Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis

Program Credits: 21 Semester Credit Hours

Program Overview:

The program provides students with the fundamental skills and underlying principles and knowledge of ABA. Students will study the foundations of ABA including philosophical underpinnings, concepts and principles, measurement, data display and interpretation, and experimental design. In addition, students will learn practice-oriented skills including the ethics code for behavior analysts, behavior assessment, behavior-change procedures, selecting and implementing interventions, and personnel supervision and management.

Overall Program Outcomes:
Upon completion of this program, students are expected to be able to: 

• Identify the goals of behavior analysis as a science.
• Demonstrate an understanding of behavior, response, and response class.
• Demonstrate an understanding of measurement, data display, and interpretation in applied behavior analysis.
• Demonstrate an understanding of single-subject designs.
• Demonstrate knowledge of the ethical responsibilities of behavior analysts to their clients, supervisees, colleagues, and other stakeholders.
• Conduct an appropriate and systematic behavior assessment.
• Demonstrate an understanding of behavior-change procedures.
• Gather and analyze data that will inform the selection of appropriate intervention plans.
• Demonstrate knowledge of performance monitoring, feedback, and reinforcement systems.

Please see below for summaries of each course within the Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis program.

ABA501 Philosophical Underpinnings of ABA 3 Sem. Cr.

This course focuses on the scientific and philosophical underpinnings of applied behavior analysis.  It traces the historical development of radical behaviorism to current applied behavior analysis and professional practice. Through the writings of B.F. Skinner and other specialists in the field, students will study the underlying assumptions of the science of behavior analysis including selectionism, determinism, empiricism, parsimony, and pragmatism. The content is based on the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® (BACB®) 6th edition Test Content Outline.

ABA502 Basic Principles and Characteristics of Behavior 3 Sem. Cr.

This course focuses on the basic concepts and principles of Applied Behavior Analysis.  The course content is designed to prepare students for the application of behavioral principles in various settings, including home and residential facilities.  Students will learn how to identify the underlying assumptions of behavior analysis, distinguish between behaviorism, the experimental analysis of behavior and applied behavior analysis, demonstrate an understanding of the dimensions of applied behavior analysis, and interpret articles from the behavior analytic literature. The content is based on the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® (BACB®) 6th edition Test Content Outline.

ABA503 Behavior Assessment 3 Sem. Cr.

In this course, students are introduced to assessment methodology of applied behavior analysis, including ethical aspects. Students will learn to assess and analyze behavior in the A-B-C format, understand scatter plot data, and conduct interviews.  In addition, they will learn to address issues in behavioral assessment, implementation, and the management and supervision of behavior analysis services. Students will learn to conduct a descriptive assessment and functional analysis of problem behavior as well as interpret functional assessment data. The content is based on the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® (BACB®) 6th edition Test Content Outline.

ABA504 Measurement, Data Display and Interpretation, Experimental Design 3 Sem. Cr.

In this course, students will learn the concepts of measurement, data display and interpretation in relation to applied behavior analysis.  The content includes the selection of appropriate experimental designs for the evaluation of interventions, the selection of relevant measurement methods, and display data for evaluation and determining effectiveness of interventions.  Students will review the logic and benefits of single subject designs vs. group research design approaches as well as identify the most appropriate experimental evaluation method for the situation, behavior, and type of setting and intervention being applied. The content is based on the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® (BACB®) 6th edition Test Content Outline.

ABA505 Behavior Change Procedures 3 Sem. Cr.

In this course, students will identify applied behavior analytic procedures to facilitate effective behavior change.  They will learn to identify the ultimate outcomes for the person or persons involved, identify sequential or concurrent intermediate outcomes, identify the behavior or behaviors targeted for change in observable and measurable terms, and establish positive interpersonal relationships using behavior change procedures.  Students will learn how to select procedures based on hypotheses generated from behavioral assessment data; select behavior change procedures that are consistent with the principles of behavior and published research, when more than one procedure is indicated; select behavior change procedures based on competencies of the behavior analyst and other persons who will be carrying out the program; and when weakening behavior, develop a behavior replacement plan using the least restrictive interventions likely to be effective given the function of the behavior to be weakened. The content is based on the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® (BACB®) 6th edition Test Content Outline.

ABA506 Selecting and Implementing Interventions, Personnel Supervision and Management 3 Sem. Cr.

