Advanced Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
This program is designed for individuals who wish to receive a formal background in the theory and practice of Applied Behavior Analysis. Behavior analysis is used most widely with clinical populations in the area of developmental disabilities, including but not limited to clients diagnosed as mentally retarded and/or autistic.
The program requires the completion of 18 credits, and is designed so that all requirements can be met within one calendar year (fall semester, spring semester, and summer session). The curriculum consists of 9 credits in basic courses in behavior analysis, 6 credits in advanced courses and 3 practicum credits. Applications are accepted until August 1.
“The Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc. has approved the following course sequence as meeting the coursework requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst Examination. Applicants will have to meet additional requirements to qualify.”
Click here for more information about Behavior Analyst Certification.
The program consists of the following courses:
- Experimental Methods in Psychology I (PSY 607)
The treatment of problems in the design and execution of single-case research is emphasized in this course. It includes a consideration of controls, drawing inferences, and research techniques in both experimental and applied behavior analysis. Data presentation methods including the use of Microsoft Excel will be discussed.
- Behavior Analysis and Learning (PSY 651)
This course provides an introduction to the basic principles of conditioning and learning including reinforcement theory, stimulus control, and aversive control. In addition, it will introduce students to the history and philosophy of Behavior Analysis. The major focus will be on the basic underlying principles and current research.
- Applied Behavior Analysis (PSY 657)
This course involves an examination of the theory and practice underlying the application of the principles of classical and operant conditioning to the analysis and treatment of problems in human behavior.
- Practicum in Applied Behavior Analysis (PSY 658)
Students will work in the field under the supervision of a qualified behavior analyst in a setting of their choice. The time period will vary between six weeks (summer) or fourteen weeks (fall or spring term). Practicum settings include, but are not limited to, agencies serving people with developmental disabilities, consulting firms, research facilities, and schools.
- Advanced Issues I: Autism (PSY 704)
An advanced treatment of current issues in behavior analysis dealing with methods, ethics, and research with specific clinical applications such as performance enhancement in organized settings.
- Advanced Issues II: Development of Behavior Intervention Programs (PSY 705)
The focus of this course is on integrating the components of behavioral programming in applied settings. Students will conduct a functional assessment and analysis, create behavioral objectives, design intervention procedures and evaluation procedures. The final project will require a written document integrating all components of the intervention and evaluation program.
For more information please contact:
Dr. Nancy Frye, Director, M.A. Program, Nancy.Frye@liu.edu
Dr. Gerald Lachter, Chairperson, Department of Psychology, Gerald.Lachter@liu.edu
516-299-2377
For Students in the CASE Program
Students who are enrolled in the CASE (Concentration in Autism and Special Education) program can also complete the requirements for the Advanced Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis by taking Psychology 607, 651, and 657. These courses are taken in addition to the Education courses required to complete the CASE program. Students would need the additional 9 credits in Psychology listed above. Nine credits in Education courses would substitute for the corresponding Psychology courses as shown below. Note: Students wishing to do this must complete an application for the ABA program, noting on the application that they are students of the CASE program.
- Contemporary Issues and Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders (EDS 625)
This course is an advanced seminar in current issues facing the field of special education, in place of PSY 658: Practicum in Applied Behavior Analysis
- Curriculum-Based Assessment and Instruction of Students with Severe Disabilities/Autism (EDS 629)
This course focuses on the methodologies of: (1) assessment; (2) curriculum development; (3) individualized educational planning; and (4) instructional programming for children with severe developmental disabilities and autism, in place of PSY 704: Advanced Issues I: Autism
- Behavioral Management for Children with Autism and Developmental Disorders (EDS 635)
This course provides an introduction to the principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA) and its application for children with autism and other developmental disabilities, in place of PSY 705: Advanced Issues II: Development of Behavior Intervention Programs
- For further information, contact:
Dr. James Vacca, Chairperson, Department of Special Education and Literacy, 516-299-3677, James.Vacca@liu.edu or
Dr. Kathleen Feeley, Assistant Professor, Department of Special Education, 516-299-2231, Kathleen.Feeley@liu.edu
