We can’t help but have crazy respect for teachers. That’s particularly true for those with the ABA skills it takes to manage a classroom and create the best possible learning environment for students with special needs.
There are a number of paths educators can take when making the decision to add ABA to their list of skills, and most involve meeting the qualifications for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA®) credential through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB).
If you already hold a master’s degree, a non-degree BCBA® course sequence will provide you with the extra training you need to take the BCBA® exam. But if you’re still preparing to pursue a master’s degree in special education or general curriculum and instruction, then there’s nothing like a master’s in education with an ABA emphasis to get everything you need all in one program.
Making Sure Your Master’s Degree Includes ABA Coursework Leading To BCBA® Credentials
Important Features To Consider for Your Master’s in Education with an ABA Focus
Making Sure Your Master’s Degree Includes ABA Coursework Leading To BCBA® Credentials
When completing BACB-recognized coursework as part of your master’s degree, you’ll not only satisfy state requirements for the special educator teaching credentials you need at whatever phase of your career you might be in, you’ll also meet the curriculum requirements for the esteemed BCBA® credential. Imagine – you could complete your graduate studies, along with the course sequence necessary to qualify to sit for the BCBA® exam, all in a program where ABA coursework is embedded as a way to complement your teacher education!
A master’s of education degree with an approved BACB coursework component increases the value of your education.
Since our list only includes programs with a Verified Course Sequence or programmatic accreditation or recognition, there’s no second-guessing whether the ABA courses meet the requirements for BCBA® certification. And since they meet the BACB’s high standards, that means they’ll also meet the requirements for becoming a licensed ABA in your state.
State Teaching Credentials – Initial Educator Preparation to Special Education Endorsement
State ABA credentials may be less of a concern for you than your state teaching credentials, though. But these programs could very well have you covered in that department too.
Naturally, all the educator master’s programs on our list are offered through universities with the regional accreditation state boards of education require. You’ll find programs here purpose-built for 1) initial teacher licensure, 2) permanent licensure for tenured teachers as applicable in your state, and 3) a special education endorsement to add to a current teaching license you might have.
As you know, state boards responsible for issuing teaching credentials are very specific about curriculum requirements and often have pre-approved programs they recognize. So you always want to verify that the program you’re considering has the blessing of your state DOE.
The only question and/or nationally accredited, you know they’ll meet state special educ endorsement requirements when structured as offered as a path to licensure) too. And to make things even easier on you, you’ll even find options here that are offered partially or fully online.
A chance to earn your master’s degree in education with the courses you need for BCBA® certification all in one online program that doesn’t get in the way of your work schedule… these are the kinds of graduate programs every teacher dreams about finding.
Here they are – all 32 of them.
Selection Criteria
Of the hundreds of master’s degree programs available to teachers in the U.S., we hand-picked 32 that are ideal for educators looking to integrate ABA skills in the classroom. Every program found here meets these basic criteria:
- Include a BACB pre-approved Verified Course Sequence (VCS), ABAI accreditation or recognition, or APBA accreditation that meets the eligibility requirements for the BCBA® Exam
- Annual graduate school tuition rates in-line with the national average for public and private institutions adjusted for location
- Hold institutional accreditation through a regional and/or national agency recognized by the US Department of Education
Important Features To Consider for Your Master’s in Education with an ABA Focus
Of course, you will recognize that just having accreditation, coursework approval, and affordable tuition aren’t the only criteria to use when evaluating the right school for your professional goals.
Fortunately, you have 32 different options to choose from here. While we haven’t dug into the details to directly compare them on all these qualities, we have given you enough data to put together your own list of likely candidates and find your top match among them.