This course provides students with the knowledge of personnel supervision and management as it relates to applied behavior analysis. Students will learn to determine procedures and methodologies in personnel supervision and management. Through applied examples and scenarios, students will learn critical skills in developing and maintaining clear expectations for the supervisor-supervisee relationship, working with supervisees to establish appropriate goals in their skill development, and how to provide meaningful corrective feedback with opportunities for practice to enhance the supervisee skill set.  Students will learn how to use function-based strategies to improve personnel performance and to evaluate the effects of supervision. The content is based on the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® (BACB®) 6th edition Test Content Outline.

ABA507 Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts 3 Sem. Cr.

The course addresses behavior analysts' ethical responsibility to the profession of behavior analysis and explores the role of behavior analysts as supervisors. This includes ethical responsibility to supervisees, trainees, colleagues, clients, and stakeholders.  Additionally, the course examines the requirements of professional responsibility in practice as a BCaBA or a BCBA. Students will study the responsibilities of the BCaBA or BCBA when making public statements and when involved in research. The content is based on the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® (BACB®) 6th edition Test Content Outline.

To apply for admission to the program, you must fulfill one of the following admissions requirements:

• An earned bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 2.5 or above.
• An earned master’s degree or higher.

Degrees must be earned from institutions accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and/or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or accepted foreign equivalent where the language of instruction was English.  For students who earned their degrees in languages other than English, please click here for additional requirements.

To document prior education, students are required to have their official transcript sent to Martinsburg College directly from their prior institution(s).

Prospective students are required to have an admissions interview by phone and/or video conference call (e.g. Zoom, Teams, etc.)

Please note: any individual who has been in violation of the BACB’s ethics code/standards and has received disciplinary action or other sanction(s) will not be eligible for enrollment.

Apply Now

General Requirements:
Computer
High-speed Internet access
Webcam
Email address

PC Requirements:
Operating System: 32-bit and 64-bit Versions of Windows 10, and Windows 11
CPU Processor: 1.86Ghz Intel Core 2 Duo or greater
RAM: highest recommended for the operating system or 2GB
Hard Drive: highest recommended for the operating system or at least 1GB of available space.
Screen Resolution must be 1024×768 or higher.
Adobe Reader (Version 9, 11, or DC) is required for viewing PDF documents.
Browser: Edge, Chrome, or Firefox current and preceding version

MAC Requirements:
Operating System: Mac OS® X™ v11 or higher
CPU: Intel processor or Apple processor
RAM: 2GB
Hard Drive: 1GB or higher available space
Screen Resolution must be 1024×768 or higher.
Adobe Reader (Version 9, 11, or DC) is required for viewing PDF documents.
Browser: Safari, Chrome, or Firefox current and preceding version

Android Requirements:
Operating System: Android 10.0+
Screen Resolution must be 1024×768 or higher.
Adobe Reader downloaded from the App Store.
Browser: Mobile Chrome.
Note: Devices running Android cannot be used for proctored exams.

iOS Requirements:
Operating System: iOS 14+
Screen Resolution must be 1024×768 or higher.
Adobe Reader downloaded from the App Store.
Browser: Mobile Safari, Chrome. 
Note: Devices running iOS/iPadOS cannot be used for proctored exams.

ChromeBook Requirements:
Operating System: ChromeOS
Screen Resolution must be 1024×768 or higher.
Adobe Reader downloaded from the App Store.
Browser: Chrome current and preceding version

Students will need to download Respondus Lockdown Browser for proctored exams.

M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis

Program Credits: 30 Semester Credit Hours

Program Overview:

The Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program offers comprehensive training in the principles and practices of behavior analysis, with a focus on the application of behavior-analytic techniques in real-world settings to address a wide range of behavioral challenges across diverse populations. Students will become equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to conduct neurodiversity-affirming and culturally responsive assessments and behavior change procedures. Students will be prepared to address behavioral challenges, analyze and evaluate the effectiveness of behavior-analytic services, and improve outcomes for neurodiverse individuals. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and ethical decision-making skills will be fostered throughout this program.

Overall Program Outcomes:
Upon completion of the program, students are expected to be able to: 

• Explain the goals and philosophical assumptions underlying the science of behavior analysis.
• Describe the field of applied behavior analysis with respect to its dimensions and interrelations with behaviorism, the experimental analysis of behavior, and professional practice.
• Describe the basic terminology and processes involved in respondent and operant conditioning.
• Accurately measure, display, and interpret behavioral data to guide evidence-based assessments and interventions and improve client outcomes.
• Use indirect, descriptive, and experimental assessment methods to identify behavioral functions and inform client-centered, culturally responsive intervention planning.
• Design, evaluate, and apply intervention strategies grounded in foundational principles of behavior analysis, current research, and ethical best practices to promote meaningful behavior change.
• Utilize single-subject research designs to assess intervention effectiveness and contribute to evidence-based practice.
• Adapt ABA interventions to ethically and effectively support individuals in various environments with diverse needs, including those of neurodivergent populations.
• Implement culturally ethical and effective best practices in supervision, training, and performance management, including the use of performance monitoring, feedback, and reinforcement systems.
• Adhere to the Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts and demonstrate professional integrity in working with clients, supervisees, colleagues, and other stakeholders.
• Engage in clear, ethical, and professional communication with clients, families, and interdisciplinary teams to advocate for and apply ABA principles.
• Integrate coursework experiences to demonstrate proficiency in applied behavior analysis through a capstone project or research initiative.

