A master’s in psychology with an ABA concentration qualifies you for BCBA certification when the program includes ABAI-accredited or ABAI-recognized coursework or an existing BACB Verified Course Sequence. These programs blend core psychological theory with applied behavior analytic coursework, preparing graduates for behavior analytic practice and doctoral study.
We’ve searched, studied, and scrutinized graduate schools from coast to coast to build this list of the best master’s in psychology with ABA concentration options available today.
Maybe you’re working toward BCBA certification and want a master’s in psychology as your terminal degree. Maybe you’re treating a psychology master’s as a stepping stone to a PsyD or PhD. Either way, concentrating your studies in applied behavior analysis opens the door to a wide range of options in behavioral psychology, and the programs here are built to get you there.
For your degree to open the door to BCBA certification requirements through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), it needs to meet a specific set of curriculum requirements. The most straightforward path is choosing a master’s program that includes either ABAI accreditation, ABAI recognition, or the BACB’s Verified Course Sequence (VCS). That’s exactly what you’ll find on this list: master’s degrees in psychology that include an ABA track or concentration, all meeting BACB education requirements for BCBA certification.
You can always take the required behavior analysis courses through a standalone certificate program after earning your degree. But the right master’s program lets you knock it all out together.
Why a Psychology Foundation Gives You an Edge
A decade ago, it was common to find psychology programs that simply tacked a Verified Course Sequence onto an existing degree to serve the occasional student pursuing BCBA certification. Dedicated ABA programs were rare, and demand for ABA practitioners was modest compared to today.
That’s changed significantly. ABA has grown fast, driven by rising rates of autism spectrum disorder diagnosis and growing recognition of how behavior analysis applies across populations and settings. Many universities have since spun their ABA tracks into dedicated ABA master’s programs.
Still, the psychology roots of these programs offer something worth considering. You can expect broader exposure to core psychological principles, assessment techniques, and treatment approaches than a purely behavioral program typically provides. In some states, a degree in psychology also opens licensure pathways that an ABA-only program doesn’t.
What Makes These Degrees Distinct
ABA itself grows out of one of the most influential concepts in modern psychology: behaviorism. Applied uses are the day-to-day work of BCBAs, but the theory behind them matters too.
Psychology-rooted programs tend to give you a broader view of that theoretical framework. You’ll spend more time with the foundational research behind behavior analysis, including the contributions of Skinner, Watson, and Pavlov, and you’ll come away with a deeper understanding of where ABA sits within the larger field of psychology.
You’re also likely to encounter faculty with more varied perspectives on ABA, including its place alongside other evidence-based approaches. That’s not something you need for BCBA certification. But as you bring behavior analysis to bear on different kinds of problems across different populations, it can shape how you think and strengthen your practice.
There’s also a practical angle. An MS in behavioral psychology that includes ABA coursework gives you credentials that cross multiple professional worlds. Some positions require a psychology degree for state licensure. A psychology master’s that includes the VCS or ABAI-aligned coursework gives you access to both the BCBA credential and psychology-specific licensure options, depending on your state.
VCS, ABAI Accreditation, and What the Transition Means for You
The Verified Course Sequence has been the standard for confirming that a master’s program meets BACB curriculum requirements for BCBA certification. Faculty appointed as VCS Coordinators attest directly to the BACB that all requirements are in place. It’s a system that’s been in place for years, and it works.
But parts of the legacy VCS system ended on December 31, 2025. The BACB and ABAI have moved toward a more comprehensive accreditation model, one that evaluates overall program quality, faculty credentials, and field experience alongside curriculum. That’s what you get from programs accredited or recognized by ABAI, and soon APBA (Association of Professional Behavior Analysts).
Here’s what that means in practical terms:
Programs that already have ABAI accreditation or recognition meet the highest current standard. ABAI continues to expand the number of accredited programs each year. ABAI has also granted recognized status to programs that are eligible for accreditation or actively working through the process. Recognized programs generally meet BACB coursework requirements and are often in the process of pursuing full accreditation.
Programs that have an existing VCS are still valid for current and incoming students. VCS Coordinators at those schools continue to attest to the BACB that curriculum requirements are met, and that process remains sufficient for certification. No new programs will be added to the VCS system, and schools are being strongly encouraged to pursue accreditation. The field is moving toward requiring accredited programs for BCBA eligibility in the coming years.
Every program on this list meets the current education requirements for BCBA certification, either through ABAI accreditation, ABAI recognition, or an active VCS.
