* Mandatory ancillary fees include recovery fees, UHIP, daycare fee, bus pass and engagement levy
Successful completion of four-year Bachelor's degree, or equivalent, in a related field (e.g., disability studies, applied behaviour analysis, psychology, sociology, social work, child studies, education) with a minimum average of 75% in the last two years of undergraduate studies. Applicants for the MA program are encouraged to examine the research interests and publications of the faculty and indicate their preference for possible research supervisor(s) in the letter of intent accompanying the application.
For applicants who wish to focus on Applied Disability Studies (without ABA specialization), courses related to disability studies, volunteer or work experience specifically in the disability sector and research experience (such as an undergraduate honours thesis) will be considered assets.
For applicants who are applying to the ABA specialization, undergraduate statistics courses (minimum 75% average), undergraduate or college courses related to Behaviour Analysis (minimum 75% average), volunteer or work experience specifically in the disability sector and/or ABA, and research experience (such as an undergraduate honours thesis) will be preferred.
The Graduate Admissions Committee will review all applications and recommend admission for a limited number of suitable candidates.
English Requirements
Master’s applicants who have not completed three or more years of post-secondary study, and doctoral applicants who have not completed two or more years of post-secondary study, at a Canadian institution or at an institution in one of the following exempt countries, will be required to provide proof of English language proficiency.
Applicants who are required to provide proof of English Language Proficiency must complete the English Language Proficiency (Self Report) form through their student portal account, as well as upload one of the accepted programs/tests listed to the right.
English Proficiency Tests (EPT),
TOEFL iBT, Minimum overall score of 80, with no subtest below 19
IELTS (Academic), Minimum overall score of 6.5, with no subtest below 5.5
CAEL, Minimum overall score of 60, with 60 in writing, and no other subtest below 50
CAEL CE (Computer Edition), Minimum overall score of 60, with 60 in writing, and no other subtest below 50
PTE Academics, Minimum overall score of 60, with no subtest below 60
Can Test for Scholars and Trainees, Minimum overall score of 4.5, with no subtest below 4.0
Language Schools,
Brock’s Intensive English Language Program (IELP), Completion of Level 5
ESC (Language School Pathway), Completion of the UCTP
ILAC (Language School Pathway), Completion of University Pathway Level III (12 weeks)
ILSC (Language School Pathway), Completion of Level A2
CLLC (Language School Pathway), Completion of UPP Level 7
Three references are required. Academic references are preferred. Some applicants may have difficulty obtaining academic references, and therefore, it may be more appropriate to obtain references from professionals with whom you have worked (e.g. Manager, Supervisor, Senior Colleague…). In all cases, the information should relate to the ability of the applicant to undertake graduate studies in the diploma program. You will provide your references when you complete the online application.
Curriculum Vitae: this should indicate the applicant’s education, employment, teaching and research activities/experience and publications/presentations (if any). Please use the following template for the CV.
A Statement of Intent and demonstrated commitment to the field of disabilities and/or Applied Behaviour Analysis, of no more than two pages in length (12 pt font Time New Roman, single or double spaced), describing your academic, employment, volunteer, and/or personal experience in the field. This statement should include the applicant’s research interests and an indication of which faculty members the applicant would prefer as possible thesis supervisors.
Brock University is the only University in Ontario offering a Master of Arts (MA) in Applied Disability Studies. Students can choose to specialize in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) or have no field of specialization. The ABA course sequence is verified by the Behaviour Analyst Certification Board® for completing the course requirements to become a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst®. In addition to course work and practicum placements, the MA program requires the student to complete an original research study and write an MA thesis under the supervision of a key faculty member and a thesis committee. The program is highly competitive with enrolment in the MA program currently limited to 6-10 new students per year. It is geared towards students who are interested in research careers and pursuing a doctoral degree.
Specialization Option:
Applied Disability Analysis (ABA)
Some courses may be offered during the week, on weekends, and fully or partially online.
For more information. Click here
PhD programs in ABA, Disability Studies, Child and Youth Studies, Psychology, Sociology, Education and related disciplines
Positions in social service agencies supporting people with disabilities
Behavior Consultants/Therapists
Program evaluators
Research and development specialists
Clinical supervisors
Special education specialists
Professional positions in related fields
Public affairs
Public policy/administration
Non-profit sector policy/administration
Government positions
College instructors
Health and dental plan fees: CAD 475 per year