What will you look at when you’re making your choice? Well, it’s probably going to include factors like:
- First-rate faculty members who have both solid practical educational backgrounds as well as strong academic and experimental ABA training under their belt
- Schools that have strong ties to local and state-wide school systems, to open up your training possibilities and ensure connections to the latest challenges and needs
- Programs that have adequate scholastic resources, facilities, and academic support to help you clear the hurdles of challenging graduate education
- Degrees that include not only BACB-accepted coursework, but also the right sequence of classes and experiential training to lead to necessary state licensure
- Healthy ties between psychology departments and education schools to make sure you have a grounding not just in the aspects of ABA most used in schools, but a broad understanding of psychological principles and treatment techniques
Depending on your personal situation and goals, there may well be other considerations—total cost of attendance, whether or not the program is designed for working professionals (or even specifically for currently working teachers, as some of these are), and where the emphasis on training is—classroom environments, special education, or purely clinical treatment.
All of this means that the perfect program for you may not be the perfect program for everyone. But with a wide range of different schools, philosophies, and methods of delivery, we’re confident that the right fit for you is somewhere on this list.
This list features programs that our editorial staff hand selected to present as top recommendations. We believe the many aspects of a program that come together to create an exceptional student experience can’t be reduced to numbers alone, so no formula was used to attempt to score or rank these programs. Instead, they represent our top picks based on a thoughtful review of the things we know mean the most to students. Each one of these programs offers something unique, and all come equally highly recommended. We stand behind the principal of editorial integrity and make these recommendations independently and without compensation.
ARIZONA
Arizona State University (public)
Mary Lou Fulton College for Teaching and Learning Innovation
Tempe, AZ
Website
Master of Arts in Special Education – Applied Behavior Analysis (online)
Total Program Cost (tuition + fees): $17,280
Student to faculty ratio: 18 to 1
Credits to complete: 30
- Online services come with extensive tech support and are delivered over a proven platform offering access 24/7
- Optional practicum course allows you to build field experience in your area
- Break new ground through innovative course such as ABA and Artificial Intelligence Ethical Applications
- Names as the school with the #3 Best Online Master’s in Special Education programs in the country
As one of the largest and fastest-growing major online universities, ASU Online comes with the resources you need to find success in remote studies. Rooted in their accomplished campus-based programs, you’ll also find decades of experience and expertise among faculty members. Those faculty members are drawn from a range of academic disciplines, but something they have in common is the ability to connect cutting-edge research with practical on-the-ground experience.
Also offers:
- Master of Arts in Special Education – Autism Spectrum Disorders
- Master of Education in Gifted Education
- Master of Education in Early Childhood Education
- Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate
Northern Arizona University (public)
Department of Educational Specialties
Flagstaff, AZ
Website
Master of Education in Special Education with Positive Behavior Support Certificate (on campus, online)
Total Program Cost (tuition + fees): $19,950
Student to faculty ratio: 19 to 1
Credits to complete: 30
- Optional fieldwork or internship placements can deliver hands-on experience
- Learn to analyze the social, cultural, and educational underpinnings of disability
- Learn to collaborate effectively with professionals, peers, and families of patients
Students in the NAU MEd in Special Ed expand their leadership and practical skills in working with a full spectrum of students in all types of classroom environments. The addition of the school’s PBS certificate brings ABAI-approved coursework that can also certify you as a BCBA, a valuable asset in schools around the country today. You’ll graduate with the skills to assess, monitor, and design treatment programs in and outside of educational settings to improve the quality of life for kids and adults with developmental disabilities.
Also offers:
- Positive Behavior Support Graduate Certificate
- Autism Spectrum Disorders Graduate Certificate
CALIFORNIA
San Diego State University (public)
College of Education
San Diego, CA
Website
Master of Arts in Special Education with Behavior Analysis and Autism Concentration (on campus)
Total Program Cost (tuition + fees): $18,000
Student to faculty ratio: 22 to 1
Credits to complete: 30
- Also include most California Clear Credential coursework leading to Extensive Support Needs and Early Childhood credentials
- Ranked as the #1 Best Education School among all California State Universities
- The ABA Advanced Certificate can be completed on a part-time basis
- Includes both seminar and research thesis completion options
- Tap into a broad range of expertise from the wide range of educator preparation programs taught at the school
SDSU’s educator prep programs are all about making a difference for future generations. As one of the region’s top producers of high-quality teachers, counselors, and therapists, they have a responsibility that everyone on the team takes seriously. So you’ll find that your ABA education is as in-depth and committed as every other aspect of the special education coursework.
