Mar 28, 2024  
2022-2023 Graduate Catalog 
    
2022-2023 Graduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Behavior Analysis, MS (53-688) - Behavior Analysis Therapy Option (6881) (36-42 hours)


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Students enrolled in Master of Science in Psychology-Behavior Analysis program will use the knowledge and skills obtained in the program to:

  • Demonstrate skills and knowledge in the use and interpretation of data obtained using single-subject research designs.
  • Demonstrate skills and knowledge related to the assumptions and practice of behavioral assessment.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and skills related to behavior analysis, learning, application of principles of behavior, and knowledge of ethics and professional behavior.

Our asynchronous online program is designed to prepare students to work in applied settings as a Licensed and Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and to pursue further graduate study. 

Applications and application deadline

The number of students admitted to the program is limited.  Completed applications must be submitted by April 15. Applications submitted after the due date will be considered on a space available basis. Students are only admitted fall semester.

Degree seeking applicants 

Applicants must meet the following conditions to be considered.

  • Apply to the MS Behavior Analysis program.
  • Be fully admitted to UCM by the Office of Graduate Studies. 
  • Have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university.
  • Have minimum GPA of 3.00 from an accredited institution. 
  • Completed one undergraduate course in Psychology of Learning and Conditioning or Behavior Analysis with a grade of B or better.
  • Submitted three letters of recommendation from professionals who can speak to the applicant’s skills and ability to be successful in an applied behavior science program. 
  • Provide a formal goal statement describing how their professional goals fit the focus of the program. 

Selection of applicants will be based on the applicant’s GPA and consistency of the goal statement in relation to mission of the MS Behavior Analysis program, and letters of recommendation indicating high potential for graduate work in an applied behavior science program.

Program options

After completing the 24 credit hours of the 30-hour core requirement in Behavior Analysis, students may elect one of two program options: (a) Behavior Analysis and Therapy (6 credit hours), or (b) Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Spectrum Disorder (12 credit hours). 

All students must satisfactorily complete the 30-hour curriculum, optional courses, and two practicum courses (supervised experience) to be eligible for the Master of Science in Behavior Analysis degree. Additional post graduate supervised experience may be needed, depending on the student’s situation. 

Transfer credit

No more than 12 graduate hours taken as a non-degree student (i.e., one not officially admitted to the psychology graduate program) may be applied to the M.S. in Psychology - Behavior Analysis. The chair of the school must approve these graduate hours. All courses must also meet the time limits established by the Graduate Studies office. Upon acceptance into the program, the student will be assigned a program graduate adviser and will be able to apply for federal financial aid.

Students should be aware that most graduate courses have prerequisites. These prerequisites must be met before enrolling in the courses. In some situations, a prerequisite may be waived with the consent of the program coordinator.

Non-Degree Seeking Post Graduate Course Work 

Applicants who hold a master’s degree in Psychology or Education are eligible to become a Licensed and Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) after completing 24 credit hours of required coursework and supervised fieldwork.  Non degree seeking students must complete the application process and meet the admission requirements described above.

Eligibility to enroll in MS-Behavior Analysis courses

  • Be fully admitted to UCM by the Office of graduate Studies.  
  • Admitted to the program as a degree or non-degree seeking student.

Behavior Analysis Therapy Option: 6 Semester Hours


Non-Degree Seeking Post Graduate Course Work Leading to the BCBA credential


Applicants with a graduate degree in Education, Psychology or Behavior Analysis, and who complete additional graduate coursework in behavior analysis, are eligible to take the BCBA examination and become a licensed behavior analyst.  Non-degree seeking students must complete the 30 credit hour core curriculum requirements to be eligible for licensure and certification as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).

Minimum Graduate Hour Total: 36 Semester Hours


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