By current estimates, more than 4,000 assistive technologies have been designed for the nation’s rapidly growing senior-citizen and disabled populations while advances in microelectronics are making many familiar assistive devices increasingly “smart.”
Because the nation’s expanding population of older adults is accompanied by a growing burden of disability, the U.S Department of Labor predicts long-term growth in the areas of assistive, adaptive and access technologies. Computer scientists and engineers with training as creators of assistive devices and related software can only benefit from this trend both in terms of career satisfaction and income. According to a recent study, mechanical engineers with advanced degrees earn a nine percent premium over the nation’s average hourly wage of $40.43 for the profession.*
The CSUN master’s program in Assistive Technology and Engineering (ATE) prepares computer scientists and engineers for careers as creators of devices and software that assist the growing special-needs population. This program is also the only one of its kind that is linked to a program that focuses on the human services aspects of the field: CSUN’s online Master of Science in Assistive Technology Studies and Human Services (ATHS). This connection gives ATE students a unique opportunity to study and collaborate with ATHS students whose focus is on assistive technology assessment, advocacy and counseling.
Offered in collaboration with CSUN’s College of Engineering and Computer Science and the College of Health and Human Development, this program is taught by CSUN faculty and accomplished assistive technology industry professionals.
Designed for working professionals, the two-year, 11-course ATE program features classes held only one evening per week plus an occasional Saturday day-time meeting. Moreover, the program is taught in the cohort format, which maximizes interaction with faculty and fosters the development of networking relationships with fellow participants.
The Tseng College supports the CSUN International Technology & Persons with Disabilities Conference.
*Source: “Which Majors Pay Best,” Wall Street Journal, April 17, 2012
