Program Overview

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Overview of the Online Master of Arts in Special Education – Applied Behavior Analysis

The Online Master of Arts in Special Education with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of ABA. This program explores how ABA can be used to promote learning, increase independence, and enhance quality of life. Courses are verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International and can prepare students to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) exam.

Program Details

• Total classes: 10
• Weeks per class: 7.5
• Total credit hours: 30
• Next start date: 01/12/2026

Program Description

This program helps students apply the science of behavior to assist individuals across diverse settings. Students will learn how to encourage socially significant growth, foster autonomy, and enhance daily experiences. As an ABA practitioner, the approach will be tailored to each person or situation, with the overall goal of promoting learning and reinforcing helpful behaviors and skills.

Career Paths

The demand for ABA professionals continues to grow. Upon graduating, students will be prepared for roles in education, behavioral consulting, program management, social services, and more. Career paths may include:

• ABA therapist
• Behavior specialist
• Board certified behavior analyst
• Clinical director
• Consultant
• Early interventionist
• Educator
• Researcher

Program Recognition and Professional Licensure and Certification

• Program recognition: ASU's ABA program curriculum meets the Association for Behavior Analysis International verified course sequence requirements to qualify to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) exam.
• Professional licensure and certification: ASU's academic programs that prepare students for professional licensure or certification are designed to meet Arizona's requirements. Completing an ASU program may not fulfill educational requirements for licensure or certification in other states.

Application Requirements

• Graduate admission application and application fee
• One letter of recommendation
• Official transcripts
• Personal statement
• Up-to-date curriculum vitae or resume

Additional Admission Information

• An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency.
• The letters of recommendation should be from individuals who can speak to the applicant's potential for success in a graduate program.
• The personal statement should describe the applicant's interests and reason for seeking this degree.
• GRE scores are not required for admission.

International Applicants

This Master of Arts in special education with a concentration in applied behavior analysis is only one component of earning the U.S./Canada-specific BCBA designation. Earning this degree does not automatically lead to eligibility for BCBA certification.

Course Details

Core Courses

• Assessment and Intervention Programming for Skill Acquisition
• Concepts and Principles of Applied Behavior Analysis
• Ethics of Applied Behavior Analysis
• Functional Behavior Assessment and Behavior Change Procedures
• Fundamentals of Organizational Behavior Management
• Measurement, Data Display, Interpretation and Experimental Design
• Philosophical Foundations of Applied Behavior Analysis in Educational Settings

Elective Courses

• ABA and Artificial Intelligence: Ethical Application

Faculty and Research

The Mary Lou Fulton College for Teaching and Learning Innovation faculty draws from a range of academic disciplines, including cognitive science, psychology, and economics. They seek to answer questions about the process of learning, teaching practices, and effects of education policy.

Tuition and Financial Aid

• Tuition calculator: Available to estimate full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid.
• Financial aid: Most students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs.

Accreditation and Rankings

• Accreditation: ASU's academic programs are designed to meet Arizona's requirements.
• Rankings: Mary Lou Fulton College for Teaching and Learning Innovation has been recognized with peer-reviewed honors from U.S. News & World Report.