M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 70

1. Academic Qualifications: A bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution is required for admission to a postgraduate program at CSUN. Applicants must have completed their undergraduate education with strong academic performance.

2. Minimum GPA: CSUN typically looks for a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) or its equivalent. 

3. English Language Proficiency: 

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 is required, with no individual band score below 6.
• TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based Test): A minimum overall score of 79 is required.
• PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 58 is required.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 105 is required.

California State University, Northridge (CSUN), is committed to supporting international students in their pursuit of higher education. The university offers a range of scholarships and financial aid options to help alleviate the financial burden of studying in the United States. 

1. International Achievement Scholarship: CSUN's International Achievement Scholarship is designed to recognize and reward outstanding academic achievement. Eligibility is based on academic excellence, and recipients can receive up to $5,000 per academic year.

2. The Dream US Scholarship: This scholarship is specifically aimed at undocumented students, including those with DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) status. It provides financial support to help cover tuition and other educational expenses.

3. Intensive English Program (IEP) Scholarships: CSUN offers scholarships to international students who enroll in the Intensive English Program (IEP). These scholarships are awarded based on merit and help students improve their English language skills.

4. Privately Funded Scholarships: CSUN administers several privately funded scholarships that are available to international students. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria related to academic major, community involvement, or other factors.

5. Study Abroad Scholarships: CSUN encourages international students to participate in study abroad programs. The university offers scholarships to help offset the costs associated with studying abroad, including program fees and travel expenses.

6. External Scholarships: CSUN also assists international students in identifying external scholarship opportunities. These scholarships may be offered by government agencies, foundations, and international organizations.

7. Athletics Scholarships: CSUN has a competitive NCAA Division I athletics program. Talented international student-athletes may be eligible for athletics scholarships based on their sports achievements.

8. Cultural Scholarships: Some cultural organizations and clubs on campus may offer scholarships to international students who are actively engaged in promoting and celebrating their cultures.

9. Graduate Assistantships: For international graduate students, CSUN provides opportunities for graduate assistantships that offer a stipend and may include tuition remission. These positions allow students to gain valuable experience while pursuing their degrees.

10. Research Assistantships: - International graduate students can also explore research assistantship positions that provide financial support while contributing to research projects in their field of study.

Application Process: To be considered for scholarships at CSUN, international students typically need to complete the scholarship application provided by the university. Each scholarship may have specific eligibility criteria, deadlines, and application requirements.

California State University, Northridge (CSUN) offers a highly regarded Master of Science (M.S.) program in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), providing students with a strong foundation in the principles and practices of ABA. Graduates of this program are well-equipped for a variety of rewarding career prospects.  

1. Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA): One of the most prominent career paths for graduates of this program is becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). A BCBA is a highly sought-after professional who specializes in creating and implementing behavior intervention plans for individuals with autism and other developmental disorders. BCBA certification opens doors to numerous employment opportunities in clinics, schools, healthcare settings, and private practice.

2. Clinical Supervisor: Graduates of the M.S. in ABA program can pursue roles as clinical supervisors or program coordinators. In these positions, they oversee the implementation of ABA programs, supervise behavior technicians, and ensure the quality and effectiveness of behavior intervention plans.

3. Autism Specialist: With the increasing prevalence of autism spectrum disorders, there is a growing demand for specialists who can provide ABA services to individuals with autism. Graduates can work as autism specialists in schools, early intervention programs, and autism treatment centers.

4. School-Based Positions: Many school districts are integrating ABA principles into their special education programs. Graduates can work as behavior interventionists or special education teachers, using their ABA expertise to support students with diverse learning needs.

5. Research and Academia: For those interested in research and academia, the M.S. program prepares students for doctoral studies in behavior analysis or related fields. They can pursue careers as university professors, researchers, or consultants in research institutions.

6. Organizational Behavior Management (OBM): Some graduates choose to specialize in organizational behavior management, applying ABA principles to improve workplace performance, enhance employee productivity, and address organizational challenges. They may work in human resources, business consulting, or corporate training.

7. Private Practice: Graduates have the option to establish their own private practice as behavior analysts. This entrepreneurial path allows them to work with clients of all ages with a variety of behavior challenges.

8. Consultation Services: ABA professionals are often sought after for their expertise in addressing challenging behaviors in various settings. Graduates can offer consultation services to schools, healthcare facilities, and organizations seeking to improve behavior management practices.

9. Government and Healthcare: Government agencies and healthcare organizations frequently hire behavior analysts to develop and oversee ABA programs for individuals with developmental disabilities. This can include positions in state agencies, Medicaid service coordination, and public health departments.

10. Nonprofit Organizations: Graduates can work for nonprofit organizations dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities. These organizations may offer services such as early intervention, group homes, and community integration programs.