Assistive Technology Studies and Human Services (ATHS) - Curriculum

Course List (10 courses, 30 units)

CSUN's online Master of Science in Assistive Technology Studies and Human Services features a carefully crafted curriculum, specifically designed for delivery in the cohort format. In this format, each successive course builds on the content of preceding courses to provide a powerful, cumulative learning experience and a fully integrated program of study.

• ATHS 502: Seminar - Human Characteristics in Relation to Usability of Assistive Technologies
• ATHS 694: Seminar - Current and Emerging Topics in Assistive Technology (This course is taken three times throughout the two-year program)
• ATHS 619: History, Law, Policy and Assistive Technology
• ATHS 614: Assistive Technology Across the Lifespan
• ATHS 501: Functional Biology and Design Innovation
• ATHS 623: Medical Conditions Affecting Quality of Life
• ATHS 618: Research Methods and Design in Assistive Technology
• ATHS 621: Assistive Technology Assessment and Outcome Measures
• ATHS 622: Counseling in Assistive Technology Service Delivery
• ATHS 697: Directed Comprehensive Studies

Course Highlights

Courses are offered in the following sequence:

course	name	units	description
ATHS 502	Seminar in Human Characteristics in Relation to Usability of Assistive Technologies	3 units	This seminar investigates the basis of human function from both the psychological and physiological perspectives and serves as a foundation for the design and development of assistive technology devices that will enhance the quality of life for users of all ages.
ATHS 694	Seminar - Current and Emerging Topics in Assistive Technology	3 units	This one-unit seminar is taken three times throughout the program and focuses on current and emerging topics in assistive technology. Students bring their shared learning experiences and individual insights to readings, case studies, problem analyses, presentations, demonstrations and discussions.
ATHS 619	History, Law, Policy and Assistive Technology	3 units	This seminar investigates the history and development of assistive technology, its legal context, and public-policy issues, which include how assistive technology is financed and made accessible as well as emerging concerns that will affect not only users but also professionals in the field.    Watch Course Overview: ATHS 619
ATHS 614	Assistive Technology Across the Lifespan	3 units	In this course, students gain an understanding of the fundamentals underlying the application of assistive technology interventions in a variety of environments. The content provides an interdisciplinary exposure to assistive technology and prepares students for the design and application of assistive technologies to improve functional independence and quality of life across cultures and generations.    Watch Course Overview: ATHS 614
ATHS 501	Functional Biology and Design Innovation	3 units	This course provides a deep understanding of the relevance of biological systems, anatomical and physiological functions, and injuries and diseases to assistive technology. It introduces students to ways in which living systems can serve as inspiration for biomimicry in assistive technology.
ATHS 623	Medical Conditions Affecting Quality of Life	3 units	This course prepares students to design and apply assistive technologies by providing an understanding of the various systems of the human body as well as the impact that injury or pathology has on an individual's ability to function within his/her chosen environment. Topics also include the etiology, course, prognosis and vocational ramifications of specific medical conditions – an appreciation of which is essential for those who work with assistive technology clients.    Watch Course Overview: ATHS 623
ATHS 618	Research Methods and Design in Assistive Technology	3 units	This course presents the various research methodologies used in assistive technology together with techniques employed for the collection, classification, interpretation and presentation of data. Ethical concerns are also explored.
ATHS 621	Assistive - Technology Assessment and Outcome Measures	3 units	This course emphasizes the assistive-technology assessment process with a focus on the end user. Students examine the processes and procedures for assessing the strengths and needs of individuals, their environments, assistive-technology options, user-training requirements, affordability issues, and obstacles that may prevent users from adopting or continuing to use assistive technologies. The course also covers the establishment and measurement of outcomes.    Watch Course Overview: ATHS 621
ATHS 622	Counseling in Assistive - Technology Service Delivery	3 units	This course enhances the understanding and practice of the counseling and human-services aspects of assistive technology. The focus is on implementing an approach that is both multigenerational and multicultural.    Watch Course Overview: ATHS 622
ATHS 697	Directed Comprehensive Studies	3 units	Prerequisites: ATHS 618 "Research Methods and Design in Assistive Technology" satisfactory completion of all course work, and permission of the ATHS graduate coordinator. Preparation for and completion of written comprehensive case studies will fulfill the culminating experience requirement for the Master of Science in Assistive Technology Studies and Human Services degree.