Applied Behavior Analysis, M.S.

The mission of the University of Saint Joseph (USJ) M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program is to produce well-rounded scientist-practitioners who are skilled and compassionate behavior analysts, proficient in the basic principles of learning and behavior, effectively and respectfully collaborate with others, and understand the importance of informing clinical decisions through evidence-based practice. The ABA Program accomplishes the mission through rigorous and inspiring graduate coursework, opportunities for applied learning experience, and a scaffolded training in the experimental foundations of behavior analysis concluding with innovative and individualized thesis or capstone projects.

These competencies are mastered: 

• Describe the history, philosophy, and terminology of behaviorism and understand basic behavioral principles and their application to a wide range of settings, populations, and areas of need.
• Use behavioral assessment and emasurement technologies, along with within-subject analyses, to connect assessment to intervention and make data-based and timely decisions on the appropriateness and effectiveness of behavioral procedures.
• Engage in behaviors that are ethical, equitable, and culturally responsive when working with clients, stakeholders, trainees, and colleagues.
• Use evidence-based practices through a decision-making process that integrates the best available empirical evidence with clinical expertise and client values and context. 
• Enhance individual and organizational outcomes by way of behavioral consultation strategies, and effective leadership, collaboration and training methods.
• Use behavioral research methodologies to independently develop, implement, and defend an original behavior analytic thesis/capstone project (i.e., experiential learning).

Admission requirements

• On-line graduate school application
• Non-refundable application fee
• Official transcripts from all accredited colleges or universities attended, with minimum 3.0 GPA
• Two letters of recommendation, one from an academic and another from a professional reference
• Immunization records

Exit Requirements

• All course work successfully completed
• Pass a Comprehensive Exam

Notes

Qualified applicants are admitted on an ongoing space-available basis

•  A limited number of competitive graduate assistantships are available