The IBCCES Board of Directors has approved 6 areas of autism competency for the Certified Autism Specialist program.

The exam for the Certified Autism Specialist program has been strategically designed around these areas.  It is not expected that an individual obtain CE hours in all areas, but activity should fall within one or more of the competency areas.  Any questions regarding the competencies or about CE qualifications should be directed to customer support at IBCCES.  If you would like to submit a course for consideration that is not currently on our approved list, please note that it must also meet the standards outlined in the Delivery Standards and Requirements.  The IBCCES board reserves the right to accept or deny any course upon evaluation.

Areas of Autism Competency for the Certified Autism Specialist and Autism Certificate program:

Autism Overview icon

Autism Overview

  • Characteristics and common needs
  • Diagnosis of ASD
  • Recognition of individual strengths and breadth of abilities
  • Treatment strategies and supports

Behavior Competency

  • Understand factors that influence behavior
  • Positive behavior supports and intervention

Program Development icon

Program Development Competency

  • Individual Education Plan (IEP)
  • Specific Intervention and teaching strategies related to autism
  • Transition and adult supports

Early Childhood Identification

Early Childhood Identification Competency

  • Inclusive education and discernible markers
  • Early identification strategies

Parent/Caregiver Communication Competency

  • Understand strategies that increase communication
  • Empathy and awareness
  • Understanding parent/caregiver experience

Comorbidities/Co-Occurring Conditions Competency

  • Review of potential co-occurring needs and conditions
  • Anxiety, ADHD and others

Course Delivery Standards and Requirements

All CE courses submitted for consideration must include the following:

  • Detailed course description that is in line with one or more of the Ten Areas of Competency
  • Clearly stated learning objectives
  • Include hourly agenda and/or progression of course
  • Sign in and attendance assurance process
  • Presenters must possess necessary qualifications
  • Clearly stated CEU Completion Process