Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis program at UAH is currently pursuing recognition through the Association for Behavior Analysis International’s (ABAI) Tiered Model of Education. Please note that pursuit of recognition does not imply current recognition status. This important initiative reflects our commitment to academic excellence and the preparation of highly competent, ethically grounded professionals in the field of behavior analysis.

As part of this process, we are implementing a series of strategic enhancements to ensure continued alignment with evolving accreditation standards and the needs of our students, the profession, and the communities we serve. These updates are part of a comprehensive transition plan, which will take effect in Fall 2025, and will include:

• A revised curriculum and updated program requirements
• Expanded student support services
• Stronger alignment with professional and ethical standards
• Greater transparency and stakeholder engagement

We recognize that changes of this nature may raise questions, and we are committed to providing ongoing communication and support throughout the transition. For more information about the accreditation process or upcoming program updates, please contact Dr. Jennifer Bruzek at: jennifer.bruzek@uah.edu.

Meet Our Faculty

Dr. Jennifer Bruzek, Assistant Professor

Dr. Laura Senn, Clinical Assistant Professor

Our dedicated faculty bring a wide range of expertise in behavior analysis, research, and professional practice. Their commitment to mentorship and evidence-based teaching supports students’ academic growth and career readiness.

Program Mission:

Our mission is to prepare graduate students to become skilled behavior analysts ready to serve individuals, families, and communities through ethical and evidence-based practices. Through rigorous coursework and hands-on experience, students will gain the knowledge and skills needed to become certified professionals in applied behavior analysis and contribute meaningfully to research and practice in the field.

Program Objectives:

1. Students will describe the philosophy of behaviorism, key theoretical frameworks, and the underlying scientific assumptions for the field to help explain behavior in everyday life across individuals.
2. Students will translate their understanding of behavioral concepts and principles into effective application across research and real-world practice through integrated classroom instruction, supervised practicum experiences, and capstone projects.
3. Students will become independent in the application of behavior analytic research methods through integrated classroom instruction and supervised practicum experiences, culminating in a capstone project that showcases their ability to conduct rigorous, practice-relevant research.
4. Students will become independent in assessing and intervening on behavior, beginning with structured coursework-based applications and progressing toward implementation in real-world settings through supervised practicum experiences.
5. Students will become independent in applying the dimensions of applied behavior analysis and demonstrate the ability to apply them effectively in both classroom and real-world practice settings.
6. Students will progressively develop the skills and independence necessary to apply the ethical standards of behavior analysis in applied professional settings through structured coursework and embedded scenarios.
7. Students will demonstrate social and cultural awareness developed through classroom instruction, with opportunities to apply this knowledge in course assignments and supervised practicum experiences.
8. Students will acquire the skills necessary to provide effective supervision and monitor organizational systems in accordance with BACB guidelines. Through classroom instruction and by participating as supervisees, students will gradually transition to applying supervision practices with others as they progress through the program.
9. Using experimental analysis and basic research methods, students will evaluate behavioral principles as they relate to assessment and treatment across classroom- based assignments, practicum settings, and capstone work.

2024 Program Outcomes (as a Verified Course Sequence):

• Annual Reporting Period: 2024
• Degrees Conferred: 7
• Median Time to Graduation: 1.33 years
• Students Enrolled: 28
• Withdrawals (non-graduation related): 3
• Applications Received: 25
• Students Admitted: 20
• First-Time BCBA Exam Takers: 10
• First-Time Pass Rate: 100%
• Median Undergraduate GPA of Admitted Students: 3.46

Note: These outcomes reflect the program under the Verified Course Sequence (VCS) structure. Updated outcomes for the redesigned program will be shared after implementation begins in Fall 2025.

Program Duration

1. The M.S. in ABA program requires a minimum of 36 hours of graduate coursework.
2. For students who maintain full-time status , the program can be completed in 5 semesters.

Program of Study

Course Descriptions

Admission Requirements

To apply, you must meet the following:

Minimum Requirements:

• GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale)
• Writing sample
• Three letters of recommendation
• Interview
• Proof of English proficiency (if international): UAH Requirements

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience in the field
• GPA above 3.5

Application Process

1. Submit an application to UAH Graduate School: select the M.S. in ABA program
2. Send official transcripts from all degree-granting institutions
3. Participate in one of two interview cycles:
   •  Cycle 1: After June 1 (priority deadline)
   • Cycle 2: After July 15 (final deadline)
4. Attend a mandatory orientation upon acceptance

Application fee: $60
Fall admission only

Tuition & Fees

For the most current information on tuition and fees, visit the UAH Bursar’s Office.

2025–2026 Tuition & Fees for ABA Graduate Students

The Charger EDGE Tuition Discount Program

Visit uah.edu/charger-edge for details. Please read instructions carefully. The application deadline is August 6, 2025.

Current and Prospective Students

The ABA Program Graduate Student Handbook provides comprehensive information about program requirements, academic policies, student responsibilities, and available resources. It is intended to guide both prospective and current students throughout their academic journey.

Becoming a BCBA

The BACB published this handbook which describes the requirements for obtaining and maintaining BCBA certification.

Certification vs. Licensure

In addition to the certification requirements described in the BCBA handbook, many states, including Alabama, have licensure requirements for Board Certified Behavior Analysts to practice in their states. For an updated list of licensure requirements, please visit the following website: https://www.bacb.com/u-s-licensure-of-behavior-analysts/

If you plan to practice behavior analysis in a state with a licensure law, please contact Dr. Jennifer Bruzek to identify whether the M.S. in ABA at UAH will meet the requirements. 

Experiential Learning and Capstone Project

Students are encouraged to identify a potential fieldwork setting and a qualified BCBA supervisor prior to the interview process. You may be asked to discuss your preliminary plans for completing the supervised experience hours required for BCBA certification. While supervised fieldwork is not a requirement of the M.S. in ABA program itself, securing appropriate supervision is essential for meeting certification requirements. Program faculty are available to provide guidance and support in preparing for this aspect of your professional development.

The M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis program combines hands-on learning with a capstone project to meet the rigorous academic and professional standards set by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI). These components give students opportunities to apply their skills in real-world settings and contribute to the field through scholarly work.

To support this experience, the program helps students secure high-quality practicum placements. Faculty may offer existing partnerships, but students may also propose their own sites, pending approval to ensure they meet program standards. All placements must have a formal agreement with UAH and comply with requirements outlined in the practicum course sequence (ABA 620–624). Each student’s practicum is supervised by a UAH faculty advisor and directly supports the capstone project.

All students must complete a capstone project to graduate. This project meets ABAI’s requirement for a thesis-equivalent academic experience, demonstrating a student’s ability to define a research problem, design a methodologically sound investigation, and carry it through to completion. Projects must meet publication-level standards and should be conducted at the student’s approved practicum site, integrating academic preparation with practical application.