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 exceptionalities. 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 (2017). 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/
