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

  • Types of ASD, Signs and Symptoms, Characteristics, Red Flags
  • Diagnosis of an autism spectrum disorder
  • Recognition of individual strengths in an individual with autism
  • Treatment strategies for individuals with autism

Behavior Competency

  • Behavior modification
  • Understand factors that influence behavior
  • Positive behavior supports and intervention
  • Crisis Intervention
  • Cognitive Behavior Therapy

Program Development icon

Program Development Competency

  • Individual Education Plan (IEP)
  • Specific Intervention and teaching strategies related to autism
  • Assessment tools used to measure progress
  • Various treatment strategies related to ASD (including, but not limited to: behavior strategies, Floortime, RDI, TEACCH, etc.)
  • Transition and adult supports

Early Childhood Identification

Early Childhood Identification Competency

  • Inclusive education for pre-school learners
  • Discernible Markers
  • Early identification strategies

Parent Communication Competency

  • Understand strategies that increase communication
  • Social skills
  • Empathy and awareness
  • Understanding parent experience

Comorbidities Competency

  • Review of potential comorbid disorders
  • Anxiety and ADHD overview
  • Success strategies for parents and caregivers
  • Relationship to Executive Function

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