The most effective forms of Applied Behavior Analysis are when it is used in a therapeutic setting. There are many different types of ABA programs, and each focuses on certain learning disabilities or behavioral disorders. By understanding the goals that these programs have set out to achieve, you will be able to find one that meets your needs and fits within your budget.
The “applied behavior analysis graduate programs” are a list of the top 25 best applied behavior analysis programs in 2021. The list is compiled by looking at factors such as program placement rate, average starting salaries and other factors.
The field of applied behavior analysis employs our knowledge of behavior to boost constructive conduct and reduce destructive behavior. ABA is commonly utilized as a method by professionals who deal with people who have autism or developmental difficulties since it is helpful for people of all ages.
Families and organizations continue to want the services of trained ABA therapists ABA is used in a number of contexts, including business, healthcare, and education. Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA) make an average income of $63,582 a year, according to PayScale.com. A master’s degree, an authorized course sequence, and a supervised practicum experience under the supervision of an accomplished ABA practitioner are all requirements for BCBAs to get this highly sought-after master’s level certification. After that, they must succeed on a test to get their certification. It is a demanding but worthwhile procedure. This list of the finest ABA master’s schools that provide the confirmed course requirements for the BCBA test was put together by our team.
The best 25 master’s in applied behavior analysis programs are shown below.
Programs Online Featured
Programs must be regionally accredited and provide the ABAI-approved course sequence for BCBA certification in order to be included on our list. Programs had to have an average first-time applicant pass rate of at least 85%. In 2019, programs must also have at least six first-time applicants.
Following is a ranking: Faculty to student ratio:
- less than 15:1 — 3 points
- 16:1 to 19:1 minus two points
- 20:1 or more — 1 point
Annual Graduate Tuition Average:
- 3 points less than $13,000
- $20,000 to $13,000 plus two points
- More than $20,000 minus one point
2018 BCBA Examination Pass Rate:
- 95 percent or above – 5 points
- 85 percent or less – 3 points
In cases of ties, colleges are ordered in accordance with the average in-state graduate tuition costs as reported by College Navigator.
University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, is number 25.
Behavior Analysis in Practice (MEd)
91 percent of school profiles are passed Ratio: 20:1 In-state graduate tuition is $16,278 per year, while out-of-state is $29,178 per year. 6 points On-campus or online, the University of Washington College of Education provides a low-cost ABA MEd program. The two-year on-campus program consists of academics and a group practicum. In order to accommodate working professionals, courses are given in the evenings. Modern technology is used in the online curriculum to enable high-quality interaction between instructors and students. A small number of chances for supervision with BCBAs linked with universities are available to online students. The doctorate program in special education, ABA option allows students who want to continue their studies at the PhD level to do so.
#24 – Nashville, Tennessee’s Vanderbilt University
Program in Applied Behavior Analysis for Special Education (M.Ed.
94 percent of school profiles are passed Ratio: 7:1 average cost of graduate school: $50,082 per year 7 points optimum value The MEd-level ABA master’s program at Vanderbilt University consists of a BACBI-concentrated supervised fieldwork program and an ABAI-verified classroom sequence. courses consist of:
- administering services for ethical behavior analysis
- Management Techniques for Social and Academic Behavior
- Advanced Classroom Management Techniques
Students have the option to take elective classes to understand other ABA concepts that relate to their major emphasis area. Each student must complete a capstone project with a thesis, a case management project, or an academic or behavioral intervention emphasis.
Saint Cloud State University, in St. Cloud, Minnesota, is ranked number 23.
Applied Behavior Analysis MS Program
90 percent of school profiles are successful Ratio: 20:1 Average graduate tuition costs are $7,607 for in-state students and $11,780 for out-of-state students. Score: 7 St. Cloud A high-quality master’s in ABA is offered by State University and is accessible on-campus or online. PhD-level professors provide courses that include topics like:
- functional evaluation
- methods for community integration
- program assessment
The on-campus cohort program offers hands-on learning opportunities that prepare students for professional success. Faculty members assist students in publishing, presenting, and pursuing their professional objectives. Students may put their knowledge and abilities to use via opportunities with student groups, research, and internships.