How We Selected These Programs
Starting with nearly 50 graduate schools offering BACB-approved coursework within a psychology department, we identified 23 programs that stand out from the rest. The baseline for consideration:
- Degree offered as an MA or MS in psychology, meeting BACB degree requirements for BCBA certification
- Includes ABAI accreditation, ABAI recognition, or an active BACB-approved Verified Course Sequence
- Annual graduate tuition is in line with the national average for public institutions, adjusted for location
- Student-to-faculty ratio better than 30:1
- Demonstrated BCBA exam outcomes where available
Top Master’s in Psychology Programs with an ABA Concentration
These programs were hand-selected by our editorial staff. We believe the qualities that make a program truly exceptional for students can’t be reduced to a single score or formula, so no ranking algorithm was used here. These are our top picks based on a thoughtful review of what students tell us matters most: curriculum depth, faculty expertise, fieldwork support, flexibility, and value.
Each program offers something distinct. All come with our strong recommendation. We make these recommendations independently and without compensation, as a matter of editorial integrity.
ALABAMA
Jacksonville State University (public)
College of Social and Behavioral Sciences
Jacksonville, AL
Website
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis (on-campus)
Estimated Cost per academic year (tuition + fees): $16,692
Student to faculty ratio: 1.4 to 1
Credits to complete: 39
Also offers:
- Applied Behavior Analysis Minor
- Program is fully accredited by ABAI
- Coursework in experimental behavior analysis gets back to some of the essential psychology behind ABA
- Current research from both the fields of ABA and psychology come up frequently as discussion points in class
- Faculty research projects involve students in current explorations of the limits of behavior analysis research
- Human and animal research facilities on campus are open to students for further exploration and analysis
As a core offering from the Department of Psychology, the roots of this one-time ABA specialization within a psych degree turned full ABA program are still apparent. The strong science-based curriculum and ties to basic psychological principles and research methods remains key to your education at JSU. With critical thinking and professional skill building in ABA stacked on to that foundation, and full ABAI accreditation backing it up, you can count on this degree to deliver fundamentals with a real behavioral emphasis.
CALIFORNIA
California State University – Los Angeles (public)
Department of Special Education and Counseling
Los Angeles, CA
Website
Master of Science Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis (on-campus)
Estimated Cost per academic year (tuition + fees): $17,368
Student to faculty ratio: 13 to 1
Credits to complete: 52
Also offers:
- Master of Arts in Psychology
- Educational Specialist in Psychology
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
- Minor in Psychology
- Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
- Graduates have an excellent 88% pass rate on the BCBA® examination
- Students work closely with mentors through their final experimental thesis project
- Around a quarter of ABA grads from the program choose to go on to doctoral-level studies
- Both students and faculty are regular presenters at state and national conferences and publish in industry-leading journals
- Hands-on experience with the on-campus ABA services provides easy access to needed practicum hours with the Central Vally Regional Center, local schools, and residential facilities
Rigor and an empirical focus are the strong underpinnings that this former MA in Psych program comes to life as a full Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis. Students can lean on advanced research in ABA taking place here, along with other exciting projects in school psychology, cognitive psychology, or developmental psychology that have close ties to behavioral studies.
California State University – Sacramento (public)
College of Social Sciences and Interdisciplinary Studies
Sacramento, CA
Website
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis (on-campus)
Estimated Cost per academic year (tuition + fees): $13,360
Student to faculty ratio: 21 to 1
Credits to complete: 40/42
Also offers:
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology
- Master of Science in Psychological Research
- Master of Science in Industrial-Organizational Psychology
- Minor in Psychology
- Certificate in Behavior Analysis
- Learn to think critically about behavioral processes across populations and practice areas
- Both research and clinical practicum training are available with various off-campus agencies focused on autism interventions
- The school hosts the Student Association for Applied Behavior Analysis to provide networking and conference opportunities
- The campus Psychological Services Center offers superb observational and learning support through audio and video recording equipment and facilities for working with children
- The Prospects Peer Mentoring and Advising program offers support as you plan your academic and professional career paths
The fact that CSUS also plays host to graduate programs in psychological research and I-O psychology tell you a lot about the commitment to having students participate in and understand basic research fueling all types of psychological studies. These are areas that work to reinforce the already-strong ABA program at the school as well. Strong interdisciplinary connection are fostered through the Annual Psychology Department Research Conference to showcase breakthroughs and offer professional development opportunities for students.
