Program Overview

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Master of Professional Practice in Behaviour Analysis

The Master of Professional Practice in Behaviour Analysis (MPPBA) is a postgraduate degree offered by the University of Waikato. This program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of behaviour analysis and its applications in various fields.

Program Overview

The MPPBA program is a 2-year, 240-point degree that can be started in Trimester A (March). The program is offered by the School of Psychological and Social Sciences and is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in behaviour analysis, as well as practical skills and knowledge in areas such as professional ethics, research methods, and cultural competence.

Course Content

The MPPBA program covers a range of topics, including:

• Internationally recognised core behavioural principles and skills
• Professional ethics in New Zealand
• Practical skills for psychologists and behaviour analysts
• Foundation skills including preference assessments, functional analysis, and behaviour support planning

Year 1

In the first year of the program, students will complete the following papers:

• PSYCH538 Applications of Behaviour Analysis
• PSYCH560 Applied Behaviour Analysis: Theory and Issues
• PSYCH561 Behaviour Analysis: Concepts and Principles
• PSYCH577 Single Subject Research Design
• Rec'd PSYCH586 Behaviour Analysis Practicum
• Choose one of: PSYCH564 Developmental Psychopathology, PSYCH575 Kaupapa Māori Psychology, PSYCH581 Psychological Assessment

Year 2

In the second year of the program, students will complete the following papers:

• PSYCH551 Case Study Analysis in Applied Psychology ABA
• PSYCH552 Ethical Issues in Psychology (ABA)
• PSYCH554 Advanced Behaviour Analysis Practicum

Entry Requirements

To be eligible for the MPPBA program, students must have successfully completed a bachelor's degree in Psychology, Behaviour Analysis, or Education with at least a B grade average. Applying for the MPPBA is a 2-step process, and early application in MyWaikato is encouraged by August 30th to allow time for the school selection forms to be sent out and completed by the September 15th deadline.

Fees and Scholarships

The estimated fees for domestic students are $10,266 approximately per year. Scholarships are available, and students can visit the Scholarship finder for more information.

Graduate Outcomes

Graduates of the MPPBA program will be able to:

• Demonstrate an understanding of ethical and professional practice, and the professional and legal issues specifically relevant to NZ
• Display a grounding in evidence-based practice and the scientist-practitioner model of practice in psychology
• Display the competencies required for behaviour analysts as a result of completing 90 hours of coursework on specific tasks as described in the BACB 5th edition task list

Employment Pathways

Graduates of the MPPBA program can pursue employment opportunities in various fields, including education, health, and private practice. They can work as behaviour analysts, psychologists, or in other related roles.

Business and Community Networks

The MPPBA program has established professional networks with stakeholders to ensure a well-rounded and industry-relevant educational experience. Students can benefit from collaborations with professionals in the field and gain practical experience through community-based placements.