GRADUATE PROGRAMS IN APPLIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS
Behavior Analysis is the application of the science of learning to the solution of problems of social significance. Behavior Analysts work in schools, homes, community settings, and consult in the assessment, design, implementation, and evaluation of behavioral interventions for a variety of learners across a variety of skills.
We offer a number of options for future Behavior Analysts and have a plan for many different career paths, including:
A.) Master of Science in Autism and Behavior Analysis (MS A/ABA) for a master degree combining expertise in Applied Behavior Analysis with a specialization in Autism to develop professionals skilled in the application of Applied Behavior Analysis principles and practices to the education and treatment of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) across the lifespan.
B.) Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (GC ABA) for those with an earned graduate degree in an approved subject area or those concurrently enrolled in a graduate program seeking coursework to meet the eligibility to sit for the BCBA examination.
C.) Certification Preparation Track (CPT ABA) for those seeking to complete the academic requirements to meet the eligibility to sit for the BCBA examination by combining coursework with another approved university program.
D.) Assistant Certification Preparation Track (ACPT ABA) for those with an earned undergraduate degree in an approved subject area seeking coursework to meet the eligibility to sit for the BAaBA (Assistant level) examination.
E.) Supervised Experience for those meeting all educational requirements for certification in Behavior Analysis, we have a field experience course.
Approved Course Sequence
Saint Joseph College offers a co-educational graduate-level five course sequence approved by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) as meeting the national standards in preparation for certification in Behavior Analysis at the BCBA level. This rigorous academic foundation teaches students the principles and procedures of Behavior Analysis emphasizing high standards of evidence-based professional practice across a wide variety of settings and populations.
Although there are many paths, students entering the program typically include those:
- seeking careers in Behavior Analysis through a post-graduate professional re-specialization, or
- complimenting a concurrent Master level graduate program with preparation for a professional certification in Behavior Analysis
The five course sequence can be completed in a calendar year by taking 1-2 courses across the fall, spring, and summer semesters. An individualized program of study will be established with your advisor to determine the actual schedule of courses. Admission to the program is available during the fall and spring semesters on an on-going basis.
Supervised Independent Field Work
Supervised professional experience adhering to the guidelines of the BACB is also available for students seeking supervision in preparation for certification in Behavior Analysis. Applied experiences offer hands-on guidance mastering skills essential for the practice of Behavior Analysis consistent with national standards.
Preparation for Certification in Behavior Analysis
You should note that the BACB has its' own requirements for certification. In particular, you must have a Master level graduate degree in an approved subject area to be eligible to become certified as a BCBA in addition to the coursework and experience requirements.
Options for Working Professionals
Academic and supervision courses are conveniently scheduled in the evenings to accommodate the schedules of working professionals. Student services, including the library and research databases, are also available electronically and are staffed evenings and weekends.
Behavior Analysis Courses
PSYC 501: Foundations of Behavior Analysis
PSYC 502: Behavior Analysis and Program Evaluation
PSYC 503: Educational and Behavioral Intervention
PSYC 504: Ethical and Professional Issues
PSYC 505: Advanced Topics in Behavior Analysis
PSYC 545: Supervision in Behavior Analysis (OPTIONAL)
For a brief description of each of the five courses mentioned above please click the course descriptions link.
Matriculation Requirements for ALL Applied Behavior Analysis programs
:
1) Graduate School application and non-refundable $50 fee
2) Official transcript showing degree conferral in an undergraduate program from a regionally-accredited institution (minimum GPA: 3.00)
3) Official transcript showing degree conferral of all university work in a graduate program from a regionally-accredited institution
4) Two letters of recommendation (professional references)
5) Letter of intent
6) Planned program of study completed with a representative from the program
7) Immunization records
Contact Graduate Admissions
Phone: 860.231.5488
Email: graduate@sjc.edu
Contact the Program Director
:
Deirdre Lee Fitzgerald, Ph.D., BCBA-D
Graduate Program Director in Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis
Saint Joseph College
1678 Asylum Avenue
West Hartford, CT 06117
Phone: 860.231.2013
Email: dfitzgerald@sjc.edu
