Behavior Analyst Counseling Teen

Applied Behavior Analysis

Acquire the expertise and practical skills through a master's degree to become an applied behavior analyst (ABA) and contribute to the well-being of individuals and communities.

Unlock Opportunities for Positive Change

Experience the exclusive Master of Science in Health Sciences with a specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis at USD, the only program of its kind in the state. Led by leading experts from South Dakota, our curriculum is tailored to meet the specific needs of the state's rural communities.  Gain a deep understanding of behavior principles, reinforcement strategies, functional behavior assessments and behavior change procedures. With a strong emphasis on ethical considerations, you will learn to provide culturally competent and ethically sound behavior analysis services to address the behavioral challenges faced by individuals across diverse populations, including those with autism, developmental disabilities and mental health conditions. 

The program offers supervised training and hands-on experiences to ensure you are well-prepared for real-world situations. Under the guidance of professional educators, you will have the opportunity to apply behavior analysis techniques in clinical settings, schools or community-based organizations. This practical training enhances your competence and confidence in implementing effective behavior interventions and designing behavior support plans tailored to individuals' unique needs.

Embark on a transformative educational journey and join the ranks of skilled behavior analysts who make a significant difference in the lives of individuals and communities. Unlock your potential at USD to create lasting positive change.

 

Degrees & Offerings

Health Sciences: Applied Behavior Analysis (M.S.)

Master's
  Online and Sioux Falls

This comprehensive program is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills to become a proficient behavior analyst. This program requires 30 credit hours and is offered online. One course is offered in a hybrid format to gain practical hands-on experiences through supervised training in our Sioux Falls, South Dakota location. Establish a deep understanding of behavior analysis principles and evidence-based interventions to address behavioral challenges across diverse populations. You'll graduate with the knowledge and skills you need to work toward your career as an Applied Behavior Analyst (ABA®).

Learn more about the health sciences program

View Admissions Requirements

Program Details

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Graduate Admissions

Known for Excellence

With qualities like small class sizes, specialized programs and incredible student opportunities, USD is not your typical university. What makes us unique is what makes your education exceptional.

Departments & Facilities

Explore the departments, facilities and centers that contribute to your education in public health & health sciences.
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Public Health & Health Sciences

The Department of Public Health and Health Sciences emphasizes collaborative learning, equipping students with a rich understanding of the health care field and preparing them to excel in careers such as advocating for health policy, promoting health through education, managing health data analytics and leading collaborative health care teams. The department offers degrees at the associate, bachelor's, master's and doctorate levels.

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Center for Brain and Behavior Research

The Center for Brain and Behavior Research (CBBRe) promotes outstanding training of research students and fellows, feeding the pipeline of creative independent scientists in the fields of neuroscience and behavioral science.

Faculty & Staff

Get to know the faculty and staff in the Department of Public Health and Health Sciences. Our faculty are experts in their field, contributing research and scholarship in productive aging and gerontology, management of chronic disease, health and culture, attachment, Native American health and more.
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Ryan Groeneweg

Clinical & Behavior Svcs Mngr
Faculty Default

Darcie Knight

Adjunct Faculty
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Enter the Exam with Confidence

At USD, you can have confidence that you are gaining the preparation necessary to succeed in your career goals.

The Association for Behavior Analysis International has verified the courses in this program 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 requirements before they can be deemed eligible to take the examination.
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Clinical Fieldwork Through LifeScape

The program collaborates with LifeScape for assistance with clinical fieldwork experiences. LifeScape is a non-profit organization serving Sioux Falls, Rapid City and Sioux City, which provides 13 different service lines to children and adults with complex medical care needs, physical and developmental disabilities, and behavior disorders.

Learn more about LifeScape

Surprisingly Affordable

Whether you’ve recently completed your undergraduate degree, or you want to kick your career up a notch, graduate school is the next logical step. The good news is there is funding for both online and on-campus students to get you through your program. 
GA (Resident*)
Resident
Online
Non-Resident
Tuition (1 cr.)
180.3
340.15
470.45
654.05
GAF Fee (1 cr.)
55.3
55.3
0
55.3
Total

More About Tuition & Fees

Tuition rates are subject to change and may vary depending on the program or department. Visit the Graduate Tuition & Costs page for more information.

* Graduate Assistant (GA) rates are available for resident, non-resident and online students.

** Resident rates may be available to you through the SD Advantage, Child of Alumni or Western Regional Graduate Program. To see if you quality, visit usd.edu/grad-tuition.

Student Success story

Jeanie Utley
As a full-time professional with a family, USD’s program has truly been a great fit for me. The instructors have current real-life experience in the field. The partnership with LifeScape utilizes and implements the principles we use. I look forward to continued learning and growth through the ABA® program at USD.

Jeanie Utley, MS, OTR/L

Occupational Therapist, Therapy Lead
Lifescape, Sioux Falls, SD

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