Applied Behavior Analysis

The mission of the University of Memphis, Applied Behavior Analysis program is to prepare students to effectively work as behavior analysts in various capacities, including clinical, teaching, and research, across a multitude of settings by providing them with the skills, techniques, knowledge, and philosophical foundations of behavior science.

The University of Memphis Behavior Analysis program is designed for students who want to become Board-Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA) and earn an MS or EdD degree. Our program goal is to train students as scientist-practitioners who are committed to making a meaningful impact in the lives of others using the principles of behavior analysis. Our ABA program objectives include ensuring that all students acquire a strong foundation in basic and applied behavior analysis, and developing their clinical skills required to become successful practitioners. Our students learn to design and implement effective assessments and interventions, make data-informed decisions, and conduct and evaluate research. Part of this training involves demonstrating adherence to the ethical standards of the profession, practicing with cultural responsiveness, and conceptualizing behavior change based on the philosophical and conceptual foundations of the field. Beyond the classroom, students complete their supervised fieldwork experience in a variety of applied settings (e.g., schools, clinics, private practices) while receiving feedback and mentorship from the most qualified BCBAs in the area. Upon graduation, students are fully prepared to sit for the BCBA® exam and to pursue impactful careers in clinical, educational, and research settings.

The training model follows a cohort system. Students begin coursework each fall and progress through the curriculum sequence over a two-year period. The courses are held in the evenings across fall, spring, and summer allowing flexibility for working professionals. In addition, our coursework is integrated with supervised fieldwork opportunities at affiliated sites, where students gain hands-on experience and mentorship while applying classroom learning to real-world practice. Our partnership with affiliated sites allows the students to begin accruing their supervised fieldwork in their first semester. This carefully crafted training model ensures graduates leave the program with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to thrive as behavior analysts

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Meet the Program Coordinator

James Meindl

Professor

PHONE: (901) 678-3310

EMAIL: jnmeindl@memphis.edu

OFFICE: 400A Ball Hall

CVS: Click Here

Becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst with the ABA program

Behavior analysts work in many applied fields, including education, business, and clinical psychology, and demand for BCBAs has increased 5,852% from 2010-2021. Applied behavior analysis (ABA) has received much attention for its effectiveness with children with autism. Researchers and clinicians recognize ABA as the treatment of choice for behavior problems and learning difficulties associated with autism spectrum disorder. Many BCBAs work in schools as teachers or psychologists working with special education students. Many also work as scientists and scholars in higher education. Some BCBAs provide in-home supervision of direct care providers or provide direct care for children with developmental disabilities and Autism. Others provide clinical services, including functional analysis of behavior and treatment of serious behavior disorders such as self-injury and physical aggression. Still others work in business, training new employees and improving training programs.

However, not everyone who calls themselves a behavior analyst or a behavior therapist is certified by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board®. A BCBA is a professional who has documented graduate training and supervised, hands-on experience in applying the principles and procedures of behavior analysis and has passed an examination in ABA given by the BACB.

In the Community

Verified Course Sequence:

The Association for Behavior Analysis International has verified the following courses toward the coursework requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® or Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst® examination. Applicants must meet additional requirements before being deemed eligible to take the examination.

Practicum: The ABA program offers high quality training on the clinical skills required to become a competent BCBA. Students can complete supervised fieldwork requirements for BCBA exam eligibility at the UofM Autism Clinic or at any of the program's affiliated practicum sites. Download the Practicum Handbook for more information

Access the student handbook and the practicum handbook to learn more

Student handbook https://www.memphis.edu/icl/aba/pdfs/ms_student_handbook.24-26.pdf 

Practicum handbook https://www.memphis.edu/icl/aba/pdfs/praticum_handbook-25-26.pdf