Also offers:
- Master of Science in Early Childhood and Family Clinical Counseling
- Master of Arts in Counseling
- Master of Science in Counseling, Multicultural Community Counseling
- Master of Science in School Psychology
- Master of Science in School Counseling
- Educational Specialist in School Psychology
- Advanced Certificate in Behavior Analysis
COLORADO
University of Colorado – Denver
School of Education and Human Development
Denver, CO
Website
Master of Arts in Special Education with a Concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis (on-campus, online)
Total Program Cost (tuition + fees): $13,920
Student to faculty ratio: 16 to 1
Credits to complete: 30
- Utilizes a strengths-based/assets-based approach to special education valuing every child
- Program is designed to accommodate working professionals, with only one scheduled Zoom each week
- All ABA certificate courses are offered fully online
- Faculty are published scholars and community-based advocates with real-world expertise
- Close collaboration with local school district leaders means graduates are prepared to meet current challenges
- A database of federal funding sources can assist with financial aid
- School was named as one of S. News & World Report’s Best Graduate Schools in the country
The need for ABA-qualified professionals in special education across Colorado is growing by leaps and bounds. The CU Denver program is informed by close ties to local schools that helps align the curriculum and practical training toward real needs in the area. That helps graduates from this program set themselves up for both educational and therapeutic placements with their ABA skills.
Also offers:
- Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
ILLINOIS
Northern Illinois University (public)
Department of Special and Early Education
DeKalb, IL
Website
Master of Science in Education – Behavior Analysis Specialization (on campus)
Total Program Cost (tuition + fees): $16,590
Student to faculty ratio: 14 to 1
Credits to complete: 30
- 90 percent of applicants are employed in the field within one year of completing the program
- Full or part-time attendance options
- Faculty bring diverse experiences and expertise to the table from around the special education world
- Program is on track to become recognized under the new ABAI Tiered Recognition Model
- Personalized attention through one-on-one meetings with your academic advisor
NIU is a teacher education powerhouse in Northern Illinois. But despite the many educators studying here for licensing and continuing education, you will find a highly personalized education, with engaged faculty willing to transfer their real-world and academic expertise directly to you. Cutting edge educational research programs ensure your ability to master the latest techniques and concepts in ABA here at NIU.
Also offers:
- Master of Science in Education in Early Childhood Education
- Behavior Analysis Certificate
INDIANA
Ball State University (public)
Department of Special Education
Muncie, IN
Website
Master of Arts in Special Education with Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate (online)
Total Program Cost (tuition + fees): $13,920
Student to faculty ratio: 15 to 1
Credits to complete: 30
- No GRE required for entry
- Program is nationally ranked among the best online graduate education program by S News & World Report
- Degree is nationally recognized by the Council for Exceptional Children
- Flexible online courses are designed for working professionals
- Also ranked in the Top 25 Best Online Programs for Veterans by S News & World Report
- As part of the Federal Academic Alliance, offers reduced tuition rates for eligible federal employees, their dependents, or retirees
- Online students also have access to the Technology HelpDesk and Technology Store for additional support services
You’ll feel fully empowered to deliver services to both kids and adults with developmental or behavioral disabilities after progressing through the Ball State program. With the flexibility that comes from online studies, you can launch your ABA career even as you carry on with your current job or family responsibilities. The program has the same rigorous academic courses with the same faculty that are delivered on campus, leading to a high-quality of education in both special ed and ABA requirements.