California State University, ranked #22 Northridge – California’s Northridge
Science in Applied Behavior Analysis Master’s
Passing percentage: 92% Ratio: 27:1 Average graduate tuition costs are $16,680 for out-of-state students and $7,176 for residents. 7 points The top master’s program in applied behavior analysis at CSUN’s Tseng College emphasizes behavioral theory and real-world application in its curriculum. This two-year curriculum offers practical training in a number of clinical settings that have been provided by CSUN. Courses are delivered by professors with PhD degrees and cover topics like:
- developmentally-based psychopathology and ABA therapy
- Behavior is measured and experimentally evaluated.
- management of organizational behavior
The cohort concept enables students to remain with their classmates throughout the duration of the course. All courses have assured enrollment, which helps explain the excellent graduation rates. More than 90% of graduates claim to be employed in the ABA industry.
University of North Texas, Denton, Texas, is ranked 21.
Master of Arts in Behavior Analysis
94 percent of school profiles are passed Ratio: 26:1 Average graduate tuition costs are $13,712 for out-of-state students and $6,350 for residents. 7 points The University of North Texas’ affordable master’s in ABA program is a thorough curriculum that may be finished in just one year. The whole program is available online, and each semester all courses are provided. Courses available include:
- Collaboration and Effective Communication in Behavioral Practice
- Effective Evaluation in Behavioral Practice
- Basics and Methods of Compassionate and Successful Behavior Change
The program accepts new students at the beginning of each semester.
Boston, Massachusetts’s Cambridge College, ranked 20th.
Master of Education in Behavior Analysis and Autism
94% of school profiles are passed Ratio: 11:1 average cost of graduate school: $17,062 per year 8 points An autism-specific ABA program is offered at Cambridge College. The ABA course sequence and courses in autism/special education make up the two halves of the curriculum. On-campus and online courses are provided, as well as weekend and evening hours. courses that are needed include:
- Techniques for Collaboration and Consultation
- Integrity in ABA
- ASD from a Social and Psychological Perspective
Faculty members have a lot of expertise in leadership and clinical application, for example. To make it simple for them to apply what they have learned, students need to be actively engaged in an ABA therapy environment.
Temple University, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is ranked 19th.
Behavior Analysis in Practice (MSEd)
Passing percentage: 90% Ratio: 13:1 Average graduate tuition costs are $23,346 for out-of-state students and $16,956 for residents. 8 points At Temple University, the most inexpensive master’s in applied behavior analysis is an interdisciplinary program with a complimentary mix of psychology and education courses. Application to the program is open to both full-time and part-time students. Faculty members who have both high academic qualifications and real-world experience teach the program. Courses address topics such as:
- principles for education
- deficiencies in ability and conduct issues
- scientific method
Students acquire a broad range of abilities that enable them to design individualized programs, finish evaluations, and make adjustments as needed.
University of Texas, Austin, Texas, ranked 18th.
Master’s programs in autism and developmental disabilities
88 percent of school profiles are passed Ratio: 19:1 Average graduate tuition costs are $22,886 for out-of-state students and $12,028 for residents. 8 points Two ABA master’s degree programs at the University of Texas at Austin help students become BCBAs. Students working with people of all ages who have autism or other developmental problems get training via the curriculum for autism and developmental disabilities. The other ABA program is a BCBA-tracked early childhood special education program. Expert level faculty members who have knowledge in the subject area teach the courses. Students have access to research possibilities in fields like:
- the creation and assessment of assistive technology
- behavioural modifications
- transitions for students with impairments into post-secondary employment
Both tracks can be completed by full-time students in roughly a year.
#17: Queens, New York’s CUNY Queens College
Masters in Applied Behavior Analysis
86 percent of school profiles are passed Ratio: 16:1 Average graduate tuition costs are $20,520 for out-of-state students and $11,090 for residents. 8 points A very affordable ABA master’s program from Queens College equips students for an ABA profession. Through their involvement in research, students advance the discipline while learning how to interact with a range of people. Courses in the 30-credit program include:
- ABA Theory and Method
- The Ethics of Psychology
- Statistics for Psychologists
Students have the option of finishing an autism course or a course on autism therapy. All ABA students must complete a fieldwork project, however a thesis is not necessary. Students may pass a comprehensive test if they don’t want to pursue a thesis.
