What is a Masters in Applied Behavior Analysis?
Behavior Analysis is a natural science that studies the effects of the environment on the behavior of individuals. Its principles are universal. They can be applied with any population, including children with autism, people with developmental disabilities, parents and children, pet owners, college students, healthcare providers, athletes, and employees.
Applied Behavior Analysis is the primary tool for working with developmentally challenged children and adults. Neurodivergent people with diagnoses of Autism Spectrum Disorder, Asperger’s Syndrome, ADHD and other developmental delays are often very receptive to this style of teaching and learning.
If you want to learn how to use positive reinforcement and precision teaching to help people achieve a well-balanced lifestyle, then a degree in Applied Behavior Analysis is for you!
Applied behavior analysis master’s programs vary by the school but most are accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI). Some colleges and universities offer a masters in psychology or special education with a specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Other colleges offer a masters in ABA specifically. All of the programs discussed in this article have been accredited by the ABAI and meet the coursework requirements for students to apply for the BCBA exam under pathway 1.
To enroll in a master’s level Applied Behavior Analysis program, you must obtain a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field. If you hope to work in this field, you will want to study at a program that meets the criteria to allow graduates to be Board Certified Behavior analysts (BCBAs).
In a masters of applied behavior analysis program, you will learn universal psychological theories as well as topics such as:
- Theory and Philosophy
- Experimental Analysis of Behavior
- Service Delivery
- Applied Behavior Analysis
- Diversity in Clinical Practice
- Ethics
- Assessment and Planning
- Data Based Instruction
As a Board Certified Behavior analyst, you may work in various settings such as private home care, homes for disabled people, hospitals.
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University
Programs & Highlights
Program Overview
Pepperdine
MS in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
84% BCBA Exam Pass Rate | Graduate in Under Two Years
Gain a thorough understanding of ABA techniques to help adults and children with disabilities—graduate in as few as 15 to 21 months.
Simmons University
M.S. in Behavior Analysis
No GRE Required | Complete in 20 Months | 86% BCBA Exam Pass Rate
For more than 20 years, Simmons has been a leader in the field of behavior analysis — preparing students to work in the field of behavior analysis and make a measurable difference in the lives of others.
Arizona State University
Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Top Ranked Program | 21-Credit Program
ASU’s ABA programs include coursework that meets the Association for Behavior Analysis International verified course sequence requirements to qualify to sit for the BCBA exam.
Purdue Global
Applied Behavior Analysis Programs
BS & MS Options | Accredited Programs
Purdue Global offers a Bachelor of Science, a Master of Science, and Certificate options in Applied Behavior Analysis.
How long does it take to get a masters in Applied Behavior Analysis?
A master’s degree in ABA typically takes 1 to 2 years. Most programs require 30 or more graduate credits, most of which are completed in the core curriculum and some specialization or elective credit courses. Whether offered in person or online, most schools provide evening courses that allow students the flexibility to work or care for family as they attend classes.
Online Masters in Applied Behavior Analysis Programs:
Online programs allow students to study on a schedule that works best for them. Most online educational programs are established in a way that allows the student to log in and complete work on their schedule. Online programs are more affordable than in-person programs and typically have more flexible start and end dates, depending on the school.
Here is a list of schools with online Board Certified Applied Behavior Analysis Programs:
McNeese State University
- Lake Charles, Louisiana
- 58 Hours
- Online + In-person
Modality: Online or In-person
Credit Hours: 58
GRE: Required
Tuition: $1,322/credit
Program Overview:
McNeese State University has developed a multi-faceted and comprehensive program. Students will obtain a masters in psychology with a concentration in ABA. In person students and online students who live within a 50 mile radius of the campus have the opportunity to complete their practicum experience hours at the McNeese Autism Program (MAP). Here they will treat neurodivergent people while accumulating supervised experience hours toward their degree.
Montana State University – Billings
- Billings, Montana
- 36 Hours
- Online
Modality: Online
Credit Hours: 36
GRE: Not Required
Tuition: Full-time online program In-state: $6930, Out of State: $12,860
Program Overview:
Montana State only offers their ABA program in an online format. The program typically takes about 2-3 years to complete and only requires the GRE exam for admission for students with an undergraduate GPA lower than 3.0. Offered from their School of Education, Montana State’s ABA program boasts a 96% placement rate post graduation.
