Who is this course for?

The MSc in Applied Behaviour Analysis accepts applications from candidates who hold a Second Class Honours degree (typically an upper second class honour [2.1] or equivalent in a relevant discipline e.g., psychology, psychological studies, social care, childhood development.  Priority may be given to applicants with denominated degrees in psychology given the relevance of their studied field.  Evidence of relevant experience and motivation is taken into account in offering places on the course. 

What will I study?

Within psychology, the field of behavioural psychology or behaviour analysis focuses on the application of the principles of behaviour and learning to support success, alleviate behavioural difficulties, and enhance quality of life across a variety of contexts. The MSc in ABA programme instils in trainees the values and skills necessary to do so. Core values outlined by Baer, Wolf, and Risley (1968; 1987) in defining the field of applied behaviour analysis are upheld. 

The central foundation of this programme is the scientist-practitioner model, the concept and application of which is weaved through academic content and supervised experience. Trainees learn about the core principles of behaviour, the science of behaviour, experimentation and evidence-based practice, as well as attain competence in the implementation and evaluation of specific assessment methods and intervention strategies. Reliance on evidence and scientific knowledge is a core value of the programme. 

A core value emphasised throughout the programme, is the provision of only those services which are socially significant to each individual that we work alongside. The selection of goals and assessment and intervention strategies must be in accordance with our charge as a field to provide services that are ethical, contextually appropriate, have high acceptability, represent the least-intrusive approach, and are worthwhile for each individual. Students will graduate from this programme with extensive knowledge and experience of ethical and appropriate professional. 

Programme aims and objectives: 

• To provide professional post-graduate training in behavioural psychology which will prepare students to provide effective services in a professional and ethical manner.
• To teach specialist knowledge in behavioural psychology, from history and basic concepts to specific behavioural assessment and intervention strategies.
• To train students as scientist-practitioners, competent in applied research methods and whose practice is guided by scientific knowledge and the scientific underpinnings of their practice.
• To equip students with competencies to practice effectively, competent in behavioural assessment and intervention strategies, data-based decision-making, and behaviour change systems.
• To equip students with the skills required to work successfully within both autonomous and collaborative roles, and with professionals from other disciplines.
• To train students to appraise the quality of scientific evidence and apply this understanding and critical thinking within both research and practice.
• To teach students to conduct high quality empirical behavioural psychology research. 

Core modules: 

Year 1 

PS6155 Behaviour Assessment 10 ECTS 

PS512 Principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis (10 ECTs) 

PS6191 Ethics in Behaviour Analysis (10 ECTS) 

PS511 Behaviour Change Procedures (10 ECTs) 

PS513 Research Methods (10 ECTs) 

PS6186 Clinical Practice (10 ECTS) 

Year 2 

PS6189 Organisational Behaviour Management (10 ECTS) 

PS6183 Advanced Research Methods (10 ECTS) 

PS6188 Theory & Philosophy in Behaviour Analysis (10 ECTS) 

PS6190 Applications of Behaviour Psychology (10 ECTS) 

PS6187 Clinical Practice II (20 ECTS) 

PS520 Research Thesis (30 ECTS) 

Curriculum Information

Curriculum information relates to the current academic year (in most cases).
Course and module offerings and details may be subject to change.

• Develop professional expertise: Through clinical placement opportunities, students apply theory to practice in a supportive learning environment in community-based settings.
• Range of modules: Includes modules to acquire skills and experience in both research and practice, from learning about applications of behavioural psychology in practice to learning advanced research methods.  
• Conduct a supervised research project: Develop your research skills through your MSc dissertation, which is written up in peer-review journal format. Students are encouraged to publish their research projects.  
• Collaborative Community: Part of a vibrant and collaborative team of Behavioural Psychologists in the School of Psychology, connecting students with national and international networks. 
• Improve communication skills: Learn to effectively present and articulate findings to a range of audiences, from stakeholders to decision-makers. 

The MSc in Applied Behaviour Analysis prepares graduates for the role of a Behavioural Psychologist/Behaviour Analyst, with extensive opportunities for employment, research, and further training. Through the emphasis on the scientist-practitioner model, students receive thorough and integrated training in the academic, practical, and research aspects of behavioural science. The skills and competencies in behavioural psychology acquired through the programme prepare graduates for a range of autonomous and collaborative professional goals both nationally and internationally. 

Given the evidence base and support for behavioural psychology in the fields of intellectual and developmental disability, education, and rehabilitation, graduates of the course predominantly obtain employment in disability services, education, and early intervention services. Within Ireland, graduates are employed by the HSE, HSE funded charities, the Department of Education and Skills, or work in private consultancy. Graduates of this course have been highly successful in the roles that they have achieved internationally (e.g., Canada, Australia, and the UK) with such roles as Clinical Director of Education, Senior Centre Clinicians, and Programme Supervisors being obtained by graduates of the MSc ABA at UoG in early intervention and behaviour support services. 

