Academics

Applied behavior analysis is an applied science that focuses on identifying how environments affect behavior and how we can use that information to develop effective behavior change strategies across a wide range of settings and populations. It teaches mastery of basic behavior-analytic skills, such as measurement, experimental design, and various principles and procedures of behavioral change to help students become better therapists, teachers and clinical practitioners.

The mission of Georgia State University’s M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis program is to train the next generation of behavior-analytic scientist-practitioners who: (1) are grounded in the concepts, principles, philosophy, and evidence-based practices derived from the experimental and applied analysis of behavior, (2) can ethically and compassionately apply this knowledge to problems of social significance, and (3) are prepared for clinical practice, doctoral study, or both.

Features of the program include collaborations with faculty members, opportunities for applied fieldwork and research experiences, an emphasis on ethical, compassionate, and inclusive applications of the science of behavior, and a cohort model that fosters lasting professional relationships.

The program’s coursework is aligned with ABAI’s tiered model of accreditation standards. To access current certification examination pass rates, current and potential students may visit BACB’s University Pass Rates page. For more information on the faculty, our research, news and other items of interest regarding Applied Behavior Analysis, visit our ABA unit page.

Education programs leading to professional licensure or certification (nursing, education, social work, counseling, accounting, allied health professions, etc.) may require additional approval from separate licensing boards, depending on the state. Students who live or plan to live outside Georgia and are considering a professional program should contact the appropriate board in their state of residency prior to beginning a course of study. To help students find the best-known contact information for the appropriate state licensing board and for a list of Georgia State program contacts, visit the Student Consumer Information website.

The Bachelor of Arts in Deaf Studies with a concentration in Deaf Education provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work with deaf/hard of hearing children or adults.

The courses in this program will give students a foundation in American Sign Language and deaf cultures(s). Students will also gain skills specific to teaching or interpreting for deaf individuals.

The deaf education concentration does not lead to teacher certification. Students who are interested in teacher certification must complete the deaf education concentration and the one-year Master of Arts in Teaching in Special Education.

Sign Language Interpreting is an interdisciplinary field that combines highly developed competency in American Sign Language and English with knowledge of linguistics, interpretation, translation and principles of professional practice.

The Sign Language Interpreting concentration prepares students with the theoretical and practical knowledge needed to enter field of American Sign Language/English interpretation. Students develop confidence in their working languages, proficiency in linguistic and cultural analysis, and the interpersonal skills needed to develop a relevant and sound professional practice.

For students who are interested in pursuing careers working with deaf/hard of hearing children or adults, the B.A. Deaf Studies degree will allow for a concentration in Deaf Education or Sign Language Interpreting.

The educational psychology minor is for undergraduates interested in a deeper understanding of how psychological principles can be applied in educational settings.

Educational psychology minors will gain experience in topics such as:

• The science of learning
• Applied memory and cognition
• Sociocultural and diversity issues in education
• Learning and development
• Behavior analysis

The Human Learning and Development program provides students an opportunity to acquire a career-oriented range of skills and knowledge. Students choose from the coursework in behavior and learning disabilities, counseling, deaf studies, educational psychology, family and community advocacy, learning technologies, research methods and problem-solving, and urban education. Courses are taught by faculty across the College of Education & Human Development’s seven departments.

No application is required for this bachelor’s degree. Students are required to declare two selected disciplines with their academic adviser or online.

Become an expert in designing and delivering instruction in all formats with Georgia State’s online master of science in instructional design and technology. Our 36-hour online M.S. will have you creating dynamic and effective learning experiences while you dive into instructional systems theory and various forms of media and learning environments.

Our graduates are highly regarded and are working in corporate settings of all sizes, higher education, non-profits and government organizations, as well as other educational settings. We also provide quality, network-building internships in the metro Atlanta area.

A master’s degree in the field is desirable as organizations place greater emphasis on well-trained staff. Employers want critical thinkers who can serve in leadership roles to ensure that training is provided in ways that make sense for their employees. Instructional coordinators, designers and technologists are finding success in improving training and education. If you already work in the field, you will be putting to use right away the lessons you learn in your coursework.

Note: The program does not lead to certification by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission. The Instructional Design and Technology program has attendance requirements and meets in online web conferencing sessions. You must be able to attend online class sessions that begin as early as 4:30 p.m. EST.

The Sign Language Interpreting undergraduate post-baccalaureate certificate prepares students with the theoretical and practical knowledge needed to enter the field of American Sign Language/English interpretation. Students develop confidence in American Sign Language and English, proficiency in linguistic and cultural analysis, and the interpersonal skills needed to develop a relevant and sound professional practice. Interpreters work within a variety of venues and settings, including kindergarten through grade 12 and post-secondary educational settings, video relay service, community events, medical and mental health settings, and performance and theatrical interpreting. This certificate program is for students who have previously earned a bachelor’s degree.

The Georgia State University Initial Certification in Special Education Adapted Curriculum course of study is for students seeking only teacher certification. Certification-only students complete a planned program that leads to a College of Education and Human Development recommendation to the Professional Standards Commission for certification kindergarten through 12th grade as a teacher of Special Education Adapted Curriculum. The focus of the coursework is students with moderate, severe and profound intellectual disability and students with autism spectrum disorders.

Prior to admission, we recommend you refer to Financial Aid about possible funding options.

Education programs leading to professional licensure or certification (nursing, education, social work, counseling, accounting, allied health professions, etc.) may require additional approval from separate licensing boards, depending on the state. Students who live or plan to live outside Georgia and are considering a professional program should contact the appropriate board in their state of residency prior to beginning a course of study. To help students find the best-known contact information for the appropriate state licensing board and for a list of Georgia State program contacts, visit the Student Consumer Information website.

The Georgia State Special Education Initial Certification is a program for those who hold a bachelor’s degree and are seeking initial teacher certification. You must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 or demonstrate an exemption and have completed the Georgia Educator Ethics – Program Entry (350) Assessment and have acquired tort liability insurance.

Prior to admissions, we recommend that you refer to financial aid regarding possible funding options.

Education programs leading to professional licensure or certification (nursing, education, social work, counseling, accounting, allied health professions, etc.) may require additional approval from separate licensing boards, depending on the state. Students who live or plan to live outside Georgia and are considering a professional program should contact the appropriate board in their state of residency prior to beginning a course of study. To help students find the best-known contact information for the appropriate state licensing board and for a list of Georgia State program contacts, visit the Student Consumer Information website.

Excel in special education through Georgia State University’s Master of Arts in Teaching program. Gain expertise from experienced faculty to educate children and youth with disabilities who receive special education services in schools.

A combination of practical courses and hands-on classroom experiences gives the student an opportunity to excel to their fullest potential to become a leader in the field. Classes cater to working professionals, offering flexibility in scheduling. As a teacher candidate, you will work in a cohort model enabling all to have the opportunity to become highly qualified teachers.

Upon completion and a passing score on the appropriate GACE test(s) you will receive a master’s degree and certification in one of five special education areas:

Education programs leading to professional licensure or certification (nursing, education, social work, counseling, accounting, allied health professions, etc.) may require additional approval from separate licensing boards, depending on the state. Students who live or plan to live outside Georgia and are considering a professional program should contact the appropriate board in their state of residency prior to beginning a course of study. To help students find the best-known contact information for the appropriate state licensing board and for a list of Georgia State program contacts, visit the Student Consumer Information website.