M.Sc. in Applied Behaviour Analysis

Course Overview 

The M.Sc. in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) is an intensive full-time course which aims to ensure that students become efficient in the practical application of the principles of applied behaviour analysis. The course provides theoretical, ethical, practical, and basic modules that involve face-to-face classes presented by qualified staff with expertise in Behaviour Analysis. Theory and practice are interwoven throughout the course. Class time includes lectures, interactive sessions, seminars, and group work. Students are required to actively engage in the content and process through discussion and demonstration, including reference to their own work experiences to integrate theory and practice. 

This programme is accredited by the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI). 

Is This Course For Me? 

This course is open to those with an undergraduate Honours Degree in Psychology or related human service field wishing to become skilled to engage in the ethical practice and research of ABA, to conduct functional behavioural assessments, implement and design behaviour support plans or learning / skill acquisition programmes, and analyse and display data to make informed decisions around intervention and learning needs. 

Career Opportunities 

Graduates can become leaders in the developing Applied Behaviour Analysis field of service provision, both internationally and in Ireland, and/or gain a desire for future academic study in ABA, such as PhD research. Graduates who meet the eligibility requirements for Graduate Membership of the PSI will also be eligible to apply for Chartered Membership. 
Graduates will be able to work in educational and clinical settings serving diverse populations, such as students with learning difficulties, persons with autism and other developmental disabilities and/or children and adolescents in care or special programmes, and/or those clients presenting learning and/or behavioural challenges in school. 

Course Structure 

In Year 1, students take four mandatory modules (four x 15 ECTS), including professional clinical practice, for a total of 60 ECTS. In Year 2, students take three mandatory modules (three x 10 ECTS) and complete a research dissertation (30 ECTS) for a total of 60 ECTS. 

Every year, formal classes run from late September to May and are normally held one day every week.  

Additionally, students must complete a minimum of 120 days (a day equates to 6.5 hours) of supervised fieldwork during their 2-year MSc. Those working on a full time basis (6.5 hour day x 5 days = 32.5 hours), also need to receive supervision from an appropriate supervisor* for 1 hour per week. Those working on a part-time basis can receive the equivalent pro rata (30 mins supervision per week for 16 hours worked) 

*Students must source a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst or Chartered Psychologist external to the course, for this fieldwork. 

Supervision costs can vary from approximately €50- €90 per hour so this can add to the overall programme costs depending on how many hours of supervision a student acquires in total and whether their supervisor is internal/external to their fieldwork site.  These figures are indicative rather than a guarantee of the total cost of supervision that an individual student may incur, as supervision arrangements and associated costs can vary considerably.  

Course Content 

Students take seven mandatory modules across two years and complete a research dissertation. Modules offered include Principles of Behaviour Analysis, Behavioural Assessment and Measurement, Behavioural Interventions and Supports, and Personnel Supervision and Management. 

Course Details 

• Awards:
  • NFQ Level 9 
• Course Duration:
  • 2 years, full-time
• Number of Places:
  • Places vary annually; Minimum 15
• Next Intake:
  • September 2027 
• Course Coordinators:
  • Professor Olive Healy (Year 1) 
  • Associate Professor Maeve Bracken (Year 2)  
• Closing Date:
  • 30 April 2027 
• English Language Requirements:
  • All applicants to Trinity are required to provide official evidence of proficiency in the English language. Applicants to this course are required to meet Band B (Standard Entry) English language requirements. For more details of qualifications that meet Band B, see the English Language Requirements page here.  
• Course Office Contact Details:
  • Telephone +353-1-896 2290
  • Email: msc.aba@tcd.ie
• International Student Course Queries:
  
  • Emer McCarthy (Global Relations Officer)
  • Email: MCCARE29@tcd.ie