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Programs
Behavior Analysis Minor and Concentration
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The Psychology Department at MCLA offers specialized training in behavior analysis. Both the Behavior Analysis Minor and the Behavior Analysis Concentration within the Psychology major are intensive programs that prepare students for careers and/or graduate study in behavior analysis. In addition, both programs satisfy the coursework requirement for the Board Certified Associate Behavior Analysts Examination (BCABA). Questions regarding the Behavior Analysis Concentration, Behavior Analysis Minor, or BCABA certification should be directed to Dr. Tom Byrne in the Psychology Department.
Concentration in Behavior Analysis
Psychology majors wishing to careers or graduate study in behavior analysis may consider two concentration sequences. All coursework satisfying the concentration is applied towards the major requirements.
Sequence 1: All coursework for this option is taken at MCLA.
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PSYC 316
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PSYC 332
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PSYC 395
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PSYC 450
Sequence 2: Psychology majors who successfully complete PSYC 316 may be eligible to enroll in the Cooperative Learning Program at New England Center for Children (see below). Departmental approval is required prior to enrollment in the NECC Cooperative program.
The Behavior Analysis Minor (21 Credits)
This minor is designed for non-Psychology majors who wish to pursue careers and/or graduate training in behavior analysis. Two sequences are offered:
Sequence 1: All coursework for this option is taken at MCLA. Depending on their career goals, students select portions of their courses in child development or research methodology.
Sequence 2: Students who successfully complete PSYC 290 and PSYC 316 may be eligible to enroll in the Cooperative Learning Program at New England Center for Children (see below). Departmental approval is required prior to enrollment in the NECC Cooperative program.
Cooperative Learning Program with the New England Center for Children
Students spend a semester studying at the New England Center for Children. Located in Southborough MA, The New England Center for Children is a world-renowned research and treatment center for autism and related developmental disabilities. Students pay the same tuition and housing fees as they would at MCLA. All students enrolled in the program take both PSYC 551 and PSYC 555. In addition, students select either PSYC 553 or PSYC 554 depending on availability. Departmental approval is required prior to enrollment in the NECC Cooperative Program.
About Board Certification
Successful completion of the Behavior Analysis Concentration or the Behavior Analysis Minor satisfies the coursework required to sit for Board Certified Associate Behavior Analyst (BCABA) Examination. With careful planning, students may also be able to satisfy the mentored or supervised experience required for BCABA certification through enrollment in internships. Please note that BCABA certification is granted by the Behavior Analysis Certification Board (BACB) © and not by MCLA. According to guidelines set by the BACB, an analyst with BCABA qualifications can function in the following capacities:
The BCABA conducts descriptive behavioral assessments and is able to interpret the results and design ethical and effective behavior analytic interventions for clients. The BCABA designs and oversees interventions in familiar cases (e.g., similar to those encountered during their training) that are consistent with the dimensions of applied behavior analysis. The BCABA obtains technical direction from a BCBA for unfamiliar situations. The BCABA is able to teach others to carry out interventions once the BCABA has demonstrated competency with the procedures involved under the direct supervision of a BCBA. The BCABA may assist a BCBA with the design and delivery of introductory level instruction in behavior analysis. It is strongly recommended that the BCABA practice under the supervision of a BCBA, and that those governmental entities regulating BCABAs require this supervision.
More information may be found at www.bacb.org or by contacting Dr. Tom Byrne in the Psychology Department.
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