Prerequisites and Completion Requirements for PhD ABA Degrees
Masters degrees and relevant experience are common prerequisites for PhD in Behavior Analysis programs. Some programs may accept applicants with bachelor's degrees as long as they have sufficient psychology course credits.
In both the PsyD and Ph.D. programs in applied behavior analysis students learn to recognize, assess and diagnose behavior problems, as well as investigate their root causes. As in all doctoral programs, students learn to collect and analyze data, and research is emphasized. The programs also include clinical experience, such as working in rehabilitation facilities for people with brain injuries. ABA PhD programs require a dissertation, clinical practicum, and coursework and comprehensive exams for completion.
Choosing a PhD Program in Applied Behavior Analysis: On Campus or Online?
GradSchools.com can help you identify the ABA doctorate program that aligns with your goals. If you are interested in studying at a university or college, review programs by location; use the city, state, or country and browse the listings. If you are more interested in distance learning, sort through by online applied behavior analysis programs. Some of the results might include: PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis, Doctorate in Behavior Analysis or PhD Psychology-Behavior Analysis Specialization.
PhD Applied Behavior Analysis Potential Coursework
PhD students examine ABA theories and procedures, learn to describe and measure behavior, as well as diagnose behavioral problems.
Environmental factors that contribute to behavioral issues are studied in order for learners to understand and create modification treatments that encourage beneficial changes. Research is vital to applied behavioral analysis, so students are taught to conduct behavioral experiments and write scientific reports.
Coursework might include topics such as:
- Behavioral assessment
- Descriptive analysis
- Demonstration of functional relations
- Measurement and intervention tactics
- Data display and interpretation
- Selection of target behaviors and goals
- Family issues
- Legal and ethical issues
- Crisis management
Potential Career Paths for graduates with a PhD in ABA
Many students of Applied Behavior Analysis doctorate programs come from the fields of education and special education, however, the potential applications for this degree vary widely. Graduates may go on to become Behavior Analysts, Mental Health Counselors, Special Ed Teachers, or clinical, counseling, organizational or research psychologists.
The job outlook for psychologists is very favorable; the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 19% growth in employment between 2014 and 2024, which is faster than average.
sources:[i]bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm | onetonline.org/link/summary/21-1014.00 | bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/special-education-teachers.htm | bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/mental-health-counselors-and-marriage-and-family-therapists.htm
Top 12 Graduate Schools with Applied Behavior Analysis PhD Programs in Illinois
