Applied Behavior Analysis

Graduate Certificate
21 Credit Hours

This program is offered by the School of Education and is available online.

For information on the general requirements for a certificate, see Certificate Program Policies and Procedures under the Academic Policies section of this catalog.

Program Description

This 21-credit online graduate certificate program prepares candidates with the knowledge and concepts needed to engage in applied behavior analysis in schools, community agencies, residential centers and family settings to enhance the skills and abilities of persons with Autism Spectrum Disorder, significant disabilities and other developmental conditions.

The program provides training in functional behavior assessment, analysis and intervention within the context of ethically guided and evidence-based practices. Candidates are introduced to the conceptual foundations of applied behavior analysis, research methodology, principles and practices of behavioral instruction, support and intervention and the ethical and professional guidelines needed for effective services. 

The program is designed to prepare candidates with the coursework-based content knowledge and skills required to apply to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® Examination offered through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). Successful completion of the Webster University advanced graduate certificate program in applied behavior analysis does not guarantee that the candidate will be approved to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® Examination. Candidates who plan to apply for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® Examination should carefully review the requirements, published by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (www.bacb.com).

Learning Outcomes

Successful completers will:

• Demonstrate a thorough understanding and knowledge of the concepts and principles that underlie applied behavior analysis.
• Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the principles involved in functional behavior observation, assessment and analysis.
• Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the principles that govern the application of behavior analysis to alleviate the behavioral challenges and problems experienced by persons with disabilities or socio-emotional challenges.
• Understand the ethical and legal principles and responsibilities in the application of behavior principles.

Requirements

• APBA 5000 Introduction to Applied Behavior Analysis (3 hours)
• APBA 5110 Principles of Behavior Analysis (3 hours)
• APBA 5120 Single-Subject Research Design (3 hours)
• APBA 5130 Ethics and Professional Issues in Applied Behavior Analysis (3 hours)
• APBA 5140 Behavior Change Procedures in Applied Behavior Analysis (3 hours)
• APBA 5150 Functional Behavioral Assessment (3 hours)
• APBA 5160 Supervision and Staff Performance in Applied Behavior Analysis (3 hours)

Admission

See the Admission section of this catalog for general admission requirements. Students interested in applying must submit their application online at www.webster.edu/apply. Transcripts should be sent from your institution electronically to transcripts@webster.edu. If this service is not available, send transcripts to:

Office of Admission
Webster University
470 E. Lockwood Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63119 

Additional Requirements

Requirements for admission to the applied behavior analysis graduate certificate program include:

• Receipt of all official transcripts.
• Final degree conferred GPA of 2.5 or higher.