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Applied Behavior Analysis

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is the scientific application of behavioral principles to improve socially significant behavior. ABA is frequently used in educational settings, behavioral agencies, residential facilities, and many, many more! Parents, teachers, and caregivers utilize procedures based on the science of behavior to benefit consumers and society.

Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc.® (BACB®):
The BACB® is a nonprofit corporation established o meet professional certification needs in the field of behavior analysis. According to the BACB’s® website, their “mission is to protect consumers of behavior-analytic services by systematically establishing, promoting, and disseminating professional standards of practice.”

Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI):
The ABAI has been the primary professional membership organization for behavior analysts since 1974. ABAI hosts a variety of annual conferences, publishes six behavior analytic journals, and oversees university coursework necessary to obtain BACB certification.

Association for Professional Behavior Analysts (APBA):
The APBA is a nonprofit membership organization that aims to promote the science-based practice of applied behavior analysis.

Texas Association for Behavior Analysis (TxABA):
TxABA is a Texas-based nonprofit organization that aims to support behavior analysts and the broader field of behavior analysis.

ABA Opportunities 

Low Incidence Disabilities and Autism (LIDA) program

  • Are you interested in learning more about applied behavior analysis while earning your Master’s degree? The LIDA program at SHSU is a two-year professional program that incorporates a unique blend of special education and applied behavior analysis coursework. If you are an educator, parent, related professional – or simply interested in learning more about the science of behavior -the LIDA program may be right for you!
  • For more information, please visit the LIDA program’s website

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) minor

  • Are you an undergraduate student interested in learning more about applied behavior analysis? SHSU now offers students the opportunity to enroll in a fully online minor, focused on the science, application, and dissemination of behavior analysis. No matter your major, the ABA minor can complement your skill set by preparing you to analyze behavior across a myriad of contexts.
  • For more information, please visit the ABA minor’s website.