Program Objectives

M.S. in ABA Program Objectives

• Graduates will demonstrate knowledge of general behavioral principles. 
  • Graduates will explain philosophical assumptions (e.g., empiricism, determinism, parsimony) of behavior analysis. 
  • Graduates will define basic behavioral principles, processes, and concepts (e.g., reinforcement, extinction, generalization) as listed on the BACB Task List. 
  • Graduates will identify the primary characteristics of and rationale for conducting a behavioral assessment (e.g., descriptive assessment, functional analysis).
• Graduates will demonstrate knowledge of research methodology appropriate to behavior analysis.
  • Graduates will evaluate interventions using the seven dimensions of applied behavior analysis to determine if they are behavior analytic.
  • Graduates will interpret behavior analytic articles by summarizing the goal(s) or purpose(s), describing the methods (e.g., data collection, interobserver agreement, research design), summarizing the results, and drawing appropriate conclusions. 
  • Graduates will identify the measurable dimensions of behavior (e.g., rate, duration) and the advantages and disadvantages associated with continuous measurement procedures and sampling techniques.
  • Graduates will identify the philosophical and procedural differences between single-subject research designs and group designs.
• Graduates will demonstrate the ability to apply their knowledge of behavioral principles and research methodology to modify the behavior of humans and nonhumans. 
  • Graduates will demonstrate the ability to apply their knowledge of behavioral principles and research methodology to various populations (e.g., developmental disabilities, substance abuse, education). 
  • Graduates will identify appropriate assessment tools to identify contingencies maintaining behavior. 
  • Graduates will identify target intervention outcomes using observable and measurable terms. 
  • Graduates will identify appropriate intervention strategies. 
• Graduates will exhibit competency in the application of ethical guidelines and professional skills appropriate to behavior analysis. 
  • Graduates will identify the most effective assessment and behavior-change procedures within applicable ethical standards.
  • Graduates will identify assessment and intervention methods that have been scientifically validated and suggest scientific methods to evaluate those that have not yet been scientifically validated.
  • Graduates will demonstrate professional writing conventions (e.g., APA style) appropriate to the purpose and context.
  • Graduates will demonstrate effective oral communication skills. 
• Graduates will achieve professional success after graduation.  
  • Graduates will pass the Board Certified Behavior Analyst Examination, procure employment in the field of behavior analysis, or matriculate into additional graduate study.