The Chicago School
- Chicago, Illinois
- 45 Hours
- Online + In-person
Modality: In-person & Online
Credit Hours: 45
GRE: Not Required
Tuition: $1,368/credit
Program Overview:
The Chicago School offers accredited programs both in-person and online. There are several campus options for in-person study including: Chicago, Anaheim, Dallas, Los Angeles, San Diego and Washington, D.C. The Chicago school curriculum covers cutting edge research in the field as well as infuses the scientist-practitioner model across these domains. The program has two tracks: Advanced Research Track or Advanced Applied Project track.
13 No GRE Required Masters in Applied Behavioral Analysis Programs:
The Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is a standardized test sometimes required for admission to graduate schools. Often, masters level programs do not require the submission of test scores for admission. They base admission on undergraduate GPA and performance criteria, writing ability evidenced by an essay or personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
The following 13 programs do not require the submission of GRE test scores for admission:
Caldwell University
- Caldwell, New Jersey
- 42 Hours
- In person
Modality: In person
Credit Hours: 42
GRE: Not required
Tuition: $1.085/credit
Program Overview:
Caldwell offers a comprehensive on-campus program that boasts a 100% passing rate on the BCBA exam. The center of the program is research after a foundation of concepts is developed. Students culminate their learning in a masters thesis project.
California State University, Los Angeles
- Los Angeles, California
- 52-56 Hours
- In person
Modality: In person
Credit Hours: 52-56
GRE: Not Required
Tuition: $396/credit
Program Overview:
Cal State offers a master of science degree in Counseling, Option in Applied Behavior Analysis. Special consideration is given to providing ABA-style treatment in the counseling setting. Students will learn to incorporate basic counseling skills in the application of behavior analysis. This competitive and intensive program accepts only 24 students per year and is run in a cohort style.
Ohio State University
- Columbus, Ohio
- 34 Hours
- Online + Hybrid
Modality: hybrid with most classes online
Credit Hours: 34
GRE: Not Required
Tuition: In-state: $29,596 per year, Out-of-state: $53,833 per year
Program Overview:
OSU offers a master of arts in Special Education with a specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis. Students in this program have the option to add on Teacher Licensure in the areas of: Early Childhood Intervention Specialist, Mild to Moderate Intervention Specialist, Moderate to Intensive Intervention Specialist or Hearing Impairment Intervention Specialist.
Oslo Metropolitan University
- Oslo, Norway
- 120 Hours
- In-person
Modality: In-person
Credit Hours: 120
GRE: Not Required
Tuition: 200,500 NOK = approx. $18,762 US dollars
Program Overview:
If you are looking to study abroad at a school outside of the United States, Oslo Metropolitan University in Norway is a great option. The program is accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International. Oslo’s program is a masters in Behavioral Science and prepares candidates to further their studies on the Ph.D. level.
Regis College
- Weston, Massachusetts
- 40 Hours
- Online + In-person + Hybrid
Modality: Online, In-person & hybrid
Credit Hours: 40
GRE: Not Required
Tuition: $995/credit
Program Overview:
Regis College provides three different modalities for students to obtain a master of science in Applied Behavior Analysis: in-person, online and a hybrid option. This flexibility allows students to work or take care of family members and still attend school full-time. In addition to the master’s level program, Regis also offers a certificate-level program for students who already possess a masters degree in a related field and wish to be BCBA certified.
Rollins College
- Winter Park, Florida
- 45 Hours
- In-person
Modality: In-person
Credit Hours: 45
GRE: Not Required
Tuition: $725/credit
Program Overview:
The number one regional university of the south, Rollins College, offers a Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis and Clinical Science. Class size is no more than 12 students and results in personal attention and a collaborative learning experience with a mentorship component. Classes are offered in-person and during evening hours.
Salve Regina University
- Newport, Rhode Island
- 36 Hours
- In-person
Modality: In-person
Credit Hours: 36
GRE: Not Required
Tuition: $730/credit
Program Overview:
The program at Salve Regina University prepares students to be certified in the international BCBA credential as well as the Rhode Island State credential of LBA, Licensed Behavioral Analyst. Classes are offered in-person during the evening. Salve Regina is located in beautiful downtown Newport, Rhode Island.
Simmons University
- Boston, Massachusetts
- 40 Hours
- In-person
Modality: In-person
Credit Hours: 40
GRE: Not Required
Tuition: $1,125/credit
Program Overview:
Simmons is an in-person program that was one of the first accredited programs in New England. Graduates score well above the national average on the BCBA exam. Students have the option to complete a Master of Science or Educational Specialist degree. Both programs require 40 credit hours and a research project.
