Vicky G. Spencer, Associate Professor of ABA
Halpin-Harrison Hall, Room 115, vspencer@su.edu

Applied Behavior Analysis emphasizes the analysis and design of the environment to improve the performance of individuals as varied as children or adults with autism, parents of challenging children, and the corporate executive attempting to maximize the productivity of employees. Behavior analysts work in an array of settings such as classrooms, homes, mental health centers, residential facilities and schools. This program is offered through a combination of online and hybrid formats. 

Upon completion of the M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis, students will:

1. Understand and apply ethical considerations in behavior analysis.
2. Master the concepts and principles of behavior analysis.
3. Identify and apply appropriate measurement systems of behavior.
4. Apply experimental design skills to behavior analysis.
5. Understand fundamental and specific elements of behavior change.
6. Design and apply procedures to evaluate the efficacy of their diagnoses and interventions.
7. Identify and apply intervention strategies, including plans for unwanted effects.
8. Apply behavior change systems.
9. Implement a behavior change management and supervision program.
10. Develop expertise in a behavior analytic application such as autism, organizational behavior management, behavioral pharmacology, etc.

Admissions Requirements

In addition to university requirements, the following must also be met:

Undergraduate major in psychology, special education, education, speech pathology, social work is recommended, but not required.

Minimum undergraduate major grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

An essay statement of the applicant’s reasons for applying to the Applied Behavior Analysis program, including what factors influenced the decision and how this program will help the individual to reach professional goals.

Three letters of recommendation written by professors, supervisors or other persons engaged in the practice of Applied Behavior Analysis or other human services professions.

This is a cohort program, and admission is limited to Fall semester only. Students complete the program in four or five semesters (Fall, Spring, Summer, Fall).