M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 120

Academic Requirements:

• A completed bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution.
• A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent) is  required.  
• For postgraduate programs, applicants are expected to have a minimum academic average of 60% or above in their previous studies.
   

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System):

  • An overall score of 6.5 or higher.
  • No individual band score less than 6.0.
     

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) iBT (Internet-Based Test):

  • A minimum total score of 80 or higher.
     

• DET (Duolingo English Test):

  • A score of 105 or higher.

Youngstown State University (YSU) offers several scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students to help make their education more affordable. These scholarships are highly competitive, and eligibility criteria may vary.

1. Global Leadership Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to academically talented and highly motivated international students. It provides financial support for tuition and is renewable for up to eight semesters. Eligibility is based on a student's academic record and standardized test scores.

2. American-Midwest Scholarship: YSU offers this scholarship to undergraduate international students. It covers a portion of tuition costs and is based on academic merit.

3. Athletic Scholarships: For students with exceptional athletic abilities, YSU provides athletic scholarships. These scholarships are awarded to student-athletes who participate in YSU's sports programs.

4. Graduate Assistantships: YSU offers graduate assistantships to eligible international students pursuing master's and doctoral programs. These assistantships provide a stipend and may include tuition remission.

5. Non-Resident Tuition Scholarships: Some scholarships are designed to offset the higher out-of-state tuition costs for international students. These awards help reduce the overall tuition burden.

6. International Student Scholarships: YSU provides general scholarships for international students to support their academic journey. These scholarships are based on merit, and the selection process is highly competitive.

7. Honors College Scholarships: High-achieving international students may be eligible for Honors College scholarships. These scholarships offer additional funding for students in the Honors College program.

8. School-Specific Scholarships: Various schools and colleges within YSU may offer scholarships specific to their academic disciplines. Students pursuing particular majors or fields of study should inquire about school-specific scholarship opportunities.

9. External Scholarships: YSU encourages international students to explore external scholarships offered by organizations, foundations, or home country governments. These external scholarships can help cover educational expenses.

To apply for YSU scholarships, international students typically need to submit scholarship applications, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and possibly a personal statement. The specific requirements and deadlines may vary for each scholarship.

The Master of Science (M.S.) in Applied Behavior Analysis program at Youngstown State University offers a comprehensive and dynamic education in the field of behavior analysis. Graduates of this program are well-prepared to embark on successful and rewarding careers in various professional settings.

1. Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA): Graduates of the M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis program are eligible to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) examination. Achieving BCBA certification is a significant step, as it is widely recognized and required for practicing applied behavior analysis.

2. Clinical Behavior Analyst: Many graduates choose to work as clinical behavior analysts in clinical or therapeutic settings. They assess patients, develop behavior intervention plans, and provide one-on-one counseling to individuals with developmental or behavioral disorders.

3. School-Based Behavior Analyst: In the education sector, behavior analysts are essential for creating and implementing behavior support plans for students with special needs. Graduates may work in public schools, private schools, or special education programs.

4. Consultant: Behavior analysts often work as consultants, either independently or as part of organizations. They collaborate with schools, healthcare facilities, and other institutions to design and implement behavior intervention plans.

5. Organizational Behavior Analyst: In the business world, organizations increasingly recognize the value of behavior analysts in improving employee performance, team dynamics, and workplace culture. Graduates can work with companies to enhance employee productivity and well-being.

6. Researcher or Academic: Some graduates choose to pursue careers in research or academia. They may work in universities, research institutions, or nonprofit organizations, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the field.

7. Program Supervisor or Director: Behavior analysts often progress to leadership roles, where they supervise and oversee the work of other behavior analysts and intervention teams.

8. Autism Specialist: With the growing prevalence of autism spectrum disorders, there is a high demand for specialists who can provide early intervention and behavioral support for individuals with autism. Graduates may choose to specialize in this area.