Teachers College, Columbia University
- New York, New York
- 47 Hours
- In-person
Modality: In-person
Credit Hours: 47
GRE: Not Required
Tuition: $2,029/credit
Program Overview:
The very prestigious Teachers College at Columbia University offers a Master of Arts degree in Applied Behavior Analysis that dually certifies graduates in general and special education (birth to grade 6) and prepares students to sit for the BCBA exam and the New York State licensure in ABA. Classes are offered in-person in New York City and totals 47 credit hours.
University of Houston- Clear Lake
- Houston, Texas
- 39 Hours
- In-person
Modality: In-person
Credit Hours: 39
GRE: Not Required
Tuition: In-state: $490/credit, Out-of-state: $970/credit
Program Overview:
At the University of Houston at Clear Lake, they offer an undergraduate minor in behavior analysis as well as a Master of Arts degree. Students who complete the master’s coursework and practicum requirements are eligible to sit for the BCBA exam as well as licensure by the state of Texas. UHCL has a Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities where most students complete their practicum hours.
University of Kansas
- Lawrence, Kansas
- 30 Hours
- Online + In-person
Modality: In-person & Online
Credit Hours: 30
GRE: Not Required
Tuition: In-state: $437/credit, Out-of-state: $1,047/credit
Program Overview:
The Master of Arts in Applied Behavioral Science at the University of Kansas is focused on developing scientist-practitioners to implement research-based solutions to problems of societal importance. To this end, they also offer a one-year certificate program in Community Health and Development.
University of Maryland – Baltimore County
- Baltimore, Maryland
- 36 Hours
- In-person
Modality: In-person
Credit Hours: 36
GRE: Not Required
Tuition: In-state: $15,840/year, Out-of-state: $25,146/year
Program Overview:
The University System of Maryland is expansive and located close to both Baltimore and Washington, D.C.. Students in UMBC’s M.A. in Human Services Psychology: Applied Behavior Analysis program have access to practicum opportunities in both of these large cities. Graduates of the program are qualified to sit for the BCBA exam or continue onto UMBC’s Ph.D. in Applied Behavior Analysis program.
University of North Carolina – Wilmington
- Wilmington, North Carolina
- 48 Hours
- In-person
Modality: In-person
Credit Hours: 48
GRE: Not Required
Tuition: In-state: $276/credit, Out-of-state: $1,119/credit
Program Overview:
The Master of Science in Psychology with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis at UNC Wilmington is delivered in a cohort of 5 to 7 students per year. The program typically takes about 2 and a half years to complete including a six month internship. Students are mentored by an ABA faculty member and required to complete a thesis.
6 Of The Most Affordable Masters in Applied Behavior Analysis Programs:
Education costs are higher than ever, but obtaining your master’s degree does not have to break the bank. You can find affordable, quality programs at the following institutions. Shop around for the best prices and save yourself from a lifetime of student debt. Many graduate programs offer students positions called assistantships as a way to save money on tuition. Graduate Assistants work in collaboration with a professor teaching classes or conducting research and enjoy free tuition in exchange.
University of North Texas
- Denton, Texas
- 49 Hours
- In-person
Modality: In-person
Credit Hours: 49
GRE: Not Required
Tuition: $227/credit plus fees
Program Overview:
The University of North Texas offers degrees in Applied Behavior Analysis on the undergraduate, graduate and certificate levels. In addition to their affordable tuition rate, UNT offers three scholarships specifically for the ABA students. Their tuition rate is one of the lowest for an in-person program in the entire country.
Southern Illinois University
- Carbondale, Illinois
- 45 Hours
- Online + In-person
Modality: In-person & Online
Credit Hours: 45
GRE: Not Required
Tuition: $939/credit
Program Overview:
Southern Illinois University makes the most affordable program list because they offer graduate assistantships to every accepted student. Students in the ABA master’s program work as graduate assistants in undergraduate classes or conducting research alongside a professor. Responsibilities for graduate assistants include teaching classes, grading student’s work, data collection and supervision of undergraduate research students.
Jacksonville State University
- Jacksonville, Florida
- 39 Hours minimum
- In-person
Modality: In-person
Credit Hours: 39 credit minimum
GRE: Required
Tuition: Out of state: $686/credit, In-state: $422/credit
Program Overview:
Jacksonville State University offers an affordable education in a beautiful setting on the coast of Florida. In-state residents pay just $422/credit in a 39 credit program. JSU also offers scholarships specifically dedicated to graduate students as well as financial aid options.
