M.Sc. Applied Behaviour Analysis

Course Description

This is an intensive full-time course which aims to ensure that students become efficient in the practical application of the principles of applied behaviour analysis, with particular regard to persons with autism and other developmental disabilities and/or children and adolescents in care or special programmes, and/or those clients presenting learning and/or behavioural challenges in school. The content of this course focuses on behavioural theory and application. This course provides professional training in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) for a yearly intake of up to 15 students.

Formal classes run from mid-September to late May and are normally held one day every week. Additionally, students meet with a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA) for 1-2 hours every other week from October to September. Dissertation research is initiated during the academic year of Year 2 and continued and finalised during the summer months. Placement practice in behaviour analysis must be facilitated by an external BCBA. Students receive continuous assessment and feedback through their regular supervision sessions and participation in class activities. Placement practice in ABA is also reported at intermediate and end points during the year. Students must maintain a portfolio of their work throughout the course.

Course Content: Graduates of this course are skilled to engage in the ethical practice and research of ABA, to conduct functional behavioural assessments, implement and design behaviour support plans or learning/skill acquisition programmes, and analyse and display data to make informed decisions around intervention and learning needs.

Modules include:
Philosophical Underpinnings
ABA Definitions, Characteristics and Basic Principles

Selecting, Defining and Measuring Behaviour
Behavioural Assessment
Behavioural Intervention, Measurement and Evaluation
Professional and Ethical Practice in ABA
Research Dissertation
Advanced Philosophical Underpinnings
Personnel Supervision & Management