CAS - Certified Autism Specialist

  • $495
  • Renews every 2 years

COURSE FORMAT

Online

About

The Certified Autism Specialist (CAS) credential is offered by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).

Professionals that work with community members on the autism spectrum, including in nursing, therapy, and education, could benefit from achieving the Certified Autism Specialist (CAS) credential. The CAS professional demonstrates an ongoing commitment to clients with Autism and their families.

Certification

The Certified Autism Specialist (CAS) credential is offered by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). The exam application cost is $495.

The eligibility requirements for applying for a CAS credential are:

  • Master’s degree in special education, education, educational psychology, psychology, human development, early childhood education, speech/language pathology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, social work, or closely related field. 

  • The Master’s degree requirement will be waived if the applicant has a bachelor’s degree and at least 10 years of experience.

  • Completion of two years working in a field that treats or supports individuals with autism.

  • Completion of 14 CE hours that directly relate to autism within the last two years. These CEs can be earned through IBCCES University as part of the CAS application process.

  • Applicants must pass the Autism Competency Exam. The exam is taken online and is included in the price of your CAS application.

Renewal

The CAS credential is valid for two years. The cost to renew is $199. The applicant must complete 14 CEs and compliance with the Code of Ethics to be eligible to renew the CAS certification.

Other Resources

The IBCCES offers resources for exam candidates, including:

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Frequently asked questions

How does the CAS differ from the BCBA credential?

Many BCBA’s do work with students with autism. However, no autism training is required. The CAS is autism-specific. Many BCBA’s choose to also receive their CAS to demonstrate their commitment to autism.

An ABA certification is the study of a specific type of therapy that is used for students with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). ABA education hours are accepted for the CAS, but IBCCES does not require professionals to be certified in ABA.

Does the CAS allow the professional to bill insurance for autism treatment?

Only licensed professionals are eligible to bill insurance under the law. The CAS designation is an added credential that demonstrates a level of expertise when specifically treating autism. Individuals billing as an SLP, OT, PT, BCBA, etc. should strongly consider registering as a CAS upon eligibility as further support for billing for clients with autism.

Can I apply if my graduate degree is in progress?

The CAS requires a Master’s degree unless you have a Bachelor’s degree and ten years of experience in one of the qualifying fields. You will most likely be eligible for the Autism Certificate, which does not require a Master’s degree but does require experience in the field and 14 CE hours in autism every two years.

What organization offers the CAS?

The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) offers the CAS.

Can I earn a CAS online?

Yes you can earn a CAS online.