Educational Opportunities

The Center for Adults with Autism is a resource for those seeking to increase knowledge about the unique issues facing young adults on the autism spectrum. Faculty, staff, and students at the university, as well as individuals in the community and in Maryland benefit from educational opportunities that foster greater understanding of these issues through the following venues:

Mentor Training.  Faculty with expertise in autism prepare Towson University students to serve as supportive partners for participants in the Center’s programs. The mentors gain a heightened awareness of the strengths and challenges of young adults on the autism spectrum and take this awareness into other settings, including their current and future work roles.

Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Autism Studies. The College of Health Professions offers a 16-credit certificate covering contemporary issues of individuals on the autism spectrum and their families across the lifespan. Faculty instructors collaborate with the Center to provide educational experiences for students.

Interdisciplinary Case Study. Graduate students participate in a facilitated discussion of autism in an interdisciplinary forum, complemented by presentations of young adults on the autism spectrum, family members and experienced professionals.

Internships and Practicum Experiences. Students from occupational therapy, speech-language therapy, kinesiology, marketing, psychology, and other programs gain expertise in working with young adults on the autism spectrum through program development, evaluations, and clinical interventions.

Towson University Faculty and Staff Support. The Center Director and other faculty associated with the Center provide educational sessions and consultation to faculty and staff regarding challenges faced by Towson University students on the autism spectrum.

Conference and Community Presentations. Faculty from the Center disseminate information and provide resource materials about model programs and critical issues for young adults on the autism spectrum.

	Speaker Events. The Center is committed to     hosting prominent speakers to increase awareness of the complex issues facing young adults on the autism spectrum.
Dr. Valerie Paridiz, November 2008