In South Carolina, there are several online and in-person programs available for those looking to become Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs). These programs provide the necessary education and training to help individuals build a career in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).
Offering a blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, BCBA programs in South Carolina are designed to prepare students to meet the various needs in the field of behavior analysis. Lets explore how enrolling in a BCBA program in South Carolina can set you on the path to a fulfilling career in the ABA field.
BCBA Programs in South Carolina
Listed below are some of the popular schools offering BCBA programs in South Carolina:
- University of South Carolina
- Francis Marion University
- Arcadia University
- Pepperdine University
- University of Dayton
- Simmons University
- Capella University
- Arizona State University Online
University of South Carolina
M.Ed – Applied Behavior Analysis
Becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) means learning how to help people improve their lives using the science of learning. You will learn how to assess individuals and design programs to help them learn new skills and reduce negative behaviors. Your work will aim to help them lead better and more independent lives.
If you choose to become a BCBA, you will often work with people who have developmental and intellectual disabilities, including those on the autism spectrum. Having this national certification allows you to work in various places such as homes, schools, clinics, and community programs, helping individuals in different settings.
The University of South Carolina offers a 36-credit M.Ed. degree in Applied Behavior Analysis to help you become a BCBA. The program has all the necessary courses and supervision hours you need to be able to take the national exam.
The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) has verified the coursework requirements of this program for eligibility to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) examination.
Your studies will span over five semesters, including an intensive practicum that will give you hands-on experience. The program will cover important topics such as understanding autism, learning how to teach students with multiple severe disabilities, and ethical considerations in behavior analysis. The classes use a hybrid format, combining online and on-campus sessions, giving you both flexibility and the chance for face-to-face interactions.
The faculty guiding you are experts actively involved in research in this field, and you will have the opportunity to join in on these research projects.
During your time in the program, you will take courses on the following topics:
- Instruction of Students with Severe and Multiple Disabilities: Learn to design instructional programs tailored for students with significant disabilities.
- Nature of Students with Autism: Understand the characteristics and causes of autism to better support individuals with autism through educational programs.
- Applied Behavior Analysis in Special Education: Learn how to use behavioral principles to alter socially important behaviors positively in students with disabilities.
- Functional Behavioral Assessment and Behavior Interventions: Acquire the skills to identify and assess problematic behaviors and to create positive intervention plans.
- Ethics in Behavior Analysis: Understand the legal and ethical issues in behavior analysis.
- Single-Case Research Designs in Special Education: Learn to use single-case study designs to analyze student behavior in special education settings, focusing on data visualization and research result interpretation.
- Intensive Practicum in Applied Behavior Analysis: Gain practical experience in using applied behavior analysis principles in various settings such as schools, homes, and communities.
Documents required for admission include:
- Personal Statement
- Official Transcripts
- Resume/CV
- 2 Letters of Recommendation
You may also apply for the coursework-only option as a non-degree student. Furthermore, if you already have a masters degree, you can take the 21-credit coursework sequence without enrolling in the degree program.
Francis Marion University
Master of Science in Applied Psychology – Emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis
Francis Marion University offers a 42-credit Master of Science degree in Applied Psychology with a emphasis on on Applied Behavior Analysis, designed to equip you with the expertise needed to become a skilled behavior analyst. This program is designed with an eye on serving the needs of the community in the Pee Dee region and the entire state of SC.
To join this program, you will need to apply and once admitted, your learning journey will mostly happen during daytime classes, with a few exceptions being available in the evening. Your coursework will be a combination of classroom lectures and practical training, helping you become well-versed with both the theoretical and hands-on aspects of psychological principles.
This program helps you to complete the coursework necessary to pursue the BCBA certification. Supervised experience requirements and the BCBA exam preparation are not included as part of this master’s degree program. However, the university will help you arrange the necessary supervised experience.
The comprehensive curriculum comprises a variety of courses including:
- Principles of Applied Behavior Analysis: A foundational course offering insights into the basic principles, history, and various dimensions of behavior analysis.
- Research Methods in Applied Behavior Analysis: In this course, you will equip yourself with the skills to design, conduct, and critically assess research involving behavioral interventions using single-case research methods.
- Contemporary Topics and Theories in Applied Behavior Analysis: In this course, you will delve into the modern developments in behavior analysis, focusing on topics like behavioral treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder and behavioral economics.
- Advanced Applications of Applied Behavior Analysis: In this course, you will learn about the practical application of behavior analysis techniques in different settings, emphasizing evidence-supported interventions.
