There is a growing need for trained professionals in the field of autism. However, undergraduate students rarely have the chance to pursue interests in this area until they have completed their undergraduate degree. The Autism Studies minor provides unique opportunities to highly motivated undergraduate students who want to engage in valuable work that benefits their long-term goals related to careers in autism intervention, while benefiting the community at large. The minor includes the Spectrum Internship, RBT Certification, and coursework focused on developmental disabilities.

The Spectrum Education Center hosts PEERS (Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills) every semester. PEERS is an intervention for adolescents in the community with autism who would like help making and keeping friends. The success of the program depends on the hard work of mentors. Mentors are UMU students who are trained to help adolescents with autism develop their social skills. Mentors learn about ways to successfully interact with autistic individuals and support the development of appropriate social skills.

Professionals in Northeast Ohio benefit from access to the professional development services offered through the Spectrum Education Center. Professional development sessions are tailored to organizational needs and provide instruction that inspires those in the field of disability services to consider new approaches and strategies to support individuals with special needs.

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The Spectrum Education Center also offers community workshops. These typically focus on topics like managing disruptive behaviors and developing skills to aid in routine and transitions.​​​​​​