California State University – Stanislaus (public)
School of Human Services and Social Sciences
Stanislaus, CA
Website
Master of Science in Psychology, Marriage and Family Therapy Concentration, Behavior Analysis Track
Estimated Cost per academic year (tuition + fees): $16,120
Student to faculty ratio: 16 to 1
Credits to complete: 40
Also offers:
- Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis
- Master of Arts in Psychology
- Master of Science in Psychology, Marriage and Family Therapy Concentration, Counseling Track
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
- Minor in Psychology
- Students graduating from CSU-Stan have an 86% pass rate on the BCBA® exam
- Close mentoring is delivered by faculty who have extensive experience in behavior analysis
- Learn essential counseling skills from the MFT tradition as well as advanced ABA techniques
- Campus facilities include an animal research facility demonstrating experimental analysis of pigeon behavior
- Meets California Board of Behavioral Sciences Requirements to be eligible for MFT licensure as well as BCAB certification
With an active approach to learning, the MS program at CSU-Stanislaus takes the scientist-practitioner model seriously. You’ll absorb your lessons through active integration of research as well as theory and practice in the behavior analytic approach to MFT. With an on-campus ABA master’s program as well, you can be sure that you are getting exposure to the latest in research and investigation in that field on top of excellence in MFT concepts and techniques.
Pepperdine University (private)
Graduate School of Education & Psychology
Los Angeles, CA
Website
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis (on-campus, online)
Estimated Cost per academic year (tuition + fees): $46,950
Student to faculty ratio: 13 to 1
Credits to complete: 30
Also offers:
- Master of Arts in Psychology
- Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology
- Better than average BCBA® exam pass rates demonstrate the capabilities that Pepperdine gives every student
- Passionate and committed faculty members are both accomplished academics and high-level ABA practitioners
- Online courses are available on mobile or desktop devices
- Over 20,000 alumni create a tremendous network for new graduates to tap into
- Placement specialists assist online students in lining up local clinical training opportunities in line with their goals
- Coursework also covers applications of ABA in organizational behavior management
- The practitioner-scholar model exposes you to individuals from diverse backgrounds with a variety of rehab, educational, and residential facility placements at more than 50 practicum sites for on-campus students
- One of the highest-ranked universities by a variety of national publications including S. News & World Report
- Classes are offered in the evening to accommodate working professionals
As a top-tier ABA master’s degree from a top-tier university, the Pepperdine MS delivers capability with the flexibility of either online or on-campus studies. The more general psychology roots of the program emerge through an emphasis on clinical casework and adjunct instruction in organizational behavior management. In a state with the highest demand for behavior analysts in the country, this is one of the best places to get your training.
University of the Pacific (private)
Department of Psychology
Stockton, CA
Website
Master of Arts in Behavioral Psychology (on-campus)
Estimated Cost per academic year (tuition + fees): $52,620
Student to faculty ratio: 14 to 1
Credits to complete: 30
Also offers:
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology
- Choose an emphasis in either applied behavior analysis or doctoral preparation in behavioral analysis, behavioral psychology, or related fields
- Complete your degree in two to three years with flexible scheduling
- Find practicum placements in settings like Community Re-Entry, Stockton Unified School District, or the Valley Mountain Regional Center.
UP’s mission is to train up both scientists and clinicians using a proven scientist-practitioner model. Because the two-track program caters to students both pursuing ABA credentials immediately and those intending to go on to more advanced doctoral studies, you’ll be getting a custom tailored combination of theoretical and practical training aligned with your goals.
FLORIDA
Florida State University (public)
College of Arts and Sciences
Panama City, FL
Website
Master of Science Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis (on-campus)
Estimated Cost per academic year (tuition + fees): $17,316
Student to faculty ratio: 7.5 to 1
Credits to complete: 39
Also offers:
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology
- Degree is accredited by ABAI
- Graduates have a 95% pass rate on the BCBA® exam
- Program offered simultaneously in Panama City and Tallahassee
- Faculty and students are connected live for the same great content at both campuses
- Students may receive paid assistantships with approved agencies
- Limited access program students get a tuition waiver
- GRE not required for admission
- Extensive field placement options include the Panama City campus Early Childhood Autism Program
FSU brings home some of the highest pass rates not just in Florida, but across the country, when it comes to graduates taking the BCBA® exam. As a long-time leader in the field when it comes to behavioral research, many professors are regularly published in top industry journals. As part of a department that also includes stellar doctoral programs in cognitive, neuroscience, social, developmental, and clinical psychology, you’ll be surrounded by the best and the brightest to push your own skills higher.
