About This Course
This MSc in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) is aimed at those wishing to specialise in practical applications of behaviour analysis. The course is designed to support practitioners develop an effective, compassionate, and values-led practice. Behaviour analysts work in a variety of multi-disciplinary settings alongside teachers, psychologists, nurses and other professionals to help individuals and organisations meet their goals and improve quality of life.
The emphasis of the course is to ensure students have the skills to develop a competent and ethical practice of behaviour science. Students will consider how an understanding of behaviour can empower people to make positive changes in their lives.
Behaviour analysis in the UK is a growing field with excellent employment opportunities. Professionals are overseen by the UK Society for Behaviour Analysis (UK-SBA.) The UK-SBA’s register of professionals is accredited under the Professional Standards Authority’s Accredited Register programme. We endorse and adhere to the UK-SBA practice values and Code of Ethical and Professional Conduct.
=This master’s degree in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) at Bangor University provides the postgraduate coursework necessary for students to apply to become certified behaviour analysts in the United Kingdom. Candidates for the UKBA(cert) will also be required to complete the UK-SBA Supervision and Competence Standards.
Please note that the course does not prepare students to sit an exam with the BACB. From 2026, the BACB will only certify candidates in USA and some parts of Canada.
This programme leads to a Masters degree. Students can exit the programme after achieving either a PG Certificate (60 credits) or PG Diploma (120 credits) if they don’t wish to undertake the full MSc.
The course is taught at the Bangor campus with face-to-face lectures. Students will attend class for up to 9 hours a week during term time. The full-time course is intensive and intended for those who wish to devote most of their time to their studies. The course emphasises practical applications, advanced behaviour analytic theory and current advances in research.
We will offer a limited number of unpaid placements for full-time students. These placements will be allocated following an interview and after one semester of study. We have placements available in schools in North Wales and Chester. Students who enrol on the practicum will receive supervision based on the UKBA(cert) Competence Framework. Students on the practicum will have the opportunity to complete Clinical Case studies in lieu of a research project to fufill their dissertation requirements. To be eligible to enrol in practicum, students must be a Practising Members of the UK-SBA.
Course Content
What will you study on this course?
The course consists of two parts.
Part One (120 credits) comprises of taught modules that introduce the basic theory and practice of the science alongside more detailed analysis of both applied and research procedures. Modules may include:
- Introduction to Behaviour Change Procedures
- Basic Principles in Behaviour Science
- Applications of Behaviour Analysis
- Advanced Behaviour Change Procedures
- Assessment in Behaviour Science
- Research Methods in Behaviour Science
Part Two (60 credits) comprises of a dissertation or practicum*.
*The practicum is for students practising as behaviour analysts. Students who choose the practicum option must work as a behaviour analyst for a minimum of 15 hours a week. The placement must be supervised by a UKBA(cert) who can provide on-site supervision. Placements can be arranged by the students with prior agreement from the course leader. An agreed and signed contract with Bangor University will be necessary before the placement is approved.
Please note modules are subject to change from year to year, and the above is for guidance purposes only.
This course will be taught through a combination of:
- Lectures
- Self-study
- Seminars
- Group work
- Thesis supervision
- Clinical placements*
*Only available to full-time students. Limited number of unpaid placements available.
Assessment will involve a mixture of:
- Examinations
- Presentations
- Case reports
- Essays
- Research thesis
This information is for guide purposes only and may be subject to change.
Modules for the current academic year
Module listings are for guide purposes only and are subject to change. Find out what our students are currently studying on the Applied Behaviour Analysis MSc Modules page.
Course content is for guidance purposes only and may be subject to change.
Entry Requirements
You should have a single or joint honours first degree in Psychology or a related field with at least a 2.2. Relevant work experience is welcomed and mature candidates with at least 3 years relevant experience who are not graduates may also gain entry to the diploma level of the course and will be considered on a case by case basis. Candidates may apply to have some coursework recognised from another institution, but preference will be given to candidates who wish to take all of their coursework at Bangor. We may ask candidates to interview for a place on the course.
International students will be given individual consideration, but you must be able to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to an IELTS score of 6.5 (with no element below 6.0) and you will be expected to demonstrate that you have a suitable academic background for the programme.
Please note: Additional costs may be charged for an Enhanced DBS check (approx. £65).
Careers
The MSc in Applied Behaviour Analysis at Bangor University has been running for over 20 years, we have a strong history of helping graduates into paid employment.
Our graduates have gone on to establish practice in education, health care, positive behaviour support, and organisational and behaviour management. During the degree students will learn advanced research skills and gain practical skills in research design and analysis.
UKBA(cert)s often work in health, social care and education. Many graduates work in the NHS, in schools, or in private health and social care settings.