Also offers:
- Bachelor of Arts or Science in Applied Behavior Analysis
KENTUCKY
University of Louisville (public)
College of Education and Human Development
Louisville, KY
Website
Master of Education in Special Education with a Concentration in Autism Spectrum Disorder and Applied Behavior Analysis (on campus, online)
Total Program Cost (tuition + fees): $32,370
Student to faculty ratio: 14 to 1
Credits to complete: 39
- Full and part-time options available
- Program can facilitate fieldwork hours by arranging site placements and supervisors
- A specific focus on using ABA in ASD treatment prepares students for one of the biggest demands in educational settings
- Cohorts limited to 20 students to ensure access to instructors and individualized attention
- Faculty include both dedicate practitioners and researchers in the field for a range of expertise
- Practicum partnerships extend from local public school systems to dedicated private behavioral treatment services
With both online and on campus course options, this is a school that has paths to ABA certification for both new teachers and educators who are already deeply involved in their careers. In both cases, getting your degree at a research and learning powerhouse is a great choice for ensuring you are exposed to the latest ideas in ABA as well as special ed. The autism-focused program prepares you to deal with one of the most common issues facing school systems today.
Also offers:
- Graduate Certificate in Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis
LOUISIANA
Nicholls State University (public)
College of Education and Behavioral Sciences
Thibodaux, LA
Website
Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction High Incidence Disabilities with Applied Behavior Analysis option Concentration (on campus, online, hybrid)
Total Program Cost (tuition + fees): $12,384
Student to faculty ratio: 17 to 1
Credits to complete: 36
- Recognized as one of the Top 50 Online ABA Programs in the country
- Offers ABA instruction with a focus on effective pedagogy, classroom management, and effective curriculum design
- Covers strategies for mixed classroom environments
If you’re looking for instructional intervention strategies that can reach students with even the most severe learning disorders, Nicholls is the right option for you. With a full spectrum of attendance options that maximize your flexibility, you’ll find an option to fit your schedule. With nationally-recognized excellence in ABA education, Nicholls is the only program in the state offering both CABAS and BCBA certification options.
Also offers:
- Educational Specialist in School Psychology
- Master of Education in School Counseling
- High Incidence Disabilities with Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate
MASSACHUSETTS
Endicott College (private)
The Institute for Applied Behavioral Science
Beverly, MA
Website
Master of Education in Special Education and Applied Behavioral Analysis – Moderate (online, on campus, hybrid)
Master of Education in Special Education and Applied Behavioral Analysis – Severe (online, on campus, hybrid)
Master of Education in Applied Behavioral Analysis (online, on campus, hybrid)
Total Program Cost (tuition + fees): $29,937
Student to faculty ratio: 13 to 1
Credits to complete: 51
- A free BCBA exam prep courses readies you for certification testing
- Many behavior analytic specialties are represented among faculty members
- Peer tutoring from fellow students offers strong support getting through the program
- The MEd degree option is a 5th year master’s program to cut time off your graduate studies if also earning a bachelor’s at Endicott
- No GRE or MAT required
- The MEd Special Education options lead to teaching licensure in Massachusetts
- Has a 71 percent pass rate on the national BCBA exam
Endicott’s Institute of Applied Behavioral Science is on the cutting edge of ABA investigations and new developments. That makes it a great spot to earn an ABA degree whether it’s dedicated to the field or part of a more focused master’s in education or special education. The school delivers all three, with options to focus your MEd even further into moderate or severe disabilities. Any of them are great choices to boost your career as an educator or therapist working in schools.
Also offers:
- Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis
- Autism
- Childhood Clinical Disorders
- Public Schools
- Mental Health
- PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis
- Minor in Applied Behavior Analysis
Simmons University (private)
Department of Behavior Analysis
Boston, MA
Website
Educational Specialist in Applied Behavior Analysis (on-campus, online)
Total Program Cost (tuition + fees): $45,00
Student to faculty ratio: 10.3 to 1
Credits to complete: 40
- Online students enjoy a 74 percent pass rate for the BCBA exam, while on campus graduates have an 89 percent pass rate
- Flexible scheduling makes it possible to complete this EdS in only 20 months
- GRE not required for admission
- You can qualify for a scholarship of up to $20,000 as a student here
- All faculty are established ABA practitioners with practical as well as academic expertise
- The first master’s program in New England to be accredited by ABAI
- Offers four practicum courses with at least 90 hours of supervised experience required
As one of the programs that also makes our overall top list for ABA master’s programs, you know Simmons is a solid choice from the behavior analysis standpoint right away. But the innovative program can be taken as either a Master of Science or an Educational Specialist (EdS). EdS applicants must already hold a master’s degree in education. This program stacks on top of that extensive preparation in language you can understand, with concepts that will come in handy whether you are heading back to school-based roles or striking out into direct ABA therapy.
