Why Elms for your MS in Applied Behavior Analysis?

  • Complete your degree 100% online or on campus.
  • Pursue research opportunities.
  • Courses align with the fifth edition task list published by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB).

Applied Behavior Analysis

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is a leading science in the assessment and treatment of severe problem behavior and skill deficits for individuals with and without disabilities. This 36 credit Master’s program will teach students how to work with children and adults with behavior problems or skill deficits.

In fall 2018, the ABA course sequence at Elms was approved for the fifth edition task list by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). Working from the latest BACB content guidelines, our faculty updated the curriculum of five different courses, and created two brand new courses as well. ABA students now have more opportunities to conduct research during their second year of study. Which gives them the option to take additional courses focusing on different applications of behavior analysis.

Highlighted Courses

  • Principles and Science behind ABA
  • Understanding and conducting research as a scientist-practitioner
  • Assessment of behavior concerns
  • Treatment of behavior concerns
  • Functional communication
  • Behavioral consultation
  • Classroom applications of ABA

University Approved Practicum

Elms College offers University Approved Practicum for students enrolled in the MS in ABA program.

Certification and Licensing

Upon completion students will be eligible to pursue certification from the Behavior Analyst Certification Board and licensing in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts with other eligibility requirements. University Approved Practicum courses are offered for students in the MS in ABA Program.

We now offer CEU credits for BCaBAs, BCBA and BCBA-D.

The Association for Behavior Analysis International has verified the following courses toward the coursework requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® or Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst® examination. Applicants will need to meet additional eligibility requirements and demonstrate they reside in an authorized country before they can be deemed eligible to take the examination.

ACE logo

Alyssa Clark

Photo of Alyssa Clark '17, MS '18

“If anyone has the chance to participate in graduate research, I think that’s an opportunity they should jump on. It gives you such valuable perspective. When I had the chance to work with Dr. Hanratty, I loved it. It inspired me to continue on for my Ph.D.”

Application Requirements

  • At least 3.0 GPA
  • Official Transcript
  • Resume
  • Goal Statement
  • 2 Letters of Recommendation (1 professional and 1 academic)

Curriculum

Click to view course requirements for the Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis.

MS in Applied Behavior Analysis

Course #Course Name# of Credit Hours
ABA 6002Principles of ABA3
ABA 6001Theoretical Foundations3
ABA 6900Practicum3
ABA 6101Behavioral Consultation3
ABA 6903Practicum3
ABA 6010Research Methods3
ABA 6003Assessments in ABA3
ABA 6901Practicum3
ABA 6103Functional Communication3
ABA 6904Practicum3
ABA 6004Behavioral Interventions3
ABA 6902Practicum3
ABA 6102Professional Practice3
ABA 6905Practicum3
ElectivesElective6