Program Description
The Applied Behavior Analysis doctoral program trains students to bring about socially significant behavioral changes in individuals with developmental disabilities, those in regular educational settings, and those who wish to improve performance or master skills in a variety of areas. Using a natural science approach, ABA professionals systematically collect and analyze data to validate incremental changes in observable behavior.
Los Angeles Campus students have the unique opportunity to train caregivers in ABA techniques through the Campus' TEACH Center.
Coursework and classes are based on the Radical Behaviorist model and include advanced areas such as precision teaching, instructional design, and verbal behavior, and is enhanced by an unsurpassed range of real-world training, including four practicum experiences and two semester-long internships.
Doctoral graduates will be prepared to contribute to research that further advances an integrated, scientific understanding of the complexities of human behavior. The program helps students develop expert knowledge in behavior analytic theory, research, and practice-preparing graduates to serve as head practitioners in both educational and clinical settings, leading efforts to address a range of issues.
Department
ABA
Concentrations
Licensure
Students who do not yet have their BCBA certifications will complete a BCBA-approved course sequence that prepares them to sit for national certification by the Behavior Analysis Certification Board®.
Total Credits
112 credit hours, post- baccalaureate; 77 credit hours, post-master’s
Fieldwork Requirements
Sample Courses
Psychopathology
Addresses the major definitions for mental disorders, as well as the theories of etiology within the context of recent developments in the categorization and classification of psychological phenomena (DSM-IV TR). A survey of the classes of psychotropics used for the major disorders is also addressed in this course.
Psychology of the Lifespan
Examines normal development from infancy throh advanced ages, focusing on the development of perceptual and cognitive processes, psychosocial roles and familial interpersonal processes. Current clinical approaches are examined from diverse theoretical viewpoints and in view of recent research findings. Cultural diversity and individual differences are integral to this course.
Analysis and Treatment of Developmental Disabilities
Builds upon the basic principles of learning and applied behavior analysis. This course offers advanced coverage of special topics, including practicing behavior analysis in applied settings, such as schools and hospitals; conducting parent training; assessment and treatment procedures for improving communication skills of individuals with developmental disabilities; managing problem behavior such as self injury, food refusal, and noncompliance, and for dealing with special populations such as children with autism.
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