Abstract
Social workers can play a pivotal role in recognizing signs of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in children on his or her caseload, with the proper education. Without exposure to information on ASD, the social worker may not notice signs of ASD, which can lead to the client or family not obtaining necessary assessments and service referrals. The purpose of this study was to better understand the depth of knowledge obtained by MSW students on the issue of autism and ASD advocacy. The study utilized both qualitative and quantitative data methods. The information gathered measured if ASD was discussed in classroom material, and if so, to what degree? Results suggested that MSW students are not being exposed to adequate or appropriate ASD curriculum. The participants of were both first and second year MSW students, comprised of Title IV E, Mental Health Stipend Program students, as well as non-cohort students.