- Behavioral Assessment and Intervention: This course will help you understand the procedures of behavioral assessment and intervention strategies while navigating through the ethical considerations involved.
- Ethics and Professional Practice in Applied Behavior Analysis: In this course, you will learn the legal and ethical principles governing professional behavior in the field of behavior analysis.
- Developmental Psychology: Here, you will explore the prevailing topics and research methods in life span developmental psychology with a focus on community-based interventions.
- Learning and Cognition: A course introducing you to a range of topics including attention, memory, and thinking, alongside an understanding of functional disorders related to memory and language.
- Counseling for Social Justice and Diversity: In this course, you will enhance your understanding and skills to work effectively with diverse populations, focusing on cultural diversity and fostering healthy professional relationships.
After graduating, you will be prepared to offer services like conducting behavioral assessments, and designing and overseeing treatment plans. You will be equipped to help in different areas such as improving work environments, aiding individuals in developing essential skills, and managing challenging behaviors.
Admission requirements for the program include:
- An undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited institution.
- A 3.0 or higher GPA.
- Official transcripts.
- Introductory/general psychology and behavioral statistics undergraduate courses.
- Graduate Record Examination scores (only General Test).
- Two letters of recommendation.
- A personal statement (500-700 words).
Arcadia University
Online Master of Education – Applied Behavior Analysis
Enrolling in the 30-credit online Master of Education in Applied Behavior Analysis program at Arcadia University puts you on a path to becoming an expert in understanding and influencing behavior through evidence-based practices. You can complete this program in as few as 18 months.
During the program, you will learn how to assess behavior in individuals of all ages, helping bring positive changes to homes, schools, and communities. You will also gain hands-on experience through an on-site practicum, with the option to meet this requirement at your existing workplace.
The program’s core outcomes include:
- Broaden Your Understanding: Build on what you know about learning and behavior science.
- Deepen Knowledge of ABA: Get to know the rich background and recent developments in ABA, and learn how it works to change behavior and address a range of behavioral needs.
- Interdisciplinary Approach: Learn how behavioral treatments work alongside other educational and clinical interventions.
- Skill Development: Gain skills in assessing and guiding behavioral interventions for young people and consult effectively with other adults involved.
- Ethical Practice: Learn the ethical and professional standards you will need to uphold in your role in ABA.
With Arcadia University’s ABA degree, you will take 13 online courses focusing on evidence-based practices for behavior assessment and intervention. Some of the courses that you will take include:
- Educational Research & Experimental Design: In this course, you will learn to understand and apply single-subject research methods, critically assess the effectiveness of behavioral interventions, and design your study.
- Concepts and Principles of ABA: This foundational course introduces you to the history and main principles of ABA, preparing you to engage with scientific and applied literature effectively.
- Functional Behavior Assessment and Behavior Change: Here, you will understand the essential processes of behavior change and the role of behavior analysts in the community.
- Behavior Analysis and Principles of Development: In this course, you will learn about the underlying issues in behavioral problems and disorders, and understand the philosophical roots and basic principles in behavior analysis.
- Ethics and Professionalism: In this course, you will navigate through ethical dilemmas commonly faced in professions like ABA, teaching, and counseling, and learn to analyze the ethical aspects of professional relationships.
- Training & Supervising Human Service Staff: Here, you will equip yourself to supervise and train staff in various settings, emphasizing creating environments that encourage optimal performance.
The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) has verified the coursework requirements of this program for eligibility to take the BCBA examination.
Upon graduation, you will be fully equipped to undertake careers in behavior analysis, meeting licensure requirements set by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) and many states, thanks to a curriculum aligned with the necessary standards.
Arcadia offers a blend of flexibility and personal guidance, allowing you to study at a pace that suits you while enjoying continuous support in reaching your career goals. Furthermore, you have the option to transfer up to six credits to meet part of the foundation course requirements, and you can start your learning journey in spring, summer, or fall, with applications accepted year-round.
Admission requirements for the program include:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
- A minimum 3.0 GPA.
- Official transcripts from each college and/or university attended.
- Two letters of recommendation.
- Personal statement.
- Resume or CV.
How Do I Become a BCBA in South Carolina?
To become a BCBA in South Carolina, you must:
- Have a masters degree.
- Complete the required graduate-level coursework (21 graduate-level credits of coursework in ABA).
- Complete supervision hours under the supervision of a BCBA.
- Pass the BCBA exam.
How Much Does a BCBA Make in SC?
As of September 2023, the average annual salary for a BCBA working in South Carolina is $83,766. More experienced and top earning BCBAs working in South Carolina make over $120,000 per year.
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