Nova Southeastern University (private)
College of Psychology
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Website
Master of Science in Counseling, Applied Behavior Analysis Concentration (online)
Estimated Cost per academic year (tuition + fees): $49,950
Student to faculty ratio: 17 to 1
Credits to complete: 54
Also offers:
- Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology
- Master of Science in Forensic Psychology
- Master of Science in Experimental Psychology
- Master of Science in General Psychology
- School Psychology Specialist (PsyS)
- Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology (PsyD/PhD)
- Doctor of Psychology in School Psychology (PsyD)
- Minor in Applied Behavior Analysis
- Minor in Neuroscience
- Minor in Forensic Studies
- Minor in Psychology
- Minor in Psychology for Health Sciences
- Learn alongside future school and other professional counselors for a broader view of the profession than comes in most ABA degrees
- Integrated training, research, and service lead to seamless gains in practical skills and theory
- The school has 15 on-site psychology clinics treating a diverse South Florida population
- Expert educators have earned international recognition in their fields of practice
- NSU graduates enjoy a diverse range of employment settings, from law firms to healthcare to government and corporate HR positions in addition to traditional counseling jobs
Combining a traditional counseling education with the technical skills of ABA isn’t something that many schools can effectively manage, but NSU Florida has you covered here. Developing a strong skill in diagnosing psychopathologies and assessing career and lifestyle factors comes together with new behavioral interventions that give you a broad skillset to help individuals and groups in every stage of life with any sort of difficulty.
University of Miami (private)
Department of Psychology
Coral Gables, FL
Website
Master of Science in Psychology – Applied Behavior Analysis (on-campus)
Estimated Cost per academic year (tuition + fees): $#
Student to faculty ratio: 11 to 1
Also offers:
- Bachelor of Arts/Sciences in Psychology
- Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience
- PhD in Clinical Psychology
- PhD in Psychological Sciences
- Graduates from the program enjoy a 63% first-time pass rate on the BCBA® exam
- Clinical practicum work is performed at the well-respected on-campus Intensive Behavior Intervention Services Clinic
- Program runs on a cohort model with small groups on the same track throughout their course of instruction
- Ranks among the top schools in the nation for funding support from the National Institute of Health for psychology departments
- The Autism Spectrum Assessment Clinic and Child and Adolescent Mood and Anxiety Treatment Clinic provide on-campus locations to hone your specific skills with ASD patients and kids
- The Behavioral Medicine Research Center offers a shot at interdisciplinary research engagement during your studies
- Active faculty research projects cover adults, children, and cognitive and behavioral neuroscience investigations across the lifespan
- The school is considered a world leader in autism research and support, with more than 17,000 families in South Florida alone receiving assistance each year
A solid blend of academic instruction, research, hands-on work with the amazingly diverse Miami-area population, and community service characterize this degree program. Although this is an MS in Psychology, it’s the only specialization available at UMiami at the master’s level, so you can see exactly where the school’s focus is. However, with highly-respected doctoral training in clinical and research psychology, you also benefit from the advanced core knowledge and research programs that faculty here engage in.
INDIANA
Purdue University Global (public)
West Lafayette, IN
Website
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis (online)
Estimated Cost per academic year (tuition + fees): $18,900
Student to faculty ratio: 25 to 1
Credits to complete: 30
Also offers:
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology (ABA concentration available)
- Master of Science in Psychology
- ABA Post-baccalaureate Certificate
- Postgraduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
- An average completion time of only one year makes this program a fast-track option
- Fieldwork can be completed in your current workplace or with the hundreds of national partner programs cultivated at Purdue
- Develop expertise in assessment, intervention, and evidence-based practice along with strong ethical and cultural skills
- Capstone experience includes specific BCBA® exam prep certification
- The online graduate resource center and ABA student site provide a wealth of resources to make your education smoother
- The school offers generous transfer credit policies and accepts prior military training experience for credit
- Almost all faculty hold advanced degrees, and more than half hold doctorates in their field
- Faculty have published almost 500 articles in professional journals over the past year
As an expressly online university, you don’t have to worry about any hiccups or glitches in your course experience as a remote student. Purdue has all the issues ironed out, with excellent support, streaming, and interactive service platforms. In addition to the flexibility you enjoy as part of the package here, the school also has a reputation for delivering excellent training at a relatively low-cost, showing you all the benefits of a virtual campus with low overhead.
LOUISIANA
McNeese State University (public)
Department of Psychology
Lake Charles, LA
Website
Master of Arts in Psychology with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis (on-campus)
Estimated Cost per academic year (tuition + fees): $26,158
Student to faculty ratio: 4.5 to 1
Credits to complete: 58
Also offers:
- Master of Arts in Psychology with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis (online—not accredited by ABAI)
- Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology
- You won’t find any better track record than the 100% pass rate on the BCBA® exam that McNeese graduates enjoy
- Program accredited by ABAI
- Select students may receive a merit-based graduate assistantship
- Coursework is led by BACB-approved faculty who have extensive experience and academic expertise
- MAP, the McNeese Autism Program, offers a community connection allowing students to gain practical experience helping local families with ASD kids
The fact that McNeese graduates have a perfect 100% pass rate on the BCBA® exam tells you everything you need to know about the quality of this excellent Louisiana program. The fact that the school also runs the McNeese Autism Program to support local patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder tells you what you want to know about the commitment and heart that your education will come with. Expert instructors and a commitment to making sure every student absorbs the material is what you can expect when enrolling here.
