Applied Behaviour Analysis

Who is this course for?



The MSc in Applied Behaviour Analysis accepts applications from candidates who hold a Second Class Honours degree (typically an upper second class honour [2.1] or equivalent in a relevant discipline e.g., psychology, psychological studies, social care, childhood development. Priority may be given to applicants with denominated degrees in psychology given the relevance of their studied field. Evidence of relevant experience and motivation is taken into account in offering places on the course.



What will I study?



Within psychology, the field of behavioural psychology or behaviour analysis focuses on the application of the principles of behaviour and learning to support success, alleviate behavioural difficulties, and enhance quality of life across a variety of contexts. The MSc in ABA programme instils in trainees the values and skills necessary to do so. Core values outlined by Baer, Wolf, and Risley (1968; 1987) in defining the field of applied behaviour analysis are upheld.



The central foundation of this programme is the scientist-practitioner model, the concept and application of which is weaved through academic content and supervised experience. Trainees learn about the core principles of behaviour, the science of behaviour, experimentation and evidence-based practice, as well as attain competence in the implementation and evaluation of specific assessment methods and intervention strategies. Reliance on evidence and scientific knowledge is a core value of the programme.



A core value emphasised throughout the programme, is the provision of only those services which are socially significant to each individual that we work alongside. The selection of goals and assessment and intervention strategies must be in accordance with our charge as a field to provide services that are ethical, contextually appropriate, have high acceptability, represent the least-intrusive approach, and are worthwhile for each individual. Students will graduate from this programme with extensive knowledge and experience of ethical and appropriate professional.

Year 1 (60 Credits)



Required PS6191: Ethics in Behaviour Analysis - 10 Credits - Semester 1

Required PS6155: Behaviour Assessment - 10 Credits - Semester 1

Required PS512: Principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis - 10 Credits - Semester 1

Required PS6186: Clinical Practice I - 10 Credits -



Semester 2

Required PS513: Research Methods & Design - 10 Credits - Semester 2

Required PS511: Behaviour Change Procedures - 10 Credits - Semester 2

Year 2 (90 Credits)

Required PS6183: Advanced Research Methods - 10 Credits - Semester 3

Required PS509: Applied Project II - 10 Credits - Semester 3

Required PS6123: Advanced Behaviour Systems - 10 Credits - Semester 3

RequiredPS6154: Personnel Supervision and Management - 10 Credits - Semester 3

RequiredPS520: Research Thesis - 30 Credits - Semester 3

Required PS516: Clinical Behavioural Interventions & Person Centred Behavioural Procedures - 10 Credits - Semester 4

Required PS519: Developmental Disorders - 10 Credits - Semester 4

Applications are invited from candidates who hold a Second Class Honours degree (typically an upper second class honour [2.1] or equivalent). Evidence of relevant experience and motivation will be taken into account in offering places on the course.

2 years full-time.

Next start date: September 2026

The MSc in Applied Behaviour Analysis prepares graduates for the role of a Behavioural Psychologist/Behaviour Analyst, with extensive opportunities for employment, research, and further training. Through the emphasis on the scientist-practitioner model, students receive thorough and integrated training in the academic, practical, and research aspects of behavioural science. The skills and competencies in behavioural psychology acquired through the programme prepare graduates for a range of autonomous and collaborative professional goals both nationally and internationally.



Given the evidence base and support for behavioural psychology in the fields of intellectual and developmental disability, education, and rehabilitation, graduates of the course predominantly obtain employment in disability services, education, and early intervention services. Within Ireland, graduates are employed by the HSE, HSE funded charities, the Department of Education and Skills, or work in private consultancy. Graduates of this course have been highly successful in the roles that they have achieved internationally (e.g., Canada, Australia, and the UK) with such roles as Clinical Director of Education, Senior Centre Clinicians, and Programme Supervisors being obtained by graduates of the MSc ABA at UoG in early intervention and behaviour support services.



Increasingly, the utility and value of behavioural psychology in broader contexts is recognised and graduates can seek opportunities for roles, for example, within mental health services, gerontology, sports psychology and organisational behaviour management. Both nationally and internationally, demand for competent Behavioural Psychologists / Behaviour Analysts exceeds current supply and employment opportunities for graduates continue to grow.



The advanced research skills and experience acquired on the programme also provide opportunities for graduates to work in research posts or to continue with further postgraduate study such as the Doctor of Philosophy in Applied Behaviour Analysis (PhD) https://www.universityofgalway.ie/colleges-and-schools/arts-social-sciences-and-celtic-studies/psychology/postgraduate-programmes/phd/phd-apb/.