The demand for skilled professionals in applied behavior analysis continues to grow, and Kent State’s Behavioral Intervention Specialist certificate is preparing the next generation of behavior analysts to create meaningful, evidence-based change.
The graduate certificate program is a hidden gem on campus, housed within the special education program in the College of Education, Health and Human Services.
Qualified students must have completed a master’s degree in a related field such as special education, psychology, social work, etc. or must be currently enrolled in a master’s program in a related field. Earning the certificate opens a variety of doors that may have been closed before.
Jennifer Sweeney, assistant professor and coordinator of the certificate program, wants to spread awareness about its benefits.
“Our program meets the behavior-analytic coursework requirements for eligibility under Pathway 2 of the Behavior Analyst Certification Board,” Sweeney said. “We also advise students on all components of the certification process, so they understand the BACB requirements beyond coursework.”
The program has been in place since 2009, showing a long history of preparing students in behavior analysis. Over time, they’ve built a curriculum that reflects both BACB standards and the practical skills needed in the field.
The certificate aims to qualify students to understand, describe and predict behavioral processes so that improvements to individual and social conditions can occur.
The coursework is offered asynchronously online, giving students the flexibility to balance the graduate certificate with work, school and other responsibilities.
Kayla Armstrong, a BISC recipient, credits much of her success to the program.
“The program as a whole, while I was in it, used many opportunities for project-based learning, which allowed us to practice the skills we were going to be asked to do in our career,” she said. “While online classes can be viewed as stale or unhelpful, the responsiveness of the staff and their willingness to expand, answer questions and provide models for learning made the online courses more valuable.”
Bringing awareness of programs and certificates offered on campus can help students professionally, financially and educationally, as the chance to earn multiple high-level certificates while pursuing more education is invaluable.
“There’s a demand for qualified behavior analysts in Ohio across schools, clinics and community settings,” Sweeney said. “We want our regional stakeholders to know we are training professionals in applied behavior analysis at Kent State University, helping to strengthen the workforce pipeline.”
The opportunities at Kent State open doors for a brighter future for students and future professionals. The lessons students learn through advanced education are ones they will carry with them forever.
“Find really good mentors—people in the field who are already doing this,” Sweeney said. “Create your network early. We all lean on each other; it’s an amazing field, and you will learn so much.”
A support system is vital when working towards a goal. Surround yourself with professionals who will help you achieve your dreams.
“Focus up and take it seriously,” Armstrong said. “You will receive a lot of valuable feedback from professionals that have been working in the industry for a long time, and you may find yourself working with these same individuals in the future.”
The Behavioral Intervention Specialist graduate certificate at Kent State University prepares students to turn education into impact.
“Since graduating from the program, I passed the BCBA exam on my first attempt and immediately began working full-time as a BCBA at Community Behavior Consulting,” Armstrong said. “I have since been promoted to director of operations at the same company and will likely continue my career in this role for years to come.”
Bailey Thomas is a reporter. Contact her at [email protected].
