January 2025 University Catalog

MS in Applied Behavior Analysis, Autism Spectrum Disorder

School of Social and Behavioral Sciences

The master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis program, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) specialization combines foundational knowledge of major competency areas in the behavior analytic field with specialized knowledge in ASD. The curriculum focuses on ethical and professional conduct; behavior analysis concepts, principles, and research methods; and ASD diagnosis and treatment. Upon successful completion of this specialization, learners are prepared to identify behavioral problems through assessment; design, implement, and manage culturally appropriate interventions and treatments; perform effective behavior supervision; and bring about positive change for diverse individuals in a variety of settings.

Personal Suitability and Fitness for the Profession

Capella embraces the principles and guidelines set forth by the Council of Chairs of Training Councils (CCTC) related to professional psychology programs in that the faculty, training staff, supervisors, and administrators in the Applied Behavior Analysis program have a professional, ethical, and potentially legal obligation to ensure, insofar as possible, that all learners have the competence to manage professional relationships in an effective and appropriate manner and that they possess the emotional maturity, interpersonal stability, and intellectual judgment required to work with vulnerable populations. Personal suitability and fitness for the profession includes but is not limited to demonstration of sufficient interpersonal and professional competence; self-awareness, self-reflection, and self-evaluation; openness to processes of supervision; and resolution of issues or problems that interfere with professional development or functioning in a satisfactory manner. Throughout the graduate training of each learner, faculty and staff are responsible for educating and assessing learners with regard to their personal suitability and fitness for the profession.

Core courses

PSY5006Foundations of Theory and Practice for Applied Behavior Analysis

5

PSY5260Philosophical Foundations of Behaviorism

5

PSY5280Advanced Concepts in Applied Behavior Analysis

5

PSY5300Fundamentals of the Experimental Analysis of Behavior

5

PSY5330Organizational Behavior Management: Supervision and Management in Applied Behavior Analysis

5

PSY7710Ethics in Applied Behavior Analysis

5

PSY7711Measurement and Research in Applied Behavior Analysis

5

PSY7712Behavior Analytic Assessments

5

PSY7713Behavior Analytic Interventions

5

PSY7715Applied Behavior Analysis Capstone

5

Specialization courses

PSY6311Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnosis and Early Intervention

5

PSY6313Lifespan Interventions and Autism Spectrum Disorder

5

Total

At least 60 quarter credits

One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.

Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.

Capella University cannot guarantee eligibility for licensure, endorsement, other professional credential, or salary advancement. State licensing regulations and professional standards vary; learners are responsible for understanding and complying with the requirements of the state in which they intend to work. State licensing boards review each applicant's completed education, exam scores, supervised experience, criminal history, and application materials at the time of license application to determine eligibility. For more information, see the professional licensure disclosures for this program on Capella’s website.

Multiple specializations available (must be within the same degree program)