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Graduate Certificate/Diploma/MA in Autism Studies

Note: The 'At a Glance' section below is indicative only.

Available: Part-time

Level: 9

Duration: 1 year

Location: MIC Limerick

Delivery Mode:

Blended

Assessment:

Certificate: Essay, presentation, case study & sample supports for autistic individuals. Diploma: Research proposal and review of current literature. MA: Research proposal & dissertation.

  • Programme Overview
  • Programme Content
  • Entry Requirements
  • How to Apply
  • Ask a Question

Programme Overview

The Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma, and MA in Autism Studies are accredited by the University of Limerick and are delivered as a partnership between Mary Immaculate College and Middletown Centre for Autism. They are taught by experienced professionals from both MIC and Middletown Centre for Autism using both online and face-to-face teaching methods. Both agencies recognise the need for high quality graduate professional development and research opportunities in autism studies in Ireland/Northern Ireland, and offer the programmes in response to this need.

Key Features

Mary Immaculate is a College of Education and the Liberal Arts and has been providing teacher education since 1898. Mary Immaculate has considerable experience and expertise in the provision of teacher education in the area of Special and Inclusive Education including autism. The College’s Department of Educational Psychology, Inclusive and Special Education is led by Dr Jennifer McMahon.

Middletown Centre for Autism is funded by the Department of Education and Skills and the Department of Education in Northern Ireland to promote excellence in the education of people with autism. As such, the Centre works on a referral basis with children who have complex needs in school and the Centre is one of the main providers of training for parents and educational professionals on the island of Ireland.

Graphic for Graduate Certificate/Diploma in Autism Studies - lecturer and students sitting around a table with books and notes open on the table..
Cert/Diploma/MA in Autism
These programmes use both face-to-face and online teaching methods.

Programme Information

Graduate Certificate in Autism Studies

The one-year Level 9 Graduate Certificate in Autism Studies (GCAS) is designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of autism and explores overlapping areas from experiential, educational and supportive perspectives.

Graduate Diploma in Autism Studies 

The one-year Level 9 Graduate Diploma in Autism Studies (GDAS) is designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of research methods and current topics in autism research. This unique programme combines training and teaching in practical research methods, the impact of research on current practices, and the opportunity to complete a project incorporating a practical model for reflection on practice.

MA in Autism Studies - Due to run Academic Year 2024-2025

The one-year Level 9 MA in Autism Studies is designed to equip students with the requisite knowledge and skills to design and conduct an empirical study on a topic within the field of autism studies. Students will develop expertise in research design, data collection, and analysis, and will demonstrate the capacity to interpret and critique research findings in the context of policy, practice, and research.

The live component of the programmes will be delivered on campus in MIC and online. Programme timetables will be made available to students in advance of the academic year. Students will also be required to engage weekly with a range of research papers, podcasts, videos and reflective exercises as part of the programme. The online content is delivered through, and supported by, Mary Immaculate College’s Moodle platform.

What does the GCAS/GDAS/MAAS qualify me to do?

GCAS



The Graduate Certificate in Autism Studies (GCAS) programme is designed to provide a graduate certificate award to all people interested in studying autism. It is not geared to any particular profession or job. The award acknowledges an in-depth exploration of autism and the characteristics, theories and interventions that support working well with people who have autism.

For particular jobs or promotion opportunities you may apply for, the GCAS award allows you to make a case or argument that you have evidence (in the form of an academic qualification) of being more knowledgeable about autism than competitors may be.

GDAS

Similarly to the GCAS, the Graduate Diploma in Autism Studies (GDAS) programme is not geared towards a particular profession or job. Rather, it is designed to support students who wish to further their expertise within the area of autism research. The GDAS will enable students, independently and with others, to critically evaluate autism research and develop methods of integrating research into daily practice. It will develop students’ knowledge and understanding of the key milestones in autism research and how these have impacted on practice. Students will develop an understanding of the critical nature of research and how it is used to inform both practice and policy. Critically, students on the GDAS will be empowered to foster an inclusive and equitable approach to research which promotes the voice of the autistic person, reflecting a ‘nothing about us without us’ philosophy.

