MSc Autism Spectrum Disorders
Queen's University Belfast
Key Information
Campus location
Belfast, United Kingdom
Languages
English
Study format
Blended
Duration
1 - 3 year
Pace
Full time, Part time
Tuition fees
GBP 19,100 / per year *
Application deadline
Request info
Earliest start date
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* International fee
Introduction
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 is hosted by the Centre for Behaviour Analysis at Queens University. In line with the needs identified in the Northern Ireland Executive's Autism Strategy (2013-2020) and associated Action Plan, 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.
Autism Spectrum Disorders Highlights
Our educational research has been ranked 4th within the UK in relation to research intensity with 87% assessed as ‘internationally excellent or world leading’ (REF, 2014).
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Admissions
Accreditations
Facilities
Curriculum
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 15,000 - 20,000 word 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 (these are available online) and two optional modules. A menu of optional modules is available: some of the optional modules are taught online, while some are taught in-class and require attendance on the Belfast campus.
Course Details
Core Modules (all 20 CATS points):
An Introduction to Research Methods: Children, Young People and Education (online)
This module will provide you with an understanding of differing perspectives that underpin quantitative and qualitative methodologies and is required preparation for your research dissertation.
Fundamental Elements of Behaviour Change (online)
We will focus on pedagogical methods and practices for inclusion that emanate from the scientific discipline of behaviour analysis. This includes a range of pedagogical methods, including intensive behaviour interventions, incidental teaching, contingency management, precision teaching, dealing with challenging behaviours, and integrating systems support. We will also introduce the practice of measurement of behaviour change and displaying and interpreting behavioural data.
Understanding Adults with ASD (online)
You will be assisted to develop and extend your skills in understanding the needs of adults with ASD and their families. We will examine issues of identification, adult diagnosis, mental health, and transitions, as well as challenging behaviours, communication, and sensory issues, relationships, sexuality, self-advocacy, and neuro-diversity. We will consider the implications of an ASD diagnosis for the nuclear and extended family, for schools, homes and employment.
Understanding Children with ASD (online)
You will be assisted to develop and extend your skills in understanding the needs of children (aged 0-18) with autism and their families. We will examine issues of definition, identification, diagnosis and assessment, and early intervention, as well as communication, and sensory issues across childhood and adolescence. We will also consider the implications of an autism diagnosis for the nuclear and extended family, for teaching and learning in school and home-based programmes as well as transitions between school and home.
Two optional taught modules may be chosen from the Educational Studies (MEd) programme. Some modules require weekly on-campus attendance.
The topic for the Masters dissertation is to be chosen by the student, in discussion with their supervisor.
Two optional modules may be chosen from the Educational Studies (MEd) programme.
Learning and Teaching
Learning opportunities available with this course are outlined below:
Full-day workshops and online
Some of the modules are taught in 3-day block workshops on campus and some are taught in a blended format (i.e., online with an optional on-campus workshop).
Assessment
Assessments associated with this course are outlined below:
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.
Program Tuition Fee
Career Opportunities
Career Development
Employability The programme provides a range of specialised practical skills for teaching and supporting pupils and students in a variety of settings; the teamwork skills needed to support and advise colleagues; and, the knowledge and understanding of the special needs of individuals with autism.
Career Prospects
Graduates from this degree have found it beneficial in their workplace when advising colleagues, influencing policymakers 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.
Student Testimonials
English Language Requirements
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