Towson University United States

Autism Studies (Ph.D.)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree PhD
Closing soon March 2027

Course Overview

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Autism Studies at Towson University Maryland is designed for aspiring researchers and leaders committed to advancing knowledge and practice in autism. This interdisciplinary program addresses critical issues across education, health care, and policy, preparing you to drive meaningful change and improve outcomes for individuals on the autism spectrum. You will delve into foundational and contemporary perspectives, family collaboration, and ethical considerations, gaining the expertise to contribute to a more inclusive and supportive society. This PhD is ideal for those seeking to deepen their understanding and impact within the field of autism research and advocacy.

This full-time, on-campus Ph.D. program spans four years, immersing you in advanced research methodologies, quantitative and qualitative data analysis, and grant writing. You will engage in applied research projects, potentially focusing on areas such as family-focused program development or action research in special education, guided by Towson University Maryland's expert faculty. Throughout your doctoral journey, you will develop sophisticated research acumen and a nuanced perspective on autism. Graduates are prepared for impactful careers in academia, research institutions, policy development, and leadership roles within autism-focused organizations.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Ph.D. program in Autism Studies offers a comprehensive exploration of the field, beginning with interdisciplinary foundations and historical perspectives. Students will delve into family collaboration, focusing on relationships and professional partnerships, and examine autism across the lifespan, from infancy through adulthood. The curriculum also covers crucial aspects of laws, policy, ethics, and advocacy, alongside rigorous training in research methods and statistical analysis. A cognate area allows for specialized study, culminating in a dissertation to advance knowledge in autism.

1 Interdisciplinary Foundations of Autism:

Historical and Current Perspectives of Autism

2 Family Collaboration:

Applied Family Relationships
Family-Professional Collaboration
Working with Families of Students with Disabilities

3 Autism in Children:

Contemporary Issues for Infants and Children on the Autism Spectrum
Educating Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders

4 Autism in Teens and Adults:

Contemporary Issues for Adolescents and Adults on the Autism Spectrum
Transition for Students with ASD Across the Lifespan

5 Laws, Policy, Ethics, and Advocacy:

Ethical and Legal Issues in Clinical Practice
Ethical, Legal and Professional Issues in Psychology
Leading Change in Autism: Advocacy, Law, and Education Policy

6 Research & Research Methods:

Research Methods, Design, and Analysis
Advanced Research Methods in Occupation-Based Practice
Advanced Measurements and Statistics in Education
Data Analysis in Occupation-Based Research and Evidence-Based Practice
Advanced Qualitative Research Methods
Qualitative Methods
Qualitative Research: Occupation and Life Narrative
Grant and Community Writing
Applied Research Methods in Family Science
Project in Family-Focused Program Development
Action Research in Special Education
Applied Research Methods and Skills I
Graduate Project in Family Studies
Special Topics in Occupational Science
Introduction to Research Methods in Counseling
Advanced Experimental Design I
Advanced Experimental Design II
Multivariate Methods
Independent Investigation in Psychology

7 Cognate:

Geographies of Health
Management of Post-Acute Care Services
Health Advocacy Across Service Settings
Communication, Behavior, and Participation Linkages for People on the Autism Spectrum
Program Design and Implementation in Autism
Developmental Psychology
Advanced Multicultural Psychology
Advanced Multicultural Counseling
Sociological Insight
Developmental Human Learning: A Lifespan Approach
Formal and Informal Assessment Techniques for Students with ASD
Social Thinking and Connectedness for Students on the Autism Spectrum
Language Development and Disorders from Birth Through Preschool
Language Development and Disorders in School-Aged Children
Autism Spectrum Disorders & Speech-Language Pathology
Written Language Development and Disorders
Augmentative and Alternative Communication

8 Dissertation Study:

Dissertation

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,244.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,244.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,244.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,244.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 96,976.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 3,600.00 - USD 5,400.00
Transport USD 840.00 - USD 1,440.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,040.00
Estimated Total USD 5,640.00 - USD 8,880.00

Living cost estimates are based on Baltimore Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

90%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Adult & Continuing EducationBiotechnology & GenomicsCorporate Training & DevelopmentCurriculum & Instructional DesignDrug Discovery & ResearchEducation Policy & AdministrationHome Health & Long‑Term CareMental Health & CounselingPharmaceutical ManufacturingPublic Health & Epidemiology

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Baltimore County Public Schools

Johns Hopkins Hospital Baltimore

MedStar Health

Rochester Regional Health

Why Study Autism Studies (Ph.D.) at Towson University

What makes this program stand out

March 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in March 2027

Life at Towson University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Autism Studies (Ph.D.) at Towson University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. On-campus work doesn't require a separate permit, but off-campus work may need university approval after the first year.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enter the program, international applicants must meet specific English proficiency requirements. Accepted tests include Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE, with varying score criteria for each.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates may pursue roles such as research scientist, policy analyst, university professor, autism consultant, or program director.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Ph.D. in Autism Studies focuses on critical issues in education and healthcare while preparing students for leadership roles. You'll engage in advanced research that aims to improve outcomes for individuals on the autism spectrum.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Autism Studies Ph.D. program at Towson University has an intake month in March each year. Ensure you prepare your application in advance to meet the admission deadlines.
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