NUI Galway - Applied Behaviour Analysis

Course Overview/Contact:

This Master of Science (MSc) programme is designed to meet your needs as a practitioner, to improve socially significant behaviours in individuals with development disabilities, through behavioural assessment and application of evidence based interventions. Students will gain skills to work as practitioners in the areas of education, rehabilitation and behaviour support. The principles and strategies of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) can be applied to a range of human behaviour, including social skills and academic and adaptive skills, as well as to support individuals with challenging behaviour. In addition, the programme aims to provide students with training and supervision to conduct applied research with clinical populations. Applied Behaviour Analysis is comprised of evidenced based practices which are often recommended as the best approach for working with people with intellectual disabilities or pervasive developmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder.

The MSc involves full-time study for two years. Lectures are held one day per week, with additional clinical supervision sessions provided on designated days. The course provides students with opportunities to gain experience working within schools and services that support individuals with differential diagnoses, which facilitates the integration of the course’s practical and academic elements. The course offers approved clinical placements. Placement is not compulsory and an alternative assessment can be selected instead.

The programme offers a thorough training in a variety of behaviour change procedures, functional assessment technologies and skills teaching practices. Students are given training in the theoretical foundations of behaviour analysis and are provided with the skills to work as practitioners. A strong emphasis is placed on the ability to work with, and provide treatment for, diverse and complex cases. Students will become competent in the design of educational and rehabilitative programmes in an applied environment. 

NUIG offers an Approved Course Sequence (ACS) which is applicable towards BACB eligibility requirements. 
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The programme follows the scientist-practitioner model, providing students with an integrated training in ABA’s academic, practical and research aspects.

Career Opportunities:

Past students have been employed nationally and internationally across a variety of education and behaviour support services for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In addition, students are supporting individuals within mental health services, residential and community living environments, and acquired brain injury rehabilitation services. The programme will prepare you for a career in clinical and educational settings, and will also provide you with a foundation for further postgraduate study (e.g., clinical or educational psychology) and research at PhD level.

Entry Requirements:

Additional Requirements

Applications are made online via The Postgraduate Applications Centre (PAC). Relevant PAC application code(s) above.

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