Applied Behaviour Analysis (MSc)

Program Overview

This two-year MSc in Applied Behaviour Analysis prepares students for careers as Behaviour Analysts, focusing on the practical application of behaviour change principles to improve the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities, learning challenges, and other conditions. Aligned with international standards, the program emphasizes ethical practice, research, and clinical placements, equipping graduates for professional success in various settings. Graduates are eligible to register as Behaviour Analysts in Ireland and pursue further certification in North America.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This Master of Science (MSc) program provides students with the theoretical and practical knowledge needed to launch a career as a practitioner in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA). Established in 2006 within the School of Psychology, the MSc in ABA is designed to meet the growing demand for graduates with expertise in behavioural psychology. It is a two-year full-time program with an annual intake of 20 students, making it one of only two Masters programs in ABA in the Republic of Ireland. The program focuses on the principles of behaviour analysis and their real-world applications in supporting learning and improving quality of life for diverse individuals, including:

• Children and adults with developmental disabilities
• Students struggling in mainstream education
• Older adults
• Individuals with acquired brain injuries
The MSc in ABA aligns with international standards in terms of coursework requirements, content hours, and faculty qualifications necessary to become a Behaviour Analyst. It is a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by the Association of Behaviour Analysis International (ABAI), a globally recognized standard in the field of behaviour analysis. The program is accredited by the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI) as a postgraduate professional program in behavioural psychology, fulfilling the postgraduate course requirements to become a Chartered Behavioural Psychologist. Graduates are eligible to register as Behaviour Analysts with the Irish Society for Behaviour Analysis (ISBA) upon meeting the necessary training requirements. This applies only to applicants residing and working in North America.

Outline:

Year 1:

• PS6155 Behaviour Assessment (10 ECTs): This module covers the principles and methods of behavioural assessment, including functional analysis, observational techniques, and standardized assessments.
• PS512 Principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis (10 ECTs): This module introduces the fundamental principles of behaviour analysis, including operant conditioning, reinforcement, punishment, and shaping.
• PS511 Behaviour Change Procedures (10 ECTs): This module focuses on the practical application of behaviour change procedures, including reinforcement strategies, extinction, punishment, and stimulus control.
• PS513 Research Methods (10 ECTs): This module provides an introduction to research methods in behaviour analysis, including experimental design, data analysis, and ethical considerations.
• PS508 Applied Project I (10 ECTs): This module involves the development and implementation of a small-scale applied behaviour analysis project.

Year 2:

• PS6123 Advanced Behavior Systems (10 ECTs): This module explores advanced topics in behaviour analysis, including complex behaviour patterns, organizational behaviour management, and community-based interventions.
• PS518 Advanced Research Methods (10 ECTs): This module builds upon the research methods covered in Year 1, focusing on advanced statistical analysis and research design.
• PS 519 Developmental Disabilities (10 ECTs): This module examines the application of behaviour analysis to individuals with developmental disabilities, including autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, and cerebral palsy.
• PS516 Clinical Behaviour Interventions (10 ECTs): This module covers a range of clinical behaviour interventions, including functional communication training, positive behaviour support, and crisis intervention.
• PS520 Research Dissertation (30 ECTs): This module involves the development and completion of a major research project, culminating in a dissertation.
• PS509 Applied Project II (10 ECTs): This module involves the development and implementation of a more complex applied behaviour analysis project.
• PS6154 Personnel Supervision and Management (10 ECTs): This module covers the principles and practices of supervision and management in behaviour analysis.

Clinical Placements:

Clinical placements are integrated into the program, beginning in January of Year 1 and continuing until the end of May in both years. Students gain practical experience applying their theoretical knowledge under the supervision of experienced Behaviour Analysts in various settings, including schools and services across Ireland. The program team works closely with these settings to ensure a high standard of supervised experience for trainees.

Assessment:

Students are assessed throughout the program through a combination of:

• Project assignments
• Case study reports
• Thesis research
• Written examinations

Teaching:

The program is taught by a team of faculty members with extensive clinical and research expertise in behaviour analysis. The program also benefits from a pool of high-quality guest lecturers who share their specialized knowledge and experience with students.

Careers:

The MSc in Applied Behaviour Analysis prepares graduates for a variety of roles as Behavioural Psychologists/Behaviour Analysts, offering opportunities for employment, research, and further training. The program's emphasis on the scientist-practitioner model ensures that students receive comprehensive training in the academic, practical, and research aspects of behavioural science. Graduates are well-equipped to pursue a range of professional goals, both nationally and internationally, in areas such as:

• Disability services
• Education
• Early intervention services
• Mental health services
• Gerontology
• Sports psychology
• Organizational behaviour management
The MSc in ABA also provides an excellent foundation for those seeking further clinical training or a PhD in a related field. Graduates possess a skill set applicable in most clinical settings, enhancing quality of life for the individuals they work with, and a set of research competencies developed throughout the program.

Fees: EU €8,390 p.a. (including levy) 2024/25 Fees: Tuition €8,250 p.a. 2024/5 Fees: Student levy €140 p.a. 2024/25 Fees: Non EU €19,000 p.a. (€19,140 p.a. including levy) 2024/25