Master of Science Applied Behavior Analysis program

We are pleased to announce that our program is currently in the process of applying for accreditation. As part of this process, we are implementing several updates and enhancements that reflect our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of academic excellence and professional readiness.

These changes are part of a comprehensive transition plan and are scheduled to take effect beginning in the Fall 2025 semester. They will include updates to program requirements, curriculum, and key resources, ensuring alignment with accreditation standards and the evolving needs of our students, the field, and the community.

We understand that this transition may prompt questions, and we are here to provide clarity and guidance throughout the process. For more detailed information about the accreditation process and the forthcoming changes, please contact Dr. Jennifer Bruzek via email: jennifer.bruzek@uah.edu.

Program Mission:

Our mission is to graduate scientist-practitioners who meet the coursework requirements for BCBA certification and are equipped to serve clients, communities, and the field of behavior analysis through research and practice.

Program Objectives:

  1. Students will describe the philosophy of behaviorism, the theoretical approaches to understanding behavior, and the underlying assumptions of science.
  2. Students will apply their understanding of behavioral concepts and principles as informed by the literatures in basic, applied, and conceptual behavior analysis.
  3. Students will implement behavior analytic research methods.
  4. Students will assess and intervene on behavior.
  5. Students will describe the dimensions of applied behavior analysis and demonstrate their incorporation into intervention planning
  6. Students will apply the ethical guidelines and use professional skills in accordance with the field of applied behavior analysis.
  7. Students will demonstrate social and cultural awareness.
  8. Students will demonstrate the skills to supervise others and monitor organizational systems effectively.

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 (9 hours in fall and spring, 6 hours in the summer), the program can be completed in 5 semesters.

Requirements for Admission

The M.S. in ABA requires:

Preference is given to those with:

  • experience in the field
  • GPAs exceeding 3.5

Application Process

To be considered for admission the Applied Behavior Analysis, MS program, applicants must complete the following steps:  

  1. Apply for admission to the UAH graduate program. Be sure to indicate that you want to apply for the M.S. in ABA program.
  2. Send official transcripts from all degree granting institutions you have attended to the UAH Graduate Admissions Office. There are two application deadlines. Students are only accepted for Fall admission.
    1. Applications submitted by June 1 will be given priority.
    2. Applications submitted by July 15 will be considered for the remaining spots. 
  3. There will be two interview cycles.
    1. The first will occur within 1-2 weeks following the June 1 deadline.
    2. The second will occur within 1-2 weeks following the July 15 deadline.
  4. Once all spots have been filled and students have been formally accepted to UAH, a mandatory program orientation will be scheduled.

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. 

Supervised Fieldwork

The Department of Curriculum and Instruction will work with all students to ensure that they have ample opportunities to complete the required clinical experiences in various settings. Some clinical experiences will be connected to coursework but most experiences will be conducted outside of the program. The ABA program advisor will support students to ensure that they are prepared to apply and take the BCBA examination.

*Please note that it is possible that you will be required to pay additional fees to obtain your Supervised Fieldwork.

 VCS