Increasingly, the utility and value of behavioural psychology in broader contexts is recognised and graduates can seek opportunities for roles, for example, within mental health services, gerontology, sports psychology and organisational behaviour management. Both nationally and internationally, demand for competent Behavioural Psychologists / Behaviour Analysts exceeds current supply and employment opportunities for graduates continue to grow. 

The advanced research skills and experience acquired on the programme also provide opportunities for graduates to work in research posts or to continue with further postgraduate study such as the Doctor of Philosophy in Applied Behaviour Analysis (PhD) https://www.universityofgalway.ie/colleges-and-schools/arts-social-sciences-and-celtic-studies/psychology/postgraduate-programmes/phd/phd-apb/. 

MSc International 

Students have the opportunity to transfer to the MSc International after Year 1 and complete a year with course partners abroad.  Students who have completed the MSc International have travelled to partnering organisation, The New England Center for Children in Boston to complete supervised experience and research abroad.  Students who complete the International year return to complete their final year at home in Year 3.

The MSc in ABA provides course affiliated clinical placements to students offering the opportunity to apply theory to practice under supervision in services and schools across Ireland. Intensive supervision is provided by the programme team as well as Behaviour Analysts in course affiliated placement settings. The programme team work in partnership with schools and services in the community to support a high standard of supervised experience for trainees on the programme. Throughout the two year programme, an emphasis is placed on linking the course content to its relevant applications in practice ensuring that graduates acquire the practical skills necessary to work as a Behaviour Analyst in practice. 

Students begin placements in semester 2 of Year 1 and complete placements for three semesters across the two year course.  Students split their week between placement and classes, generally attending placements from Mon-Wed, while attending class on Fridays and every second Thursday.  Clinical placements are a compulsory element of completing the MSc in ABA.

Accrediting Body 

The course meets international standards with regard to coursework requirements, content hours, and faculty standards necessary to become a Behaviour Analyst. The MSc is a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by the Association of Behaviour Analysis International, a standard recognised in the field of behaviour analysis around the world.   

The course is accredited by the Psychological Society of Ireland as a postgraduate professional programme in behavioural psychology fulfilling the postgraduate course requirements to become a Chartered Behavioural Psychologist.   

Our graduates work as Behaviour Analysts in practice once they have met the necessary training requirements. Graduates can register as a Behaviour Analyst with the Irish Society for Behaviour Analysis.   

International Opportunities 

Since the course is a VCS as outlined above, graduates will have covered the course content necessary to apply to the Behaviour Analyst Certification Board in the United States to become a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst. This only applies to applicants residing in North America. 

• Dr. Aoife Mc Tiernan
• Dr. Helena Lydon
• Dr. Ciara Gunning
• Dr. Geraldine Leader
• Dr. Ian Stewart 

How will I learn?   

The MSc in ABA combines innovative teaching methods with practical, hands-on learning to ensure a comprehensive educational experience. You will learn through a mix of interactive lectures, seminars and workshops led by expert faculty. Real-world case studies, data-driven projects and coding exercises will enable you to apply theoretical knowledge to practical problems. In addition to lecture-based instruction, you will have the opportunity to practice and demonstrate competency with skills that are covered. 

Group projects and collaborative activities will enhance your teamwork and communication skills, while individual assignments and the final dissertation will help you develop independence and critical thinking.  

How Will I Be Assessed? 

Throughout the programme, your progress is assessed through various coursework and exams, including reports, essays, presentations, and computer assignments. 

1. Continuous Assessment - Regular coursework, including essays, presentations, in-class tests MCQs, debates, reflections, and group- projects. Students receive regular feedback on their progress. 
2. Examinations - For some modules written exams take place at the end of each semester. Written and oral exams evaluate proficiency in grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, and communication. The Final Examination accounts for 50%.
3. Practice-based assessments - Under the supervision of their supervisors and staff, students will complete clinical placement objectives and clinical case work as part of their learning and assessment.

Course queries: 
psychology@universityofgalway.ie 

Ms Miriam Lohan, Programme Administrator:  
Miriam.lohan@universityofgalway.ie  

Programme Director(s):  

Dr. Aoife Mc Tiernan
Dr. Helena Lydon  
School of Psychology 
College of Arts, Social Sciences and Celtic Studies 

University of Galway recognises that knowledge and skills can be acquired from a range of learning experiences. This is in line with the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) goals which aim to recognise all learning achievements by supporting the development of alternative pathways to qualifications (or awards) and by facilitating the recognition of prior learning (RPL). 

