MSc (Applied Behaviour Analysis)

1 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Galway

Program Overview

The MSc in Applied Behaviour Analysis at University of Galway is a two-year, full-time NFQ Level 9 Master of Science that trains students in the science and practice of behaviour analysis to support meaningful behaviour change across educational, clinical and community settings. It suits psychology graduates and related disciplines (e.g., psychological studies, social care, childhood development) who want to become evidence-based practitioners and researchers in behavioural psychology, with opportunities to apply theory in supervised clinical placements.

Curriculum structure:

Over the two years, students build a strong foundation in behaviour analysis principles, ethical practice and applied intervention techniques. In Year 1, core modules such as PS512 Principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis, PS6155 Behaviour Assessment, PS511 Behaviour Change Procedures, PS6191 Ethics in Behaviour Analysis, PS513 Research Methods & Design and PS6186 Clinical Practice I introduce learners to assessment, behaviour change methods, ethical frameworks and early clinical application. In Year 2, advanced topics broaden professional and research capacities with modules including Organisational Behaviour Management, Advanced Research Methods, Theory & Philosophy in Behaviour Analysis, Applications of Behaviour Psychology, Clinical Behavioural Interventions & Person-Centred Behavioural Procedures, Developmental Disorders and an extensive Research Thesis (30 ECTS) that synthesises behavioural analysis theory with original research.

Focus areas (in a string):

Behaviour assessment & change procedures, ethical practice, clinical practice, organisational behaviour management, advanced research methods, theory & philosophy of behaviour analysis, developmental disorders, applied behavioural applications, research thesis.

Learning outcomes (in a string):

Apply core principles of behaviour analysis to socially significant behaviour change; conduct rigorous behavioural assessment and research; implement ethical, evidence-based interventions; integrate advanced behavioural analysis in clinical, educational and organisational settings; and complete an independent thesis project.

Professional alignment (accreditation):

This programme is accredited by the Psychological Society of Ireland and is a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by the Association for Behaviour Analysis International (ABAI) — meeting international standards for training in applied behaviour analysis and supporting pathways to professional practice as a Behaviour Analyst.

Reputation (employability rankings):

University of Galway is internationally ranked in the QS World University Rankings and its MSc in Applied Behaviour Analysis is one of the few specialised programmes in Ireland focused on behaviour analytic practice; graduates are sought for roles in disability services, education, early intervention, health and organisational behaviour management, and can progress to doctoral research.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students gain practical research skills by conducting their own empirical investigation, receiving advanced methodological training, and studying professional issues in applied contexts. The core of the experiential learning is an independent dissertation project, supported by dedicated training and access to university resources. This hands-on experience is delivered through several specific components:

Major Independent Research Project: Every student completes a dissertation based on an empirical investigation. This is the program's central practical exercise, requiring students to design, conduct, analyze, and report on original research in applied psychology.
Core Methodological Training: A compulsory Research Methodology and Statistics module provides the foundational technical skills needed to execute the empirical dissertation, covering essential research design and data analysis techniques.
Applied Optional Modules: Students choose from specialized applied modules like Theory of Psychotherapy, Applied Forensic Psychology, Counselling Skills, and Issues in Clinical Psychology. These modules translate theoretical knowledge into practice within specific fields.
Professional Skills Development: The compulsory Philosophical and Professional Issues in Applied Psychology module addresses ethical, philosophical, and practical considerations for working as a professional psychologist.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of University of Galway's MSc in Applied Behaviour Analysis secure roles as behaviour analysts supporting individuals with developmental disabilities, education challenges, and rehabilitation needs through evidence-based interventions. Typical positions include behaviour analyst, clinical supervisor, early intervention specialist, and programme director in HSE services or charities. High demand drives employment in Ireland and internationally, with alumni achieving senior roles abroad.

Career Support Elements:

University Services: Access to career guidance, placement partnerships with HSE and schools, and research-to-practice networking for ABA graduates.
Employment Stats: Strong employability exceeding supply; roles in disability/education with starting salaries €40,000-€55,000, rising quickly to senior positions.
University-Industry Partnerships: Collaborations with HSE-funded charities, Department of Education, ABACAS School, and international sites like New England Center for Children.
Long-term Accreditation Value: PSI-accredited for chartered behavioural psychologist status; VCS-approved for BCBA certification eligibility globally.
Graduation Outcomes: Predominant employment in disability services, early intervention, mental health, and private consultancy; opportunities in sports, gerontology, and OBM.

Further Academic Progression: Graduates pursue PhD in Applied Behaviour Analysis at University of Galway, professional doctorates, or research posts, leveraging the MSc's thesis and clinical placements for advanced scientist-practitioner training