About the Course
- Available Study Modes
Course Description
The postgraduate certificate (PGCert) in Autism is a joint programme between NSPC and Middlesex University, leading to a PGCert awarded by Middlesex University. This one-year course is entirely online.
The programme aims to:
• Provide students with the neurobiology, psychology, and sociology theory necessary for understanding and helping autistic people.
• Explore the concepts of the social disability model, neurodiversity, and neuro-affirmative practice, and how this relates to autism theory, research, and services.
• Examine and critique developmental theories in relation to the experience of autistic and neurodivergent people across the lifespan.
• Instil the ability to critically evaluate evidence and to apply it to practical issues raised by autistic people.
• Develop the ability to apply theoretical understanding to practice.
• Deepen student’s knowledge of, and their ability to apply, accurate and appropriate interpersonal, ethical and cultural sensitivity, and empathic understanding.
For information on possible learning adaptations that we can offer neurodivergent students and students with a disability or chronic health condition, contact Dawn Querstret ([email protected]).
This course follows the Middlesex Research Degree Regulations available here: https://www.mdx.ac.uk/about-us/policies/
Information on our open days can be found here: nspc.org.uk/course-directory/open-days/
Application Deadlines:
September Cohorts (begin your studies in September) - application deadline is the 1st of August
January Cohorts (begin your student in January) - application deadline is the 30th of November
Apply Now
Programme of Study
Autism
This module critically considers historical and current diagnostic criteria, including examining this from a social disability model and critical autism studies perspective. Students will explore the defining features of autism, as well as the diversity in how autistic individuals experience the world (e.g., issues of intersectionality). We will consider what effective support looks like for autistic individuals and critically examines some of the historical and current approaches from a neurodiversity affirmative perspective. The module develops students' ability to critically consider research and theories of autism, and how this can enhance the support of autistic people.
The summative assessment for this module includes a 1000-word case study and a 1500-word theoretical essay.
Neuropsychological and neurobiological approaches to atypical development
This module aims to provide all the necessary biological and psychosocial knowledge for a student to be able to read and understand the scientific literature on the causes, development, and lived experience of neurodevelopmental conditions. Giving students a foundational knowledge base, that also assists completion of other modules of the course. The module will critically examine the research into neurodevelopmental conditions, including from a neuro-affirmative perspective.
The summative assessment for this module includes a 2000-word theoretical essay.
Development Through the Life Span
Autism, ADHD and neurodivergence involves issues of development and within this module students will critically consider developmental theories, including how physical, emotional, cognitive, and social development interact. The module will examine traditional concepts of development and developmental theory and critically evaluate these in relation to the experience of neurodivergent individuals across the lifespan. As well as considering non-normative ideas of development and existential reflections on the purpose of development as an unfolding project.
The summative assessment for this module includes a 2000-word theoretical essay.
And ONE of the following modules:
Social, cultural, and ethical issues
This module will cover cultural variations, and the impact of social organization and culture on morals, values, and social expectation. It will enable students to make appropriate decisions about consent, confidentiality, discrimination, exploitation, fairness, duty of care, and other ethical and moral quandaries in professional practice.
The summative assessment for this module includes a 2000-word theoretical essay.
OR
Research Methods Module
This module will provide an understanding of the contribution of research to the growth of knowledge and the effectiveness of practice. It will give the student a grounding in research approaches, with particular attention to the strengths and weaknesses of qualitative and quantitative approaches.
The summative assessment for this module includes writing a research proposal.
OR
Intellectual Disabilities
Students will learn about the presentations and aetiology of intellectual disability or impairment and the impact of these on the individual. It also looks at co-morbidity of intellectual impairment with other neurodevelopmental conditions and effective support and services for individuals. The module will also consider the social model of disability, as well as examining the importance of neuro-affirmative approaches. Students will also consider related issues such as the criminal justice system and safeguarding.
The summative assessment for this module includes a 2000-word theoretical essay.
*The order of modules on your personal course plan may differ from the above depending on what optional module you take and whether you begin your studies in September or January.
Accreditation and Careers
This programme is quality assured by Middlesex University and you will receive a Middlesex award on successful completion. You can view the Middlesex Research Degree Regulations here.
The courses also cover the curriculum within the “Expertise Level” of training as outlined by the Scottish Government / NHS for Education Scotland Training Plan for Autism (the most comprehensive guidelines on autism training to date).
This postgraduate course provides medical, mental health, healthcare, social care, occupational, and education-focused professionals with specialist knowledge they can then apply in their fields of practice. Developing a deep understanding of autism can open career opportunities in areas where neurodivergent understanding is critical, but this course alone does not equip you to work therapeutically with autistic individuals. If you are already trained to work therapeutically with clients, this course will provide a deep understanding and knowledge of autism which can then be integrated into your existing practice. The course also enhances the skills and deepens the knowledge of those already working as autism/neurodiversity specialists. We also have many students who are neurodivergent on our courses, so it is likely you will learn about the lived experience of autism from your peers, should you wish to study with us.
Fees 2025-26
Fees are subject to annual inflationary increases
Year of course | Units to be completed in year | Fee payable per year (if no units have to be repeated) |
1 | 4 units over 3 terms | £4560 |
Validated Courses Additional Charges
Application Fee | £50 non-refundable |
Acceptance Deposit | £100 which will be deducted from the initial invoice when you start the course. It is non-refundable if you do not start. |
APEL Fee is only applicable if your claim for prior learning is approved and will replace the tuition fee for that unit. | £200 per submission |
Instalment Plan | £20 per Unit |
Late changes to Course Plan | £50 |
Professional registration | At own expense |
Books | At own expense |
Please note : Students on validated programmes are not eligible for Student Finance or DSA
Students who are employed by NHS may be eligible to receive a 10% discount
Entry Requirements
- A good Bachelors degree in any field, or a higher degree such as a PGDip (equivalent experience may be acceptable)
- Fluent English: IELTS level 7 or above in all categories (or equivalent)
- Personal suitability to be determined at interview
- Reliable internet connection
How You Study
The course is delivered wholly online. Modules are undertaken using a bespoke learning platform called Moodle. The theory modules are mainly asynchronous, so can easily fit around a busy life or caring commitments, and the course is accessible worldwide, as long as you have a reliable Internet connection.
Students work through weekly materials online, posting and discussing in the forum with the group and tutor. Students will have a weekly (optional) online chat with tutors and other students, at a time and day decided between group members.
It is possible to apply for a PGCert in Autism, or a PGDip or MSc in Autism and Neurodivergence. We also offer a PG Cert in Attention Hyperactivity Disorder.