MASSACHUSETTS
Northeastern University (private)
Bouvé College of Health Sciences
Boston, MA
Website
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis (online, hybrid)
Estimated Cost per academic year (tuition + fees): $43,170
Student to faculty ratio: 16 to 1
Credits to complete: 30
Also offers:
- Master of Science in Applied Psychology
- Master of Science in Counseling Psychology
- Master of Science in School Psychology
- Students have a nearly 70% pass rate on the BCBA® exam
- Also offered in a hybrid program package at a campus in Charlotte, NC
- Online courses are supported by cutting-edge technology and offer flexible scheduling for working professionals
- Optional synchronous course meetings can deliver more real-time interaction with professors
- Option to complete required experience through either supervised fieldwork courses at the university or on your own
- A professional portfolio capstone demonstrates your competencies as developed throughout the program
- Alumni have gone on to illustrious positions supervising autism programs in public schools, working through private clinics, or in the healthcare system at hospitals
With ABA instruction on the menu at Northeastern since 1976, you have a strong institutional background and excellent base of research to build your training on. Learn both teaching and intervention skills from world class instructors, most of which are qualified with BCBA-D® doctoral certifications. The flexibility here is the big draw, allowing you to attend class synchronously or asynchronously, while also giving you the option to complete supervised fieldwork either arranged by the university or on your own.
University of Massachusetts Dartmouth (public)
Department of Psychology
Dartmouth, MA
Website
Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology – Behavior Specialty (hybrid)
Estimated Cost per academic year (tuition + fees): $24,840
Student to faculty ratio: 15 to 1
Credits to complete: 36
Also offers:
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
- Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology
- Master of Arts in Research Psychology
- Behavior Analyst Post-Masters Certificate
- Graduates nail the BCBA® exam with 100% pass rates
- Offered on a part-time basis for working professionals
- Learn from doctorally-qualified faculty with a range of research interests in severe behavior disorders, emotion communication, and treatment integrity
- Practicum settings can include clinics, hospitals, residential treatment centers, public schools, and community agencies
- Practicum can also be structured to be performed in your current job setting if you work in a suitable position
- Ranked among the Best Colleges for Psychology Programs in the United States for 2025 by S. News & World Report
If you’re looking for a program in the Northeast that puts ABA training squarely in the theoretical framework of the larger field of psychology, UMassD is the place for you. With a regionally respected set of MA degrees in psychology, the behavior specialty tacks on extensive, ABAI-approved course on to a program whose faculty are devoted to unlocking the mysteries of the mind. A broad spectrum of research opportunities and flexible practicum placements make this a good bet no matter what your area of interest in ABA.
MICHIGAN
Michigan School of Psychology (private)
Farmington Hills, MI
Website
Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology – Applied Behavior Analysis Concentration (on campus)
Estimated Cost per academic year (tuition + fees): $41,418
Student to faculty ratio: 7.3 to 1
Credits to complete: 54
Also offers:
- Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
- Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology (PsyD)
- Integrates core psychology skills with emerging skills and perspectives around ABA
- Incorporate visualization into your research processes and evaluations of data
- Academic Writing Support tutors assist students in adopting a required scholarly style in projects and reports
- The school’s Career Services team both puts up job postings and puts on an annual career fair to help students find job placements
MSP puts an emphasis on both professional development and personal growth in all their programs. That’s a huge advantage to your ABA studies that incorporate experiential learning and self-exploration with your top-notch psychological instruction. Rich human interaction and collaboration characterize the average student experience here. You’ll get the kind of support and encouragement you need to get through the rigorous academic and clinical environment.
North Michigan University (public)
Department of Psychological Science
Marquette, MI
Website
Master of Science in Psychology with Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis(on campus)
Estimated Cost per academic year (tuition + fees): $22,496
Student to faculty ratio: 18 to 1
Credits to complete: 32
Also offers:
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology
- Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience
- Minor in Psychology
- Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
- Graduates from the school have a pass rate of 83% on the BCBA® exam
- Courses taken toward your ABA certificate can also count toward the main degree track
- The campus BEAR (Behavior Education Assessment and Research) center offers research and practical hands-on experience for students
- NMU offers numerous other research opportunities on high-level projects unlocking new psychological data
Students here pursuing ABA certification stack the school’s existing certificate in ABA coursework onto the MS curriculum to walk away with a thorough grounding in psychological science along with all the educational requirements for BCBA® certification. That leaves you ready to either hit the ground running as a practicing ABA or to pursue more advanced studies in psychology. A strong emphasis on the scientific bases of psychology, including statistical and methodological knowledge and experimental training, helps to reinforce the essentials of ABA, making you a more well-rounded practitioner.