Also offers:
- Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience and Behavior
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
- Bachelor of Social Work
- Master of Social Work
- Master of Science Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis
- PhD in Behavioral Analysis
- PhD in Social Work
University of Massachusetts – Boston (public)
College of Education and Human Development
Boston, MA
Website
Master of Education in Applied Behavior Analysis (on campus)
Total Program Cost (tuition + fees): $18,975
Student to faculty ratio: 15 to 1
Credits to complete: 33
- Innovative course delivery occurs both on campus in Boston and at select remote locations through live interactive video
- Learn ABA applications from neighborhoods and specialized schools to residential programs
- Instructors are world-renowned psychologists and counselors with input on national and global policy in special education
- Project Beacon allows students to gain experiences at three high needs school districts in the state
- The Handshake comprehensive online career site can help you connect with job openings after graduation
The UMass Boston option for ABA training for special populations in education isn’t like many other schools, but once you get the drift, you’ll see how powerful and innovative it can be. You can stack the ABA for Special Populations Certificate with a Master’s in Education without licensure, or combine it with an MEd in Moderate Disabilities with 15 extra post-master’s credits. Otherwise, your ABA studies will apply directly to your MEd, effectively combining the programs. It’s a great way to get behavioral training and BCAB qualification checked off with the ability to take it in almost any kind of career path in education today.
Also offers:
- Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling
- PhD in School Psychology
- PhD in Counseling Psychology
- Applied Behavior Analysis for Special Populations Certificate
Bay Path University (public)
School of Education, Psychology and Humanities
Longmeadow, MA
Website
Educational Specialist in Applied Behavior Analysis (online)
Total Program Cost (tuition + fees): $39,015
Student to faculty ratio: 7 to 1
Credits to complete: 51
- Includes the BACB-standard 2,000 hours of supervised fieldwork as a part of the program
- Experienced, supportive faculty also act as supervisors during your experiential training
- Graduates have a 74 percent pass rate on the BCBA examination
- Has an applied research focus
- No GRE required for admission
- Excellent online tutoring, electronic library, academic resources, and career services are provided
Okay, it’s cheating a little bit… an EdS comes in slightly above the master’s level. You’ll need a master’s in a qualifying field before you apply for the EdS in ABA at Bay Path, but if you’re coming from the world of education, there’s good chance you have that already. If so, you’ll be unlocking graduate-level instruction as a scientist in clinician in this in-demand classroom skillset. You’ll study alongside regular MS in ABA students, getting all the in-depth training and personalized attention from faculty that this program is known for.
Also offers:
- Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis
- Autism Spectrum Disorders
- Supervision, Training, and Organization Behavior Management
- Applied Verbal Behavior Concentration
- Trauma-Informed Practice Concentration
MICHIGAN
Oakland University (public)
Department of Human Development and Child Studies
Rochester, MI
Website
Master of Education in Special Education – ABA Concentration (hybrid)
Total Program Cost (tuition + fees): $41,175
Student to faculty ratio: 17 to 1
Credits to complete: 45
- Students have a 65 percent pass rate on the BCBA national exam
- All core MEd coursework for the program is available entirely online, while ABA-specific classes are on campus
- Optional fieldwork course is completed at a variety of approved sites
- Core course requirements covering the legal and practice standards in special ed prepare you for work in ABA in educational settings
A broad focus on concepts of exceptionality in learning, instruction, and development is the grounding for this MEd program, with the VCS-approved ABA sequence delivered as icing that both improves your practice in diagnosis and treatment in ASD and qualifies you to pursue a BCBA. With specializations in ASD, special learning disabilities, and emotional impairment also available, you’ll find becoming a resource for fellow students even as you complete your own studies.
