Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Graduate Certificate

This course provides an in-depth exploration of the philosophical foundations and core principles of behavior analysis. Students critically examine the historical and theoretical roots of the field, including behaviorism, experimental analysis of behavior, and applied behavior analysis (ABA). Emphasis is placed on interpreting radical behaviorism and experimental its application across diverse settings such as classrooms, clinics, homes, and communities. Through analysis of key concepts- such as reinforcement, punishment, and contingencies- students learn to connect foundational principles and philosophical assumptions to contemporary, evidence-based behavior-analytic practice.

Prerequisite: EDSP 620.

This course builds on foundational knowledge by examining the core principles of learning and behavior with the framework of applied behavioral analysis (ABA). Students will define, distinguish, and apply fundamental behavioral concepts, including stimulus control, reinforcement, extinction, generalization, and verbal behavior. Emphasis is placed on identifying and analyzing examples of operant and respondent conditioning in real-world contexts such as educational, clinical, and community environments. Through case-based learning, applied activities, and professional discourse, students develop fluency in behavior-analytic terminology and strength the ability to evaluate and implement behavioral principles to understand and influence behavior effectively.

Prerequisite: EDSP 621.

In this course, students design and implement behavioral measurement systems, analyze data, and evaluate the effectiveness of interventions using single-case experimental designs. Students develop precise operational definitions, select appropriate data collection methods, and construct visual data displays to interpret patterns of behavior. Students also examine experimental designs to establish functional relationships and evaluate the internal and external validity of behavior-analytic research. Through applied activities and case analysis, students gain the skills necessary to make informed, data-based decisions about behavior-change procedures in clinical, educational, and community settings.

Prerequisite: EDSP 623.

This course addresses the reduction of problem behavior through behavior-analytic assessment and intervention. Students will design and interpret descriptive assessments and functional analyses, develop reinforcement- and antecedent-based strategies, and evaluate the ethical use of punishment procedures. Emphasis is placed on creating measurable, socially significant goals, designing function-based interventions, mitigating unwanted effects, and collaborating with stakeholders for ethical and sustainable outcomes.

Prerequisite: EDSP 624.

This course prepares students to apply behavior-analytic principles to supervision, staff training, and organizational performance management. Students will learn to establish effective supervisory relationships, promote equity and inclusion, and integrate cultural/contextual variables into supervision practices. Emphasis is placed on performance analyses, measurement systems, training, performance management, and systems-level change.

Prerequisite: EDSP 625.

This course prepares students to apply ethical principles and professional standards in behavior analysis. Students study the Behavior Analyst Certification Board ethics codes, enforcement mechanisms, and legal/regulatory requirements. Emphasis is placed on confidentiality, informed decision making, professional boundaries, cultural humility, and bias awareness. Through case analysis and applied strategies, students learn to provide ethical and professional services across diverse contexts.