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 634Group Design and Statistical Analysis

4

DABA 630Experimental Analysis of Behavior

4

DABA 633Advanced Single Subject Design

4

DABA 601History of Behavior Analysis

4

DABA 632Diversity and Advanced Professional Practice Issues for Behavior Analysts

4

DABA 640Dissemination

4

DABA 690Dissertation

1

DABA 699Dissertation Extension

0

Special Topics Courses

 

DABA 661Complex Stimulus Control

4

DABA 610Verbal Behavior

4

DABA 662Behavioral Analysis in Higher Education

4

DABA 660Organizational Behavior Management and Consultation

4

DABA 625Advanced Functional Assessment & Analysis

4

DABA 635Behavioral Medicine

4