Originally known as a treatment for children with autism, applied behavior analysis is one of the fastest-growing professional areas in psychology. Our applied behavior analysis programs produce professionals who are ready to enter a robust workforce and fill the need for board-certified behavior analysts in a variety of settings.
Our Program
Our course sequence has been verified to meet the coursework requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst certification examination. Applicants will need to meet additional requirements to qualify.
Our 12-course master’s degree combines the coursework and practicum experience required to sit for the national certification exam with elective courses that fulfill personal and professional objectives. We also offer a six-course certificate and practicum experience designed for students who have completed a master’s degree in psychology or a related field.
Evening classes are available at our Newport and Warwick campuses. Sites for practicum placements are also coordinated through our program.
Program Spotlight: Making a Difference
My Salve education is giving me the tools and knowledge to make a difference in clients’ lives. I am able to take the concepts and strategies taught and apply them to current and future treatment plans. My education has given me the preparation to take the next step in my future, to become a board-certified behavior analyst.
Elizabeth Janick '17, lead therapist, Momentum behavioral health agency
Our Faculty
Students in our applied behavior analysis programs take traditional, face-to-face classes with distinguished instructors who have extensive experience as practitioners.
Applied Behavior Analysis (M.A.)
12 courses | 36 credits
Required courses:
- PSY510: Ethics and Professional Conduct
- PSY520: Concepts and Principles
- PSY530: Measurement, Data Analysis and Research Design
- PSY540: Behavior Change Techniques and Procedures
- PSY550: Behavioral Assessment and Selecting Interventions
- PSY560: Systems, Management and Supervision
Students also choose six of the following:
- HLC505: Interpersonal Helping Skills
- PSY511: History of Behaviorism
- PSY513: Educational Psychology
- PSY521: Health Psychology
- PSY523: Autism Spectrum and Other Developmental Disabilities
- PSY525: Abnormal Psychology
- PSY533: Organizational Behavior Management
- PSY551: Critical Thinking and Decision Making in Psychology
- PSY570: Intensive Practicum
- PSY580: Individual Research
- PSY599: Special Topics
- RHB508: Human Growth and Development
- RHB513: Couples and Family Counseling
- RHB520: Practicum and Seminar I: Motivational Interviewing
- RHB540: Medical and Psychological Aspects of Disability
Students also complete 1,500 hours of supervision or take six credits of PSY570: Intensive Practicum. Students who complete their supervision outside of the practicum courses must provide official documentation as described by the most current Behavior Analyst Certification Board guidelines to meet this requirement.
Applied Behavior Analysis (CAGS)
6 courses | 18 credits
Required courses:
- PSY510: Ethics and Professional Conduct
- PSY520: Concepts and Principles
- PSY530: Measurement, Data Analysis and Research Design
- PSY540: Behavior Change Techniques and Procedures
- PSY550: Behavioral Assessment and Selecting Interventions
- PSY560: Systems, Management and Supervision
Certificate students are not required to take supervision credits to obtain the CAGS. However, students must complete 1,500 hours of supervised experience in order to sit for the Behavior Analyst Certification Board exam. Students may meet this requirement by taking six credits of PSY570: Intensive Practicum.
Learn more about costs, financing and success rates for this program.