#16: University of the Pacific, located in Stockton, California
degree in behavioral psychology master’s
Passing percentage is 100% Ratio: 14:1 average annual graduate tuition: $48,904 9 points The University of the Pacific offers an affordable master’s program in behavioral psychology with a focus on ABA. The degree program was designed to equip students for careers as Board Certified Behavior Analysts or for doctoral-level study. courses that are needed include:
- Behavior Evaluation
- Behavior Modifications and Their Uses
- Disputed procedures in real-world settings
All students must submit a thesis. Independent study and a clinical internship are also options. Most students may complete their degree in two years by taking classes on-campus.
15th place: Regis College in Weston, Massachusetts
Science in Applied Behavior Analysis master’s degree (ABA)
Passing percentage is 100% Ratio: 9:1 average annual graduate tuition: $38,280 9 points The cost-effective master’s in applied behavior analysis program at Regis College provides the most recent ABA techniques to meet the particular requirements of people with behavioral difficulties. In order to improve their awareness of important ABA practices in the classroom, students will learn via active responding role-play, peer presentations, and practice a. To make the curriculum available to a wide range of students, it is offered both on-campus and online. By taking a variety of course types and progressing through the program one course at a time, students may maximize their learning. Students who seek more practical experience might choose an extra foreign service assignment.
#14: Baylor University, located in Waco, Texas
ABA-certified MA in Educational Psychology
Passing percentage is 100% Ratio: 13:1 average annual graduate tuition: $33,408 9 points Through its department in educational psychology, Baylor University provides a distinctive master’s in ABA. An MA in Educational Psychology with an emphasis in ABA is an option for those who are interested in a career in research or teaching. The MSEd in Educational Psychology with a specialization in ABA is an excellent option for those who love doing fieldwork. This residential program consists of a master’s thesis and 30 hours of study. courses consist of:
- Managing Programs for Behavior Change
- Challenging Conduct
- Teaching people with developmental disabilities and autism
Along with paid tuition, a monthly stipend, and professional experience, Baylor also provides financing options. The majority of students may finish their degrees within 18 to 24 months.
#13 Springfield, Massachusetts’ Western New England University
degree in applied behavior analysis, master of science
97 percent of school profiles are passed Ratio: 13:1 average cost of graduate school: $25,812 per year 9 points A thorough curriculum that prepares graduates to take the BCBA test is the Western New England University College of Arts and Sciences’ reasonably priced master’s in ABA. Faculty and employees at Western New England University may take advantage of this program thanks to a special collaboration between the university and the New England Center for Children. In the autumn, winter, and spring quarters, courses are available. Students should anticipate taking roughly three years to get their degrees. Throughout the program, doctoral-level instructors act as mentors for their students. Students finish a research thesis and receive important research experience.
#12 – Melbourne, Florida’s Florida Institute of Technology
Applied Behavior Analysis in MS
95 percent of school profiles are successful Ratio: 14:1 Graduate school costs on average $22,338 per year. 9 points A flexible schedule and a variety of school locations are available with Florida Tech’s best-value master’s in applied behavior program. On weekends as well as during the day, there are classes available. Both the Orlando Graduate Center and Florida Tech’s main campus offer classes. Professors engage closely with students one-on-one and are successful scholars and practitioners. At the Scott Center for Autism Treatment, participants acquire practical experience in disciplines including evaluation, training, and behavior treatment. Following graduation, students are prepared to take the BCBA test.
Western Michigan University, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, is ranked #11.
Behavior Analysis MA Program
93 percent of school profiles are passed Ratio: 16:1 In-state graduate tuition is $16,360 per year, while out-of-state graduate tuition is $30,432 per year. 9 points The Department of Psychology at Western Michigan University offers a reasonably priced master’s degree in behavior analysis. Students who complete this 37-credit program will get extensive ABA instruction. courses consist of:
- Professional and The Ethics of Psychology
- behavioural modifications
- Behavior Experimental Analysis
Either a master’s thesis or a master’s project may be completed by students. Opportunities for professional experience are made available through:
- unique projects
- independent analysis
- practice a
- college teaching internship
You may take an optional course to get further training in a specialty field.
