Autism Studies & Intervention

Creating an Understanding World of Advocates

One in every 59 children are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), a developmental disorder that affects communication and behavior. As a part of Taylor University’s hands-on Autism Studies & Intervention minor, you can receive quality education and training to become a provider of autism services and treatment for all ages.

This minor is for students interested in careers in the mental health field—such as behavioral analysis, physical therapy, speech pathology, occupational therapy, health and hospital administration, and psychology. However, this minor can apply to areas beyond the social sciences. Compassionate students interested in education, business, music, Christian ministry, and art can add this minor to learn how best to interact with and advocate for people who have difficulty expressing themselves. Autism Studies & Intervention is also a strong foundation for going on to a graduate degree in autism studies. 

A Well-Rounded, Practical Education in Autism Studies and Mental Health

While early detection and intensive intervention treatment is critical for children with ASD, treatment can extend throughout a child’s whole life. Taylor’s Autism Studies curriculum addresses the development trajectory of a full life with ASD. From physical to sensory to psychological services, students in the Autism Studies program study the depth, breath, and co-occurring mental health, physiological, and social concerns for people with ASD.

To enter the mental health field, you will need a variety of knowledge, experience, certifications, and specialized training—and Taylor will help you gain this exposure. Your classes will explore behavioral tracking, progress monitoring, intervention techniques, and Applied Behavior Analysis therapeutic approaches for autism treatment. You will study how to collect and use behavioral data to develop behavioral plans and conduct research on individuals with autism or on your program’s effectiveness. You will also learn how to use applied behavioral principles across multiple environments (home, school, early intervention, clinical) to address various social, behavioral, and communication deficits of individuals with autism.

Your professors will help you connect with licensed field professionals, community practitioners, ASD researchers, families with children with ASD, and individuals with ASD and bring them into your classes as guest speakers. They also will send you out for direct observation experiences and practicums to participate in firsthand, real world situations at child and adult intervention sites. You will have the opportunity to attend state and/or national professional conference and service learning trips.

Students in the Autism Studies & Intervention minor will graduate Taylor with a Registered Behavioral Technician (RBT) certification. This training will increase your earning potential, boost your employability level, and help you prepare for your official licensure.