NEVADA
University of Nevada, Reno (public)
Department of Psychology
Reno, NV
Website
Master of Science Degree in Behavior Analysis (on-campus, online)
Estimated Cost per academic year (tuition + fees): $12,744
Student to faculty ratio: 18 to 1
Credits to complete: 36
Also offers:
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology (Behavior Analysis concentration available)
- Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience
- Master of Science in Cognitive and Brain Sciences
- Master of Science in Integrative Neuroscience
- PhD in Behavior Analysis
- PhD in Clinical Psychology
- PhD in Cognitive and Brain Sciences
- PhD in Integrative Neuroscience
- PhD in Social Psychology
- Minor in Psychology
- No GRE required for admission
- Program is ABAI-accredited
- Online degrees at UNR can be completed in only 20 months of study
- The on-campus Behavioral Education and Consulting Services (BECS) offers students the opportunity to perform FBS, interventions, and skill assessments
- Other university outreach efforts open up placements at the Psychological Services Center and Spectrum Learning Center
- Every student in the program is assigned a core behavior analysis faculty member as an academic advisor
- Fieldwork course placements assisted by dedicated training coordinators
With a wide range of applied research projects available as well as community outreach efforts that allow you to develop hands-on expertise helping Reno-area residents, you will master both cutting-edge theory and practical intervention skills in this program. The practicality extends to longer-term considerations, too, with a series of career-boosting workshops open to students looking for employment after graduation.
NEW JERSEY
Rider University (private)
School of Humanities and Social Sciences
Princeton, NJ
Website
Master of Arts in Applied Psychology: Applied Behavior Analysis (on campus, hybrid)
Estimated Cost per academic year (tuition + fees): $37,800
Student to faculty ratio: 12 to 1
Credits to complete: 36
Also offers:
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
- Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Master of Arts in Counseling Services
- Educational Specialist in School Psychology (EdS)
- Minor in Psychology
- Part-time completion options, with courses available in the evenings for working professionals
- Simple Zoom attendance for hybrid students makes online connections easy
- A seven-week format offers the choice to take a single class at a time for more focus
- University partners range from the New York metro area into Philadelphia, offering a range of clinical placement choices
- An accelerated degree option allows you to combine bachelor and master’s programs into a single five-year block
- The Center for Excellence in Applied Psychology offers opportunities for students to meet the needs of the local community while researching and practicing ABA
- Named 11th in Best Value Regional Universities by S. News & World Report for 2025
Solving performance problems, building new behaviors, and reinforcing appropriate behavior are all part of the skills you will learn through the Rider MA in Applied Psychology program focused on ABA. Strong partnerships across the region open up practicum placements at a range of exciting clinical, educational, and rehab facilities. Grounded in the experience and expertise of faculty members with backgrounds in ABA, you’ll graduate with a powerful set of skills and strong job prospects.
NORTH CAROLINA
University of North Carolina Wilmington (public)
Department of Psychology
Wilmington, NC
Website
Master of Science in Psychology Applied Behavior Analysis Concentration (on campus)
Estimated Cost per academic year (tuition + fees): $13,464
Student to faculty ratio: 17 to 1
Credits to complete: 51
Also offers:
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
- PhD in Clinical Psychology
- Minor in Applied Behavior Analysis and Developmental/Intellectual Disabilities
- Minor in Psychology
- Minor in Neuroscience
- Both doctoral and master’s programs are ABAI-accredited
- Faculty members have received awards such as the 2024 Rising Research Excellence Award
- Small cohort sizes of between 5 and 7 students per year
- Comes with a 6-month internship as well as practicum experiences
- Each student receives direct mentorship from a behavior analysis faculty member
The educational experience in psychology you get at UNCW goes well beyond the classroom. The faculty here offer up plenty of opportunities to get involved in hands-on research, while student services help you connect with the outside professional community for diverse field experiences. You’ll complete the same core coursework in psychology and research methods as other psychology students, while going on to complete emphasis coursework in ABA along with your empirical thesis in the field. It’s a program that combines the theoretical and the practical, preparing you for the whole world of ABA practice after graduation.
