Why Eastern Kentucky University?
This mid-sized public university, located in Richmond, Kentucky, offers an online program leading to the degree Master of Science in Psychology, Applied Behavior Analysis. Applicants are required to have completed three undergraduate courses in psychology. Applicants must submit GRE results to be considered for admission, if their undergraduate GPA is below 3.0. Applications will be accepted as long as the student has earned at least 2.5 in undergraduate work. The program is administered by EKU’s College of Education and Applied Human Sciences.
Program Snapshot
| University Name | Eastern Kentucky University |
| Location | Richmond |
| State | Kentucky |
| Niche.com Grade | B- |
| Name of Degree | Master of Science in Psychology, Applied Behavior Analysis |
| School or Department Administering Program | College of Education and Applied Human Sciences |
| Credits | 33 |
| Cost per credit | $669.00 |
| Tuition for Entire Program | $22,077 |
| Test Requirements | GRE required if GPA below 3.0 |
| Minimum GPA | 2.5 |
| Prerequisite Courses and Skills | 3 undergraduate courses in psychology |
| Campus Visit Required? | no |
| Typical Time to Complete | 18 months – 2 years |
| When Can Students Start the Program? | Fall, Spring, Summer |
| Program Concentrations | none |
| Synchronous classes | no |
| Required Courses |
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| Does the Program Include a Capstone? | Yes |
| Does the program include a practicum or internship? | Yes |
| Other Features that Make the Program Unique | Accelerated 8-week terms; Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) Verified Course Sequence for the 5th Edition of the BACB task list; Graduates who have completed supervised experience requirements are qualified to sit for the BCBA exam and, upon passing, are eligible to pursue independent practice and insurance reimbursement for services provided; Reduced tuition for active duty military members and their spouses; Research opportunities; Free online tutoring and career services assistance; Personalized graduation plan |
| Program Objectives (quoted directly from the program) |
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| Program Description | The program’s 33 credits can be completed within 18 months – 2 years, and include a required capstone course, a required comprehensive exam, and required supervised therapy experience. The program equips graduates to practice as ABA therapist upon successful passing of the BCBA exam. Students will learn to asses problem behaviors and build new behaviors. |
What will I Learn?
This program focuses on Applied Behavior Analysis. The therapy known as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is frequently used with kids who have autism and other developmental disorders. It aims to help them develop skills in a variety of functional areas, including social and communication skills, academic and learning abilities, motor dexterity, hygiene and grooming, and more.
Graduates of this program will be equipped to provide ABA therapy services, including addressing problem behaviors and building new behaviors. Their professional knowledge will include core concepts in human development, knowledge of behavior analysis and assessment strategies, and the ability to behave ethically. They will also have a thorough grounding in research methodology and be able to conduct applied research.
This program meets the requirements of the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) Verified Course Sequence for the 5th Edition of the BACB task list, and graduates will be eligible to sit the BCBA exam.
Students begin the program by studying foundational topics in courses such as Introduction to Foundations in Behavior Analysis, Social Psychology and Cultural Diversity, Biological Bases of Behavior, Cognitive/Affective Bases of Behavior, and Philosophical Underpinnings of ABA. Students gain fundamental skills while taking Behavioral Research and Measurement. Students deepen their understanding through coursework in Ethics and Professional Conduct, Advanced Developmental Psychology, Addressing Problem Behaviors and Building New Behaviors. As a capstone to the curriculum, students are required to take Capstone: Advanced Topics in ABA and to pass a Written and Oral Comprehensive Exam. Supervised therapy experience is also required.
How much will the program cost?
Students finish their degree within 18 months – 2 years and pay $669 per credit for a total of 33 credits, or just over $22,000 for the entire degree.
How does the program fit into my life?
All courses are taught asynchronously, meaning that students are not required to attend online class at a specific time. Students work independently to complete tasks such as watching online videos, completing written or technical assignments, and practicing skills through interactive online exercises.
After 18 to 2 years of intensive coursework, students complete the program. Every year, there are three entry points for students to the program: fall, spring, and summer. The program’s curriculum is flexible, giving students more freedom than some other peer programs do to choose which courses to take and when to take them.
Summary
This program offers a distinctive opportunity to gain theory and practical knowledge of ABA approaches via an online learning experience. The program will be attractive for those wishing to balance work and school, as accelerated 8 week terms will enhance flexibility of scheduling. This well-respected university offers reduced tuition for active duty military members and their spouses, as well as research opportunities, free online tutoring, and online career services for all students.