Abu Dhabi University

What you'll study

This MA combines core theory in behaviour analysis with applied assessment, intervention and research methods. You study principles of behaviour, measurement and single‑subject experimental design, functional assessment and functional analysis, as well as the development and evaluation of intervention programmes for children and adults with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities.

• Foundations of Applied Behaviour Analysis: basic principles, learning theory, reinforcement, stimulus control and task analysis.
• Behavioural Assessment and Functional Analysis: indirect and direct assessment methods, ABC recording, descriptive analysis and analogue functional analysis designs.
• Single‑Subject Research Methods: experimental designs commonly used in applied settings, data visualisation and interpretation.
• Design and Implementation of Interventions: behaviour‑change procedures including prompting, shaping, chaining, differential reinforcement, extinction and generalisation strategies.
• Interventions for Autism and Developmental Disabilities: evidence‑based approaches such as early intensive behavioural interventions, skill acquisition and behaviour reduction plans.
• Verbal Behaviour and Communication Interventions: assessment and intervention for communication deficits, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) considerations.
• Ethics and Professional Practice: ethical decision making, cultural considerations, working with families, multidisciplinary collaboration and record keeping.
• Practicum and Supervised Experience: applied placements in clinics, schools or community settings with supervised client contact to translate coursework into practice.
• Research Project or Dissertation: a supervised research project applying behaviour‑analytic methods to an applied problem.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor's degree in psychology, special education, speech and language therapy, social work, nursing or a related allied‑health discipline. A minimum academic standing equivalent to a second‑class honours (or the institution's equivalent) is typically required. Relevant professional or voluntary experience working with children or adults with developmental needs is advantageous.

English language proficiency is required for applicants whose first language is not English; acceptable evidence includes recognised tests or an equivalent qualification. Applicants will usually need to submit a curriculum vitae, academic transcripts, a personal statement describing their interest and goals in applied behaviour analysis, and at least one academic or professional reference. Shortlisted candidates may be invited to an interview.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles delivering and supervising behaviour‑analytic services across health, education and community sectors. Typical positions include behaviour therapist/analyst in autism clinics, special education teacher or intervention specialist in schools, clinical coordinator for community programmes, and behaviour support consultant for families and organisations.

The degree also provides a foundation for further professional certification and doctoral study. Many graduates work in multidisciplinary teams alongside speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, psychologists and educators, or progress into roles managing services, training staff and developing behaviour support systems.

Why study at Abu Dhabi University

Abu Dhabi University offers a campus‑based programme with access to regional practicum sites and partnerships across healthcare and educational settings in the UAE, enabling students to gain applied experience in culturally diverse contexts. The programme is delivered by faculty with experience in clinical practice and research in behaviour analysis and special education, and emphasises hands‑on learning through supervised placements and a research project.

Students benefit from the university's student support services, professional development workshops and career guidance, which help with transition into clinical and educational roles in the region. Small cohort sizes and a practical focus create opportunities for close supervision, peer collaboration and direct mentoring by experienced practitioners.