Also offers:
- Master of Education in Special Education – Autism Spectrum Disorder Concentration
- Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
- Graduate Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorder Education
- Advanced
- Basic
- Multiple Disciplines
NEVADA
University of Nevada – Las Vegas (public)
College of Education
Las Vegas, NV
Website
Master of Education in Special Education – Applied Behavior Analysis Track (on campus)
Total Program Cost (tuition + fees): $12,384
Student to faculty ratio: 18 to 1
Credits to complete: 36
- College faculty are committed to creating innovative models and being a leading source of research knowledge in their fields
- The school cultivates strong community engagement through collaborative partnerships
- Coursework combines behavioral theory and practice with areas such as speech and hearing therapy and managing classrooms with ASD students
The College of Education at UNLV is massive, with all kinds of licensure-track and advanced programs for school administrators. But the ABA track in the MEd in Special Ed doesn’t stand in the shadows of any of those programs, or even the other tracks for the special ed degree. Your specialized coursework in behavior management is delivered by first-rate professionals who understand the unique combination of ABA principles and educational system requirements needed to assess and treat students.
Also offers:
- Bachelor of Science in Special Education
- PhD in Special Education
- Graduate Certificate in Special Education
- Minor in Special Education
NEW JERSEY
Monmouth University (private)
School of Education
West Long Branch, NJ
Website
Master of Science in Special Education Combined Autism/Applied Behavior Analysis track (online, hybrid)
Total Program Cost (tuition + fees): $38,805
Student to faculty ratio: 12 to 1″
Credits to complete: 39
- The university-based Autism Program Improvement Project enhances training for teachers of students with ASD in public schools
- Instructors are veteran teaching professionals with experience at every level of education
- A personalized learning experience ensures you study and absorb knowledge in a way that is natural for you
- A wide range of local school and community settings are available for field experience placements
- Research and scholarship projects include studying parent-teacher relationships for ASD students and implementing teaching strategies in ASD
A specially structured program at Monmouth gives special educators all the resources they need to deal with one of the most serious problems in the field today. By combining the school’s Autism track with an ABA certificate, you’ll get both ASD-specific training and the broad-spectrum behavior analysis skills that have been proven effective in treating it.
Also offers:
- Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
OHIO
The Ohio State University (public)
College of Education and Human Ecology
Cleveland, OH
Website
Master of Arts in Educational Studies – Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis Specialization (online)
Total Program Cost (tuition + fees): $26,384
Student to faculty ratio: 2.7 to 1′
Credits to complete: 34
- Optional licensure add-ons as a moderate to intensive intervention specialist or a hearing impairment intervention specialist are available
- Specially designed to allow current teaching professionals to perform research and gain field experience in their own existing classrooms
- Graduate associateships and scholarship opportunities may assist qualified students with funding
- Faculty have both national and international recognition in their fields of practice
With the flexibility of a program designed specifically to allow educators to complete their graduate studies while remaining on the job, this is a clear winner for teachers interested in pursuing ABA credentials. On top of the online and classroom-focused instruction, students can customize their specialization to ensure they cover exactly the type of treatment and therapy they are interested in.
Also offers:
- Bachelor of Science in Education
- Master of Arts in Educational Psychology
- PhD in School Psychology
- EdS in School Psychology
- PhD in Educational Psychology
- PhD in Educational Studies, Special Education
- PhD in Counseling Psychology
OREGON
Portland State University
Department of Special Education
California, PA
Website
Master of Education in Special Education, Graduate Program in Applied Behavior Analysis (online)
Total Program Cost (tuition + fees): $25,020
Student to faculty ratio: 16 to 1
Credits to complete: 30
- Resident tuition rates are applied for students even outside of Oregon
- Scholarship and financial aid offering available
- Program has a special emphasis on the use of Positive Behavior Interventions and Support
- The campus Autism Training and Research Center mission has a close alignment with the ABA program
- Students may also find collaborative field experience at the Helen Gordon Child Development Center, a full-day infant/toddler and preschool program serving 200 children
A part-time, fully online degree program is exactly what many busy teachers need to expand their ABA skills, and that’s what PSU has to offer. The degree includes extracurricular focus on using behavioral supports in early childhood settings. Although it’s ideal for teachers, the training is also flexible in practice area. Many graduates here go on to use their behavioral training in school environments, but others were for ABA providers, community-based organizations, or in homes or communities outside of education.
