Program Overview
The Master of Arts in Applied Behavioral Science program trains students to become scientist-practitioners who can apply behavioral science to solve problems of individual and societal importance. The program emphasizes research, intervention, and evaluation, and students work closely with advisors on professional development activities. The program is available both in person and online and satisfies coursework requirements for Board Certification in Behavior Analysis and, in most states, licensure as a behavior analyst.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Department of Applied Behavioral Science offers a Master of Arts in Applied Behavioral Science program that trains highly competent scientist-practitioners in applied behavioral science.
Objectives:
- The program aims to advance empirically based solutions to problems of individual and societal importance, both local and global.
Program Description:
- Students learn how to examine and address problems of social importance across the lifespan.
- Students receive training in the application of behavioral science to improve the human condition through prevention and intervention.
- The program satisfies coursework requirements for Board Certification in Behavior Analysis and, in most states, licensure as a behavior analyst.
- The program follows a junior-colleague model, where students work closely with their advisors and join them in many aspects of professional development, including research, manuscript preparation, publication, and responsible conduct of research.
- Students typically work with one advisor but may work with other faculty members or have co-advisors.
- Students are free to change advisors if their or their advisor's interests change.
Assessment:
- Students must propose, conduct, write up, and orally defend an empirically based thesis.
- The thesis must meet minimum department and University requirements.
- A thesis committee evaluates the thesis, and it is successful if a majority of the committee members vote to pass it.
Teaching:
- The program emphasizes course work and training in applied and intervention research, including assessment, analysis, intervention, and evaluation.
- Students work closely with their advisors and join them in professional development activities.
Other:
- The program requires 30 credit hours, including 21 hours in 6 content areas, 3 hours in a practicum, and research and elective courses.
- The following courses are required:
- ABSC 841 Principles of Behavior I (3)
- ABSC 861 Research Methods I (3)
- ABSC 735 Conceptual Foundations I (3)
- ABSC 800 Applied Behavior Analysis I (3)
- ABSC 746 Applied Behavior Analysis II (3)
- Experimental Analysis of Behavior (3)
- ABSC 799 Research or Intervention Practicum (3)
- The program is available both in person and online.
- The online program requires a minimum of 30 credit hours, including 21 hours in 6 content areas (required courses), 3 hours in a practicum, and research and elective courses.
- The online program offers a practicum course in either basic or applied research or behavioral interventions.
- The department recommends that applicants complete 12 credit hours of undergraduate or graduate course work in behavior analysis, behavioral science, psychology, education, or related fields, and 6 hours in experimental methods, research design, or statistics.
University of Kansas Summary
Overview:
The University of Kansas (KU) is the state's flagship institution, known for its innovative research and commitment to knowledge pursuit. It is home to the Jayhawks, a symbol of the university's spirit and community.
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Join clubs and organizations based on interests and passions.Campus Events:
Attend concerts, lectures, and other events throughout the year."Rock Chalk" Tradition:
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KU boasts nationally recognized programs and faculty who are leaders in their fields.Research Opportunities:
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Connect with KU on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok.The provided context does not include information on the following sections:
Student Life and Campus Experience:
While the context mentions athletics and the "Rock Chalk" tradition, it does not provide a detailed description of student life and campus experiences.Key Reasons to Study There:
The context highlights academic excellence and research opportunities, but it does not explicitly state key reasons to study at KU.Entry Requirements:
- Bachelor's Degree: Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree to be considered for admission to the M.A. program.
- Coursework Recommendations: The department recommends that applicants have completed 12 credit hours of undergraduate or graduate coursework in behavior analysis, behavioral science, psychology, education, or related fields, and 6 hours in experimental methods, research design, or statistics. However, this is not a strict requirement.
- Faculty Advisor: Applicants must select a faculty member whose research interests match their own from a list provided by the department. An applicant is accepted when one of the selected faculty members consents to admit the student. This faculty member then becomes the student's advisor.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- Non-native speakers of English: Non-native speakers of English must meet English proficiency requirements. Specific test scores and requirements are not mentioned, but they can be found on the Graduate Admission page of the departmental website.