by Guest Blogger: Jill M. Swirsky, PhD
Assistant Professor of Psychology | School of Arts and Sciences
267-341-3512 (office)
Psychology with Minor in Applied Behavior Analysis Blog
Do you find human behavior fascinating? Are you passionate about working with kids with special needs? Are you looking to get training in one of the fastest-growing areas of Psychology?
Holy Family University’s minor in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a great opportunity for students to explore the field of Applied Behavior Analysis in greater depth. This field explores how behavior can be changed, particularly within the context of developmental and school settings. The minor helps to prepare students from any major who are interested in the field of applied behavior analysis, post-baccalaureate certification as a BCaBA, or graduate programs in Applied Behavior Analysis/BCBA licensure. Through coursework and internships, you’ll be able to apply the techniques of behavior modification in both theoretical and practical applications, both in the classroom and in the real world.
What do students have to say?
[My minor in Applied Behavior Analysis] (ABA) has been an important part of my academic career. I was so excited to start this new journey and gain as much knowledge and experience from the program as I could. I fell in love with each of my classes and I worked so hard to understand and learn the concepts and principles of ABA, and how to use them in your professional career, but also in your everyday life. Recently, I completed my internship course. I was so happy to work in the field and learn how to apply all the knowledge that I have gained from HFU. It was a little bit challenging in the beginning since I did not have any professional experience, but slowly I started to feel more confident and comfortable within the team. This internship was important for me since it gave me an overview on what it means to work with individuals who are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and also, because it showed in depth my job responsibilities. My supervisor that I had during my internship course, offered me a job opportunity and I continue to work in the same place while I am pursuing a master’s degree in ABA.
The field of ABA surprises me every day. It is so interesting to see how you can positively change an individual’s behavior by simply using techniques and methods of ABA such as positive reinforcement. The ABA courses prepared me to manage undesirable situations when working in the field, how to collect data, how to communicate with the team members, how to maintain confidentiality, and / or how to be empathetic and respectful towards the patient / client. I am beyond pleased that I chose this program.
Christina Kundraxhi, Class of 2023
Holy Family is of the the colleges featured in my new book (click image for additional information):
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