Applied Behavior Analysis

This program is for individuals who seek to create opportunities for meaningful changes in the lives of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their families. These changes also extend to perceptions and practices in the community. Faculty advisors will support you through the BCBA® certification and state licensure processes.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) involves the application of the principles of behavior to improve socially significant behaviors. Applied behavior analysts work with individuals who range in age from infancy through adulthood and old age in settings that include schools, homes, day programs, communities, residential care settings, businesses, and research laboratories. Our master’s degree and advanced certificate programs will prepare you to develop, deliver, and evaluate the effectiveness of behavior-analytic intervention for individuals with ASD.

Two programs are offered in Applied Behavior Analysis:

1. The Master of Science is designed for individuals who hold an undergraduate degree or master’s degree. This program has been found eligible by the Association for Behavior Analysis International to apply for accreditation.
2. The Advanced Certificate is designed for individuals who hold a master’s degree.

Credits

• Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis: 44 credits
• Advanced Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis: 27 credits
  • The Association for Behavior Analysis International has verified the courses toward the coursework requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® or Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst® examination. Per The Association for Behavior Analysis International, all candidates seeking certification must complete 27 credits of coursework.

Certification/Licensure

There are two credentials of interest for those in Applied Behavior Analysis:

• Board Certified Behavior Analyst® credential, which is the nationally recognized credential for behavior analysts
• New York State ABA Licensure, which is necessary to practice ABA in New York

Program Format

As a student enrolled in an ABA program, you will have the option of attending class in person or synchronously online via web-conferencing software. The hyflex learning format duplicates, to the extent possible, the group experience of attending class and provides opportunities for personal interactions with both your course instructors and your fellow students. You will complete projects, quizzes, and exams at scheduled times. Your materials are submitted electronically and quizzes and exams are given online. These procedures are designed to ensure the highest level of academic rigor in both classroom and distance learning.

Eligibility and Admission Requirements

For our Master’s Degree Program in Applied Behavior Analysis

• A bachelor’s or master’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA
• Unofficial transcripts
• A statement of purpose
• A supplemental statement that addresses the following:
  • What is ABA? Why are you interested in pursuing graduate education and training in ABA? What are your long-term goals related to ABA?
  • The ABA – MS program requires two 180-hour practica. ABA students must complete this requirement at a site affiliated with Hunter College. Please explain your availability to complete this program requirement.
  • The ABA – MS program also includes a capstone experience in which ABA students must complete either an experimental thesis or a clinical project. Please give an example of a clinical experience you’ve had that might inform your capstone experience.
• Curriculum Vita or Resume
• Two professional references, one should be an academic reference
• An interview with program faculty. Applicant Interview Information and Technical Support.

Note: International applicants who need an F-1 or J-1 Visa are not currently eligible for this program.

For our Advanced Certificate Program in Applied Behavior Analysis

• A master’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 GPA
• Unofficial transcripts
• A statement of purpose
• A supplemental statement that addresses the following:
  • What is ABA? Why are you interested in pursuing graduate education and training in ABA? What are your long-term goals related to ABA?
• Curriculum Vita or Resume
• Two professional references, one should be an academic reference
• Applicants who are being considered for the final round will be interviewed by program faculty. Applicant Interview Information and Technical Support.

Note: International applicants who need an F-1 or J-1 Visa are not currently eligible for this program.

To Apply

Applications are accepted each Fall and Spring semester.

To start your application, visit Apply Yourself.

For our Master’s Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis: When applying to this program under Program of Study, select School of Education – Special Education and Applied Behavior Analysis – MS.

For our Advanced Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis: When applying to this program under Program of Study, select School of Education – Special Education and Adv. Cert. in Applied Behavior Analysis

Application Deadlines

• Fall Start: March 15
• Spring Start: October 15

Visit How to Apply for information about deadline extensions.

Contact an Admissions Advisor

edadmissions@hunter.cuny.edu

Program Coordinator

April Kisamore