Definition: Behavior analysis is a school of psychology based upon the foundations and principles of behaviorism. According to division of the of the American Psychological Association (APA) devoted to this area of psychology, behavior analysis "...promotes basic research, both animal and human, in the experimental analysis of behavior; it encourages the application of the results of such research to human affairs, and cooperates with other disciplines."

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If you are planning to apply to a psychology graduate program after earning your undergrad degree, now is the time to start preparing for the application process. In addition to basic steps such as taking the GRE and obtaining letters of recommendation, it is also important to select your undergraduate courses wisely. In order to be fully prepared for the rigors of the program you eventually choose, it's important to take courses that provide a strong background in key psychology topics.

How do you decide which courses to take? Start by considering your own interests and goals. Look for courses that match your research interests, or that relate to the specialty area you plan to pursue in the future.

In addition your own interests, it's also important to consider what graduate admissions committees will be looking for. Most psychology graduate programs have specific requirements that need to be filled in order to be admitted. While all graduate schools differ, a 1994 survey analyzed the course requirements of more than 2,000 graduate programs to find which courses were most often required for admission. Learn more in this article about the courses you should take before applying to graduate school.

Looking for more information about psychology education?

• 5 Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Psychology Graduate School
• Graduate Program Alternatives for Psychology Majors
• Which Psychology Graduate Program Is Best?