St. Cloud State University
- St. Cloud, Minnesota
- 45 Hours
- Online + In-person
Modality: In-person & Online
Credit Hours: 45
GRE: Not Required
Tuition: In-state: $517/credit, Out-of-state: $785/credit
Program Overview:
At St. Cloud University, nearly 30% of graduate students take positions as graduate assistants to supplement the cost of their tuition. St. Cloud has three types of assistantships to choose from: program assistants, research assistants and teaching assistants. Working in this capacity allows graduate students to save money and also build a rapport with professors.
University of Nevada – Reno
- Reno, Nevada
- 36 Hours
- Online + In-person
Modality: In-person & Online
Credit Hours: 36
GRE: Required
Tuition: $344.25/credit
Program Overview:
The University of Nevada – Reno program is a master of science degree in behavior analytic psychology. The master’s degree program has both a practicum and research requirement. From the first day of study, students are given an academic and research advisor. There are several research projects directed by UNR faculty that students can choose.
University of South Florida
- Tampa, Florida
- 45 Hours
- In-person
Modality: In-person
Credit Hours: 45
GRE: Not Required
Tuition: $348/credit
Program Overview:
USF offers a unique program for students in their master of science in applied behavior analysis program called Project MABAS. This initiative allows students from the ABA program to receive a reduced tuition rate and a stipend while working in high-need schools in the local area. Students in both the online and in-person programs are eligible to participate.
Additional ABAI accredited programs:
The following ABA programs either require the GRE for admission or strongly encourage it. Additionally, they have varying modalities and costs. These programs are all accredited by the ABAI and prepare students to sit for the BCBA exam. Depending on your state of residency, these schools may be more affordable to you.
Florida Institute of Technology
- Melbourne, Florida and Orlando, Florida
- 44 Hours
- In person
Modality: In person
Credit Hours: 44
GRE: Only required if undergrad gpa is under 3.3
Tuition: approximately $43,000 per year
Program Overview:
FIT offers both an MS in ABA as well as a joint MS degree in ABA and OBM (Organizational Behavior Management). The joint degree gives graduates the ability to work in either the clinical setting or the business and industry setting. These on campus programs are offered on both the Melbourne and Orlando, Florida campuses for FIT.
Florida State University: Panama City Campus
- Panama City, Florida
- 39 Hours
- In person
Modality: In person
Credit Hours: 39
GRE: Recommended
Tuition: Out of state: $1075/credit, In-state: $444/credit
Program Overview:
FSU has a master of science in applied behavior analysis program at its Panama City campus on the beautiful panhandle of Florida’s coast. Admission to this program requires the GRE exam as well as specific undergraduate prerequisites in psychology. If you are a Florida resident, tuition is at a more affordable rate.
Salem State University
- Salem, Massachusetts
- 37.5 Hours
- In-person
Modality: In-person
Credit Hours: 37.5
GRE: Required
Tuition: In-state: $8,985.60 per year, Out-of-state: $10,648.80 per year
Program Overview:
Salem State’s master of science in behavior analysis program has been recognized as a top 10 program in the United States. The 37.5 required credit hours include supervised experience and directed study. Students can also opt to complete a masters project or thesis.
Western Michigan University
- Kalamazoo, Michigan
- 36 Hours
- In-person
Modality: In-person
Credit Hours: 36
GRE: Recommended but not required
Tuition: In-state: $765/credit, Out-of-state: $1,147/credit
Program Overview:
The master of arts in behavior analysis at Western Michigan offers specialization areas of: autism, developmental disabilities, behavioral pharmacology, behavioral neuroscience, behavioral gerontology and behavioral medicine. While the GRE is not required for admission, WMU does require undergraduate study with 18 credits in psychology.
Job Outlook for ABA Professionals
The demand for Board Certified Behavior Analysts has been growing rapidly for the last decade. ABA trained clinicians can apply their knowledge and skills to a variety of careers. Students who complete a master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis can enter into the work field directly or continue their studies toward a Ph.D. in ABA.
Job titles for master degree holders include:
- Board Certified Behavior Analyst
- Clinical Supervisor
- ABA Service Provider
- Behavioral Consultant
- Training Coordinator
- Animal Behavior Consultant
- School Behavior Analyst
- Special Education Teacher
- In-home Program Coordinator
The growing field of Applied Behavior Analysis is a wonderful opportunity for anyone looking to have a rewarding career helping people live better lives. Disabled people need caring, intelligent and patient clinicians to help them develop skills necessary to care for themselves as well as interact with the world around them. Additionally, more research in this field is needed as we strive to develop methods to enrich the lives of the disabled.
If a career teaching life skills and behaviors to developmentally disabled people sounds interesting to you, enroll in an ABAI-accredited program today and begin your journey to becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst.
