Master’s degree in applied behavior analysis is first in state
Salve Regina’s new 36-credit master’s degree in applied behavior analysis (ABA), the first program of its kind in Rhode Island, will train students to work in one of the fastest growing professional areas in psychology.
The program, which is currently enrolling students for fall 2013 classes, incorporates the six master’s-level courses and practicum experience required by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) to sit for the national certification exam. Graduates of this program who successfully complete BACB certification are prepared to work in a variety of settings, such as law enforcement and corrections, business, hospitals and treatment centers.
“There is a desperate need for trained ABA professionals,” said Dr. Sheila Quinn, director of the ABA program. “The master’s in ABA is the only program in the state of Rhode Island whose curriculum has been reviewed and approved by the Behavior Analysis Certification Board.”
The combination of coursework and practicum experience allows students to explore integration of theory and practice necessary to build strong skills in the field. Coursework is offered in areas such as ethics and professional conduct, measurement and data analysis, behavior change techniques, assessment and systems management.
Best known as a treatment for children with autism, applied behavior analysis is a scientifically valid, systematic approach to behavior change that examines variables that influence social behaviors. With the prevalence of autism growing, ABA represents one of the fastest growing professional areas in psychology.
In addition to the master’s degree, Salve Regina offers a certificate of advanced graduate studies in ABA for those students who have completed a master’s degree in a related field and a post-baccalaureate certificate program for those students who have a bachelor’s degree and want to complete the assistant behavior analysis courses.
Click here for more information on the ABA programs.
