ABA Programs from Southern Illinois University

Southern Illinois University runs one of the oldest behavior analysis programs in the United States. The program’s story began in 1955 when Guy Renzaglia founded the Rehabilitation Institute at SIUC. Israel Goldiamond joined the psychology department faculty that same year and laid the groundwork for future developments.

The program reached a key milestone in 1965 when Dr. Renzaglia worked with Nathan Azrin to create the first master’s in behavior modification in the United States. This innovative program grew over the decades. The name changed to Behavior Analysis and Therapy in 1982 to match evolving disciplinary terms and show the complete nature of the curriculum at the school.

Southern Illinois University offers a doctoral program for advanced studies. The Ph.D. concentration in Behavior Analysis and Therapy shapes professionals for careers in academia and research. The university’s new R1 research status gives students more chances to participate in high-level research with advanced resources and guidance from expert faculty.

Students can work closely with one faculty member through a junior colleague mentor system. The university houses a fully equipped basic laboratory and an on-campus autism clinic. These facilities create excellent research opportunities in both basic and applied areas. Southern Illinois University stands out as one of the few programs that offer basic research opportunities with non-humans.

The program maintains a student-to-core faculty ratio of 13 to 1. This ratio ensures individual attention throughout each student’s academic experience. First-year students receive substantial support, and funding typically continues through all four years on campus.

The program’s approach yields impressive results—graduates of SIU’s Behavior Analysis and Therapy program have achieved 100% career placement. Students complete required courses, internship, clinical experience, and thesis. This preparation gives them the knowledge and field experience needed for positions in special education programs, autism centers, hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation facilities.

What ABA programs does Southern Illinois University offer?

Southern Illinois University has several paths for students who want to study Applied Behavior Analysis. Students can choose from different ABA programs that prepare them for various career paths and certification levels.

SIU’s online minor in Behavior Analysis and Therapy needs 21 credit hours at the undergraduate level. This program helps students become Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analysts (BCaBA) with a bachelor’s degree. They can work in human service agencies that serve clients of all types. The courses meet national BCaBA credentialing requirements and help students succeed in higher degree programs.

The heart of SIU’s ABA education is its Master of Science in Behavior Analysis and Therapy program. Students complete 45 credit hours of classroom learning, clinical work, and research. The program has sections on Basic Behavior Analysis, Complex Behavior Analysis, Behavioral Observation Methods, Behavioral Consultation and Management, Legal and Ethical Issues, and Applications of Behavior Analysis. Each student must finish a practicum, a nine-credit internship, and either a research paper or thesis.

Students can choose between on-campus classes or online learning. The online version blends more than 70% virtual learning with some workshops and campus events. Both formats teach students how to assess behavior, analyze data, and create behavior treatment plans.

SIU’s Ph.D. in Psychology with a focus on Behavior Analysis and Therapy serves doctoral students. The program uses mentorship to prepare students for academic and research careers. It well-known because it’s one of the few programs in the country that offers basic research with non-humans.

SIU’s programs shine through their many clinical experience sites. Students can work at the university’s Autism Center, Project 12-Ways, the Smoking Lab, the Evaluation and Development Center, and Tri-County Special Education. As an R1 research institution, SIU lets students join faculty-led research projects on many topics.

The Association for Behavioral Analysis International (ABAI) accredits the master’s program. This shows SIU’s steadfast dedication to excellent theoretical and evidence-based teaching.

Accreditation

Southern Illinois University’s Master of Science program in Behavior Analysis and Therapy has earned prestigious accreditation from the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI). This recognition shows the program meets strict academic standards and delivers quality education in behavior analysis.

The ABAI Accreditation Board gave SIU’s on-campus MS program a fresh stamp of approval through December 31, 2028 in 2023. The board took a detailed look at the program’s depth, rigor, quality, and transparency before making this decision. Their renewal shows the program meets all standards and keeps making needed improvements.

Students get real benefits from ABAI accreditation. The program meets all Behavior Analyst Certification Board’s (BACB) degree and coursework requirements through Pathway 1 for BCBA and BCaBA certification applications since January 1, 2022. This means SIU graduates can apply for professional certification without worrying about their educational qualifications.

Site visitors and board members spotted several laudable features during their review of SIU’s training program. They praised the well-laid-out curriculum, faculty’s mix of expertise and experience, and hands-on learning opportunities. Students get personal attention with a 13 to 1 student-to-core faculty ratio.

The ABA programs at Southern Illinois University also meet the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) standards. Students can prepare better for the BACB exam and certification requirements. On top of that, some program classes have American Psychological Association (APA) accreditation. The university also holds accreditation from the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCACS).

Program instructors update their coursework to reflect current principles and follow ABAI regulations. Quality control and improvement happen through regular assessment and program updates. Faculty members submit yearly reports and pay fees to stay compliant with accreditation standards.

Southern Illinois University shows its steadfast dedication to top-quality behavior analysis education through these strict accreditation processes.

Tuition

SIU’s ABA programs offer several financial options to help you invest in your education. The Board of Trustees sets tuition and fees per hour, which may change based on circumstances.

Graduate students in the Behavior Analysis and Therapy program can expect to pay around $25,566. The good news is that on-campus students can tap into excellent graduate assistantships. These positions come with substantial benefits and tuition waivers that cut down program costs.

