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Center for Autism Research & Education (CARE)

Education and research focused on improving the lives of those with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Young boy wearing headphones and staring out the window at the airport.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological disorder, typically diagnosed before the age of three that affects the individual’s ability to communicate, develop language, form social relationships, and respond appropriately to their environment.

Recent estimates of prevalence report rates in the U.S. are as high as 1 in every 45 children ("Washington Post" article, 11/13/15). ASD is recognized as a current national crisis and considerable effort is being focused on improving the lives of those affected.

Little boy smiling and holding up letter "A" with female speech therapist.

Mission

The mission of the UMass Lowell Center for Autism Research and Education is to educate our students and the public concerning issues of importance to the autism community.

We conduct interdisciplinary research that is relevant to those with autism throughout the life-span, with a special focus on underserved populations. We also partner with local agencies that share our values of improving the lives of those with autism and their families.

  • Americans with an ASD

  • Increase of diagnosis in U.S. children between 2000-2010

  • Occurs in all racial, ethnic, & socioeconomic groups

  • Of the world population of 7.4 billion living with ASD

  • Times more common among boys than girls