MA 

Consistent with both GCAS and GDAS, the MA is not designed with a specific profession or student profile in mind. This is in an effort to ensure that students from a wide range of professional and personal backgrounds can engage in cutting edge research in the field of autism studies, and apply their research in whatever professional or personal context is most relevant and appropriate for them.

Graphic for Graduate Certificate/Diploma in Autism Studies
GCAS Student Testimonial
Siobhán is a graduate of the GCAS programme and a current student on the GDAS programme.
Graphic for Graduate Certificate/Diploma in Autism Studies
GCAS Student Testimonial
Alan is a graduate of GCAS with a background & training in engineering & mobile product design.
Graphic for Graduate Certificate/Diploma in Autism Studies
GCAS Student Testimonial
Gina is a graduate of the GCAS and GDAS programmes.

Lillian Durack, GCAS Graduate

"My youngest child was diagnosed with ASC IN 2018 and since then my goal has been to be the best possible support to her. I decided to enrol in the GCAS initially to extend my understanding of Autism and to obtain the knowledge to establish effective home supports. It was the best decision I ever made. I have learned so much throughout the programme, all of which is beneficial to my daughter but also to me in the progression of my career. The programme content is excellent and also highly interesting. The lectures are engaging and there is variety between live and recorded lectures. The topics are covered extensively and the voice of the autistic individual is always at the forefront.

"I have no doubt that the programme will benefit me greatly as I continue with further learning.

"The support from programme lecturers and coordinators is excellent and while we have missed out on face to face sessions this year due to Covid, I have never felt like I was alone. I have had constant contact with other students, staff from Mary Immaculate and Middletown. 

"I would recommend anyone considering this programme to go for it. It is a decision you will not regret."

Contacts

Mary Immaculate College

Acting Co-Ordinator: Ms Kim Maguire

E: Kim.Maguire@mic.ul.ie

 

Administration: Ms Elaine Gleeson

E: AutismStudies@mic.ul.ie

 

Middletown Centre for Autism (NI)

Majella Nugent

T: +44 28 3751 5750

E: GCAS@middletownautism.com

Programme Content

Graduate Certificate in Autism Studies
Understanding the Lived Autistic Experiences: The aim of this module is to provide students with a comprehensive overview of autism. This will include how autism presents and is diagnosed, both in adults and children; the core challenges associated with autism and how these impact on the child and the adult; additional difficulties that people with autism can experience; how autism interfaces with other difficulties. Students will explore the importance of understanding these differences when supporting an autistic individual.
Visual Learning and Environmental Support for Autistic People: The aim of this module is to provide students with the theory and practical application of the use of structure and visual teaching strategies for children and young people with autism across learning environments. Participants will gain practical knowledge and an understanding of the theory and research that supports this practice. This will result in a set of core competencies, as well as practical experience in the development of resources that support the thinking and learning style of individuals with autism.
Understanding Behaviour and Sensory Processing: The aim of this module is to provide students with an increased understanding of the positive strategies that can be implemented to support an autistic person. This will include consideration of the particular sensory processing differences that autistic people may experience. It will also include an introductory overview of the neural mechanisms that modulate sensory input, the presentation of sensory processing differences and strategies that can be used to support autistic people who experience sensory processing differences. Participants will learn the importance of analysing the environment and adapting it to enable an autistic person enjoy meaningful participation in the events or activities being offered.
Supporting Anxiety for Autistic People: The aim of this module is to provide participants with an overview of the relationship between autism and anxiety. This will involve a review of how the core features of autism can trigger an anxiety response; an examination of a model of the anxiety process and a comprehensive appraisal of current anxiety management strategies. This is all delivered within the context of current research and best practice in the area of autism and anxiety management.
Graduate Diploma in Autism Studies
Autism Research and Practice: The aim of this module is to provide students with an overview of the key research-based milestones in autism and how research has and continues to change practice and developing our understanding of Autism. This module will encourage students to create a culture of research into practice and students will explore other research trends.
Research Methods: This module will introduce students to research methodology, such as qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods of research. This module will focus on developing research skills and conducting desk-based research using a review of relevant literature. This process is an essential pre-requisite to students conducting their own research project involving a review of literature in the second semester of the programme.
Research in Autism: This module will teach students the process of reflective practice and enable students to complete a review of relevant literature on a topic of interest to them in autism. This process is intended to prepare students to pursue further study and research within the field of autism studies, whilst also bridging the gap between research and practice.
MA in Autism Studies
Principles and Practices of Research: The aim of this module is for students to develop the range of skills required to conduct a research project which both rigorous and inclusive, in that it expressly addresses the needs and interests of the autism community. Students will develop their ability to interrogate a range of literature and policy, and to develop a research question which is relevant and meaningful to contemporary discourse in autism research. Students will gain familiarity with a range of research methodologies, both qualitative and quantitative, and will develop a critical understanding of the research process. Students will join with other Masters' students to develop their ability to interrogate a range of literature and policy, and develop a research question that is relevant.
Dissertation Modules 1 and 2: Within these modules, students will design and conduct an empirical research project on a topic of their choosing. Students will work under the close supervision of faculty from Mary Immaculate College and/or Middletown Center for Autism, and will receive mentoring and feedback on an ongoing basis. These modules include workshops, discussion sessions, and lectures, alongside supervision.

