May 11, 2024  
2023-2024 Graduate Catalog 
    
2023-2024 Graduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Educational Psychology, Applied Behavior Analysis Concentration, M.S.


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The Master of Science (MS) in Educational Psychology with a Concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis program prepares students for careers as Board Certified Behavior Analysts® (BCBAs®) in school and behavioral health settings. BCBAs provide systematic, evidence-based services to promote socially significant skill acquisition and address behaviors that interfere with successful functioning. BCBAs typically conduct behavioral assessments; design, implement, and evaluate the effectiveness of interventions; and provide behavior analytic training, consultation, and supervision.

The MS in Educational Psychology program of study includes twelve courses (36 graduate credits). Eight of these courses have been verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) to meet the coursework requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA® ) examination. Four additional courses provide students with background knowledge about educational research, special education procedures, and the needs of school-aged children with disabilities. The program is offered in a fully online (blend of synchronous and asynchronous courses) or hybrid (blend of on-campus and online courses) format. Students in both online and on-campus programs benefit from regular opportunities to interact directly with program faculty and participate in real-time learning activities with their peers.

The Behavior Analyst Certification Board® (BACB®) credentials professionals as Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs®). To qualify for BCBA certification (Behavior-Analytic Coursework Pathway), individuals must obtain an acceptable graduate degree, complete acceptable behavior-analytic coursework, complete an acceptable supervised fieldwork experience, and pass the BCBA examination. The MS in Educational Psychology program leads to an acceptable graduate degree that incorporates behavior-analytic coursework verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) to meet training standards established by the Fifth Edition Task List. Completion of supervised fieldwork experiences and the BCBA examination must be arranged by students independent of the program. Supervised experiences may occur concurrent with or upon completion of the coursework. Additional information about BCBA certification requirements may be obtained here: http://www.bacb.com

Additional information about state legislation regulating the licensure and practice of behavior analysts may be obtained here: https://www.bacb.com/u-s-licensure-of-behavior-analysts/

 

Transfer Credit Policy


A maximum of two courses (6 graduate credits) required for the MS in Educational Psychology, School Psychology Concentration program of study may be completed prior to matriculation.

Admitted students may request permission to transfer up to 6 graduate credits toward the degree. In order for credits to be eligible for transfer, the following criteria must be met:

  • The credits must have been earned as part of a graduate course (e.g., 500 level or higher) offered at a United States institution of higher learning accredited by a regional and/or national accrediting body.
  • The credits must have been earned for a course that is equivalent, in terms of content knowledge and skill requirements, to one required within the program.
  • The earned grade for the course must be a B or higher (GPA equivalent of 3.0).
  • The credits must have been earned within 6 years from the date when transfer credit is requested.
    • The program may, at its discretion, consider coursework completed more than 6 years prior to a request for transfer credit when students: (a) developed initial competence in the professional practice area through coursework and (b) continued to update their competency through professional experiences, which may include relevant professional employment, supervision, and continuing education.
  • The credits for behavior analytic courses must have been earned for a course that was part of an ABAI Verified Course Sequence aligned with current task list standards.

Recommended Course Sequence


The following course sequences are recommended for students pursuing full-time study. Part-time options are also available.

Fall 2023 Matriculation


Spring 2024 Matriculation


Summer 2024 Matriculation


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