MS in Applied
Behavior Analysis
Behavior Analysis
MAKE A DIFFERENCE AND EMBRACE YOUR CALLING
Discover the transformative potential of applied behavior analysis (ABA) with Pepperdine University's on-campus Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis program. This comprehensive curriculum prepares you to become a board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA®) while equipping you with the skills to thrive in diverse settings like education, developmental disabilities, autism, and more.
Hands-On Learning Experience
Immerse yourself in in-person coursework at Pepperdine's West Los Angeles campus, where you'll engage in practical, real-world training sessions. Gain invaluable experience and BCBA supervision at approved clinical sites, participating in practicum courses to refine your skills and receive expert feedback on your clinical cases.
Expert Training and Mentorship
Benefit from the practitioner-scholar model of professional training, blending rigorous theoretical study with hands-on clinical experience. Work alongside seasoned behavior analysts, acquiring the necessary experience to help individuals develop adaptive skills for success in various facets of life, from education to family and beyond.
For more information, view the BACB exam pass-rate data. Pass-rate data are not published for verified course sequences within their first four years of operation.
*As of January 1, 2023, the BACB no longer provides certification outside of the U.S. and Canada. If you are considering certification outside of the U.S. or Canada, please see updates about BACB global certification.
Esteemed Reputation
Join a reputable program at Pepperdine University, recognized as one of the top-ranking universities in the United States by U.S. News & World Report's Best Colleges Rankings for National Universities.
Values-Driven Education
Experience a values-centered education that empowers students to create meaningful change, guided by GSEP's core values of academic excellence, social purpose, and service.
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WHAT OUR ALUMNI ARE SAYING
"The courses offer small student to teacher ratios which allows the student to really engage with the instructor. The professors are really interested in learning about your career goals, research interests, and project ideas. The library staff is quite knowledgeable and can help you navigate the databases to find the right peer reviewed articles for your assignments."
R. Williams
"Pepperdine is an amazing school in which the values of purpose, service, and leadership are upheld consistently. I gained superior knowledge and experience as an undergraduate psychology student. The faculty is top notch, the campus is gorgeous, and the student body is diverse and hard-working."
Claire
LEAD THE WAY AND EMBRACE
EXCELLENCE AT PEPPERDINE
EXCELLENCE AT PEPPERDINE
Extensive Clinical Experience
Access over 50 high-quality clinical practicum sites, providing hands-on experience essential for becoming a proficient behavior analyst.
Verified Course Sequence (VCS)*
Participate in a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) Program accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI), ensuring the highest standards of education in applied behavior analysis.
Flexible Evening Classes
Attend classes in the evening, tailored to accommodate the schedules of working professionals, allowing you to pursue your education without interrupting your career.
Fieldwork Integration
Fulfill fieldwork requirements by integrating your studies with your current employment in an ABA-based setting, allowing you to gain practical experience while advancing your career.
Comprehensive Admission Approach
Experience an equitable and inclusive admission process that prioritizes your abilities, commitment, and potential for success, eliminating the need for GRE or standardized test scores.
Robust Networking
Engage with a robust alumni network comprising over 100,000 professionals from Pepperdine University, offering valuable networking opportunities across various fields, including applied behavior analysis.
50+
Clinical Practicum Sites
6
Units Of Supervised Field Placement
1
Start Term in the Fall
20
Program May Be Completed In Only 20 Months
12:1
GSEP Student:Faculty Ratio
14
GSEP Average Class Size
$7K+
Scholarships Available
*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 will need to meet additional eligibility requirements and demonstrate they reside in an authorized country before they can be deemed eligible to take the examination. View the verified course content hours here.
THE PREMIER FAITH-BASED PROGRAM
Pepperdine has always had a singular mission: to strengthen students for lives of purpose, service, and leadership in a learning environment where academic excellence is rooted in Christian faith and values.
As the top-ranked program based at a Christian university, students prepare to drive meaningful change in families and communities.
We empower students from all faith backgrounds to transform into the best possible expression of themselves for meaningful work and purposeful lives.
Fulfilling and Diverse Career Paths in Behavior Analysis
Explore a vast array of career paths within behavior analysis, spanning from clinical supervision to specialized autism support. As a BCBA®, you can take the lead in managing clinical operations, providing expert supervision, or offering consultancy on crucial projects. Take advantage of the thriving field, characterized by competitive salaries and robust demand, particularly in pivotal states such as California, Florida, Texas, New Jersey, and Massachusetts.
Mastering Applied Behavior Analysis: An Extensive Curriculum
Our Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) curriculum is meticulously crafted to equip both working professionals and full-time students with a deep understanding of ABA principles and practices. With courses covering foundational and specialized topics like ethical conduct, behavioral assessment, and intervention strategies, our program ensures students graduate as competent and compassionate board-certified behavior analysts.
Here's a glimpse of our comprehensive curriculum:
- Semester I: Dive into the Experimental Analysis of Behavior, Measurement, Data Analysis, and Experimental Design, and prepare for practicum experiences.
- Semester II: Explore Principles and Applications of ABA and Assessment Procedures for ABA. Semester III: Focus on Ethical and Professional Conduct, Behavioral Interventions, and engage in practicum experiences.
- Semester IV: Study Multiculturalism and Diversity in ABA, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and continue practicum experiences.
- Semester V: Delve into Supervision, Management, and Consultation in ABA, and explore Radical Behaviorism, while continuing practicum experiences.
Completion of our curriculum, spanning 20 months, prepares students to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) exam, paving the way for a rewarding career in behavior analysis.
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