PhD in Psychology, Behavior Analysis
Harold Abel School of Pscyhology
The doctoral Behavior Analysis specialization is designed for
behavior analyst professionals seeking to serve as academic, research,
or clinical leaders in the field of behavior analysis. Learners
integrate basic behavior analytic theory, as well as basic and applied
research with the practice of applied behavior analysis. Upon
completion, learners are prepared to pursue careers in leadership
positions within the practice of applied behavior analysis as well as
academic and research positions. In combination with a
behavior-analytic dissertation, learners who complete this
specialization can apply for the doctoral designation as a certified
behavior analyst. These specialization requirements are not intended
to prepare graduates for licensure as professional counselors or
licensed psychologists.
Residency Requirement(s):
Three ten-week courses with a four-day
embedded residency experience (PSY-R8925, PSY-R8926, PSY-R8927). See
university policy 3.04.05
Attendance at Residencies and the Residencies
page on Campus for more information. Also see each graduate school’s
residency courses.
Twenty-One Required Courses
At least 88 quarter credits
Core courses:
PSY8002 |
Foundations of Theory and Practice for Doctoral Psychology Learners
In this course, learners improve their ability to navigate the
virtual campus and become familiar with library, career center, and
writing center resources. Learners identify the educational steps and
requirements necessary for successfully completing the doctoral degree
program in their chosen specialization; review their specialization’s
requirements, associated professional roles and organizations, and
ethics and professional standards; and articulate a professional
identity based on doctoral-level psychology training.
For PhD in Psychology learners only. Must be taken during the
learner’s first quarter. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer.
| 5 quarter credits |
---|---|---|
PSY7115 |
Research Foundations of History and Systems in Psychology
Learners in this course explore historical and contemporary schools
of thought such as behavioral, humanistic, and psychodynamic
psychology. In particular, learners begin the process of becoming
independent researchers by developing a dissertation topic that is
appropriate for their specialization and aligned with foundational
theories within their chosen school of thought.
For PhD learners in Psychology only. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer.
| 5 quarter credits |
PSY7543 * |
Ethics and Multicultural Issues in Psychology
In this course, learners analyze multicultural perspectives and
factors such as ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and gender, and their
influences on the ethical behavior of psychology professionals.
Learners evaluate and articulate multicultural issues within the
context of different settings and practice applying ethical reasoning
principles and standards within their profession.
Prerequisite(s): PSY5002 or PSY5005 or PSY8002.
| 5 quarter credits |
PSY7868 |
Qualitative Design and Analysis
Learners in this course assess the fundamental concepts needed to conduct qualitative research. Learners practice qualitative research techniques; appropriate applications of qualitative research; the strengths and weaknesses of qualitative research design, sampling, and analysis and their associated interdependencies; and leverage technology when applicable. Learners also determine the steps necessary to ensure human subjects protection, and consider methodological adaptations when conducting research with vulnerable and diverse populations. Learners may only earn credit for PSY7868 or RSCH7868. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. | 4 quarter credits |
PSY8307 * |
Advanced Single-Subject Research Design for Behavior Analysis
In this course, learners develop advanced skills in the design and analysis of single-subject research. Learners evaluate the use of single-subject design in existing research according to criteria related to design logic; internal, external, and social validity; and evidence-based practice. Learners develop well-controlled single-subject analyses for a variety of potential research questions, exploring each specific single-subject design in depth and in combination to develop advanced research proposals in preparation for their dissertations. For PhD Behavior Analysis leaners only. Prerequisite(s): PSY8301. | 5 quarter credits |
PSY8625 * |
Advanced Inferential Statistics
Learners in this advanced course examine a variety of statistical
analyses, including statistical power and effect size in research
design, factorial and repeated measures of analysis of variance
(ANOVA), analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), selected nonparametric
analyses, and bivariate and multiple regression. Learners are expected
to have proficiency in the use of statistical software appropriate to
dissertation-level research.
Prerequisite(s): PSY7864. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer.
| 5 quarter credits |
PSY8658 * |
Quantitative Research Methods in Psychology
In this course, learners synthesize knowledge of quantitative
research methodology and use it to develop a quantitative research
design that may form the basis of their dissertation research project.