OKLAHOMA
University of Central Oklahoma (public)
College of Education and Professional Studies
Edmond, OK
Website
Master of Science in Behavior Analysis (on campus)
Estimated Cost per academic year (tuition + fees): $15,840
Student to faculty ratio: 17 to 1
Credits to complete: 36
Also offers:
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology
- Master of Science in Psychology
- Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology
- Minor in Psychology
- Graduates are prepared to work with a diverse range of patient populations in diverse settings
- Find the opportunity for both scholarly and creative accomplishments
- Global learning options, including study tours and international conferences
- Study at a school where innovation is expected of every academic department
The scientific-practitioner approach fosters critical thinking and experimental design with the practical experience and knowledge needed to become a successful clinician. But UCO has a larger mission, to create productive, creative, ethical, and engaged citizens of the global community. Your skill development, empathy, and professional values as an ABA will all be shaped and placed within that larger context, delivering more value and giving you a chance to have a greater impact in your career.
PENNSYLVANIA
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (private)
Department of Psychology
Philadelphia, PA
Website
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis (hybrid)
Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (online)
Estimated Cost per academic year (tuition + fees): $36,216
Student to faculty ratio: 12.4 to 1
Credits to complete: 36
Also offers:
- Doctor of Clinical Psychology (PsyD)
- Doctor of Educational Psychology (PhD/PsyD)
- Educational Specialist in School Psychology
- Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling
- 83% first-time pass rate among graduates taking the BCBA® exam
- The ABA MS program has a sole focus on behavioral pediatrics
- Faculty come with extensive experience in psychology and are actively engaged in current issues and research
- Curriculum prepares students to promote social justice through culturally responsive practices
- Only school to offer a one-year ABA master’s option
- Certificate program offered with both Graduate Studies and Advanced Graduate Studies tracks
- Certificate credits can be transferred to the MS in ABA if you decide to go for the full degree
PCOM opens the door to unique options for your ABA education no matter where you started your journey. The MS in ABA is designed to prepare practitioners skilled in supporting the needs of kids facing neurodevelopmental and behavioral disabilities. The ABA certificate can be earned entirely online and is open to either bachelor’s or master’s graduates. Either way, you’ll get a great course of study in ABA tools and techniques with a firm grounding in the core elements of modern psychology.
Eastern University (private)
Department of Graduate Counseling Psychology
St. Davids, PA
Website
Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology, Concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis (online, hybrid)
Estimated Cost per academic year (tuition + fees): $47,400
Student to faculty ratio: 19 to 1
Credits to complete: 60
Also offers:
- Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology (General, Trauma Studies)
- Master of Science in School Psychology
- Advanced Graduate Studies Certificate in School Psychology
- 83% first-time pass rate among graduates taking the national BCBA® exam
- Professors deliver not just the tools needed for strong counseling skills, but also the confidence to take on tough professional challenges
- Counseling degree accredited by MPCAC and meets LPC licensing standards in Pennsylvania
- Hybrid coursework geared to working professionals includes evening classes on campus
- Partner grants, military benefits, and federal financial aid options reduce the already affordable tuition rate
- Faculty have both behavior analysis credentials and practical experience in the field
- A Nationally-Recognized Christian University with an inclusive Christian community
While you’ll walk away from this program fully prepared for LPC or LBS (Licensed Behavioral Specialist) credentials and the skills to work with any disability or population, the program is geared to preparing specialists in school and community practice settings. You’ll study under professors with a lot of experience in the field, all committed to imparting their hard-earned expertise to the students they teach. The core values of faith, reason, and justice will serve you well no matter what career path your education takes you down.
TEXAS
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (public)
Department of Psychological Science
Brownsville, TX
Website
Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology with Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate (on campus)
Master of Arts in Experimental Psychology with Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate (on campus)
Estimated Cost per academic year (tuition + fees): $35,850
Student to faculty ratio: 19 to 1
Credits to complete: 75
Also offers:
- PhD in Clinical Psychology
- Certificate program is also available stand-alone to previous graduates who hold a qualifying master’s degree
- Experimental psych grads can complete ABA VCS courses as electives in their regular degree plan
- Opens up the option to both psychologist and ABA licensing with further qualifications
- A predominantly Hispanic population under treatment prepares most graduates to work in bilingual mental health treatment positions nationwide
- Thesis and non-thesis degree options available
The UTRG ABA approach is technically a stand-alone certificate program that comprises seven courses fulfilling BACB 6th edition task list requirements. But when you put that certificate together with one of the two outstanding master of psychology program the school offers, you have a full-fledged BACB degree path to credentials as an ABA. With choices in either clinical or experimental psych on the menu, you can use this flexibility to launch your career in any direction in the ABA world.
