Growing Demand for Applied Behaviour Analysis Training
Author: UNB College of Extended Learning
Posted on Mar 24, 2020
Category: Our Stories
Erin MacQuarrie always had an interest in human behaviour, which led her to get a Bachelor of Science in psychology. It was during that degree she learned about the power of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA).
MacQuarrie moved to New Brunswick from the West Coast with her husband and young family, and she decided to return to school to improve her prospects for employment.
Her desire for a career helping people improve their lives, and seeing positive results after applying some of the principles of ABA to areas of her own life, she enrolled in the Certificate in Applied Behaviour Analysis program at the University of New Brunswick.
ABA is widely known as an effective, evidence-based approach used when working with individuals on the autism spectrum.
MacQuarrie's initial goal was to work with the general public to help them develop and maintain good habits. However, since starting the program at UNB, her career focus has changed. She wants to make a difference in the lives of individuals with autism.
"In hindsight, I feared that working with individuals on the autism spectrum was out of my league. I feel a lot more comfortable now having learned more about ABA and having had the opportunity to apply the learning hands-on," explains MacQuarrie.
MacQuarrie gained experience working with children this summer during her practicum at Autism Connections Fredericton.
"It's been great to see what a positive impact just little changes in my behaviour can have on my clients," she says.
Dr. Michael Palmer, instructor and coordinator of the ABA program at UNB, says there are significant opportunities for people with ABA training.
"It is a burgeoning field. I get calls every couple of weeks from organizations asking about our graduates, and that’s just within New Brunswick," says Palmer. "I receive emails almost daily advertising positions around the world."
There is a high demand for ABA training, and jobs at this level pay well compared to others.
MacQuarrie says her experience in the certificate program have prepared her for the workforce. She also feels ready to write the BACB®'s Board Certified Assistant Behaviour Analyst® examination, which she plans to do later this fall.
"It [ABA] is an amazing, growing field. I look forward to the opportunity to share my newfound skills and knowledge when I join the workforce here in New Brunswick," she adds.
For more information on the Applied Behaviour Analysis Certificate Program, visit go.unb.ca/aba-credit or contact the UNB College of Extended Learning at 506 447-3449.