Required Courses for an Endorsement in Autism (6 hrs.)
All candidates seeking an endorsement from WVDOE for Autism are required to hold a Multi-categorical endorsement/certification.
- SPED 515: Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorder 3 hrs.
- SPED 516: Methods for Teaching Students with Autism (Prerequisite SPED 515) 3 hrs.
All candidates seeking an endorsement from the WV BOE in Special Education (multi categorical) are required to pass the PRAXIS II: Multi-Categorical Special Education (BD excluding Autism, MI, SLD) Candidates who already hold a master’s degree from an accredited institution and teacher certification/licensure may pursue a content specialization in multi categorical education by completing the 21 hours of pedagogy.
All candidates seeking an endorsement from the WV BOE in Special Education (multi categorical) must hold, qualify for or simultaneously complete a content specialization in biology, chemistry, early childhood, elementary education, English, general science, mathematics, physics, and/or social studies as recognized on a Professional Teaching Certificate. If an individual does not hold any of the endorsements previously identified, they must complete a restricted content endorsement offered through the WVDE in biology, chemistry, early childhood, elementary education, English, general science, mathematics, physics, and/or social studies in conjunction with the Special Education Program. See West Virginia Policy 5100 10.3.d.
Clinical/practicum experiences will be aligned with West Virginia Policy 5202 and the West Virginia Professional Teaching Standards (WVPTS). Clinical/practicum experience assessments are aligned with the Specialty Program Assessments (SPA) as required by the National Council of Accreditation for Teacher Education (NCATE) standards. All appropriate clinical/practicum experiences must be successfully completed.
Special Education Multi-Categorical / Autism Progression Sheet