Daemen College has received New York State Department of Education approval to offer a master’s degree in applied behavior analysis (ABA) starting in the fall, making it the only state-approved ABA graduate program in New York.

In addition to the master’s degree, approval has been granted for Daemen to launch a new advanced certificate program to provide ABA post-graduate training for professionals in related fields. “These programs will greatly augment our exceptional academic offerings and prepare highly qualified professionals with the advanced level of skills and training essential for this growing field,” said Dr. Michael Brogan, vice president for academic affairs and dean of the college.

“For students, the programs are ideally suited for those looking to further their careers or would like to apply their talents and experience to pursue new opportunities as behavior analysts.”

Daemen College has been selected by University Research and Review as a 2017 Best Value School award recipient, making it one of fewer than 100 institutions across the country selected to receive this prestigious national designation.

“We are honored to be chosen for this distinguished award and to be recognized for our exceptional educational value,” said Daemen President Gary A. Olson. “With college costs currently at the forefront of New York State higher education, this distinction attests to the affordability, high quality, and academic excellence of private colleges like Daemen and is indicative of our rising national status.”

One of only three colleges in New York State named among this year’s honorees, Daemen joins other notable institutions such as Ohio Northern University, Mercyhurst University, Benedictine College, and Mount Aloysius College.

President Donald Trump’s refugee and immigration policies, including a travel ban from several Muslim-majority countries, will be discussed by a panel of experts from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 4 in Daemen College’s Wick Campus Center Social Room.

The panel discussion, “The Myths and Realities of Trump Policies on Refugees and Immigrants,” will examine the new administration’s policies, the controversial travel ban barring refugees from six Muslim-majority countries from entering the U.S. and its impact on area refugees, protecting refugee and immigrant rights, and strategies to address the policies.