Applied Behavior Analysis

Applied behavior analysts systematically measure specific client behaviors and then analyze how changes in the environment (such as specific arrangements of stimuli and consequences) can alter and positively influence those behaviors.

Based on the work of B. F. Skinner, this therapeutic system has become known as the only effective treatment for helping children and adults with autism and other developmental disabilities improve their social, motor, verbal, and reasoning skills. In addition, Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is increasingly being used in business and industrial settings (to teach precise job skills, enhance performance, and improve safety) and in educational environments (to teach basic academic skills, verbal reasoning, physical movement, social skills, and more).

Over several decades of research, the field of applied behavior analysis (ABA) has developed a wide range of ethical and empirically validated techniques for teaching new behaviors and skills, while eliminating those that may get in the way of learning and overall quality of life. 

Applied behavior analysts work in group homes, schools, mental health agencies, hospitals, businesses, and as independent consultants. 

Psy.D. in Applied Behavior Analysis

• Offered in Chicago and Los Angeles.
• Three years full time or five years part time (Los Angeles program offered in a flexible format that is convenient for working professionals)
• Develops expert knowledge in behavior analytic theory, research, and practice—preparing graduates to serve as head practitioners in both educational and clinical settings, leading efforts to address a range of issues including those related to developmental disabilities and behavioral health. Doctoral graduates in Applied Behavior Analysis will be prepared to contribute to research that further advances an integrated, scientific understanding of the complexities of human behavior.
• Students earning their Applied Behavior Analysis degree benefit from superior classroom preparation (based on the Radical Behaviorist model and includes advanced areas such as precision teaching, instructional design, and verbal behavior), coupled with an unsurpassed range of real-world training including four practicum experiences and two semester-long internships.
• Students select concentrations in instructional design, developmental disabilities, or supervision and consulting.
• Students who do not yet have their BCBA certifications will complete a BCBA-approved course sequence that prepares them to sit for national certification by the Behavior Analysis Certification Board®.   

M.A. in Clinical Psychology, Applied Behavior Analysis Specialization

• Offered in Chicago and Los Angeles.
• Two years full time or three years part time (our ABA graduate programs in Los Angeles are offered in a flexible format that is convenient for working professionals).
•  96% of our Chicago School ABA students secure their first practicum placements by the end of the first semester, and the remaining 4% obtain placements by the time the second semester begins (subsequent practicum placements also reach 100%).
• Program is unique in that students receive a solid foundation in the principles of clinical psychology, in addition to thorough training in ABA techniques—preparing them to work with a range of populations in both clinical and business/industry settings.
• Graduates of our ABA graduate programs are prepared to determine experimentally the cause(s) of problem behavior, develop humane and effective interventions, validate their approach to each client, and assess outcomes.
• Course sequence is approved by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® and graduates are eligible to sit for national certification by the Behavior Analysis Certification Board®.
• Students may petition to take an additional 14 semester hours of coursework and three credits of supervised practicum to sit for Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) licensure in Illinois.

Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis

• Offered in an online-blended format.
• Completed in under a year, depending on field supervision availability.
• Requires a master’s degree in a related field and five years experience.
• Designed to assist behavior analysts and those working in related fields with updating their licensure and further expanding their expertise related to developmental disabilities, geriatric conditions, behavioral and learning difficulties, and mental illness.
• Prepares students to sit for the examination to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).