UWA PLUS
Initiating a referral for autism diagnostic assessment
Students who undertake this micro-credential will improve their understanding of the importance of a prompt referral for autism assessments, and of the key professional groups who can initiate such referrals. Students will also be able to consider and select relevant screening tools, and to identify key pieces of clinical information and observations to be included in referrals for autism assessment.
Upon successful completion, you'll receive:
- One PD Point - stackable for unspecified academic credit in award courses
- A Certificate of Achievement
- A UWA Plus Professional Development Transcript, listing all successfully completed micro-credentials
- Delivery mode
- Online
- Start date
- Coming soon (expected February - April 2023)
- Duration
- 12 weeks
- Effort
- 25 hours
- Academic Lead
- Dr Lauren Taylor and Associate Professor Iliana Magiati
- Cost
- $330 inc. GST
- Critical information summary
- PSYCM515 Initiating a referral for autism diagnostic assessment [PDF 246KB]
What you'll learn
Identify the key professional groups who can initiate a referral for autism assessments as described in the National Guideline for the Assessment and Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorders in Australia (the Guideline)
Demonstrate understanding of the importance of a prompt referral to ensure timely diagnosis and access to relevant supports and services
Identify the relevant clinical information and observations to be included in a referral for an autism assessment, as outlined in the Guideline
Identify and select screening tools that can be used at different ages and developmental stages to identify features of autism prior to formal diagnostic assessment
Why study this course?
This short course will provide future students who are interested in autism assessment and diagnosis with the opportunity to gain a University (micro) credential to recognise their learning. This course provides a unique opportunity for a range of professionals to enhance their knowledge and confidence in screening for autistic features and in initiating a referral for an autism diagnostic assessment.
Recommended prior knowledge
It is recommended that students have English competence (ideally Year 12 English level), and have some direct experience supporting neurodivergent people.
Who should study this course?
This unit will be of interest to a range of professionals who come into contact with children, young people or adults who may be autistic and for whom a referral for a formal diagnostic assessment of autism might be warranted.
This includes allied health professionals, such as practicing psychologists, speech pathologists, occupational therapists and social workers, as well as medical professionals (e.g., GPs, paediatricians and psychiatrists).
What's next after this course?
Students who enrol in all seven of the micro-credentials relating to autism assesment and diagnosis (PSYCM510, PSYCM511, PSYCM512, PSYCM513, PSYCM514, PSYCM515, and PSYCM516, which comprise the PSYC5520 and PSYC5521 units), may be eligible to apply for, and if selected, enrol in the Graduate Certificate in Autism Diagnosis (course code: 70230).
After enrolling in the GCAD and successfully completing all 7 of these micro-credentials, students will receive credit towards the GCAD, which will equip students with the advanced knowledge and applied skills required to contribute to multidisciplinary diagnostic assessments for autism.
Applications open soon
Expression of Interest for the course are open, get in contact to be notified when applications open.