Learners compare their quantitative research design to a previously
developed qualitative design on a similar topic and identify and
justify the methodology most appropriate for investigating their
research topic.
For PsyD and PhD in Psychology learners only. Prerequisite(s):
PSY7860, PSY7868. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer.
| 5 quarter credits |
PSY-R8925 * |
PhD Dissertation Research Seminar Track 1
The intensive, ten-week PhD Dissertation Research Seminar Track 1
includes both an online courseroom and a face-to-face weekend
residency experience. Learners interact with peers and faculty as they
participate in online courseroom and weekend residency activities that
emphasize applying the research skills necessary to initiate the
development of a dissertation research plan. Throughout the course,
learners focus on identifying a theory, topic, and research problem
appropriate for their specialization. Track 1 learners must also
complete PhD Dissertation Milestone 1 (Research Ethics Education).
Following the weekend residency experience, learners complete a final
assessment that demonstrates Track 1 learning outcomes.
For PhD in Psychology learners only. Prerequisite(s): PSY7115.
Cannot be fulfilled by transfer.
| 3 quarter credits |
---|---|---|
PSY-R8926 * |
PhD Dissertation Research Seminar Track 2
The intensive, ten-week PhD Dissertation Research Seminar Track 2
includes both an online courseroom and a face-to-face weekend
residency experience. Learners interact with peers and faculty as they
participate in online courseroom and weekend residency activities that
emphasize applying the research skills necessary to develop a research
question and to select an appropriate dissertation topic. In Track 2,
learners complete PhD Dissertation Milestone 2 (Topic Approval).
Following the weekend residency experience, learners complete a final
assessment that demonstrates Track 2 learning outcomes.
For PhD in Psychology learners only. Prerequisite(s): PSY7868,
PSY8625, PSY-R8925. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer.
| 3 quarter credits |
PSY-R8927 * |
PhD Dissertation Research Seminar Track 3
The intensive, ten-week PhD Dissertation Seminar Track 3 includes
both an online courseroom and a face-to-face weekend residency
experience. Learners interact with peers and faculty as they
participate in online courseroom and weekend residency activities that
emphasize applying the research skills necessary to detail a
methodological design, sampling plan, and strategy for data analysis.
In Track 3, learners complete PhD Dissertation Milestone 5 (Research
Plan Approval). Following the weekend residency experience, learners
complete a final assessment that demonstrates Track 3 learning
outcomes.
Learners must complete Track 3 prior to beginning the
comprehensive examination phase of the program. For PhD in
Psychology learners only. Prerequisite(s): PSY8658, PSY-R8926.
Cannot be fulfilled by transfer.
| 3 quarter credits |
Specialization courses:
PSY8301 |
Single-Subject Research Design Methods
In this course, learners expand their foundational knowledge about
the basic methods of research used in single-subject research.
Learners describe the different methodologies within, as well as the
strengths and limitations of, single-subject research. Learners expand
on their skills in visual analysis to determine research findings.
For PhD Behavior Analysis learners only. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer.
| 5 quarter credits |
---|---|---|
PSY8302 |
Behaviorism
Learners in this course expand their knowledge on the basic theories
of behavior analysis. Throughout the course, learners evaluate the
basic principles described in the theories of behavior analysis
science. Learners identify some of the common misconceptions in these
basic theories.
For PhD Behavior Analysis learners only. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer.
| 5 quarter credits |
PSY8303 |
Experimental Analysis of Behavior
In this course, learners explore the history of, and synthesize the
research in, the experimental analysis of behavior. Learners describe
the importance of the link between experimental analysis of behavior
and the application of the science.
For PhD Behavior Analysis learners only.
Cannot be fulfilled by transfer.
| 5 quarter credits |
PSY8304 |
Analysis of Verbal Behavior
Learners in this course expand their knowledge of Skinner’s analysis
of verbal behavior, and examine the verbal operants involved. Learners
explore the importance of the analysis of verbal behavior and the
implications in the practice of behavior analysis.
