UCSD Behavior Analysis
Graduate Program Information

Overview

The Ph. D. graduate program at the University of California, San Diego trains behavior analysts for careers in both the experimental analysis of behavior and in applied behavior analysis. The program emphasizes individual research, as students are encouraged to pursue their research interests starting with their first quarter of enrollment. Students work closely with their research advisers, although collaborative efforts with other members of the faculty are encouraged. Current research projects include work on both basic issues in the experimental analysis of behavior and behavior modification, with both nonhuman and human subjects. All students admitted to the behavior analysis program are expected to complete research projects in both applied and experimental areas, as well as take courses in both areas. The goal of the program is to train behavior analysts for careers in both academic and applied settings in order to maximize employment opportunities after degree completion.

Program Requirements

All students admitted to the behavior analysis program must fulfill the degree requirements of the Department of Psychology. These include a total of eight courses, three of which are proseminars surveying each of three areas of concentration, a quantitative methods requirement, and a first year research project which is presented at the end of the first year to the entire faculty and graduate student body. Students may take courses from a large number of areas, including developmental psychology, physiological psychology, sensation and perception, social psychology, and human information processing, in addition to behavior analysis courses.

Facilities and Support

Extensive laboratory facilities include both pigeon and rat vivariums. In addition to a large number of conditioning chambers for small animals, extensive facilities for human experimentation are available, including a clinic for autistic children.

Financial support is provided for all students admitted to the program, as it is the policy of the Department of Psychology to support all admitted students for four years.

Additional Information and Application Forms

Write:
Graduate Admissions
Department of Psychology 0109
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, California 92093

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