The Specialization
The Applied Behavior Analysis doctoral specialization at Utah State University prepares graduates to be highly effective university faculty and behavior analytic practitioners who significantly improve individuals' lives through research, intervention, and teaching.
The specialization offers students the opportunity to advance their behavior analytic skills by:
- taking advanced coursework in behavior analysis theory, research and practice
- practicing applied behavior analysis in clinical and educational settings
- collaborating extensively with faculty in the areas of research, teaching, and staff supervision
Through coursework and supervised clinical experience, doctoral students can meet the requirements to sit for the Behavior Analysis Certification Board exam to become Board Certified Behavior Analysts.
Faculty and current doctoral students are engaged in research and development projects in a variety of topics, including, but not limited to behavioral interventions for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities, preference and reinforcer assessment, direct instruction, fluency, functional analysis, assessment and treatment of problem behavior, parent training, verbal behavior and school-wide Positive Behavior Supports.
Get the Planning Guide for this specialization
Program Contact
Professor and Department Head
Office Location: EDUC 313A
Phone: 435-797-1933
Email: tom.higbee@usu.edu
Faculty
Research Opportunities
The ASSERT Program, an early intensive behavioral intervention preschool program for children with autism
USU students have an exciting opportunity to learn how to work with young children with autism. Through an intensive training experience, students can become instructors and implement intervention strategies. USU students can also gain research experience at ASSERT. This can fulfill course requirements for various majors. There are many opportunities to get involved with running research!
The Utah Behavior Support Clinic and associated intervention program/
The Behavior Support division is an out-patient clinic specializing in the reduction of challenging behavior and the acquisition of appropriate behavior and skills. Procedures are grounded in the principles of applied behavior analysis and other evidence-based practices.
Public school sites and group homes in and around the Cache Valley
Admission Deadline
Applications to the PhD Program are due January 15th for the following Fall semester.
Financial Aid
Excellent financial assistance is available to qualified students in the Disability Disciplines program. Support includes a monthly living stipend, tuition waiver, participation in professional conferences, and computer technology.