Assessment Modes

Students will be required to engage weekly with a range of content (e.g. lectures, readings, videos, etc.). The online content is delivered through and supported by MIC’s Moodle platform. All students will be enrolled as students of Mary Immaculate College and will be required to complete formal assessment prior to the award of the Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma, and MA in Autism Studies. Successful completion of each programme provides applicants with 30 ECTS at Level 9.

Entry Requirements

Graduate Certificate in Autism Studies

A Level 8 qualification or equivalent in any discipline or a Bachelor’s degree at Level 7 or 8 is required for entry to this programme.

For English language requirements, click here.

Frequently Asked Questions - Graduate Certificate in Autism Studies

The course costs €2658 for the year.

Yes. Any queries about fees should be sent to StudentFees@mic.ul.ie.

A level 8 qualification or equivalent in any discipline or a Bachelor’s degree at Level 7 or 8 is required for entry to this programme. If your degree has gone through an exam board by our closing date, we will accept the application.

The course typically starts the last Saturday in August or the first Saturday in September. Dates will be given to students when accepted on the course and when the course board has agreed dates for the academic year.

The course starts in September and finishes up in April.

The course starts with orientation in Mary Immaculate College for all students. Module One typically runs over six weeks. There is usually a mid-term break for students (one week off) before commencing Module Two, which runs for six weeks. The first semester typically finishes for students the first week in December. Semester Two usually begins the second week in January, Module Three runs for seven weeks. There is typically a week off between Module Three and Module Four (at the end of February). Module Four typically finishes by the end of April.

This course does not qualify you for a particular career such as teaching. It provides you with very valuable skills to support individuals with autism in any setting thereby giving you ‘an edge’ over others when it comes to job applications or job promotions. We have had students in the past who were teachers, doctors, librarians, special needs assistants, nurses, therapists, social workers, parents and siblings. Many have used this qualification to better support the individuals with autism with whom they work or live. Others have used the qualification for promotion or for entry to other courses.

Feedback from students indicates that the course takes approximately nine hours of study per week. This includes engagement with online presentations, readings, podcasts and discussion fora.

There is an assignment for each module and students are also required to contribute to various discussions on the online platform (Moodle) each week.

There is a session during orientation Saturday which introduces you to Moodle, our online platform. You will also meet our course Moderator who runs the discussions and activities for you during the year who will provide some support for engagement in Moodle work.

