M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism
Welcome to the Center for Applied Behavior Analysis (CABA) and the M.S. Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism!
Are you interested in working with people diagnosed with autism? Do you want to learn effective strategies that will make a difference to children and adults with this disorder? Then the Sage School of Education Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism is for you.
The program follows a "scientist-practitioner" model of training. That means all instruction is grounded in the scientific approach towards studying behavior. You will learn about research design, the importance of empirical evidence, and the focus on experimentation to discern causes of behavior. This knowledge will be coupled with a thorough training in the only therapeutic approach to the treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders that has empirical research to support its effectiveness with this population.
This program is delivered completely via distance learning, utilizing online delivery of classes, as well as clinical supervision delivered by geographically close adjunct supervisors or alternative supervision (e.g., webcam observation).
The goals of the MS program are: (1) to prepare students to work with persons with autism, (2) to give the students the educational and skill competence necessary to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, and (3) to increase the number of professionals who have behavioral skills.
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) is rapidly becoming the most often diagnosed childhood disorder. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), a branch of psychology rooted in the application of science to the study of human behavior, is a special therapy that has been shown to be quite effective in reducing the impact of autism spectrum disorders.
Your studies will combine two tracks, plus supervised practice. You will thoroughly study Applied Behavior Analysis, both the conceptual underpinnings as well as the skills necessary to effect behavioral change. You will learn strategies for defining and assessing behaviors, development of instructional goals that are measurable, antecedent strategies to promote learning, use of consequences to effect positive change, and rules for determining success and mastery. You will learn the procedures and strategies for dealing with language development, abnormal behavioral patterns, and socialization issues. Your application of these skills will be evaluated in clinical settings where you will be working with persons with autism and other disorders.
The second major focus of the program involves a deep understanding of autism. You will learn about the etiology of the disorder and assessment strategies. You will understand how persons with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are affected in all areas of development, including language, learning, socialization, and personal behaviors. Different theoretical explanations of ASD will be covered, as well as different therapeutic approaches towards solving language, learning, and behavioral issues.
The on-line format of our coursework allows for a multi-media presentation of material. In each course, students are given varied access to proven learning tools for their own growth and improved comprehension: audio-visual presentations by professors, written tools, and active learning experiences such as fluency drills and practice in data collection. In one course, students may read and discuss articles on the treatment of autism from many different perspectives; in another course, students may watch video clips of children with autism engaged in different learning activities and apply different data analysis procedures. There is also an emphasis on research and evidence-based practice. Consistent with Sages approach that experience is the best teacher, students also practice designing and applying research principles. Applied behavior analysis is not only a treatment for autism, but an effective framework for teaching in general. Our professors and adjuncts are all behavior analysts who enjoy using our technology to teach students at every level. Our programs are broadly focused on training professionals in the best, evidence-based practices in the treatment of autism, while individualizing each students educational experience to maximize his/her experience of the program.
Quick Links
ABA & Autism Program Frequently Asked Questions
Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Program of Study Word 2007 or PDF
Quick Facts
- The ABA & Autism M.S. coursework is 100% online
- The ABA & Autism M.S. program only accepts students to begin in the fall semester. Complete applications and all supporting materials are due by April 15th. Please visit our Admissions page for further information.
- Those who complete the master's program in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism are eligible to take the national examination to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).
- The ABA & Autism program is lock step. This means that each student is expected to complete the coursework and the practica at the pace that is described in the ABAA Program of Study. This program includes a summer semester.
- BCaBAs accepted into the program may have ABA-501 and ABA-505 waived. However, these students are strongly encouraged to purchase and retain the required texts for these courses.
- Students who already possess a masters degree in a related area (such as special education or psychology) and are interested in board certification as a Behavior Analyst (BCBA), may choose to complete The Sage Colleges Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate Program, and receive a recommendation to take the examination that leads to BCBA certification.
Notice to Applicants & Candidates
Services restricted to New York State licensed professionals, including licensed psychologists, cannot be rendered by program students or graduates unless: (a) they are licensed in New York State to provide such services, or (b) they provide those services in an exempt setting as salaried employees.
Due to the recent re-writing of the APA practice act, now only psychologists can do "behavior analysis" type of activities: modifying behavior, conducting behavior analysis, etc. In New York, the New York psychologists have adopted this practice act, therefore, only licensed psychologists can do behavior analytic practice, unless one works in a school, clinic, hospital, and similar institutions. The New York State Education Department, which approves all graduate programs, requires this disclaimer in our materials. If your state does not adhere to this new definition of psychological practice, then this disclaimer will have no functional relevance to you. Please refer to the FAQ page for a more in-depth explanation of this statement.