For PhD Behavior Analysis learners only. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer.
| 5 quarter credits |
PSY8305 |
Organizational Behavior Management
In this course, learners describe the field of organizational
behavior management and its relationship to the science of behavior
analysis. Learners synthesize research in the field of organizational
behavior management. Throughout the course, learners apply basic
assessment techniques and develop interventions commonly used in the
field of organizational behavior management.
For PhD Behavior Analysis learners only. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer.
| 5 quarter credits |
PSY8306 |
Education and Teaching in Applied Behavior Analysis
In this course, learners examine the theories of behavior analysis
and how they influence teaching and educational programs. Learners
synthesize research related to teaching skills in the field of
behavior analysis, and explore how they will use principles from
theory and research to inform their teaching.
For PhD Behavior Analysis learners only. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer.
| 5 quarter credits |
Upon completion of all required coursework:
PSY9919 * |
Doctoral Comprehensive Examination
This course includes an overview of the comprehensive examination
process, the university’s expectations of academic honesty and
integrity, the three core themes of the examination, and the
evaluation criteria. The courseroom mentor provides three questions
addressing the core themes and learners write answers to the
comprehensive examination questions. Answers are evaluated by faculty
readers using pointscale scoring rubrics. Upon passing the
comprehensive examination, learners are eligible to register for the
first dissertation course.
Grading for this course is S/NS. Prerequisite(s): Completion of
all required and elective coursework with a cumulative GPA of 3.0
or better. Completion of practicum courses, if applicable.
Fulfillment of all residency requirements. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer.
| 3 quarter credits |
---|
Learners must register for PSY9960 a minimum of four times to
fulfill their specialization requirements.
PSY9960 * |
Dissertation Courseroom
This course provides learners with resources, guidance, and peer and
mentor support during each dissertation course as they complete the
required milestones. Grading for this course is S/NS. Learners must
register for this course a minimum of four times to fulfill their
specialization requirements.
Prerequisite(s): PSY9919. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer.
| 3 quarter credits |
---|
Three Elective Courses
15 quarter credits
Choose three from the following thirteen courses:
PSY6010 |
Human Prenatal Development
This course provides learners with an overview of prenatal and
postnatal development through the first three months of life. Learners
analyze genetic and reproductive technology and articulate its impact
on families and society. Learners review and demonstrate their
knowledge of the stages of prenatal development (embryonic and fetal),
focusing specifically on brain development and fetal life. In
addition, learners examine various prenatal illnesses and physical
problems resulting from birth complications. The course presents
research, theory, and best practices related to promoting healthy
newborn and infant development. | 5 quarter credits |
---|---|---|
PSY6020 * |
Topics in Child and Adolescent Development
Learners in this course critically evaluate and apply theory and
research to child and adolescent development issues and current
topics. Learners analyze the impact of policy and legislation in areas
such as education, health, mental health, the military, media, and the
economy on child and adolescent developmental outcomes and advocate
for issues related to policy and legislation that improve the lives of
children and adolescents.
Prerequisite(s): PSY6010; PSY7220 or PSY7230.
| 5 quarter credits |
PSY7220 |
Child Psychology
In this course, learners gain and apply knowledge of the
developmental stages of children from the prenatal period to
adolescence. Learners examine how children develop physically,
emotionally, socially, and cognitively, and evaluate and articulate
the influences of family, society, and culture on child and adolescent
development. Learners also assess children’s evolving needs and apply
theory and research to recommend appropriate responses to those
needs. | 5 quarter credits |
PSY7230 |
Adolescent Psychology
In this course, learners gain and apply knowledge of the
developmental stages from early adolescence to emerging adulthood.