VIRGINIA
James Madison University (public)
Department of Graduate Psychology
Harrisonburg, VA
Website
Master of Arts in Psychological Sciences – Behavior Analysis Concentration (on campus)
Estimated Cost per academic year (tuition + fees): $20,196
Student to faculty ratio: 17 to 1
Credits to complete: 36
Also offers:
- Bachelor of Science/Arts in Psychology
- Master of Science in School Counseling
- Master of Science in School Psychology
- Every student enrolled in the program has a dedicated faculty advisor
- The program has an emphasis on advanced empirical research
- Experience coursework in statistics, measurement, and research design alongside behavioral studies
- Prepares students for doctoral education
- Rated as the #1 Best College for Employment in Virginia
- Has the highest master’s-level graduation rate in the US among large, public universities
JMU offers students the essential advantage of BCBA® qualified curriculum on top of a master’s in the science of psychology. Through just three additional courses, taken as electives, you’ll turn your MA in Psychology into a full ABAI-aligned VCS that gives you everything you need to be eligible for BCBA® certification. That means you’re already getting a solid stack of behavioral training and guidance right in the core curriculum, leading to a degree that will allow you to go on to doctoral studies or straight into the field experience you’ll need to become a BCBA®.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a master’s in psychology qualify me for BCBA certification?
Yes. The BACB specifically recognizes degrees in applied behavior analysis, psychology, and education as meeting the education requirements for certification. As long as your program includes qualifying ABA coursework through an ABAI-accredited program, ABAI-recognized program, or an active Verified Course Sequence, the degree will satisfy the BCBA education requirements.
Does focusing on ABA in my psychology master’s hurt my chances of getting into a PhD program?
Not at all. Behaviorism is a foundational part of modern psychological thought, and focusing your master’s work there is no different from choosing any other established subfield. In fact, applied behavior analysis training gives you a strong grounding in patient assessment and behavioral treatment methods that will serve you well in any doctoral program in psychology.
What’s the difference between accreditation, recognition, and VCS?
Programs with a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) have aligned their curriculum to BACB standards. A VCS Coordinator at the school attests directly to the BACB that all requirements are met. Accreditation through ABAI goes further, evaluating overall program quality, faculty, and field experience in addition to curriculum. ABAI recognition is granted to programs that are eligible for accreditation or actively working through the process, and recognized programs generally meet BACB coursework requirements. Every program on this list meets at least one of these standards.
The VCS system ended in 2025. Can I still meet BCBA education requirements through a non-accredited program?
Yes, for now. Schools that already had VCS designation still have VCS Coordinators who can attest to the BACB on your behalf. That process is fully sufficient for certification today. No new schools will be added to the VCS system, and most programs are expected to move into the ABAI accreditation pathway. The field is moving toward requiring accredited programs for BCBA eligibility in the coming years. If you’re starting a program now, it’s worth confirming your school’s accreditation timeline.
Can I still meet BCBA education requirements through a post-master’s certificate in ABA?
Yes. ABAI’s new Tiered Model of Education includes specific tiers for non-degree certificate programs leading to BCBA certification. Tiers 3 and 4 cover recognized certificate programs, both at US colleges and through non-institutional providers outside the US. Psychology master’s programs that offered the VCS through a certificate component are continuing that structure under the new model.
Should I choose a dedicated ABA degree or a psychology master’s with an ABA concentration?
It depends on your goals. If your only aim is BCBA certification, what matters is that your graduate degree includes the required coursework and meets BACB education standards. The specific degree type is secondary. If you’re in a state that requires a psychology degree for master’s-level psychology licensure, or if you’re considering MFT or counseling credentials alongside BCBA certification, a psychology-based program may be the better fit. If you want the most focused, in-depth ABA training without the broader psychology requirements, a dedicated ABA master’s degree program may be the right call. For a broader look at pathways into the field, see our guide on how to become an ABA therapist.
Key Takeaways
- Psychology master’s programs qualify for BCBA certification as long as they include ABAI accreditation, ABAI recognition, or an active BACB-approved Verified Course Sequence.
- The VCS system ended December 31, 2025, but existing VCS programs remain valid for current students. The field is moving toward requiring ABAI-accredited programs for all BCBA candidates in the coming years.
- A psychology foundation adds breadth, giving you exposure to broader psychological theory, assessment methods, and in some states, additional licensure pathways not available through ABA-only degrees.
- ABAI accreditation is the gold standard, but ABAI recognition carries the same practical weight for BCBA eligibility and represents where the field is heading.
- Your degree choice depends on your goals. If you’re targeting multiple credentials or a doctoral path in psychology, a psychology-based program makes sense. If you want the most focused ABA training, a dedicated ABA master’s may serve you better.
Ready to find your program? Use our search tool to explore master’s in psychology programs with ABA concentrations and connect directly with schools that fit your goals.
