4 Steps To Become a Certified Autism Specialist

Certified autism specialists are licensed professionals who directly work with individuals with autism. With more children being diagnosed with autism now than ever before, there is an increased demand for professionals who are trained in the disorder.

By earning the certification, professionals are able to demonstrate their competency and knowledge in hopes of improving the lives of children or adults with autism.

Learn.org explains the role that certified autism specialists play and informs readers about the necessary steps to become certified in their state.

What is a Certified Autism Specialist?

A certified autism specialist (CAS) is an individual who has the proper education and training to provide services and support for adults and children with autism.

Autism specialists are ultimately responsible for the educational, social, emotional, and behavioral needs of individuals with autism.

Although there are list of other careers that constantly interact with individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), professionals with the certified autism specialists credential are nationally recognized as the true experts in the field. They can be seen working in educational settings, therapist offices, and non-profit organizations.

What Are The Benefits of Earning a CAS Certification?

Gaining a CAS certification offers many benefits that are worth mentioning.

Some of the most common benefits are:

• perform a higher standard of care for individuals with autism
• enhance your professional reputation and credibility
• more career opportunities and higher career advancement
• higher salaries and increased earning potential

What are the Responsibilities?

Certified autism specialists are responsible for an endless amount of tasks, such as:

• assessing students' skills and determining their educational needs
• adapting general lessons to meet students' needs
• planning activities that are specific to each student's abilities
• teaching and mentoring students as a class, in small groups, and one-on-one
• discussing students' progress with parents, other teachers, counselors, and administrators
• preparing and helping students transition from grade to grade and from school to life outside of school

CAS Job Opportunities

Many professionals who work in the fields of autism and mental health choose to obtain a CAS certification.

These professionals may include:

• special education teachers
• doctors
• psychologists
• counselors
• physical therapists
• speech/language pathologists

What Skills Do I Need?

In order to succeed as a certified autism specialist, there are a set of skills that an individual needs to fulfill their role.

Some of the most common skills are:

• analytical thinking
• knowledge of developmental disorders
• passion
• empathy
• communication

What are the Educational Requirements?

Certified autism specialists are required to earn a bachelor's degree or a master's degree in a qualifying subject.

The degree must be in one of the following areas of study:

• special education
• education
• educational psychology
• human development
• early childhood education
• speech/language pathology
• occupational therapy
• physical therapy
• social work

In addition to earning a degree, candidates must also have the necessary experience hours and pass the official credentialing exam.

What Steps Do I Need to Take to Become One?

1. Earn a Qualifying Bachelor's or Master's Degree and Gain the Required Experience

In order to qualify for the CAS credential, candidates must first hold a bachelor's degree or a master's degree. For a bachelor's degree, candidates must have at least 10 years of experience. If they hold a master's degree, two years of experience is required in order to be certified. Work experience must relate to either directly working with or supporting individuals with autism.

2. Complete CE Specialty Training

In addition to the educational requirements, the application process also requires at least 14 hours of continuing education that is related to autism.

The hours must be completed through the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).

3. Pass the Autism Competency Exam

The next step consists of all candidates passing the Autism Competency Exam.

The exam has a total of 60 questions and covers topics in:

• autism
• behavior
• program development
• early childhood identification
• parent communication
• comorbidities

Candidates have 90 minutes to complete the exam. A passing score of at least 80% is required for the exam.

4. Pay a Registration Fee

In order to obtain the initial certification and keep it current, candidates must pay an initial fee of $495.00 and an annual renewal fee of $199.00 every two years.

Candidates must also maintain their continuing education hours with at least 14 CE units every two years.

Become a Certified Autism Specialist Today

Certified autism specialists are licensed professionals who are work directly with children and adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

If you are an individual who has a passion for helping students with ASD, please enroll into an appropriate degree program today to get started.