Applied Behavioral Science BS
University of Kansas Campus, United States
Bachelor of Arts in Applied Behavioral Science
University of Kansas
Applied Behavioral Science
Applied Behavioral Science at the University of Kansas
The Department of Applied Behavioral Science at the University of Kansas offers a curriculum through which students learn how to examine and address problems of social importance across the lifespan. Students receive training in the application of behavioral science to improve the human condition through prevention and intervention.
Founded in 1964, the department has played a leading role in developing and advancing applications of behavioral science, and in 1968 it founded the Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis. The program requires students to select a concentration area to further hone their knowledge in addressing social problems of particular interest, including Adults with Disabilities, Basic Research and Conceptual Foundations, Child Life Specialty, Community Health and Development, and Early Childhood.
With approximately 200 undergraduate majors and 15 regular faculty members, the program provides personalized mentorship and hands-on practicum experiences in community-based settings. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in human services, public health, education, and behavioral consulting, or for advanced graduate study in fields such as applied behavior analysis, psychology, social welfare, and public health.
Program Highlights
- Five specialized concentration areas allowing you to tailor your studies to your career goals
- Required capstone practicum providing supervised, hands-on experience in real-world settings
- Part of a pioneering department with over 50 years of history in behavioral science research and practice
- Strong pathway to graduate programs in applied behavior analysis, clinical psychology, public health, and special education
Curriculum and Course Modules
The Applied Behavioral Science major requires 33 to 38 credit hours in the department, including introductory courses, core knowledge courses, concentration-specific courses, electives, and a culminating practicum. Students must complete at least 15 of these hours at the junior-senior level (courses numbered 300 and above). All students begin with foundational coursework before advancing into their chosen concentration area.
Introduction to Applied Behavioral Science (ABSC 100/101)
3 CreditsIntroduces students to the principles of scientific inquiry in applied behavioral science, covering objectivity, observation, reliability, validity, correlation, causation, and experimental design in the context of solving individual and societal problems across the lifespan.
Principles and Procedures of Behavioral Interventions (ABSC 304)
3 CreditsCovers the fundamental principles and procedures of behavior modification and therapy, providing students with a core understanding of behavioral interventions used to address socially significant behaviors.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABSC 308)
3 CreditsAn advanced core course focusing on the systematic application of behavioral principles to improve socially significant behavior, including assessment methods, intervention strategies, and ethical considerations.
Research Methods in Applied Behavioral Science (ABSC 509)
3 CreditsTeaches research design and methodology specific to applied behavioral science, including within-subject experimental designs, data analysis, and the interpretation and communication of research findings.
Community Health and Development (ABSC 310/311)
3 CreditsTrains students to systematically examine community-level problems using the principles and methods of applied behavioral science, addressing issues such as substance abuse, violence, education, and the well-being of diverse populations.
Capstone Practicum (ABSC 675-699)
6 CreditsA two-semester supervised practicum providing hands-on experience in a community-based setting aligned with the student's concentration area, serving as the program's capstone requirement.
Concentration and Elective Options
Admission Requirements
The University of Kansas welcomes applications from both domestic and international students for the Applied Behavioral Science program. While formal admission to the major requires completion of introductory coursework, prospective students must first be admitted to the university. All applications and inquiries should be submitted through Uni4Edu.
Academic Requirements
- High School GPAMinimum 2.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale for qualified admission to KU
- Pre-Major CourseworkGrade of C or better in ABSC 100 and ABSC 304 required for admission to the major
- College-Preparatory CurriculumCompletion of Kansas Board of Regents qualified admission requirements
- Transfer StudentsCollege-level coursework evaluated through KU's transfer credit system
- International CredentialsSecondary school transcripts evaluated for equivalency to US high school diploma
English Language Requirements
- TOEFL iBTMinimum score of 79
- IELTS AcademicMinimum overall band score of 6.5
- Duolingo English TestMinimum score of 100
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
The University of Kansas offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities for both domestic and international students. Funding availability and amounts may vary by academic year, so prospective students are encouraged to contact Uni4Edu for the latest information on financial support options.
KU International Excellence Award
A merit-based scholarship available to high-achieving international undergraduate students, awarded based on academic performance and standardized test scores at the time of admission.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the Applied Behavioral Science program are prepared for diverse careers in human services, healthcare, education, and community development. Many graduates also pursue advanced graduate and professional degrees in fields such as applied behavior analysis, clinical psychology, public health, social welfare, law, and medicine.
Potential Career Paths
Common Employment Sectors and Employers
Rankings and Recognition
The University of Kansas is a major public research institution classified as R1 (Very High Research Activity) and a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU). The Department of Applied Behavioral Science is nationally recognized for its pioneering contributions to the field, including founding the Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis in 1968.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Psychology | QS World University Rankings | Top 200 |
| Education | THE World University Rankings | Top 150 |
| Special Education | US News & World Report | Top Nationally Ranked |
| Social Sciences | ARWU | Top 200 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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