Please see below for summaries of each course within the Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis program.

ABA501 Philosophical Underpinnings of ABA 3 Sem. Cr.

This course focuses on the scientific and philosophical underpinnings of applied behavior analysis.  It traces the historical development of radical behaviorism to current applied behavior analysis and professional practice. Through the writings of B.F. Skinner and other specialists in the field, students will study the underlying assumptions of the science of behavior analysis including selectionism, determinism, empiricism, parsimony, and pragmatism. The content is based on the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® (BACB®) 6th edition Test Content Outline.

ABA502 Basic Principles and Characteristics of Behavior 3 Sem. Cr.

This course focuses on the basic concepts and principles of Applied Behavior Analysis.  The course content is designed to prepare students for the application of behavioral principles in various settings, including home and residential facilities.  Students will learn how to identify the underlying assumptions of behavior analysis, distinguish between behaviorism, the experimental analysis of behavior and applied behavior analysis, demonstrate an understanding of the dimensions of applied behavior analysis, and interpret articles from the behavior analytic literature. The content is based on the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® (BACB®) 6th edition Test Content Outline.

ABA503 Behavior Assessment 3 Sem. Cr.

In this course, students are introduced to assessment methodology of applied behavior analysis, including ethical aspects. Students will learn to assess and analyze behavior in the A-B-C format, understand scatter plot data, and conduct interviews.  In addition, they will learn to address issues in behavioral assessment, implementation, and the management and supervision of behavior analysis services. Students will learn to conduct a descriptive assessment and functional analysis of problem behavior as well as interpret functional assessment data. The content is based on the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® (BACB®) 6th edition Test Content Outline.

ABA504 Measurement, Data Display and Interpretation, Experimental Design 3 Sem. Cr.

In this course, students will learn the concepts of measurement, data display and interpretation in relation to applied behavior analysis.  The content includes the selection of appropriate experimental designs for the evaluation of interventions, the selection of relevant measurement methods, and display data for evaluation and determining effectiveness of interventions.  Students will review the logic and benefits of single subject designs vs. group research design approaches as well as identify the most appropriate experimental evaluation method for the situation, behavior, and type of setting and intervention being applied. The content is based on the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® (BACB®) 6th edition Test Content Outline.

ABA505 Behavior Change Procedures 3 Sem. Cr.

In this course, students will identify applied behavior analytic procedures to facilitate effective behavior change.  They will learn to identify the ultimate outcomes for the person or persons involved, identify sequential or concurrent intermediate outcomes, identify the behavior or behaviors targeted for change in observable and measurable terms, and establish positive interpersonal relationships using behavior change procedures.  Students will learn how to select procedures based on hypotheses generated from behavioral assessment data; select behavior change procedures that are consistent with the principles of behavior and published research, when more than one procedure is indicated; select behavior change procedures based on competencies of the behavior analyst and other persons who will be carrying out the program; and when weakening behavior, develop a behavior replacement plan using the least restrictive interventions likely to be effective given the function of the behavior to be weakened. The content is based on the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® (BACB®) 6th edition Test Content Outline.

ABA506 Selecting and Implementing Interventions, Personnel Supervision and Management 3 Sem. Cr.

This course provides students with the knowledge of personnel supervision and management as it relates to applied behavior analysis. Students will learn to determine procedures and methodologies in personnel supervision and management. Through applied examples and scenarios, students will learn critical skills in developing and maintaining clear expectations for the supervisor-supervisee relationship, working with supervisees to establish appropriate goals in their skill development, and how to provide meaningful corrective feedback with opportunities for practice to enhance the supervisee skill set.  Students will learn how to use function-based strategies to improve personnel performance and to evaluate the effects of supervision. The content is based on the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® (BACB®) 6th edition Test Content Outline.

ABA507 Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts 3 Sem. Cr.