The BAT program’s success in funding students is because grants support all but one of their on-campus students. This exceptional funding lets students concentrate on their coursework, internships, research, and clinical experience without worrying about finances. Students gain more than just financial benefits from these assistantships – they get valuable research experience and chances to provide behavior analytic services to SIU and local communities.

Doctoral students receive reliable financial backing too. They can count on both stipends and tuition waivers during their four years on campus. These students work as teaching or research assistants, or take externship positions in return.

New graduate students with stellar academic records might qualify for the High Achiever Tuition Rate. Since Fall 2016, non-resident students who score high on graduate entrance exams (GRE, GMAT, or MAT) pay the same as in-state tuition.

Students who withdraw within set deadlines get credit for tuition and fees, with refund checks usually arriving within four weeks. Military service members receive special treatment, with full or partial refunds based on when they withdraw.

You’ll find detailed resources and calculators for tuition and fees at tuition.siuc.edu. Thanks to assistantships, grants, and possible tuition discounts, many students find SIU’s behavior analysis programs financially manageable.

Admissions

Students seeking admission to ABA programs at Southern Illinois University must meet specific academic requirements. The Master’s program in Behavior Analysis and Therapy welcomes applicants with a bachelor’s degree in any field. A minimum GPA of 2.7 qualifies you for consideration, though higher grades significantly boost your chances. Research experience or work as a Registered Behavior Technician gives applicants an edge.

The Master’s program accepts applications until January 1 for Fall enrollment. PhD applicants have an extra day, with deadlines set for January 2. Doctoral candidates face stricter requirements. They typically need a 3.25 undergraduate GPA and must submit GRE scores. PhD programs also look for strong backgrounds in research methods, statistics, and science subjects. Hands-on experience with experimental methods ranks high among other qualifications.

1. SIU Graduate School Application with personal data and program information
2. Educational history with unofficial transcripts
3. Resume/Vita
4. One-page statement of purpose describing your education, training, and career path
5. One-page document outlining research interests and potential faculty collaborators
6. Three recommendations from qualified evaluators

The Master’s program does not require GRE or MAT scores. Notwithstanding that, doctoral applicants’ recommendation letters serve as a vital tool to evaluate skills, experience, and readiness for advanced studies.

International applicants need additional documents. These include TOEFL/IELTS scores, passport copies, and proof of financial stability through bank statements. Students bringing family members must provide English-language marriage certificates and extra financial documentation.

Competition levels vary by year and program. Accepted students can request transfer credits by submitting a formal petition to the program director. The director reviews transcripts and course syllabi to determine if they match existing BAT program courses.

A strong application showcases academic excellence, documented experience, and research interests that line up with program strengths. New applicants should budget for a non-refundable $65.00 application fee.

What sets Southern Illinois University apart?

The ABA programs at Southern Illinois University stand out with several unique features. SIU earned its designation as an R1 research institution, which gives students more chances to conduct high-level research with advanced resources and guidance from leading faculty. This prestigious status puts SIU in the company of top research universities across the nation.

Students work with one faculty member throughout their academic trip through a unique junior colleague mentor system. This customized approach helps build stronger academic bonds and provides targeted guidance. SIU maintains a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio that ensures each student receives personal attention.

SIU’s research facilities are exceptional. The university’s fully equipped basic laboratory and on-campus autism clinic give students excellent research opportunities in both basic and applied areas. SIU is one of the few programs nationwide that lets students conduct basic research with non-humans. This experience helps students learn about behavioral principles more deeply.

The PhD program follows the Boulder scientist-practitioner model, which balances clinical and research training. Students who complete their Master’s degree can become instructors of record under faculty supervision. This teaching experience proves valuable after graduation.

Financial benefits make SIU even more attractive. All first-year students receive guaranteed funding, which has been available through all four years on campus historically. Students who maintain good standing typically get both a stipend and tuition waiver while they complete teaching, research assistantships, or externships.

Southern Illinois offers an ideal environment for both study and living. Forests, lakes, and canyons surround the area, where students can enjoy boating, camping, hiking, and biking. The region features growing numbers of breweries and wineries while keeping living costs low. Major cities remain within reach – St. Louis is just two hours away, and Nashville takes three hours to reach.

The program’s value shows in its results. Successful graduates have achieved a 100% career placement rate, which proves how much employers value an SIU degree in Behavior Analysis and Therapy.

Next steps

Want to start your ABA education at Southern Illinois University? The application process follows a clear path with specific deadlines and requirements.

Students applying to the hybrid ABA program need a bachelor’s degree in psychology or another human services area. The BACB discovered that students with social science backgrounds excel in the ABA field. You’ll need a minimum GPA of 2.7 from your undergraduate studies.

Here are the essential steps for your graduate application:

1. Research your desired program really well
2. Review specific program requirements
3. Complete the online application through the Graduate School website
4. Pay the $65 non-refundable application fee
5. Request official transcripts from previous institutions
6. Submit test scores if required by your program
7. Gather three letters of recommendation
8. Prepare a statement of interest outlining your research or professional experiences
9. Monitor your application status online

The Master’s program in Behavior Analysis and Therapy needs applications by January 1. Doctoral candidates should submit by January 2.

Accepted students can explore graduate assistantship opportunities to reduce tuition costs. The BAT program’s grants support about 90% of on-campus students.

The undergraduate application process is a bit different. You need to submit high school transcripts showing academic growth, any college transcripts, and official ACT/SAT scores.

New students should attend orientation sessions and meet academic advisors to plan their courses. The best part? Our graduates achieve a 100% career placement rate in human service settings of all types.