The Master of Science (MS) in Educational Psychology with a Concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis program at the University of Southern Maine prepares professionals to apply and promote the scientifically supported practice of applied behavior analysis to improve academic, social-emotional, and behavioral outcomes for diverse learners of all ages. The program imparts the knowledge and skills required to (a) conduct behavioral assessments; (b) design interventions that facilitate the acquisition, generalization, and maintenance of socially significant skills and the sustained reduction of behaviors that interfere with learning; (c) implement and evaluate the effectiveness of interventions; and (d) provide inclusive and collaborative behavior analytic assessment, intervention, consultation, and supervision services at the individual and organizational level. Graduates of the program pursue careers as Board Certified Behavior Analysts® (BCBAs®) in school, clinic, and home settings.
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, professional practice, and the needs of school-aged children with disabilities. This program is in a fully online format with a blend of synchronous and asynchronous courses. Students 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 and designed to meet the BCBA Pathway 2 coursework requirements. 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/
