Applied Behavior Analysis Concentration
Completing coursework and field experience in ABA at the undergraduate level can lead to certification that is highly sought after by employers looking for direct service staff for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders and related Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.
Individuals with bachelor’s-level training often work directly with individuals to implement intervention plans (e.g., use strategies to increase social, communication, academic skills; decrease problem behavior) in various settings (e.g., clinic, home, school), gather data, and assist with maintaining records. In this role, they work under the supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, which is a master’s-level certification.
Coursework
Required | |
PSYC 4570 | Behavior Analysis and Intervention (offered fall semesters) |
PSYC 4020 | Learning (offered fall semesters) |
Plus two of the following: | |
PSYC 3150 | Small-n Research Methods (offered spring semesters) |
PSYC 4030 | Conceptual Analysis of Behavior (offered fall semesters) |
PSYC 4350 | Basic/Experimental Behavior Analysis (offered fall semesters) |
PSYC 4414 | Laboratory in Applied Behavior Analysis (offered spring semesters) |
PSYC 4810 | Practice and Ethics in Behavior Analysis (offered spring semesters) |
What if I am interested in certifications in ABA?
Two certifications that can potentially be earned that would set you apart from others when looking for work in this area.
- Registered Behavior Technician® (RBT®)
- This is “a paraprofessional certification in behavior analysis. RBTs assist in delivering behavior analysis services and practice under the direction and close supervision of an RBT Supervisor and/or an RBT Requirements Coordinator, who are responsible for all work RBTs perform” (BACB, 2020).
- The content for this certification will be covered in PSYC 4570 - Behavior Analysis and Intervention. You will also need to complete a competency assessment and pass an exam to receive this credential.
- Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst® (BCaBA®)
- This is “an undergraduate-level certification in behavior analysis. Professionals certified at the BCaBA level provide behavior analysis services under the supervision of Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®). BCaBAs may supervise the work of Registered Behavior Technicians.” (BACB, 2020).
- To get this certification, you will need to take all of seven of the courses listed above*, complete fieldwork, and pass an exam. *Note the course sequence is in development and we will submit for it to be a verified sequence in Spring 2023.
For more information about these certifications, visit the BACB website.
Potential Benefits of taking the courses:
- Flexibility of online asynchronous courses
- Potential for certification as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) or Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) depending on the number of courses and field experience completed
Watch video for more complete details about the ABA concentration and requirements.
For questions about the Applied Behavior Analysis concentration, contact Dr. Sara Kupzyk