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Transfer Credits
- Up to 24 Credits
Explore our MS in Psychology Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) specialization
Help people with autism and developmental disabilities engage more successfully with the world when you choose the Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) specialization. ABA is an evidence-based therapy used with both adults and children, particularly those on the autism spectrum. Learn to use the principles of human behavior to transform problem behaviors, build positive social skills, and improve lives.
This specialization offers a course sequence verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI), which meets the 5th edition task list requirements to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®) exam.1 Graduates of this program who wish to pursue certification must also complete a period of supervised practical experience as defined by the Behavior Analysis Certification Board® (BACB®). Walden does not offer the fieldwork component required for the BCBA exam.
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Curriculum
Completion Requirements
- 63 quarter credits
This course sequence represents the minimum credit requirement for program completion. The number of credits for completion will vary by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. For a personalized estimate of the number of credits required for program completion, call an Enrollment Specialist at 855-646-5286.
Courses
| Course Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
The 11-week courses must be taken in the prescribed sequence below. |
||
| PSYC 6002 |
Foundations of Graduate Study in Psychology
Students in this course are introduced to Walden University and to the requirements for successful participation in an online curriculum. Students build a foundation for academic and professional success as social change agents. They assess the relationship of Walden's mission and vision to professional goals. They establish connections with their peers and the broader Walden community. Students engage in course assignments focused on the practical application of scholarly writing, critical-thinking skills, academic integrity, ethics, and the promotion of professional and academic excellence within the field of psychology. |
(3 cr.) |
| PSYC 6215 |
Lifespan Development
In this course, students are provided with an advanced overview of development through the lifespan, including prenatal, childhood, adolescent, adult, and late adult phases. Basic developmental processes and theories are examined and applied to developmental milestones that occur within these phases of development. Themes of diversity are highlighted throughout the course. Additional topics include ethics, research, global perspectives, and social change. |
(5 cr.) |
| RSCH 6110 |
Research Theory, Design, and Methods
In this research course, students are provided with core knowledge and skills for understanding, analyzing, and designing research at the graduate level. Students explore the philosophy of science, the role of theory, and research processes. Quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods research designs and data collection methods are introduced. The alignment of research components is emphasized. Students also explore ethical and social change implications of designing and conducting research. Students demonstrate their knowledge and skills by developing an annotated bibliography. |
(5 cr.) |
| PSYC 6717 |
Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a set of skills used in the assessment and treatment of individuals with a variety of behavioral problems and developmental delays, including autism spectrum disorders. In this course, students explore the philosophy and theory of behaviorism and how these undergird applied behavior analysis. Students apply the theory and philosophy of behaviorism to the application of behavioral principles and concepts in the context of applied behavior analysis to impact social change.This course covers tasks from the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®) Task List (5th ed.) and includes knowledge and skills foundational for the BCBA examination. The course is part of a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International as meeting specific coursework requirements, content hours, and faculty standards and meets coursework eligibility criteria for BCBA Eligibility Pathway 2 coursework requirements as part of the application for Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc.® (BACB®) examinations. Prerequisites
|
(5 cr.) |
| PSYC 6800 |
Applied Psychology Research Methods
In this research course, students are provided with core knowledge and skills for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting quantitative data at the graduate level. Students are provided practical skills in conducting applied research activities including methodological approaches, data collection, and management. They also explore basic exploratory, descriptive, and inferential analyses and apply statistical techniques to analyze data. Prerequisites
|
(5 cr.) |
| PSYC 6731 |
Concepts and Principles of Behavioral Analysis
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a set of skills used in the assessment and treatment of individuals with a variety of behavioral problems and developmental delays, including autism spectrum disorders. Students in this course will explore the concepts and principles of applied behavior analysis. They also examine the concepts and principles of behaviorism to the application of behavioral principles in the context of applied behavior analysis, including behavioral observation and measurement, functions of behavior, developing and maintaining behaviors, and related ethical considerations. Students explore the impact of promoting positive social change through the application of ABA.This course covers tasks from the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Task List (5th ed.) and includes knowledge and skills foundational for the BCBA examination. The course is part of a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International as meeting specific coursework requirements, content hours, and faculty standards and meets coursework eligibility criteria for BCBA Eligibility Pathway 2 coursework requirements as part of the application for Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc.® (BACB®) examinations. Prerequisites
|
(5 cr.) |
| PSYC 6733 |
Ethical, Legal, and Professional Issues in Behavioral Analysis
With a focus on the Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts issued by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc.® (BACB®), students in this course review responsible conduct of behavior analysts, ethical responsibilities to clients and their welfare, and ethical responsibilities to other individuals (e.g., colleagues) and the BACB®. In addition, students examine professional and legal issues involved in providing services in different contexts and with different client groups.This course covers tasks from the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Task List (5th ed.) and includes knowledge and skills foundational for the BCBA examination. The course is part of a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International as meeting specific coursework requirements, content hours, and faculty standards and meets coursework eligibility criteria for BCBA Eligibility Pathway 2 coursework requirements as part of the application for Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc.® (BACB®) examinations. Prerequisites
|
(5 cr.) |
| PSYC 6734 |
Introduction to Behavioral Assessment and Intervention
