Applied Behavior Analysis Coursework
Marian’s fully online Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) courses will equip students with the ability to effectively address challenging behaviors while preparing students to sit for the Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) or the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) credential. Successful completion of the Verified Course Sequence meets the BACB's course work requirements to sit for the exam.
Students enrolled in ABA courses will acquire behavior analytic knowledge and skills to effectively address social maladaptive behaviors. Skills include the ability to increase socially appropriate behaviors ensuring individuals are able to live, work, and be educated in the least restrictive environments.
Marian’s ABA courses begin three times a year: during the fall, spring, and summer semesters. Course completion is three to four semesters. New students may start in January, May, or August.
How will the ABA classes benefit me?
ABA courses will strengthen the preparation of future teachers and professionals that work directly with students and individuals who require additional support to develop socially appropriate behaviors in various social settings. Certification in ABA is an option for those with a desire to further their careers. Behavior analysts are able to support individuals exhibiting challenging behavior and/or are working to acquire new skills into their repertoire.
Individuals holding a BCaBC or BCBA may seek full-time employment in that role. That said, there are many other professions where this credential can compliment what you are already doing, this includes, educators, social workers, and even mental health professionals. Regardless of your current field, the field of ABA can be beneficial; This is evident when looking at job postings in the field of ABA. Job postings for professionals with the BCBA certification have doubled between 2012 and 2014, and the need is present in almost every state (Burning Glass Technologies, 2015).
What does the ABA curriculum look like?
The curriculum for each course is rooted in the fifth edition Task List and is an approved Verified Course Sequence (VCS) by Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI). The ABAI has verified Marian’s ABA courses toward the coursework requirements needed for eligibility to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® or Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst® examinations. (Applications will need to meet additional requirements before they can be deemed eligible to take the examination.)
The ABA curriculum consists of seven courses (18 credit hours total) administered over three semesters for students to learn and practice the behavior analytic skills required by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). Marian’s ABA coursework includes foundational concepts and philosophical underpinnings, as well as instruction specific to the BACB’s Code of Ethics. Courses also include advanced behavior analytic concepts and principles, application of interventions, as well as personnel training and development.
Why should I choose Marian’s ABA courses?
Marian’s ABA courses are taught by BCBAs who provide real-world connections to the content you will learn in these courses. They will improve your ability to assess, determine the function of a behavior, identify appropriate interventions, and implement interventions.
Coursework is rigorous and will prepare you for a career in the field of applied behavior analysis. Our program includes a unique component—instructors offer WebEx sessions multiple times per course for additional support, teaching, and mentoring.
Visit the Business Office "tuition rates for 2020-21" page for tuition rates.
What will I study?
The certification in ABA is an option for those with a desire to further their career. Whether or not you wish to pursue your BCBA credential, the ABA courses from Marian will provide you with knowledge, skills, and abilities in the area of behavior analysis you need to advance your career.
- SPD 650: Behavior Analytic Concepts and Principles
- SPD 652: Advanced Behavior Analytic Concepts and Principles
- SPD 654: Behavior Assessment and Change
- SPD 656: Ethical Practice of Behavior Analysts
- SPD 658: Verbal Behavior Foundations and Application
- SPD 660: Experimental Design and Data Analysis
- SPD 662: Personnel Development and Management
Deochand, Neil and Fuqua, R. Wayne. "BACB Certification Trends: State of the States (1999 to 2014)." Association for Behavior Analysis International 2016, March 28, 2016, p. 247.
