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Applied Behavior Analysis (MA)


This program is offered by the School of Education. It is available online.

Program Description

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is an area of psychology that focuses on improving specific behaviors, such as academics and adaptive behavior while decreasing maladaptive behaviors. The MA in applied behavior analysis prepares candidates with the knowledge and concepts needed to engage in behavior analytic practice in schools, community agencies, residential centers and family settings to enhance the skills and abilities of persons with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disabilities.Ìý

The program is designed to prepare candidates with the coursework-based content knowledge and skills required to apply to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® Examination offered through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). Successful completion of the ºÚÁÏÍø MA in Applied Behavior Analysis does not guarantee that the candidate will be approved to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® Examination. Candidates who plan to apply for BCBA certification should carefully review the requirements, published by the BACB ().

Students pursuing the MA in applied behavior analysis are expected to have an association, professional or voluntary, with community service providers, agencies, or educational organizations which provide services to individuals with developmental disabilities and/or behavioral challenges, to fully benefit from the coursework.

Learning Outcomes

Successful graduates of this program are able to utilize a range of knowledge and skills to effectively apply behavior analysis principles in various settings.

  • Demonstrate understanding of behavior analysis principles, encompassing operant and respondent conditioning, reinforcement, punishment, extinction, and stimulus control, enabling them to effectively analyze and modify behavior in diverse organizational contexts.
  • Conduct comprehensive behavioral assessments, including functional behavior assessments (FBA) and functional analysis (FA), and employing appropriate measurement techniques to gather precise data on behavior, facilitating evidence-based decision-making in organizational behavior management.
  • Design, implement, and assess behavior change interventions rooted in behavior analysis principles, encompassing both behavior reduction and skill acquisition programs, to address organizational challenges and enhance workplace effectiveness.
  • Demonstrate ethical and professional behavior in their practice, adhering to the highest standards of integrity and professionalism outlined in the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) Professional and Ethical Compliance Code
  • Utilize effective collaboration skills, enabling them to work seamlessly with diverse professionals, including educators, therapists, and caregivers, and provide expert consultation on behavioral interventions, fostering interdisciplinary teamwork and promoting the implementation of evidence-based practices in organizational settings.

Program Curriculum

Required Coursework:

Required Core Courses (27hour)

  • APBA 5000 Introduction to Applied Behavior Analysis (3 hours)
  • APBA 5110 Principles of Behavior Analysis (3 hours)
  • APBA 5120 Single-Subject Research Design (3 hours)
  • APBA 5130 Ethics and Professional Issues in Applied Behavior Analysis (3 hours)
  • APBA 5140 Behavior Change Procedures in Applied Behavior Analysis (3 hours)
  • APBA 5150 Functional Behavioral Assessment (3 hours)
  • APBA 5160 Supervision and Staff Performance in Applied Behavior Analysis (3 hours)
  • APBA 5170 Basic Experimental Analysis of Behavior (3 hours)Ìý
  • APBA 5180 Verbal Behavior (3 hours)

Thesis (6 hours)

  • APBA 5950 Portfolio Review: Applied Behavior Analysis (0 hours)
  • APBA 6000 Thesis: Applied Behavior Analysis (two semesters) (6 hours)

Total: 33 credit hours

Admission

See the Admission section of this catalog for general admission requirements. Students interested in applying must submit their application online at www.webster.edu/apply.ÌýTranscripts should be sent from your institution electronically to transcripts@webster.edu.ÌýIf this service is not available, send transcripts to:

Office of Admission
ºÚÁÏÍø
470 E. Lockwood Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63119Ìý

Additional Requirements

Requirements for admission to the MA in applied behavior analysis program include:

  • Receipt of all official transcripts.
  • Final degree conferred GPA ofÌý2.5 or higher.