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Undergraduate

Applied Behavior Analysis

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the science of learning and behavior used in order to solve socially significant problems (to influence changes in behavior that are meaningful to individuals and those around them). 

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the science of learning and behavior used in order to solve socially significant problems (to create changes in behavior that are meaningful to individuals and those around them). ABA has been used in a variety of settings, including developmental and intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, regular and special education, clinical psychology, medicine, counseling, job effectiveness, business, animal training, sports training, environmental protection, exercise and health, criminology, and other areas.

Assumption’s minor in applied behavior analysis is open to students in any major and complements coursework from psychology, human services, and education.

Program Contact

Karen Lionello-DeNolf, Ph.D.

Associate Professor, Director of Applied Behavior Analysis
508-767-7498 Kennedy Memorial Hall - Room 138

An Ideal Place to Learn

100%
All classes taught by professors, none by teaching assistants
Students from 29 states and 21 countries
11:1
Student/Faculty ratio

Program Curriculum

  • 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 Rehabilitation Studies, 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.

     

    Minor in Applied Behavior Analysis Required Courses (6 courses)

    PSY 253 Psychology of Learning
    ABA 340 Introduction to Behavior Analysis and Therapy
    ABA 350 Survey of Behavioral Interventions
    ABA 450 Advanced Topics in Applied Behavior Analysis
    PSY 301 Internship in Psychology*

    *Internship placement must be approved by the ABA Program Director.

    Applied Behavior Analysis Elective (1 course)

    Students choose one elective from among the following list. Students are encouraged to choose a course outside of their major field of study.

    EDU 101 Schools in American Society
    EDU 260 Teaching Students with Special Needs
    EDU 265 Effective Classroom Management
    HRS 119 Introduction to Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies
    HRS 121 Human Development and Disability across the Lifespan
    HRS 225 Introduction to Human Communication and Its Disorders
    HRS 321 Social Skills Development Strategies for Youth
    PSY 101 General Psychology
    PSY 216 Abnormal Psychology
    PSY 220 Interpersonal Communication
    PSY 290 Psychology of Development: Infancy and Childhood
    PSY 225 Research Methods in Psychology
    PSY 309 Common Problems in Childhood
    PSY 316 Abnormal Child and Adolescent Psychology
    PSY 383 Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorder

     

    Course Descriptions

Faculty

Karen Lionello-DeNolf, Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Director of Applied Behavior Analysis Associate Professor Director of Applied Behavior Analysis

Experiential Learning

Assumption's Rome Campus

At Assumption's campus in Rome, Italy, the city and the country become your classroom through daily and weekend-long excursions throughout "the eternal city" and the Italian countryside. This unique study abroad experience will enrich your academic and cultural pursuits as you walk in the footsteps of emperors and gladiators then enjoy delectable Italian cuisine or perhaps a cappuccino after class in a local cafe. (Did you know that your financial aid follows you to Rome?)

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Assumption is dedicated to providing a clear understanding of what your education will cost

We’ll help cut through the complexity of financing your education, ensuring you understand what you need, how to apply for aid, and what’s expected of you. You will be assigned a personal financial aid advisor who will guide you through the process and answer all of your financial aid-related questions.


ABA Dual Degree Program

Apply as a high school senior into the Applied Behavior Analysis Dual Degree Program with one application and, if admitted, you will be enrolled in both the undergraduate and graduate programs. You'll also benefit from being considered for a $2,500 Dual Degree Scholarship (per year for your 4 undergraduate years) and a $1,000 Dual Degree Scholarship for every term you are enrolled at least part time in your graduate program at Assumption. Learn more about all of the University's dual degree offerings.

Programs Related to Applied Behavior Analysis