Starkville Offers Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Behavioral Analysis

Starkville Offers Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Behavioral Analysis

Starkville – Mississippi State University (MSU) has announced the introduction of a new bachelor’s degree program aimed at meeting the ever-growing demand for service providers in applied behavior analysis (ABA) across the country.

Nationally, offerings at the undergraduate level in ABA are few, making this new Bachelor of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis program, set to begin in the fall of 2025, a unique addition to MSU’s educational portfolio. This program prepares students for deeply impactful careers within the behavioral health sector.

Program Details

According to information provided by the university, students enrolled in the ABA program will study how behavior analysis concepts, as well as principles, can be effectively utilized to design, implement, assess, and evaluate various intervention programs. These programs cater to individuals and groups alike, in a range of settings such as clinics, schools and homes.

ABA practitioners typically work towards improving the quality of life for different individuals throughout the course of their life. However, ABA services tend to be mostly directed towards individuals suffering from autism or other developmental or intellectual disabilities.

Program Availability

This ABA program can be accessed both on the Starkville campus and online. It covers coursework which will fulfill the requirements for obtaining two certifications in the field of behavior analysis. These include certification as a Registered Behavior Technician and Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst. Moreover, this curriculum also readies students to apply and qualify for licensure, a requirement in many states, including Mississippi.

University’s Perspective

Rebecca Spencer, an assistant professor at MSU as well as the ABA undergraduate program coordinator, expressed the university’s excitement at the launch of this new program. She noted that the ABA minor had experienced a significant surge in popularity since its inception a few years ago. This newfound degree is therefore an ideal selection for many of those who took the minor and are interested in a career in ABA.

Spencer emphasized the university’s commitment to equipping its students with both the expertise and practical experience necessary to perform excellently in the field. She noted that by doing so, Mississippi State University would effectively be contributing to the improvement of individuals and communities. Besides, the program is also geared towards addressing the growing need for well-trained behavior analysts in Mississippi and beyond.

As the world grows more accepting and understanding of various behavioral, intellectual and developmental conditions, the demand for well-qualified ABA professionals continues to rise. Hence, this program is a big step, not just for Mississippi State University, but for the state of Mississippi and the country as a whole. It signals a trend that is likely to become more pronounced in higher education: the development of specialized programs that address critical community and health needs.