Auburn University, in Auburn, Alabama, is ranked #10.
Applied Behavior Analysis Master of Science
Passing percentage is 100% Ratio: 20:1 In-state graduate tuition is $10,080 per year, while out-of-state is $30,240 per year. 9 points A low-cost master’s degree in ABA is available from Auburn University’s Department of Psychological Sciences. It covers all the curriculum and supervised practice required to take the BCBA test. The curriculum may be taken on-campus and takes roughly two years to finish. courses that are needed include:
- Behaviorism
- Professional and Ethical Concerns in Behavior Analysis
- Clinical Psychology and Drugs
All students complete practice a and a capstone project to gain valuable hands-on training. Graduates are prepared to work in:
- residential services,
- schools
- corrections for minors
- schools
#9: Florida State University, located in Panama City.
Applied Behavior Analysis Master’s
Pass rate for school profiles: 100 percent Ratio: 21:1 Average graduate tuition costs are $24,116 for out-of-state students and $9,684 for residents. 9 points A high-value ABA master’s degree is available at Florida State University in Panama City. It is a limited-access program with a BACB-verified curriculum and practicum. The thesis requirement is waived for the five-semester program. courses consist of:
- Autism and Behavior Analysis in Developmental Disabilities
- Education and Behavior Analysis
- In performance management and supervision, behavior analysis
Each student is required to pass a rigorous test and finish a professional portfolio that showcases a range of abilities.
NIU in Dekalb, Illinois, came in at number eight.
Specialization in Behavior Analysis for the MSEd in Special Education
Passing percentage: 90% Ratio: 15:1 Graduate school costs on average $8,858 per year. 9 points For educators who desire to become experts in ABA, the Department of Special and Early Education at Northern Illinois University offers a reasonably priced master’s degree in ABA. The ABAI validated course sequence in ABA is part of the curriculum, along with classes like:
- For behavior analysts, professional ethics are important.
- Teaching Students with Emotional and Behavioral Disorders: Challenges and Trends
- Supporting and Working with Families of Young Children with Special Needs and Disabilities
Ninety percent of graduates who take the BCBA test pass it. Additionally, according to NIU, 90% of alumni find work in their profession within a year after graduation.
California State University Sacramento, ranked seventh, is located in Sacramento.
master’s degree in ABA
Pass rate for school profiles: 100 percent Ratio: 26:1 Average graduate tuition costs are $16,680 for out-of-state students and $7,176 for residents. 9 points The Sacramento State University College of Social Sciences and Interdisciplinary Studies offers a reasonably priced ABA master’s degree that equips graduates to work in a range of settings, including agencies and schools. In the region’s cutting-edge facilities, students have the opportunity to take part in research projects. courses that are needed include:
- Evaluation and treatment of behavioral issues
- Expertise-Related Concerns in Applied Behavior Analysis
- Employer-Applied Behavior Analysis
By joining the Student Association for Applied Behavior Analysis, students may network, go to conferences, and hear from guest speakers.
Klamath Falls, Oregon’s Oregon Institute of Technology is ranked sixth.
Applied Behavior Analysis M.S.
Passing percentage is 100% Ratio: 16:1 Graduate tuition is typically $21,341 for out-of-state students and $12,713 for in-state students. 10 points The sole master’s program in applied behavior analysis in Oregon is offered by Oregon Institute of Technology. Both Klamath Falls and Portland-Metro campuses provide on-campus instruction, and courses may also be taken online through synchronous videoconferencing. The curriculum includes the practicum placement and BCBA course sequence needed to take the test. Students may feel secure in the fact that they are receiving the professional training necessary for success in the area since the practicum is a paid employment with accredited ABA organizations. Graduates may work in a range of environments, including:
- homes
- clinics
- social assistance.
