Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is used to help patients with autism spectrum disorder, developmental disabilities, intellectual disabilities, and behavioral disabilities. ABA is designed to improve specific behaviors including social, communication, reading, and learning skills as well as adaptive learning skills. Behavior analysis is an effective treatment for patients with psychological disorders in a variety of settings such as schools, clinics, and workplaces.
When is applied behavior analysis used?
The techniques used in behavior analysis help learners gain different skills such as language and communication, improved attention, focus, and memory, and decreased problem behaviors. A behavior analyst uses behavioral techniques including chaining, prompting, and shaping to teach skills and behaviors.
A qualified applied behavior analyst has a graduate degree and is approved by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). Enrolling in an applied behavior analysis program could be a best fit degree program for those interested in improving outcomes for those with behavioral disorders and developmental disabilities. Completing coursework in behavior research methods, the application of ethics in clinical decision-making, functional behavioral assessment, and responsive treatment approaches helps further career goals and increase earning potential.
You can earn an applied behavioral analysis degree from the University of Cincinnati in as little as five semesters. The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) verified course sequence meets the coursework requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) exam. Students learn how to use the principles of human behavior to improve social skills and the quality of life of those with autism spectrum disorder, developmental disabilities, and more. The field of behavioral analysis is growing, and graduates will find exciting career opportunities as teachers, psychologists, and human service professionals.
What is an applied behavior analyst?
A behavior analyst is a licensed therapist with training and experience in applied behavior analysis. You must hold a master’s degree or higher and pass the BCBA exam. You can become a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) with a bachelor’s degree and additional training. A BCaBA works in therapeutic settings and only practices when supervised by someone with BCBA certification.
Transitioning from high school to college is exciting, yet the college application process can be overwhelming. High school students can improve their chances of getting accepted into their dream schools with the help of personalized college application counseling. Empowerly matches students with hand-picked college app advisors who can guarantee college admission success. Their admission counseling services include admissions committee review, college counseling, essay editing, and startup internship matching. Working with an admissions advisor every step of the way through the application process is an effective way to get into the best-fit degree program of your dreams.
What can you do with an applied behavior analysis degree?
Earning a behavior analysis degree opens the door to many career opportunities in addition to becoming a behavior analyst. Physical, behavioral, and intellectual disabilities can interfere with students’ abilities to thrive in school. Special education teachers modify education lessons to meet the learning abilities of students with non-traditional learning needs. Social work can be a rewarding career for those who are passionate about improving the lives of those within a community. Social workers help children and adults dealing with sickness, special needs, job loss, loss of family, and medical diagnosis and determine the necessary resources to improve their circumstances.
A school psychologist holds a master’s degree or higher and works in a specific school or school district. They work with students who experience mental, social, and emotional disorders that affect their academic performance. A school psychologist evaluates each student, applies behavior analysis, and creates an individualized educational program (IEP).
Earning a degree in Applied Behavioral Analysis and earning the BCBA certification opens the door to rewarding career opportunities in a variety of settings.
