Applied Behavior Analysis MS
Saint Joseph’s University’s online MS in Applied Behavior Analysis is designed for individuals with a background in education or the social sciences who are interested in becoming Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA). However, anyone with an interest in learning about positive behavioral interventions and support can also benefit from this program.
Program mission:
The Graduate Program in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) at Saint Joseph’s University is dedicated to excellence in education, research, and practice, with a strong commitment to inclusive education. Our mission is to develop highly skilled and ethical behavior analysts who are prepared to make meaningful contributions to the field and to enhance the quality of life for individuals across diverse settings.
Program objectives:
- Deliver Comprehensive Education: Provide a comprehensive curriculum grounded in the principles and methodologies of applied behavior analysis, ensuring that graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to implement effective, evidence-based interventions.
- Champion Inclusivity: Emphasize the importance of inclusive education, training our students to create and support learning environments that accommodate and celebrate the diversity of all learners, including those with unique needs and abilities.
- Support Ethical Practice: Instill a deep understanding of and commitment to the ethical standards of the profession, ensuring that our graduates uphold the highest levels of integrity, respect, and professionalism in their practice.
- Promote Research and Innovation: Encourage a culture of inquiry and innovation by engaging students in research activities that advance the field of behavior analysis and contribute to the development of new, effective practices in inclusive education.
- Facilitate Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Prepare graduates to work collaboratively with educators, families, and other professionals to create person-centered plans that promote the success and well-being of individuals in various contexts.
- Encourage Lifelong Professional Development: Encourage ongoing professional growth and development through continued education, involvement in professional organizations, and commitment to staying current with advancements in the field.
The following curriculum outline is based on the verified course sequence for the 6th edition task list of the BACB for Applied Behavior Analysis programs. ABA 601-608 are the eight required courses for the BACB.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| ABA 601 | Concpts & Prin of Behav Analys | 3 |
| ABA 602 | Ethics & Prof in Behav Analys | 3 |
| ABA 603 | Measuring Eval Behav Change | 3 |
| ABA 604 | Behavior Assessment | 3 |
| ABA 605 | Behavior Change Procedures | 3 |
| ABA 606 | Collab, Superv, & Mgmt in BA | 3 |
| ABA 607 | Science and Philosophy of BA | 3 |
| ABA 608 | Capstone: Applied Behav Analys | 3 |
| Electives: | 6-7 | |
| Found & Current Issues w/Field | ||
| Research:Lit,Writ,Lang w/Field | ||
| ThryInstrPractStdntsw/LowIncid | ||
| Families Schls & Cmnty w/Field | ||
| Incl. Class Practices w/Field | ||
| Admin & Supv:Spec Ed Progs | ||
| Design&Tech Differentiated Ins | ||
| SpecialEducation Law/Policy | ||
| Cog Proc: Resrch Brain Studies | ||
| Culturally Responsive Teaching | ||
| Intro ASD: Caus Diag & Advoc | ||
| Evid Based Prac: AI&I Method | ||
| Ed Found - Deaf & Hard of Hear | ||
| Total Hours | 30-31 | |
| First Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Hours | |
| ABA 601 | Concpts & Prin of Behav Analys | 3 |
| ABA 602 | Ethics & Prof in Behav Analys | 3 |
| Hours | 6 | |
| Spring | ||
| ABA 603 | Measuring Eval Behav Change | 3 |
| ABA 604 | Behavior Assessment | 3 |
| ABA Program Elective #1 Electives can be taken any semester the course is offered | 3 | |
| Hours | 9 | |
| Second Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| ABA 605 | Behavior Change Procedures | 3 |
| ABA 606 | Collab, Superv, & Mgmt in BA | 3 |
| Hours | 6 | |
| Spring | ||
| ABA 607 | Science and Philosophy of BA | 3 |
| ABA 608 | Capstone: Applied Behav Analys | 3 |
| ABA Program Elective #2 Electives can be taken any semester the course is offered | 3 | |
| Hours | 9 | |
| Total Hours | 30 | |
ABA Program Electives can be taken any semester the class is offered. They are displayed under First-Year Spring and Second-Year Spring for illustrative purposes.