Applied Behavior Analysis, Post-Master's Graduate Certificate
The Post-Master's Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a 21-credit program that meets the behavior-analytic coursework requirements for those pursuing the BCBA pathway 2 eligibility route (see the latest BCBA Handbook at www.bacb.com).
The program is based upon the scientist-practitioner model. Students learn about theoretical and conceptual issues in the science of behavior, as well as the practitioner skills necessary to design and deliver effective behavioral interventions across populations and settings. All tracks of study provide training in the basic and applied principles, assessment and intervention strategies, ethical practice in ABA, philosophy of behaviorism, and ABA/OBM in organizational settings.
Successful completion of the 21-credit program satisfies the education requirement to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA©) examination. Students can work toward satisfying the experience requirement to sit for the BCBA© examination upon entry into the program. For more information about becoming a BCBA©, see the BACB website.
Upon successful completion of the 21 credits, the student will receive a Post-Master's Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis. The student will have acquired knowledge and skills that comprise the BCBA© Test Content Outline (6th ed.). These domains include:
- A. Behaviorism and Philosophical Foundations
- B. Concepts and Principles
- C. Measurement, Data Display, and Interpretation
- D. Experimental Design
- E. Ethical and Professional Issues
- F. Behavior Assessment
- G. Behavior-Change Procedures
- H. Selecting and Implementing Interventions
- I. Personnel Supervision and Management
Requirements for Admissions
Admission is contingent on the outcome of an interview with the program faculty. Candidates will be notified in writing as to their status.
- Baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university.
- Minimum grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- A master's or doctoral degree in psychology or a master's or doctoral degree in education.
- Applicants with deficiencies may be required to register for appropriate undergraduate course(s) without graduate credit.
- Completed self-managed application packet (see below):
The completed self-managed application packet must include:
- A check or money order for $40 (nonrefundable) made payable to Georgian Court University.
- A completed graduate application form.
- A reasonably complete statement of the applicant’s reasons for undertaking this program of study. An explanation of what factors influenced applicant’s decision and how this program will facilitate attainment of the applicant’s professional goals for the future should be addressed.
- Sealed and signed envelopes containing official transcripts of each undergraduate and graduate institution the applicant has attended. If the official seal has been broken, the transcript is considered to be unofficial and cannot be accepted for use toward the application. Official transcripts electronically transmitted directly from the Office of the Registrar of each institution will be accepted in lieu of a paper copy.
- At least two letters of recommendation on letterhead and signed (written by college professors, deans, supervisors, or other persons engaged in or familiar with the profession for which applicant wishes to prepare). This can be uploaded or emailed to gps@georgian.edu.
Accepted students will receive a health form that must be completed and submitted to the GCU Office of Health Services.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ABA500 | Foundational ABA Concepts & Principles | 3.0 |
| ABA501 | Ethical & Professional Conduct | 3.0 |
| ABA502 | Measurement & Experimental Design | 3.0 |
| ABA504 | Philosophy of Behaviorism | 3.0 |
| ABA510 | Behavior Assessment | 3.0 |
| or SPS5910 | Beh Assessment in Edu & Comm Settings | |
| ABA511 | Behavior Change Procedures I | 3.0 |
| or SPS6911 | Beh Interventions in Edu & Comm Settings | |
| ABA512 | Behavior Change Proced II: Intro to OBM | 3.0 |
| or SPS6912 | Multitiered Prev & Int in Edu Settings | |
| Total Credits | 21.0 | |
Note: SPS5910, SPS6911, and SPS6912 may only be taken by students enrolled in the School Psychology program