥檚 Corporate Partner Discount
This program is eligible for the 大众彩票 Corporate Partner Discount. Contact soe@webster.edu to check your eligibility.
Why This Program Matters
There is a rising national demand for professionals to care for children with complex neurodevelopmental and behavioral health conditions; additional roles include education and training, advocacy and research.
As diagnoses increase and awareness grows, schools, health care systems and community organizations are urgently seeking educators and specialists with advanced, evidence-based training.
According to the , the U.S. is facing a critical shortage of developmental behavioral specialists, with only 1 per 100,000 children, far below what is needed to meet demand.
The has launched multiple initiatives to improve personnel development for children with disabilities, highlighting the need for more trained educators and advocates.
Choose Webster for Your Severe Developmental Disabilities and Autism GRCT
This program qualifies educators who have initial teacher certification in Mild/Moderate Cross-Categorical Disabilities (K-12) in the state of Missouri to apply for Severe Developmental Disabilities (K-12) certification through the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).
Program Options
This certificate can be pursued as a stand-alone credential or as part of the Master of Arts in Special Education.
- Graduate Certificate: 18 credit hours
- MA in Special Education: 33 credit hours (including 15 hours of emphasis coursework)
Curriculum Overview
The 18-credit hour program includes courses such as:
- SPED 5245 鈥� Counseling for Life鈥檚 Transitions
- SPED 5311 鈥� Assessment of Functional Skills
- SPED 5312 鈥� Curriculum and Methods for SDD and Autism
- SPED 5313 鈥� Augmentative and Alternative Communication
- SPED 5090 鈥� Special Education Practicum
- SPED 5880 鈥� Integrating Community, School and Family Resources
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are well-positioned for roles in education, advocacy and community services.
| Career Path | Median Salary (2024) | Job Outlook (2023-2024) | Key Employment Settings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Special Education Teacher | $64,270 | ~35,900 openings/year |
|
| Community Service Manager | $74,240 | Faster than average growth |
|
| Health Education Specialist | $59,900 | Growing demand in public health and education |
|
Source:
Severe Developmental Disabilities and Autism (GRCT)
Find out more about the overall curriculum, electives, learning outcomes and more.
Get Started on Your Severe Developmental Disabilities and Autism GRCT Today
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Contact the Admissions Office to Find Out More
If you have more questions about the program, your application or other enrollment-related inquiries, contact our Admissions Office.
Call 314-246-7800 or 800-753-6765 or send an email to admit@webster.edu.