Apr 19, 2024  
2017-2018 Van Loan Catalog 
    
2017-2018 Van Loan Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis (Master of Education)


This 39-credit program prepares students to work with individuals with Autism. The courses inform students about state-of-the-art strategies to increase student success and independence. The program includes courses in Applied Behavior Analysis that fulfill the educational requirements for the internationally recognized certification offered by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). This is a unique program that focuses on the application of behavioral principles to individuals with autism. Students will learn best practices in addressing the needs of learners with autism.

Autism and ABA Face-to-Face Requirement
Some classes require either synchronous online or face-to-face contact. They are AUT 578 Effective Collaboration and ABA 565 Ethics. They are offered in multiple weekend synchronous online sessions (5 per semester) or in week-long summer intensive models. Each year, AUT 578 is offered face-to-face in late July and ABA 565 is offered face-to-face in early August. Synchronous online options are available in multiple semesters annually, for both courses. Campus housing is available for the summer week-long classes at low cost. 

Licensure/Board Certification 
The M.Ed. and Certificate programs offered through The Institute for Behavioral Studies meet the academic standards for both Licensure as a Licensed Applied Behavior Analyst LABA) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts as well as the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA©) of the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB).   Students planning to apply for Licensure or to sit for the BCBA exam upon graduation should consult with their Academic Advisor regarding meeting the MA Division of Professional Licensing/BACB and The Institute for Behavioral Studies standards for internship experiences and supervision.

Program of Study


Learning Outcomes


Upon completion of the program, students will:

  • Demonstrate acquisition of the knowledge, principles, and skills of Applied Behavior Analysis
  • Demonstrate application of assessment and behavior change procedures involved in educating and treating individuals with autism
  • Demonstrate understanding of the learning, behavioral, communication, and social characteristics of individuals with autism as manifested by knowledge of effective individualized curricular planning, effective classroom management, and an under standing of evidence-based practice

Required Curriculum


*The courses indicated with an asterisk comprise the seven-course sequence that leads to a Certificate in Autism. 

Total Degree Requirements - 39 credits