Master of Science Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis (formerly Master of Science in Counseling, Option in Applied Behavior Analysis)

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 The MS in Counseling Option in Applied Behavior Analysis will be discontinued. 
Starting fall 2025 we will be the MS in Applied Behavior Analysis

 

Information Session

Information Sessions for Prospective Students

Program Mission

The Master of Science degree in Counseling with an option in Applied Behavior Analysis (M.S. degree in Applied Behavior Analysis) trains students in the principles, concepts, and application of behavior analysis from within a counseling framework. Special consideration is given to incorporating counseling skills in the application of behavior analysis concepts. The program is committed to preparing students to meet national certification standards and to pursue doctoral training in behavior analysis.   

Program Objectives

  • PO1: Apply the principles and concepts of behavior analysis. 
  • PO2: Demonstrate basic counseling skills. 
  • PO3: Incorporate basic counseling skills in the application of behavior analysis. 
  • PO4: Become ethical scientific practitioners 
  • PO5: Demonstrate knowledge and competency in accordance with the task list provided by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. 
  • PO6: Conduct evidence-based practices in accordance with the most current standards presented by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. 

Program Information

Master of Science in Counseling (Applied Behavior Analysis Option) [52-56 units]:

(Accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International Accreditation Board; Verified Course Sequence (VCS); Concentrated Supervised Fieldwork)

  • Applied Behavior Analysis is the application of learning principles to problems of social importance.  It is a systematic, performance-based, self-evaluative methodology for assessing and changing socially important behavior.
  • This program is designed for those who plan to work as a behavior analyst who work with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in various settings. This program can also help prepare those who wish to pursue a doctoral degree in behavior analysis
  • Accepts ~ 24 students per year
  • This program is housed within the College of Education in the Department of Special Education and Counseling. Current full-time faculty: Dr. Michele Wallace (Program Coordinator), Dr. Denice Rios Mojica, and Dr. Jennifer Weyman

Certificate Program in Applied Behavior Analysis [21 units; Post Baccalaureate]:

  • This program is designed to provide the behavior-analytic coursework to meet the content area requirements of the BACB. It is designed for those wishing to pursue their BCBA certificate.
  • Those who complete the program will develop specialized skills for designing; implementing and evaluating Applied Behavior Analysis programs in behavior management, motivation, teaching, and consultation.
  • Students who apply for the certificate program in Applied Behavior Analysis in Educational Settings should already have a master's degree or are currently enrolled in a master's degree program. Note: Students interested in qualifying for the certification exam should verify that their master’s degree qualifies with the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (www.bacb.com). 

Accreditation and Verified Course Sequence

The M.S. in Counseling, option in Applied Behavior Analysis is accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International Accreditation Board. In addition, the Association for Behavior Analysis International Accreditation Board has verified the following courses toward the coursework requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst®. 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.

 

Accreditation_Logo VCSLogo


 

 

 

Deadline to apply is January 15, 2025

Program Faculty

MicheleWallace Michele D. Wallace, Ph.D., BCBA-D 
Professor, Program Coordinator

Division of Special Education & Counseling
Office: King Hall C-1072F
E-mail: [email protected]

 

  • Research Interests: The assessment and treatment of problem behavior, parent and staff training, and supervision practices.

 

JenniferWallace

Jennifer Weyman, Ph.D., BCBA-D, LBA
Assistant Professor

College of Education
Division of Special Education & Counseling
Office: King Hall C-1072F
E-mail: [email protected]

 

  • Research Interests: The assessment and treatment of problem behavior, assessment of restricted and repetitive behavior, and parent training.

Denice Rios Mojica


Denice Rios Mojica, Ph.D., BCBA-D
Assistant Professor

Division of Special Education & Counseling
Office: KH A2034
E-mail: [email protected]

 

  • Research Interests: Supervision/ training, telehealth, assessment and treatment of problem behavior, microaggressions, and culturally responsive mentorship practices.