Behavior Analysis (PhD)
Description
The PhD program in Behavior Analysis is a 48-credit doctoral program designed to train and position qualified behavior analysts to make significant contributions to science and to the community. The overall mission of the Doctoral Program in the Department of Behavior Analysis at Simmons University is the shaping of future leaders in behavior analysis. Expectations for students within the DABA Program include developing competencies related to: Science; basic principles; clinical application; research; dissemination; diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB); teaching/supervision; and ethics. These skills will be acquired through a variety of settings in the DABA Program from the classroom, to lab, to hands-on experimental practice. Prior to graduation, each Doctoral Candidate must demonstrate all of these skills, as measured by the program objectives.
Requirements for Entry into Program
Candidates must have a Master's degree or higher in Behavioral Education, Applied Behavior Analysis, or a related field (e.g., psychology, education, or special education). Additional requirements include official transcripts from all coursework completed since high school, three letters of recommendation, a résumé, a statement of purpose, an analytical writing sample, and an interview. Candidates must be a Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®) or eligible to sit for the BCBA® exam, or have a record of coursework and research experience in behavior analysis.
Degree Requirements
This program requires 48 credit hours, including six (6) cognate courses, three (3) special topics courses, and twelve (12) dissertation lab credits, in addition to writing and defending a dissertation. Students may enroll on either a full- or part-time basis beginning in the fall, spring, or summer semesters.
Cognate Courses
| DABA 634 | Group Design and Statistical Analysis | 4 |
| DABA 630 | Experimental Analysis of Behavior | 4 |
| DABA 633 | Advanced Single Subject Design | 4 |
| DABA 601 | History of Behavior Analysis | 4 |
| DABA 632 | Diversity and Advanced Professional Practice Issues for Behavior Analysts | 4 |
| DABA 640 | Dissemination | 4 |
| DABA 690 | Dissertation | 1 |
| DABA 699 | Dissertation Extension | 0 |
Special Topics Courses
| DABA 661 | Complex Stimulus Control | 4 |
| DABA 610 | Verbal Behavior | 4 |
| DABA 662 | Behavioral Analysis in Higher Education | 4 |
| DABA 660 | Organizational Behavior Management and Consultation | 4 |
| DABA 625 | Advanced Functional Assessment & Analysis | 4 |
| DABA 635 | Behavioral Medicine | 4 |