Applied Behaviour -Analysis MSc
What will you learn?
Evidence-based methods derived from behaviour analysis are relevant in every community as these methods touch upon common challenges that arise in everyday life. In the programme, students learn how to apply the general principles of learning and behaviour to improve problems for individuals and society. Further, students learn how to use evidence-based methods to analyze behaviour and develop strategies for teaching skills, using clients' values and best interests as a guide.
Part-time study is available.
How will you learn?
The teaching methods include lectures, student engagement in class, individual and group assignments, discussions, and more. Over three semesters, teaching takes place in the field, where students receive supervision from a behaviour analyst.
- Students are expected to participate in class.
- The courses are taught in English.
The program´s Mission
Our mission is to teach and disseminate scientific knowledge about the principles of behaviour and how to apply the methods of applied behaviour analysis in diverse settings, guided by ethics, autonomy, quality of life, and client welfare. Additionally, we aim to maintain strong connections with professionals to improve services for individuals and groups based on evidence-based methods. Finally, our goal is to contribute to the knowledge of evidence-based practices in applied behaviour analysis through research and publication in peer-reviewed journals.
The program's objective is to produce graduates who, among other things,:
- Have knowledge of the fundamental principles of behaviour analysis
- Have adopted evidence-based methods and received training in applying these methods in the field
- Uphold ethical standards and prioritize client autonomy and well-being
- Can work in an interdisciplinary team and collaborate with experts to improve services using evidence-based methods
- Can assess clients´ skills and set individualized goals
- Can evaluate the impact of interventions
- Can conduct and contribute to research in behavior analysis
- Can disseminate scientific knowledge
- Can train others in evidence-based methods
The program's main benefit is the opportunity to work with and learn from motivated and engaging teachers with extensive experience in the field. Because the teachers see you as an equal, you believe your skills are valuable and set higher expectations for yourself.
What happens after graduation?
Behavior analysts work with people of all ages in various contexts, including schools, kindergartens, nursing homes, hospitals, and general workplaces. Their work features a person-centred approach based on empirical evidence developed collaboratively with the clients and tailored to their needs.
During my graduate studies in applied behaviour analysis, the emphasis was on teaching students evidence-based approaches to analyzing behaviour and developing skills. The training was a valuable supplement to my role as a social educator, making me a better professional and opening up new employment possibilities.
Behavioural Scientist at Klettaskóla
Certification
After completing the program, students meet the educational requirements towards becoming board-certified behaviour analysts (BCBA). The MSc program in Applied Behavioral Analysis at RU is the only one in Iceland that includes the VCS.
To become BCBA students, they must meet the standards for educational requirements and practical training and pass an exam administered by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board.
The MSc program in Applied Behavioral Analysis at RU is the only one in Iceland that includes the VCS.
As of January 1, 2023, the certification is only valid for United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom residents. Students outside these countries or continents should refer to the BACB website for more information.
Do you have questions about the programme?
Application Process
- Certified copy of official university transcripts and overview of completed studies (in English or Icelandic);
- CV/résumé (in English or Icelandic);
- Personal statement answering the questions: Why am I applying, and what are my goals relating to the course? (max length 300 words, submitted as a PDF);
- At least one reference in PDF is an individual qualified to assess an applicant's capability to complete the master's course. The letter can be in Icelandic or English and should be sent directly from the referee to the course project manager via e-mail: hildur@ru.is
- Referee evaluation form
Students must provide their criminal records to the school office when they begin their studies. This requirement is necessary because the curriculum includes practical training in areas where individuals with vulnerabilities are present. Typically, hiring anyone convicted of violating Section XXII of the General Penal Code no. 19/1940 is prohibited. This internship is essential to the program and must be completed before graduation. It is not necessary to include a criminal record with your application.
Structure
*Umsækjendur sem þegar hafa lokið meistaranámi í sálfræði, menntavísindum eða skyldum greinum (meistaranám samþykkt af BCBA) geta sótt um að taka BCBA námskeiðaröðina (42 ECTS).
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 must meet additional eligibility requirements and demonstrate they reside in an authorized country and province [Canada] before they can be deemed eligible to take the examination.”
“Effective January 1, 2023, only individuals who reside in the United States (US), Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom (UK) may apply for BACB certification. Students interested in BACB certification should review the BACB's International Development & Support website: https://www.bacb.com/international-development/” Programs in Ontario, Canada, should direct students to the section Changes to Ontario Certification.
Facilities
Practical Teaching in a Variety of Fields
At RU, the emphasis is on practical skills and training, complemented by a solid theoretical foundation. The facilities for practical teaching are exemplary, and psychology students have access to a fully equipped laboratory.
Classrooms and Reading Rooms
Reykjavík University offers excellent facilities for teaching, reading, and group work. Classrooms are well-equipped, and students have access to group work rooms. General facilities are open to students 24/7. For more information, see details about the facilities at RU. (ekkert á bak við linkinn).
Excellent Service
The university building has easy access to study and career counselling, the international office, and technical assistance. The library has good and diverse working facilities. The library offers access to books and academic articles, and information scientists have open hours where students can look around and get advice and help with reference work.
Shops and Cafes
At RU, there is Háskólbúðin that sells essentials, a café, a World Class gym, and Málið canteen.
Teachers
Why Applied Behaviour Analysis at RU?
- The program includes a course sequence verified by the The International Association for Behavior Analysis (ABAI).
- Emphasis on a strong academic foundation.
- Focus on evidence-based strategies for assessing and solving various challenges.
- Emphasis on disseminating behaviour analysis research in national and international arenas. We recommend following our Instagram page,e BARLAB@ru (The Behavior Analysis Research Lab at RU).
- Teaching students to apply behaviour analytic methods in diverse settings, such as schools, special education schools, hospitals, nursing homes, companies, consulting and more.
- Both local and international experts teach courses.