James Madison University, in Harrisonburg, Virginia, is ranked fifth.
Master of Psychological Sciences with a Behavior Analysis Concentration
Pass rate for school profiles: 100 percent Ratio: 16:1 In-state graduate tuition is $10,848 per year, while out-of-state is $27,888 per year. 10 points The psychological sciences program at James Madison University offers a high-value master’s in applied behavior analysis as a concentration. Students may seek BCBA certification or prepare for further doctorate studies via this program. The 36 credit program consists of the following:
- Behavior Evaluation
- Behavioral Instructional Techniques
- Professional advancement and ethics in ABA
Program requirements include both a practicum and a thesis. Several locations, including regional public school systems, JMU clinics, and the Virginia Institute of Autism, are available for the practicum. Through regular concentration sessions with academics, students remain up to date on the most recent ABA research and professional challenges. Additionally, participation in local, regional, and national groups that advance the study of ABA is encouraged for students.
Jacksonville State University in Jacksonville, Alabama, is ranked fourth.
Applied Behavior Analysis M.S.
Pass rate for school profiles: 100 percent Ratio: 18:1 Average graduate tuition costs are $19,200 for out-of-state students and $9,600 for residents. 10 points The School of Human Services and Social Sciences at Jacksonville State University offers a reasonably priced master’s degree in applied behavior analysis. There are two types of programs available: thesis and non-thesis. Students not completing theses must pass a thorough test. courses consist of:
- Functional Evaluation
- Management and Supervision of Personnel
- Professional Development and Morality
Practicum and independent analysis opportunities are available, providing necessary training and field experience. Most students can complete their degree in about two years of full-time study.
Houston, Texas’ University of Houston-Clear Lake is ranked third.
Behavior Analysis MA
Pass rate for school profiles: 100 percent Ratio: 17:1 In-state graduate tuition is $7,920 per year, while out-of-state is $17,568 per year. 10 points A behavior analysis MA is available from the University of Houston Clear Lake for those who desire to mentor and support people with developmental impairments. In ABA, students obtain a solid academic foundation while honing their professional abilities via hands-on training and study. courses consist of:
- Behavior Evaluation
- Psychedelic Substances
- Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies
Instances like the Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities or another of UHCL’s neighborhood partners provide practical training.
Utah State University, in Logan, is ranked second.
Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) coursework for the M.S.
Passing percentage is 100% Ratio: 19:1 Average graduate tuition costs are $21,575 for out-of-state students and $6,164 for residents. 10 points A three-year MS is available from Utah State University’s Department of Special Education and Rehabilitation Counseling to students who want to become behavior specialists. The course work required to take the BCBA test is part of the program. courses consist of:
- Change/Supervision of Systems
- Special Education Legal Issues
- Principles of Professional Conduct
Students will only need to visit school to conduct their proposal meeting and final defense since courses are given online. The nighttime hours include live, interactive classes. For the autumn semester, new students are accepted.
Wilmington, North Carolina’s University of North Carolina is ranked first.
Applied Behavior Analysis is a clinical focus for the Master of Arts in Psychology
School Profile Pass Rate: 100% Ratio: 18:1 Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $4,719/year in-state and $18,548/year out-of-state Points: 10 The University of North Carolina Wilmington features our top choice for a high value master’s in ABA. Students will gain a strong foundation in the conceptual and methodological principles of ABA while following a data-driven approach to Behavior Evaluation. The program focuses on ABA services for individuals with development disabilities. Most students can complete their degree in about two and a half years. Students complete:
- a research internship
- a practical application
- a thesis based on data
Students start a six-month/1,000-hour internship after finishing their academic and research requirements.
Highlighted Rankings
Filed under: ABA Master’s Programs with Accreditation
The “applied behavior analysis programs near me” is a list of the top 25 best applied behavior analysis programs for 2021. This includes information on what the program does, how much it costs and where you can find them.
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Janice is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She graduated from the University of British Columbia with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Special Education. She also holds a Master of Science in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) from Queen’s University, Belfast. She has worked with and case managed children and youth with autism and other intellectual and/or developmental disabilities in home and residential setting since 2013.