The Behavior Technician Certificate can serve students entering a new career or expand the knowledge of professionals already in their field of choice. Those interested in increasing their understanding of autism and behavior analysis including, parents, teachers, speech-language implementers and case managers can add the degree or certificate to their current experience to increase their tools to serve individuals with disabilities and specifically individuals on the autism spectrum.

Preschool teachers work with children 3, 4 and 5 years old in both privately and publicly funded institutions. Paraprofessionals help in classrooms or behavior support centers by providing specific assistance to the Classroom Teacher and many school districts are only hiring trained paraprofessionals.   Most jobs in these fields require a minimum of an Associate’s degree, this preschool/paraprofessional degree will prepare you to work in the field of education in many ways. The coursework will help you enter into a classroom knowing classroom management, lesson planning, how to identify special needs, and how to work and help different learners. Some school districts will even offer more pay to our graduates. Once you are ready to move on to your Bachelor’s degree you will be in line with the correct coursework, making your transition to a University smooth and efficient.

Most successful Physical Education majors have a strong interest in general health, physical fitness, and sports. A desire to work with young people in their overall development is essential for success in this field. Students who transfer and complete a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education can find job opportunities in teaching, coaching, recreation, athletic training, and health promotion and wellness. Students seeking teaching/coaching careers in public schools must meet state certification requirements. The following program is suggested for students who intend to transfer following graduation. For best transfer, students should contact the four-year institution to which they plan to transfer as early in the program as possible.

Obtaining an academic background in psychology offers skills which can be applied to almost every industry, especially those that involve influencing behavior. This includes marketing, sales, education, government work and social work. After completion of a baccalaureate degree, graduates can often find work with community support, law enforcement, sales, and administrative services.

Students pursuing the Associates of Arts of Psychology-Autism Option have the benefit of obtaining the Behavior Technician Certificate in 2 semesters, then continuing in their coursework to complete the AA degree. The AA degree gives students additional training related to the field and prepares students seeking their Bachelor’s Degree to transfer to a 4-year university with many credits and admission requirements in hand.

The state of Missouri is making many changes to both the teacher education program requirements and evaluation of certified teachers. Because of these changes, the information is open to change. Please use this as a general guide to our program requirements. It is a very good practice to check with a Teacher Education advisor every semester as you plan enrollment. It is also wise to contact the Teacher Education program at the university to which you plan to transfer. They can advise you about specific requirements for entry into their programs.