This programme is designed to provide early and mid-career accountants with the skills and knowledge needed to engage with big data in a variety of roles in practice and industry. 
 
Candidates who have completed all of the professional accounting examinations and have been admitted as full members by a recognised professional accountancy body including the following: ACCA, CIPFA, CIMA, ICAEW, ICAI, ICAS or other IFAC member body assessed as equivalent by the academic programme director, are eligible for consideration.

Graduates of the MA in English will be able to:  

• Demonstrate a breadth of understanding of a range of approaches to the study of literary texts and other cultural artefacts.
• Evaluate received knowledge and articulate their own contribution to the existing scholarship.
• Select and apply a variety of critical approaches to the study of literature. 
• Retrieve, select, sift, and deploy a range of sources to support original arguments. 
• Apply enhanced critical thinking and analytical skills to their object of study. 
• Plan, manage, and execute a substantial independent study project.
• Reflect deeply on a range of research perspectives, topics, and approaches related to the object of study. 
• Exhibit the ability to self-assess and self-direct.

Minimum Entry Requirements 

Applications are invited from candidates who hold a Second Class Honours degree (typically an upper second class honour [2.1] or equivalent).  

Academic entry requirements standardised per country are available here.  

All applicants, whose first language is not English, must demonstrate language competence at the level of IELTS (or equivalent qualification) of 7.0 overall, with not less than 6.5 in any component. Tests must be taken within two years of the start date of the student's programme. More information here: https://www.universityofgalway.ie/global-galway/studyinireland/entryrequirements/ 

More information on English language test equivalency are available here.  

Supporting Documents  

You will be required to provide a personal statement and CV alongside your application. 

You can apply online to the University of Galway application portal here.  

Please review the entry requirements set out in the section above.  

You will be required to upload supporting documentation to your application electronically. See the section above on entry requirements for further information on the supporting documentation required for this course.  

Closing Dates 

For this programme, there is no specific closing date for receipt of applications. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and course quotes will be reviewed continuously throughout the application cycle.  

Notes 

• You will need an active email account to use the website and you'll be guided through the system, step by step, until you complete the online form.
• Browse the FAQ's section for further guidance.  

Fees for Academic Year 2025/2026

Course Type	Year	EU Tuition	Student Contribution	Non-EU Tuition	Levy	Total Fee	Total EU Fee	Total Non-EU Fee
Masters Full Time	1	€8,500		€19,500	€140		€8,640	€19,640

For 25/26 entrants, where the course duration is greater than 1 year, there is an inflationary increase approved of 3.4% per annum for continuing years fees.

Postgraduate students in receipt of a SUSI grant – please note an F4 grant is where SUSI will pay €4,000 towards your tuition (2025/26).  You will be liable for the remainder of the total fee.  A P1 grant is where SUSI will pay tuition up to a maximum of €6,270. SUSI will not cover the student levy of €140.

Note to non-EU students: learn about the 24-month Stayback Visa here. 

Postgraduate Excellence Scholarships 

This scholarship is valued at €1,500 for EU students applying for full-time taught master's postgraduate courses. You will be eligible if: 

• You have been accepted to a full-time taught master's course at University of Galway,
• You have attained a first class honours (or equivalent) in a Level 8 primary degree.  

An application for the scholarship scheme is required (separate to the application for a place on the programme). The application portal for 2025 is now open and available here. Applications will close on the 30th September 2025. Full details available here.  

Global Scholarships
University of Galway offers a range of merit-based scholarships to students from a number of countries outside of the EU. Visit here for schemes currently available.  

Siobhan McKenna Scholarship

This scholarship is for applicants applying to  the MA Dram and Theatre Studies.   

Value: €4,000 (comprising a Bursary of €2,500 and a Fee Waiver of €1,500) 

This scholarship honours Siobhán McKenna, the late world-renowned actress of stage and screen who was also a theatre director, translator and activist. The scholarship is awarded annually based on previous practical experience and academic achievement to one individual whose application materials gives evidence of current and/or future potential in acting, directing, translation, politically engaged arts or/and use of indigenous/native language or languages in the arts. 

Applicants to our MA in Drama and Theatre Studies who have accepted and paid their deposit by 15 May 2025 will have their applications considered for this scholarship competition which is adjudicated by a panel of Drama and Theatre Studies staff.  

Application Process 

Students applying for full time postgraduate programmes from outside of the European Union (EU), You can apply online to the University of Galway application portal here.  

Our application portal opens on the 1st October each year for entry the following September.   

Further Information 

Please visit the postgraduate admissions webpage for further information on closing dates, documentation requirements, application fees and the application process.