The course addresses behavior analysts' ethical responsibility to the profession of behavior analysis and explores the role of behavior analysts as supervisors. This includes ethical responsibility to supervisees, trainees, colleagues, clients, and stakeholders.  Additionally, the course examines the requirements of professional responsibility in practice as a BCaBA or a BCBA. Students will study the responsibilities of the BCaBA or BCBA when making public statements and when involved in research. The content is based on the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® (BACB®) 6th edition Test Content Outline.

ABA509 Neurodiversity, Autism, and ABA 3 Sem. Cr.

This course will explore autism, neurodiversity, and the application of ABA with neurodivergent individuals. Due to the prevalence, students will learn the history of autism, the specific characteristics of individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, how those characteristics manifest across the lifespan, and understand the perspectives of autistic individuals. Students will also learn how to implement behavior-analytic, evidence-based interventions such as functional communication training, discrete trial training, and naturalistic intervention that are effective strategies for supporting neurodivergent populations. Finally, students will gain the essential skills needed to effectively and ethically collaborate with individuals, families, and service providers to provide effective, culturally responsive, and neurodiversity-affirming ABA services.

ABA515 Applied Behavior Analysis Capstone 3 Sem. Cr.

This course guides students through completing their master’s capstone project, a behavior-analytic systematic literature review. Students will complete a comprehensive literature search, prepare and deliver a research proposal, conduct data collection and extraction, synthesize findings, analyze their results, and complete a thesis-equivalent research paper. Furthermore, students will learn about the dissemination and publication of their systematic literature review in the ABA field. This research project will be conducted according to the guidelines outlined in the BACB® Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts. Students will develop competence in defining a research problem, designing methods to address the problem, conducting research, and reporting their findings. The outcome for students is the completion of a behavior-analytic research proposal and a quality systematic literature review.

ABA510 Advanced Applications of ABA 3 Sem. Cr.

This course offers a comprehensive review of applied behavior analysis, integrating advanced concepts with practical applications. It is designed to deepen students’ conceptual understanding and strengthen fluency in core behavior-analytic principles, procedures, and ethical practices. Using case-based analysis, students will strengthen their ability to analyze, design, and implement behavior change programs in real-world settings. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the skills and confidence needed to effectively handle the complexities of professional practice in behavior analysis.

To apply for admission to the program, you must fulfill one of the following admissions requirements:

• An earned bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 3.0 or above.
• An earned master’s degree or higher.

Degrees must be earned from institutions accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and/or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or accepted foreign equivalent where the language of instruction was English.  For students who earned their degrees in languages other than English, please click here for additional requirements.

To document prior education, students are required to have their official transcript sent to Martinsburg College directly from their prior institution(s).

Prospective students are required to have an admissions interview by phone and/or video conference call (e.g. Zoom, Teams, etc.)

Please note: any individual who has been in violation of the BACB’s ethics code/standards and has received disciplinary action or other sanction(s) will not be eligible for enrollment.

Apply Now

General Requirements:
Computer
High-speed Internet access
Webcam
Email address

PC Requirements:
Operating System: 32-bit and 64-bit Versions of Windows 10, and Windows 11
CPU Processor: 1.86Ghz Intel Core 2 Duo or greater
RAM: highest recommended for the operating system or 2GB
Hard Drive: highest recommended for the operating system or at least 1GB of available space.
Screen Resolution must be 1024×768 or higher.
Adobe Reader (Version 9, 11, or DC) is required for viewing PDF documents.
Browser: Edge, Chrome, or Firefox current and preceding version

MAC Requirements:
Operating System: Mac OS® X™ v11 or higher
CPU: Intel processor or Apple processor
RAM: 2GB
Hard Drive: 1GB or higher available space
Screen Resolution must be 1024×768 or higher.
Adobe Reader (Version 9, 11, or DC) is required for viewing PDF documents.
Browser: Safari, Chrome, or Firefox current and preceding version

Android Requirements:
Operating System: Android 10.0+
Screen Resolution must be 1024×768 or higher.
Adobe Reader downloaded from the App Store.
Browser: Mobile Chrome.
Note: Devices running Android cannot be used for proctored exams.

iOS Requirements:
Operating System: iOS 14+
Screen Resolution must be 1024×768 or higher.
Adobe Reader downloaded from the App Store.
Browser: Mobile Safari, Chrome. 
Note: Devices running iOS/iPadOS cannot be used for proctored exams.

ChromeBook Requirements:
Operating System: ChromeOS
Screen Resolution must be 1024×768 or higher.
Adobe Reader downloaded from the App Store.
Browser: Chrome current and preceding version

Students will need to download Respondus Lockdown Browser for proctored exams.