Autism Spectrum Disorders

Overview
This programme was developed in consultation with the education, health and social care, and voluntary sectors, as well as individuals affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and is designed to facilitate the professional development of teachers and other related professionals who work, or wish to work, in this area.

The course can be taken fully online.

The course is hosted by the Centre for Behaviour Analysis at Queen's University Belfast. In line with the needs identified in the Northern Ireland Executive's Autism Strategy and associated Action Plans, the course has been attuned to raising awareness, addressing issues specifically related to children and adults on the autism spectrum, and increasing knowledge and skills in relation to evidence-based interventions.

The aim is to enable the study of the theory and practice underpinning the specialist area in order to enhance understanding and ability to engage in research- and evidence-based practice.

On completion of the degree, students will have:
- developed a breadth of knowledge and understanding of the special needs of children, young people and adults diagnosed with autism

- shown evidence of critical reflection on their professional practice and be able to apply relevant research literature to both personal and professional experience

- acquired a range of specialised practical skills which will enhance their ability to support pupils and students in a variety of settings

- developed teamwork skills required to work in partnership, supporting and advising other colleagues.

Please note that there is no practice placement provided as part of this course.

Course Structure
Students may enrol on a full-time (1 year) or part-time (up to 3 years) basis. Individual modules may be studied as a short course. Part-time students typically complete one or two modules per semester. Full-time students typically complete three modules per semester.

The MSc is awarded to students who successfully complete six taught modules (120 CATS points) and a research dissertation (60 CATS points). Exit qualifications are available: students may exit with a Postgraduate Diploma by successfully completing 120 CATS points from taught modules or a Postgraduate Certificate by successfully completing 60 CATS points from taught core modules.

The course includes four core/compulsory modules and two optional modules.
An Introduction to Research Methods: Children, Young People and Education (online)
Fundamental Elements of Behaviour Change (online)
Understanding Adults with ASD (online)
Understanding Children with ASD (online)

Two optional taught modules may be chosen from the Applied Behaviour Analysis (MSc) programme.

The topic for the Masters dissertation is to be chosen by the student, in discussion with their supervisor.

The information below is intended as an example only, featuring module details for the current year of study (2023/24). Modules are reviewed on an annual basis and may be subject to future changes – revised details will be published through Programme Specifications ahead of each academic year.

Year 1
Core Modules
An Introduction to Research Methods: Children, Young People and Education (online) (0 credits)
Understanding Children with ASD (20 credits)
Dissertation (60 credits)
An Introduction to Research Methods: Children, Young People and Education (20 credits)
Understanding Adults with ASD (20 credits)
Fundamental elements of behaviour change (20 credits)

Optional Modules
Leadership: Theoretical Perspectives (20 credits)
Bilingualism, Literacy and Disciplinary Literacy Development (20 credits)
Leadership for School Improvement and Change (20 credits)
Social Justice in Special Needs Education and Inclusion: A Capability Approach (20 credits)
Leadership in Practice (20 credits)
Deconstructing Special Needs Education and Inclusion (20 credits)
Epistemic Injustice: The Ethics of Knowing in Special Educational Needs/ Inclusion (20 credits)
Concepts and principles of behaviour analysis (20 credits)
Digital Literacy and Communication (20 credits)
Behaviour Change in Education and Supervising Others (20 credits)
E-learning: Concepts and Pract (20 credits)
Reflective Practice and Action Research (10 credits)
Curriculum: Theory, Policy and Practice (20 credits)

Graduate
A 2.1 Honours degree or above or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University in any subject discipline.

Applicants with a 2.2 Honours degree or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University may also be considered if they have at least two years of experience in an education, training or relevant context.

Applicants with a lower level of performance in an Honours degree or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University may also be considered if they have at least three years of experience in an education, training or relevant context.

Applicants with a sub-honours degree level qualification or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University may also be considered if they have at least five years of experience in an education, training or relevant context.

Applicants who do not satisfy the above but who are holders of an equivalent approved professional qualification or work experience will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

There are no written examinations. Modules are assessed by a variety of assessment methods, e.g. written assignments, project reports, online multiple-choice tests, or weekly contributions to online fora. Active student participation is required for all modules.

1 year (Full Time), 3 years (Part Time)

Entry Year: 2024/25

Career Prospects
Graduates from this degree have found it beneficial in their workplace when advising colleagues, influencing policy makers and supporting pupils and students with autism and their families, or seeking professional promotion or diversification. Others progress to doctoral-level studies and research or teaching.

Queen's postgraduates reap exceptional benefits. Unique initiatives, such as Degree Plus and Researcher Plus bolster our commitment to employability, while innovative leadership and executive programmes help our students gain key leadership positions both nationally and internationally.