ICL
Applied Behavior Analysis Program
Mission
The mission of the University of Memphis Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program is to prepare students to work effectively as behavior analysts across a variety of settings—including clinical, educational and research environments — by providing them with the skills, techniques, knowledge, and philosophical foundations of behavior science.
Program Overview
The University of Memphis ABA program is designed for students seeking to become Board-Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) while earning a Master of Science (MS) or Doctor of Education (EdD) degree. Our goal is to train students as scientist-practitioners who are dedicated to improving the lives of others through the evidence-based principles of behavior analysis.
Students gain a strong foundation in:
- Basic and applied behavior analysis
- Experimental design and data analysis
- Philosophical and conceptual foundations of the science
- Ethical and culturally responsive practice
Our graduates are prepared to design, implement, and evaluate effective behavioral assessments and interventions, make data-informed decisions, and conduct and interpret research that advances both science and practice.
Curriculum and Learning Outcomes
Across content courses, students demonstrate proficiency in multiple areas of behavior science, including:
- Basic principles and procedures
- Application to socially significant behavior
- Philosophy of behavior analysis
- Experimental design and data analysis
- Ethical considerations and professional conduct
Through practicum and supervised fieldwork, students develop competency in:
- Assessment, design, and delivery of behavioral interventions
- Effective collaboration with staff, supervisors, and stakeholders
Upholding ethical standards and professional integrity
This comprehensive training model ensures graduates not only understand behavioral science but also demonstrate excellence in applying it to real-world challenges.
MS students will proceed through the program as a cohort and will take the following classes in sequence:
Click Here for Required Courses
EdD students will proceed through a curriculum determined in collaboration with their advisor.
Click Here For Learning Outcomes From Recent Graduates
Training Model
The program follows a cohort-based model, where students begin coursework each fall semester and progress through a structured two-year sequence. Courses are offered in the evenings during fall, spring, and summer, allowing flexibility for working professionals.
Our program integrates coursework with supervised fieldwork from the very first semester. Students gain hands-on experience through partnerships with affiliated sites such as schools, clinics, and private practices. Under the mentorship of qualified Board-Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), students apply classroom learning directly to professional practice.
Professional Preparation
Upon graduation, students are fully prepared to:
- Sit for the BCBA® certification exam
- Enter the workforce as competent, ethical, and culturally responsive behavior analysts
- Contribute meaningfully in clinical, educational, and research settings
Graduates of the University of Memphis ABA program leave with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to make a measurable difference in the lives of individuals and communities.
Meet the Program Coordinator
James Meindl
PHONE: (901) 678-3310
EMAIL: jnmeindl@memphis.edu
OFFICE: 400A Ball Hall
CVS: Click Here
Learn more about ABA
Degree and Certificate Programs
Explore your education opportunities within Instruction and Curriculum Leadership's Applied Behavior Analysis concentration.
Meet our Faculty
Meet the Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA) who instruct our ABA courses.
Becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst with the ABA program
Behavior analysts work in many applied fields, including education, business, and clinical psychology, and demand for BCBAs has increased 5,852% from 2010-2021. Applied behavior analysis (ABA) has received much attention for its effectiveness with children with autism. Researchers and clinicians recognize ABA as the treatment of choice for behavior problems and learning difficulties associated with autism spectrum disorder. Many BCBAs work in schools as teachers or psychologists working with special education students. Many also work as scientists and scholars in higher education. Some BCBAs provide in-home supervision of direct care providers or provide direct care for children with developmental disabilities and Autism. Others provide clinical services, including functional analysis of behavior and treatment of serious behavior disorders such as self-injury and physical aggression. Still others work in business, training new employees and improving training programs.
However, not everyone who calls themselves a behavior analyst or a behavior therapist is certified by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board®. A BCBA is a professional who has documented graduate training and supervised, hands-on experience in applying the principles and procedures of behavior analysis and has passed an examination in ABA given by the BACB.
In the Community
Regional Intervention Program
West Tennessee's only RIP location, providing services to families with children experiencing developmental disabilities.
Project Memphis
Three separate programs that service over 200 young children in Memphis with developmental delays and disabilities.
UofM Autism Clinic
Services to young Memphis children and training opportunities for ABA students.
Verified Course Sequence:
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 requirements before being deemed eligible to take the examination.
Practicum: The ABA program offers high quality training on the clinical skills required to become a competent BCBA. Students can complete supervised fieldwork requirements for BCBA exam eligibility at the UofM Autism Clinic or at any of the program's affiliated practicum sites. Download the Practicum Handbook for more information
Access the student handbook and the practicum handbook to learn more.