The PhD in Behavior Analysis is designed for professional behavior analysts seeking to become academic, research, or clinical leaders. Learners integrate the practice of behavior analysis with basic behavior analytic theory and basic and applied research to develop advanced scientist-practitioner repertoires. In combination with a behavior-analytic dissertation, learners who complete this specialization can apply for the doctoral designation as a board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA-D).
Outcome goals and graduates' proficiency levels
Each doctoral program and specialization is designed around expected learning outcomes (see Expected Program Outcomes below). End of program performance is determined during the comprehensive exam and dissertation process. Because the work is unique to each learner's dissertation or research topic and the criteria for evaluation are aligned to that work, we do not collect data on proficiency levels for doctoral programs.
Quality and Professional Relevance
- More than 800 organizations—including corporations, health care organizations, and community colleges—invest in their employees by partnering with Capella to offer discounted education programs.
- All faculty members in the PhD in Behavior Analysis program have doctoral degrees and practitioner experience in behavior analysis or related fields.
Expected Program Outcomes
- Synthesize the science behind the behavior of living organisms and the relationship between behavior and environmental variables.
- Apply scientifically supported theories to the practice of behavior analysis for behaviors of social significance.
- Design and conduct research consistent with the basic principles of behavior analysis to contribute to the field.
- Adhere to ethical expectations of the field of behavior analysis in personal and professional interactions.
- Communicate professionally in the field of behavior analysis.
- Critically evaluate cultural humility and compassion in communication, assessment, and interventions in the field of behavior analysis.
PhD in Psychology Degree Program Graduates
Data from graduates of the PhD in Psychology degree program have been combined for these Career Outcomes results.
The graphs below show some key findings from Capella's Alumni Outcomes Survey. We use this information to help improve our courses, programs and services and to give you an idea of how alumni are using their degrees.
Career Preparation
PhD
Psychology Graduates
Career Preparation
PhD Psychology Graduates
The skills and knowledge have been immediately applicable to my career: 69%
My degree has positioned me to achieve my professional ambitions: 75%
Capellas competency based curriculum has prepared me for the needs of my profession: 56%
Percentage of respondents who answered
"strongly agree" or "agree."
Source:
Responses to the Alumni Outcomes Survey one year after graduation.
The data were collected during Q3 2017 - Q1 2018.
Career Preparation
PhD
Psychology Graduates
Career and Professional
Accomplishments
PhD Psychology Graduates
Made a significant contribution to my profession: 37%
Successfully changed jobs and-or-careers: 46%
Assumed leadership responsibilities: 46%
Received a salary increase: 34%
Received a promotion: 46%
Multiple factors, including prior experience, age, geography, and degree field, affect career outcomes, and Capella does not guarantee a job, promotion, salary increase, or other career growth.
Percentage of respondents who indicated they had accomplished each item.
Source: Responses to the Alumni Outcomes Survey one year after graduation. The data were collected during Q3 2017 – Q1 2018.
PhD in Psychology Degree Program Graduates
Data from graduates of the PhD in Psychology degree program have been combined for these Student Experience results.
The graphs below show some key findings from Capella's Alumni Outcomes Survey. We use this information to help improve our courses, programs and services and to give you an idea of how alumni feel about Capella and what general skills and abilities they gained.
Satisfaction With Capella
PhD
Psychology Graduates
Satisfaction with Capella
PhD
Psychology Graduates
I have or intend to recommend Capella : 63%
I am satisfied with my Capella education : 88%
Capella gave me the most efficient direct path to completing my degree : 69%
Percentage of respondents who answered
affirmatively.
Source: Responses to the Alumni Outcomes
Survey one year after graduation. The data were collected during Q3
2017 - Q1 2018.
Skills & Abilities
PhD
Psychology Graduates
Improvements in Skills &
Abilities
PhD Psychology Graduates
Write clearly, accurately, and professionally; use sources appropriately : 100%
Communicate thoughts and ideas in varied settings : 100%
Show ethical conduct reflecting values and beliefs of discipline : 93%
Show knowledge of field; respect contributions of other fields : 100%
Analyze theoretical issues or investigate real-world phenomena, create knowledge : 100%
Locate, evaluate and communicate information; address legal, professional, other issues : 100%
Critically examine, analyze, and evaluate thinking using intellectual standards and creativity : 85%
Critically evaluate, select, and use discipline-appropriate technology : 100%
Show appreciation for group and individual differences : 93%
Demonstrate effective leadership in diverse environments : 92%
Apply the specialized knowledge associated with professional practice area : 100%
Percentage of respondents who rated
themselves as "proficient" or "exceptional" on
ability to demonstrate the skill or ability on the job.
Source: Responses to the Alumni Outcomes Survey one year after
graduation. The data were collected during Q3 2017 - Q1 2018.
Earn Your Doctoral Degree
Become an expert in your field. Enroll in an online PhD, PsyD, or EdD program at Capella.
"I'm able to talk to victims of domestic violence about how to reduce their likelihood of being a victim. This is a real-world application of the Scholar-Practitioner Model and I am honored to be a part of it."
Jesse Collins, PhD
2010 Graduate
School of Social and Behavioral Sciences
Specialization in Psychology