Program Overview

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Online M.Ed. in Special Education - Applied Behavior Analysis Emphasis

The University of Utah’s online Professional Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Special Education with a focus on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) gives you the tools to enhance the quality of life for those you serve.

Program Overview

Through asynchronous coursework, UOnline’s ABA program prepares you for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA) exam and for becoming a knowledgeable, ethical professional who applies behavioral principles to create meaningful change.

Credits Required

• 32 credits

Tuition

• $620.25 per credit hour
• Effective Fall 2025, subject to change without notice

Learning Format

• Online

Start Terms

• Fall

Why Choose UOnline’s Master’s in Special Education?

Our faculty, with extensive experience in both educational and clinical settings, guide you through the latest practices in behavior analysis. You learn to design effective interventions across various settings—from schools to private clinics—helping individuals of all ages. Weekly touchpoints with the program director ensure you receive personalized guidance during the program. Additionally, you move through courses with a cohort of peers, building a professional network that enhances collaboration and growth.

Application Deadlines

• Fall 2025 Admission: April 1

Special Education Program Overview

At the University of Utah, our courses combine the flexibility of online teaching with the advantages and direct engagement of traditional teaching. Enjoy the benefit of studying online at your own pace while still engaging with classmates and instructors. This flexible way of teaching improves your overall experience and your ability to retain what you learn.

Interactive Learning

• Group assignments, where you will collaborate with peers to learn relevant skills via hands-on learning opportunities.
• Contributions to dynamic discussion forums, where you will be in direct communication with faculty and peers.
• Peer reviews, where you and your colleagues will support each other’s learning while also growing your own clinical and analytic skills.

Staying Connected

• Communicate directly with the instructor via email, discussion boards, and via Zoom.
• Participate in and guide online discussions.
• Attend online office hours virtually from the comfort of your home.
• Some course instructors may also be available for in-person office hours for students on or near our Salt Lake City campus.

Our Mission

The mission of the University of Utah’s online ABA program is to support the professional development of behavior analysts who are skilled, knowledgeable, compassionate, and ethical through high-quality training and mentorship.

Degree Type

• Professional Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Special Education with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis from the College of Education.

Degree Prerequisites

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited university with a minimum 3.0 cumulative undergraduate GPA.
• Related human service experience (paid or volunteer) is strongly recommended prior to applying.

Degree Requirements

• The University of Utah’s online ABA program is a full-time, two-year program requiring 32 graduate credits.
• To graduate, you must fulfill the following degree requirements:
  • Earn a grade of "C" or higher in all coursework
  • Complete four semesters of supervised practicum experience
  • Submit a Thesis Equivalent Project

ABA Coursework Sequence

Course	Credit Hours
Year 1 Fall Semester
SPED 6805	Principles of Behavior	3
SPED 6815	Applied Behavioral Analysis I	3
SPED 6960	Practicum I	1
Year 1 Spring Semester
SPED 6825	Applied Behavioral Analysis II	3
SPED 6835	Research Methods in Applied Behavior Analysis	3
SPED 6845	Consultation and Supervision in Applied Settings	3
SPED 6960	Practicum II	1
Year 2 Fall Semester
SPED 6830	Ethics in Applied Behavior Analysis	3
SPED 6865	Theory and Philosophy of Behavior	3
SPED 6875	Experiential Learning in Applied Behavior Analysis I	3
Year 2 Spring Semester
SPED 6855	The Experimental Analysis of Behavior	3
SPED 6876	Experiential Learning in Applied Behavior Analysis II	3

Other Program Requirements

• All graduate students must be registered for at least one course from the time of formal admissions through completion of all requirements for the degree they are seeking, unless granted an official leave of absence.
• Students not on campus and not using University facilities are not expected to register for summer term.
• Students are expected to complete their master’s program within four years from the time they matriculate.
• Previous graduate work may be applied to the requirements of the program if (a) approved by the student’s advisor, and (b) consistent with accreditation standards.

Tuition & Scholarships

• UOnline’s master’s in special education degree program has a tuition rate of $620.25 per credit hour.
• Tuition is subject to change without notice.
• Use our tuition estimator to review program costs.
• Tuition does not include additional fees such as online textbooks or proctored exams.
• Fees and materials vary by program.

Program Application

• Start your application for UOnline’s master’s in special education degree—submit the following materials:
  • Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended
  • Three professional and/or academic letters of recommendation
  • Statement of purpose
  • Résumé
• Note: Standardized test scores are not required to apply.

Career Outcomes

A master’s in special education with an emphasis in ABA opens doors to various career paths, particularly as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. BCBAs typically work with individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, mental health challenges, and other behavioral issues in schools, private clinics, or nonprofit centers.

The Role of a BCBA

BCBAs use evidence-based behavioral interventions to improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities across various settings. They design and implement behavior modification plans, monitor progress, and collaborate with caregivers, educators, and specialists to help individuals reach their full potential.

Subfields of ABA

While ABA professionals are best known for supporting individuals with disabilities, the field offers diverse career opportunities across educational and community settings. Career paths for BCBAs continue to expand, giving graduates the ability to specialize in:

• Brain injury rehabilitation
• Child welfare
• Human resources
• Organizational behavior management
• Public policy and advocacy
• Sports and fitness

Job Market

• According to the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), the national demand for BCBAs has increased yearly since 2010, with a 14% increase from 2022 to 2023.
• The BACB reported 65,366 new jobs for behavior analysts in 2023.
• In 2023, the BACB shared that the University of Utah had an 89% pass rate for the BCBA certification.