Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Anaylsis

A growing field in human service, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) seeks to systematically analyze and treat behavior problems. Since the Fall of 2009, Spalding University’s College of Social Sciences and Humanities has offered a Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis, the only program of its kind in Kentucky or within 150 miles of Louisville.

Board Certified Behavior Analysts work in a variety of settings, such as schools, residential and transitional living facilities, mental health agencies, rehabilitation programs, and clinics. Professional positions held by behavior analysts include consultants on autism, brain trauma rehabilitation, foster care, geriatric dementia, or performance management; staff members at schools, transitional living facilities, or adult residential facilities; as well as counselors, directors of behavioral services, or researchers.

The 43 credit hour program is completed in a cohort setting of four traditional semesters and includes the required 750 hours of practicum experience. Beginning with the Fall 2011 academic year, Spalding’s ABA Graduate program will offer two cohorts. The Fall Cohort began in August 2011, and the Spring Cohort will begin January 2, 2012. Spalding’s ABA Graduate program will prepare graduates for the field’s certification exam to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst.

Behavior analysts often work as members of a team with clients to implement detailed assessments, to develop intervention plans, and to evaluate treatments. A successful behavior analyst should have keen observation skills, exhibit compassion, and have superior written and oral communication skills. Spalding’s M.A. in Applied Behavior Analysis assists students in acquiring the knowledge, skills, and field experience to earn jobs upon graduation.

The ABA program begins with a comprehensive set of coursework experiences dedicated to ensuring theoretical and conceptual mastery of the experimental and applied analysis of behavior, including areas of origins and philosophy, learning principles, ethics, developmental disabilities, and research methodology. To view the ABA curriculum and course descriptions please click on ABA Program Sheet and Course Descriptions.

To apply to the Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis program, the following links will provide you with the application materials.

• Admission Requirements and Application Process
• Application
• Recommendation Form
• Fall 2011 Cohort Course Schedule
• Spring 2012 Cohort Course Schedule

For additional information about the ABA Graduate program, please contact the ABA Department, attention Debbie Pierce, at 502-992-2498, or toll free at 800-869-8941 ext. 2698, or via email to DPierce@spalding.edu.

The Kentucky Analysis for Behavior (KYABA) chapter was founded and organized by Spalding University’s ABA Faculty and Students. Dr. Nicholas Weatherly is President of KYABA, and the ABA Practicum Director, Keith Hersh, is the Operational Director. To view more information about KYABA please visit the website at the following link www.KentuckyABA.org.