Department of Psychology
Project Mission, Goals, and Objectives
The mission of the ABA Master of Arts in Psychology is to provide comprehensive education and training in Applied Behavior Analysis, producing culturally responsive scientist-practitioners who meet the needs of diverse communities and populations through research, theory, and application.
GOALS
The Goals and Student Learning Outcomes for the Applied Behavior Analysis Master’s degree program are related to the overall goals of the Psychology department, but also have goals and outcomes specific to the field of study.
Student Learning Outcome: Students can demonstrate conceptual mastery of an area of emphasis in depth.
1. Students demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of theory and research in
the following areas related to Applied Behavior Analysis: philosophical underpinnings,
concepts and principles, measurement, data display, and interpretation.
Student Learning Outcomes: Students can understand and be able to use major research methods and applied technologies in Applied Behavior Analysis, including design, data analysis, and evaluation.
1. Students can apply various research methodologies in research, including but not
limited to,single-subject methodologies and designs.
2. Students can collect and analyze data accurately and reliably for research and
applied purposes.
3. Students can explain the Behavior Analysis Certification Board (BACB) and APA guidelines
for the ethical treatment of human research participants, clients in treatment, staff
in training, and other relevant populations, and can identify violations of these
ethical codes.
Student Learning Outcomes: Students can demonstrate the skills and attitudes of critical thinking and sound decision-making in coursework, application, and independent work.
1. Students can evaluate the logic and data of research, compare perspectives, theories,
assumptions, and facts, and develop hypotheses based on the research literature.
2. Students can evaluate research findings and their application to socially relevant
behavior change.
Student Learning Outcomes: Students can write clearly and effectively and can display effective oral communication skills.
1. Students can produce well-organized papers and essays without grammatical errors,
utilizing APA format.
2. Students can compose and deliver oral presentations on a variety of topics in Applied
Behavior Analysis to various audiences in a group setting.
Student Learning Outcomes: Students can demonstrate awareness and analysis of topics and issues related to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion.
1. Students can demonstrate an understanding and respect for cultural and individual
differences by describing the biases, disparities, and inequities different communities
face and how these impact our science and practice.
2. Students can evaluate their own biases and ability to work collaboratively with
individuals with diverse needs and backgrounds.
Questions/Comments/Concerns Contact:
Dr. Marianne L. Jackson
ABA Master's Program Coordinator
majackson@csufresno.edu
559.278.2757