With a focus on the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Task List (5th ed.) issued by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc.® (BACB®), this course covers the basic principles of behavioral assessment and applied behavior analysis. Course participants explore fundamental techniques leading to the implementation of behavioral procedures and behavioral programs. More specifically, instruction focuses on conducting functional assessments and functional analyses, developing and implementing intervention procedures based on the outcome of the assessments and analyses, and data-based decision-making.This course covers tasks from the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Task List (5th ed.) and includes knowledge and skills foundational for the BCBA examination. The course is part of a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International as meeting specific coursework requirements, content hours, and faculty standards and meets coursework eligibility criteria for BCBA Eligibility Pathway 2 coursework requirements as part of the application for Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc.® (BACB®) examinations. Prerequisites
|
(5 cr.) |
| PSYC 6735 |
Research Methods for Behavioral Analysis
This course covers a variety of methods for data collection, measurement data collection, data analysis, and experimental designs that are common to applied behavior analysis. In addition to the theoretical background for single-subject research, this course emphasizes practical applications of research methods from baseline measurement to treatment evaluation. Advantages and limitations of various single-subject research methods are examined. Students design a small-n research study based on a research question developed from the applied behavior analysis literature. In addition, they critically evaluate research studies for the appropriate research design and methodology.This course covers tasks from the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Task List (5th ed.) and includes knowledge and skills foundational for the BCBA examination. The course is part of a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International as meeting specific coursework requirements, content hours, and faculty standards and meets coursework eligibility criteria for BCBA Eligibility Pathway 2 coursework requirements as part of the application for Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc.® (BACB®) examinations. Prerequisites
|
(5 cr.) |
| PSYC 6736 |
Advanced Behavioral Assessment and Intervention
This course extends students' knowledge of operationalizing behavior, behavioral assessment, developing interventions, functional analysis/assessment, and social validity concerns through the utilization of applied behavior analysis methodologies. Course content emphasizes the relationship between valid assessment data and socially relevant interventions.This course covers tasks from the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Task List (5th ed.) and includes knowledge and skills foundational for the BCBA examination. The course is part of a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International as meeting specific coursework requirements, content hours, and faculty standards and meets coursework eligibility criteria for BCBA Eligibility Pathway 2 coursework requirements as part of the application for Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc.® (BACB®) examinations. Prerequisites
|
(5 cr.) |
| PSYC 6701 |
Culture and Psychology
Students in this course explore the cultural components, research, and theory of cross-cultural psychology. In addition to the previously listed goals, students focus on the impact that culture has on the field of psychology around the world. The scope of this course is broad, with the core theme being cross-cultural psychology (focusing on cultures representing different parts of the world) and comparing cultural influence on human psychology. Many of the topics addressed are related to human development. Additionally, interactions among culture and social behaviors, health, mental health, and mental illnesses are emphasized throughout the duration of this course. Prerequisites
|
(5 cr.) |
| PSYC 6738 |
Applications and Special Topics in Applied Behavior Analysis: Supervision and Autism Spectrum Disorder
This course covers two separate but related topics within applied behavior analysis (ABA): personnel supervision and management and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Personnel supervision and management includes case management, supervision goals and procedures, function-based supervision, and evaluation. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with widely varying symptomatology and represents one of the primary client groups for whom behavior analysts provide services. Students examine ASD theory, research, and history as well as diagnostic issues and interventions for the treatment of autism.This course covers tasks from the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®) Task List (5th ed.) and includes knowledge and skills foundational for the BCBA examination. The course is part of a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International as meeting specific coursework requirements, content hours, and faculty standards and meets coursework eligibility criteria for BCBA Eligibility Pathway 2 coursework requirements as part of the application for Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc.® (BACB®) examinations. Prerequisites
|
(5 cr.) |
| PSYC 6393 |
Capstone
Students are provided with the opportunity to synthesize knowledge and skills acquired throughout their program into a practical project designed to promote positive social change in a capstone project. During this course, students work on a capstone project in which they complete a major integrative paper on a topic related to their specialization, incorporating theoretical and practical knowledge as well as social scientific research skills acquired throughout the program. The instructor may approve other capstone projects presented by students. Prerequisites
|
(5 cr.) |
| VIEW ALL COURSES | ||
Tuition and Fees
| Curriculum Component | Requirements | Cost | amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition | 63 quarter credit | $535 per quarter hour | $33,705 |
| Technology Fee | Per quarter | $160 | $1,120 |
| $34,825* |
Effective February 28, 2022
| Curriculum Component | Requirements | Cost | amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition | 63 quarter credit | $548 per quarter hour | $34,524 |
| Technology Fee | Per quarter | $165 | $1,155 |
| $35,679* |
*Tuition reflects the minimum time to completion. Time to completion varies by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships or other tuition reductions. Walden may accept up to 24 transfer credits. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 855-646-5286.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included and may cost between $2,500 to $3,500.
FINANCIAL AID
Many Walden degree-seeking students—67%—receive some form of financial aid.* Create a customized plan that makes sense for you.
*Source: Walden University’s Office of Financial Aid. Data reports as of 2018.
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Admission Requirements
Program Admission Considerations: A bachelor's degree or higher.
General Admission Requirements: Completed online application and transcripts. Please note that the materials you are required to submit may vary depending on the academic program to which you apply. More information for international applicants.
Testimonials
Earning my MS in Psychology and PhD in Psychology has provided me a greater understanding of several disciplines, including learning, human development, research and writing, education, and even business.
Theresa M. Bane MS in Psychology Graduate
Walden is an amazing university that offers around-the-clock support.
Lia Williams MS in Psychology Graduate
From the wonderful faculty members and students to the residencies and commencement experiences, I have truly enjoyed every moment of my time here.
Nickole Cottrill MS in Psychology Graduate
Resource Articles
What Can You Do with a Master’s in Psychology?
Resource Articles
What Is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)?
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