Learners evaluate and articulate the physical, psychosocial,
emotional, sexual, moral, and cognitive changes associated with
adolescent development and examine the ways in which adolescent
development is influenced by family, society, and culture. Learners
also assess the evolving needs of adolescents and apply theory and
research in order to recommend appropriate responses to those
needs. | 5 quarter credits |
PSY7422 |
Motivation
In this course, learners study major motivation theories, principles,
and research findings in order to understand the complexities of
motivational processes. Learners then use examples of motivational
processes as applied in educational settings to propose ways of
facilitating motivation within those settings. Learners also examine
the role their beliefs, cognitions, emotions, and values play in
achievement situations. | 5 quarter credits |
PSY7610 |
Tests and Measurements
This course focuses on essential concepts, principles, applications,
and social and theoretical issues of psychological testing. Learners
gain understanding in the construction of tests; analyze the
development and use of tests in measuring aptitudes, achievement,
attitudes, interests, and personality; and identify underlying
theories of various tests. Learners analyze the characteristics
desired in psychological and educational tests, with particular
emphasis on reliability and validity, and examine best practices and
professional standards for educational and psychological testing,
including test bias and fairness. In addition, learners study the role
of technology in delivery, administration, scoring, and interpretation
of tests. | 5 quarter credits |
PSY7860 |
Survey of Research Methods
Learners in this course critically evaluate research in order to gain an understanding of the scientific methods of inquiry and the ethical considerations of research. Learners develop and apply skills needed to become educated consumers and creators of research. Learners also use their research design skills to analyze and apply research methodologies, validity, reliability and other components of scientific research related to their field of interest. Learners may only earn credit for PSY7860 or RSCH7860. | 4 quarter credits |
PSY7864 |
Quantitative Design and Analysis
In this course, learners investigate the fundamental concepts needed to conduct quantitative research. Learners examine and apply quantitative research techniques; appropriate applications of quantitative research; research design, measurement, and analysis, and their associated interdependencies; variable types and levels of measurement; sampling; descriptive and inferential statistics; and hypothesis testing. Learners define the strengths and limitations of descriptive statistics, analyze the quantitative scales of measurement, review the logic of probability and null hypothesis testing, and leverage technology when applicable. Learners also determine the steps necessary to ensure human subjects protection, and consider methodological adaptations when conducting research with vulnerable and diverse populations. Learners may only earn credit for PSY7864 or RSCH7864. | 4 quarter credits |
PSY8150 |
Exceptional Children in the Classroom
In this course, learners examine different disabling conditions in
children and adolescents and study their theoretical perspectives,
characteristics, etiology, assessment, and remediation. Learners also
explore recent trends in the field, research-based interventions, and
the predominant special education law that impacts the practice of
school psychology. | 5 quarter credits |
PSY8711 |
Principles of Industrial/Organizational Psychology
In this course, learners identify and confirm theories and research
of industrial/organizational psychology. Learners examine and explain
the various psychological constructs affecting individuals, groups,
teams, and organizations in the workplace and assess diversity and
ethical principles as they relate to decisionmaking processes.
Learners also evaluate the differences between industrial and
organizational psychology and implement various assessment methods,
models, and interventions applicable across workplace settings. | 5 quarter credits |
PSY8730 |
Consultation Psychology
Learners in this course evaluate current theories of psychological
consultation and analyze the variety of roles and interventions that
engage psychological consultants in an applied setting. Learners
examine psychological consultants’ contributions to clinical,
educational, industrial, and organizational settings and demonstrate
the competencies required to evaluate and conduct psychological
consultative services through applied case work, practice, and
self-appraisal. Other course topics include consultation ethics,
models of consultation research, and the dynamics of the
consultant-client relationship. | 5 quarter credits |
PSY8763 * |
Program Evaluation
This course provides an examination of the theories, techniques,
methods, and processes of program evaluation. Learners synthesize
knowledge and skills gained from prior coursework to design a program
evaluation, plan its implementation, and communicate the results in
appropriate and effective formats.
Prerequisite(s): PSY7864.
| 5 quarter credits |
PSY8840 * |
Principles of Sport Psychology
Learners in this course apply psychological theories to explain and
improve sport performance. Learners evaluate the implications of new
research for professional practice in sport psychology and explore the
ways in which they can meet the unique needs of diverse participants
through customized coaching strategies. In particular, learners
examine personality, attention, anxiety, arousal and arousal
adjustment strategies, cognitive-behavioral intervention, causal
attribution, motivation, and self confidence.
Prerequisite(s): PSY7411.
| 5 quarter credits |
Total
At least 103 quarter credits
* Denotes courses that have
prerequisite(s). Refer to the descriptions for further
details.
Please note that some courses within
this program have prerequisites that are not listed as required
courses, which may increase the total number of courses needed to
complete this program.