University of Waikato

What you'll study

This master’s combines advanced coursework, applied practicum and an applied capstone project to develop competence in assessment, intervention and evaluation using behaviour‑analytic principles. Core study areas include the experimental and philosophical foundations of behaviour analysis, applied assessment and functional analysis, single‑case experimental design and data analysis, and the design and implementation of evidence‑based behavioural interventions.

• Foundations of Behaviour Analysis: principles of learning, operant and respondent processes, measurement and behaviour‑analytic terminology.
• Assessment and Functional Analysis: skills in conducting functional assessments, preference assessments and determining maintaining variables for problem behaviour.
• Intervention Design and Implementation: development of intervention plans, skill teaching procedures, behaviour change technologies and systems‑level approaches.
• Single‑Case Design and Data Analysis: research methods specific to applied behaviour analysis, visual and statistical interpretation of single‑case data.
• Ethics and Professional Practice: ethical decision making, cultural competence, record keeping and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Practicum / Supervised Fieldwork: structured, supervised placements in schools, clinics or community services to apply skills with clients under experienced supervision.
• Applied Capstone Project: a substantial applied project or clinic‑based evaluation where students design, implement and evaluate an intervention or service improvement.

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in psychology or a closely related discipline, or a relevant postgraduate diploma, with evidence of sufficient academic preparation in behavioural science and research methods. Admissions may consider applicants with substantial relevant professional experience in allied health, education or disability services when combined with prior study. International applicants must meet the University’s English language requirements.

Specific entry conditions can include a minimum GPA from prior study and provision of academic transcripts, a personal statement outlining relevant experience and goals, and referees who can comment on professional suitability for applied practice. Prospective students should check the University of Waikato programme pages or contact the School of Psychology for detailed application guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates work across a range of sectors that require specialised behaviour‑analytic skills. Typical roles include behaviour analyst or consultant in private clinics, specialist disability and autism services, schools and early‑intervention programmes, health and mental‑health services, corrections and forensic settings, and community social services. Other career pathways are clinical coordination, supervision of practitioners, programme development, policy roles in social services, and further research or doctoral study.

The programme is designed to produce practitioners capable of delivering evidence‑based interventions, supervising junior staff, and contributing to outcome monitoring and service quality improvement. When combined with the required supervised practice and any relevant certification board requirements, graduates may pursue professional credentialing pathways recognised in their jurisdiction.

Why study at University of Waikato

The University of Waikato has a long tradition of applied psychology and behaviour‑analysis teaching and research, with staff experienced in clinical and community practice. The programme emphasises hands‑on training through supervised practicum placements in real services, ensuring graduates leave with practical competencies as well as theoretical understanding. Small cohort sizes support close supervision and personalised feedback, and the university’s links with regional health, education and disability providers create opportunities for applied placement and employment.

Students also benefit from Waikato’s research infrastructure and interdisciplinary connections across education, health and social services, enabling applied projects that address real community needs. Prospective students looking for a professionally oriented, practice‑focused pathway in behaviour analysis will find a programme that balances rigorous science with workplace readiness.