Applied Behavioral Analysis, M.S.

This course provides an in-depth examination of the foundational concepts and principles that underlie the science of behavior analysis. Topics include reinforcement, punishment, stimulus control, motivating operations, respondent and operant conditioning, functional relations, and the philosophical foundations of radical behaviorism. Students learn to analyze behavior using technical vocabulary and apply foundational principles to simple and complex behavioral scenarios. This course establishes the conceptual and scientific base for all subsequent coursework.

This course explores the theoretical, conceptual, and philosophical foundations of applied behavior analysis. Emphasis is placed on verbal behavior, conceptual distinctions within the behavioral sciences, determinism, selectionism, and the integration of theory with contemporary applied research and practice. Students critically analyze conceptual issues and evaluate how theoretical models inform intervention design and problem-solving in applied settings.

This course provides an intensive study of single-case research methodology, including measurement systems, data collection, graphing, visual analysis, experimental design logic, internal and external validity, procedural integrity, and interobserver agreement. Students design and evaluate behavior analytic research, interpret data displays, and apply research ethics. Emphasis is placed on preparing students to become skilled consumers and producers of applied behavior analytic research.

This course prepares students to conduct comprehensive behavioral assessments across educational, clinical, and community settings. Content includes preference assessments, descriptive and indirect assessments, functional behavior assessments (FBA), and experimental functional analyses. Students learn to evaluate assessment results, identify maintaining variables, and use data to guide intervention development. Applied casework and practice scenarios are integrated throughout the course.

This course provides extensive training in evidence-based behavior-change procedures and intervention strategies. Topics include shaping, chaining, discrete-trial instruction, naturalistic teaching, prompting and fading, antecedent interventions, extinction, differential reinforcement, token economies, and generalization and maintenance strategies. Students learn to design, implement, and monitor effective behavior-change programs tailored to individual client needs.

This course examines ethical and professional practice in behavior analysis using the BACB Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts. Students learn to identify ethical challenges, apply ethical decision-making models, evaluate risk, protect client welfare, maintain professional boundaries, and collaborate effectively with families and interdisciplinary teams. Special emphasis is placed on culturally responsive practice, supervision ethics, and the responsible conduct of behavior analysts.

This course prepares students to provide effective supervision, training, and performance management consistent with BACB supervisor requirements. Topics include behavioral skills training (BST), performance feedback, staff motivation, systems analysis, organizational behavior management (OBM), and professional evaluation models. Students develop supervision plans and apply evidence-based strategies to improve organizational and personnel outcomes.

This course focuses on evidence-based ABA interventions for individuals with autism and related developmental disabilities. Topics include skill-acquisition programming, communication training, early-intervention strategies, behavior reduction programs, play and social-skills instruction, and family-centered service delivery. Emphasis is placed on adapting interventions for diverse learners and implementing ABA strategies across natural environments.

This advanced seminar explores specialized and emerging areas of practice within behavior analysis. Topics include ABA applications in schoolwide behavior systems, trauma-informed approaches, behavioral medicine, community health, instructional design, and culturally responsive intervention. Students examine contemporary research, evaluate differentiation strategies for diverse populations, and apply advanced concepts to complex case scenarios.

This course provides structured practicum experience under qualified supervision to support mastery of applied behavior analysis skills. Students engage in assessment activities, data collection, intervention implementation, and collaboration with practitioners and families. Emphasis is placed on reflective practice, professional communication, and ethical service delivery. Practicum I typically includes 150–200 hours of supervised field experience.

A continuation of Practicum I, this course advances students’ clinical independence and applied competencies. Students refine case-conceptualization skills, lead elements of intervention planning, monitor treatment fidelity, and analyze progress data. Ethical decision-making, cultural responsiveness, and interdisciplinary collaboration are emphasized. Practicum II typically includes 150–200 hours of supervised field experience.

This culminating experience requires students to complete a capstone project or empirical thesis that integrates behavioral theory, research methodology, and applied practice. Students conduct a focused scholarly inquiry or applied analysis, prepare a professional-quality written report, and present their findings to faculty. The capstone demonstrates readiness for professional practice and contributes to students’ preparation for the BCBA certification exam.