Autism Spectrum Disorder Research and Student Training

Our graduate speech-language pathology students are encouraged to attend a training hosted by The Autism Program (TAP) of Illinois to learn how to administer the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule-2^nd Edition (ADOS-2). The ADOS-2 is just one tool we utilize when making a diagnosis, and this training provides our students with important clinical knowledge. In addition to the training, graduate students in the autism clinic are under the supervision of experienced, credentialed, and licensed supervisors who guide them through the assessment process.

In addition to clinical work, our students are encouraged to pursue topics that interest them through research and academic experience. Every year, students participate in evidence-based practice presentations through our course, COMD 618: Autism and Social Communication Disorders.

Staff, faculty and all members of the community are invited to attend and hear the latest research related to autism and social communication disorders. Students may also choose to pursue their own research in the form of a thesis by working with an experienced advisor across a wide range of topics, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

NIU academic and clinical faculty engage in active autism research programs on an ongoing basis. If you're interested in learning more about current autism research conducted at NIU, please email Allison Gladfelter, Ph.D., at agladfelter@niu.edu. If you're interested in participating in an autism research study, please fill out the information request form.