Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is the application of principles of learning and behavior used to solve socially significant problems (to influence changes in behavior that are meaningful to individuals and those around them). ABA is relevant to human behavior in a variety of contexts, including developmental and intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, general and special education, clinical psychology, medicine, counseling, job effectiveness, business, animal training, sports training, environmental protection, exercise and health, criminology, and other areas. The Minor in ABA provides an introduction to behavior-analytic theory and methods for assessment and intervention; it complements coursework in the Education, Human Services, and Psychology majors. Given the prevalence of developmental and intellectual disabilities in society, the minor may also be of interest to students in other majors, such as Business Studies, Biology, and Criminology. Students who complete undergraduate courses in ABA will learn how to effectively apply behavior-analytic procedures to solve behavioral problems that occur in their professional and personal lives.
Students interested in pursuing the Minor in ABA are encouraged to talk with the ABA Program Director as well as work with their academic advisor to plan their course of study.
Required Courses (5 Courses)
PSY 301: Internship to be approved by ABA Program Director. HUS 400 or HUS 490 may be substituted in some circumstances if the student’s experience is focused on ABA and with approval by the ABA Program Director.
The recommended course sequence includes taking PSY 253 during the sophomore year, ABA 340 and ABA 350 during the junior year, PSY 301 in the junior or senior year, and ABA 450 in the senior year.
Elective Course (Choose 1 Course)
Students are encouraged to choose an elective outside of their major field of study.