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Home / Newsroom / New 3+2 Pathway PSYC+BCBA
psychology

As the need for robust behavioral healthcare expands, John Carroll University continues to grow within the industry by developing a new 3+2 pathway that allows Psychology majors to transition directly into our new Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) Master of Science. 

 

As with other scientific disciplines, behavior analysis aims to describe, predict, and modify behavior. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the rate of autism has doubled over the last two decades, with 1 in 44 children having a diagnosis on the autism spectrum. Further, the CDC reports 1 in 6 children between the ages of 3 and 17 have a developmental disability.

Despite these increasing statistics, only 5,000 Behavioral Analysts are certified each year creating a significant gap between the available service providers and the demand in this area of expertise. Given this gap, the national demand for certified Behavioral Analysts has increased over 5,582%!

JCU is proud to be responding to this call through the 3+2 pathway and the new ABA M.S., which features the meticulously selected coursework, thorough training, and experiential learning needed to qualify for the credentials and prepare to take the BCBA and COBA exams. 

 

The program’s focus on the science of behaviorism means that students will learn from experts in the field through a curriculum aligned to certification standards as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and a Certified Ohio Behavior Analyst (COBA). JCU’s partnership with area schools, healthcare facilities, outpatient clinics, and businesses allows students to complete the 2,000 client hours required for certification in a variety of supervised and vetted settings. Plus, faculty create supportive and collaborative learning environments aimed at allowing students to acquire the rigorous skills needed to be an effective practitioner.

 

The M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis is a 39 credit-hour program delivered using a flexible hybrid model. The 13-course format includes core coursework and a capstone experience. Students will have the option to work closely with faculty on a research project or a written thesis as a capstone experience. The hybrid course instruction model allows engagement with faculty and peers twice a month in the classroom to ensure effective, client-centered learning. Other class meetings follow online synchronous and asynchronous best practices. Full-time students complete the program in just 2 years, and part-time opportunities are available.

 

Upon graduating, students will be prepared to enter a wide range of careers—from working with individuals with autism, to education, counseling, and roles across a range of industries including organizational behavior management and public health. With the urgent demand for Behavioral Analysts, graduates embark on a career path with earnings as much as $145,000 a year along with the average Ohio salary rates at $96,287. Behavioral health is a rapidly blossoming discipline, and JCU is honored to be nourishing the field with an upcoming generation of passionate, dedicated, and well-equipped Behavioral Analysts.