Graduate Diploma in Autism Studies

This module is designed to build on the existing Graduate Certificate in Autism Studies programme.

A Bachelor’s Degree at Level 7 or 8 in any discipline AND a post-graduate qualification in Autism Studies with a minimum of 30 ECTS and a minimum award which aligns to a 2.2. Graduates of the GCAS programme must earn a minimum 2.2 award to be eligible for entry to the GDAS programme.

In cases where the applicant has not completed the GCAS programme but can demonstrate comparable expertise and training, the applicant can be assessed on prior learning in line with University policy and procedures on the Recognition of Prior Learning. The admission procedures will include an interview wherein the prior learning and experience of applicants in education will be assessed.

For English language requirements, click here.

MA in Autism Studies

This programme is designed to build on both the existing GCAS and GDAS programmes. Graduates of the GDAS programme must earn a minimum 2.1 award to be eligible for entry to the MA programme.

Applicants will be considered for direct entry into the MA in Autism Studies programme on the basis of completion of the GCAS and GDAS programmes. [This includes the requirement for a level 7 or 8 (Bachelor Pass or Honours Degree in any subject area) or equivalent (nursing certificate prior to degree-based nursing education)]. Graduates of the GDAS programme must earn a minimum 2.1 award to be eligible for entry to the MA in Autism Studies.

In cases where the applicant does not meet normal entry requirements, the applicant can be assessed on prior learning in line with University policy and procedures on the Recognition of Prior Learning. The admission procedures will include an interview wherein the prior learning and experience of applicants in the field of autism studies will be assessed.

For English language requirements, click here.

How to Apply

Applications for September 2025 (Graduate Certificate and Graduate Diploma) are now open.

While the Graduate Certificate in Autism Studies (GCAS) programme is offered each academic year, the Graduate Diploma in Autism Studies (GDAS) and MA programmes are offered on alternating years, as follows:

  • Academic Year 2023-24: GCAS and GDAS
  • Academic Year 2024-25: GCAS and MA
  • Academic Year 2025-26: GCAS and GDAS
  • Academic Year 2026-27: GCAS and MA

Please Note: This programme is not open to applications from non-EU countries. See International programme listing here.

For fees click here.

Applications for Graduate Certificate/ Graduate Diploma in Autism Studies (GCAS)

Complete all the steps below:

  1. Download and complete the application form (application fee Payment Ref Number required).
  2. Please pay the non-refundable €50 application fee using Stripe, and return the completed application along with the supporting documents below by email only to  TaughtProgrammes@mic.ul.ie

What to include with your Application

You will be required to send:

  1. University transcripts and certificates (and applicants may be required to name one or more referees on request)
  2. If English is not your first language/language of qualification, you will require:
  • English translation of transcript/qualification
  • Your English Language Competency Certificate (Academic IELTS or equivalent)

Applications will close on 27 June 2025.

Applications for MA in Autism Studies

MA in Autism Studies - due to run Academic Year 2026-27

To apply for the MA you need to have completed the Graduate Diploma in Autism Studies (GDAS) 

For applicants who have not completed both the GCAS and GDAS Programmes, but can demonstrate comparable expertise and training (e.g. GCAS programme and an additional graduate programme in autism studies or a related field), the applicant can be assessed on prior learning in line with University policy and procedures on the Recognition of Prior Learning. Such applicants will be required to submit a research proposal alongside the application form.

Contact
Mary Immaculate College
Administration: Elaine Gleeson
AutismStudies@mic.ul.ie
Contact
Mary Immaculate College
Acting Co-ordinator: Ms Kim Maguire
Kim.Maguire@mic.ul.ie
Contact
Middletown Centre for Autism (NI)
Majella Nugent
+44 28 3751 5750
GCAS@middletownautism.com

Ask a Question

  • Programme Overview
  • Programme Content
  • Entry Requirements
  • How to Apply
  • Ask a Question

Mary Immaculate College
South Circular Road
Limerick, Ireland
V94 VN26
Tel: +353 61 204300