Also offers:
- Bachelor’s in Special Education
- Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
PENNSYLVANIA
Pennsylvania Western University (public)
California, PA
Website
Master of Education in Special Education (online)
- Applied Behavior Analysis
- Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism
Total Program Cost (tuition + fees): $15,576
Student to faculty ratio: 17 to 1
Credits to complete: 36
- Program also offers a dedicated Autism track without ABA components
- Named one of the best master’s degrees in special education in the country by S. News and World Report
- Offers post-graduation support to ensure you get your career off on the right track
- Dedicated student success coaches walk you through the toughest parts of your program
- The Autism/ABA concentration also provides an autism endorsement on Pennsylvania teacher certification
- Faculty fill the roles of being mentors, researchers, and active industry professionals combining academic and real-world expertise
A legacy of success in teacher education is the dividend that PennWest has earned in the state, and one you will reap the benefits of through community partnerships and name recognition. This flexible online program offers three concentration tracks that cover the biggest demands in special education today, particularly revolving around ABA and treatment of ASD. You can make your choice on pursuing BCBA qualification, an autism endorsement, or both.
Also offers:
- Master’s in Advanced Study in Education
- Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate
- Autism Endorsement Graduate Certificate
- Bachelor’s in Early Childhood and Special Education
- Master’s in Educational Psychology
- Master’s in School Psychology
- Social, Emotional and Behavioral Wellness of P-12 Students Graduate Certificate
- Special Education Teacher Graduate Certificate
Mercyhurst University (private)
The School of Social and Behavioral Sciences
Erie, PA
Website
Master of Science in Special Education and Applied Disability Studies Applied Behavior Analysis Concentration (on campus, hybrid)
Total Program Cost (tuition + fees): $28,590
Student to faculty ratio: 15 to 1
Credits to complete: 30
- You will be taught by expert faculty members with decades of experience in ABA and special ed
- Graduate assistantships may be available to deliver financial assistance for some students
- Special tuition rates offered for current PA teachers and military veterans
- Choose between an internship for field experience or a clinical capstone project
Mercyhurst will help you to become a skilled provider of both educational and behavioral services through this MS degree program. You’ll master the arcana of Individual Education Plans (IEPs), evidence-based practice, clinical assessments, and ethics under the careful supervision of expert faculty with decades of on-the-ground experience. With a goal of developing some of the most skilled special ed professionals in northwestern Pennsylvania, you will find that Mercyhurst has your back at every stage of study.
Also offers:
- Bachelor of Arts in Special Education
- Post-Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Pennsylvania State University (public)
Department of Educational Psychology Counseling, and Special Education
University Park, PA
Website
Master of Education in Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis Emphasis (online)
Total Program Cost (tuition + fees): $34,221
Student to faculty ratio: 16 to 1
Credits to complete: 33
- Degree also available with autism and academic and behavioral supports emphasis options
- Program is well known and highly respected for preparing and supporting education professionals nationwide
- Faculty hold doctoral degrees, and many are certified BCBA-D practitioners
- School was ranked in the top ten percent of online programs offering master’s degrees in education by S. News & World Report
You’ll be earning your degree from a trusted leader in online education, since Penn State has a more than 100 year history of providing distance education. Twenty years of that has been entirely in the digital world, where the school’s faculty and administrators have mastered delivery of an online experience that is identical to the on-campus options. That’s important with ABA, which is a discipline that requires a real human touch. Professors here have mastered that and will help you do the same.
Also offers:
- Educating Individuals with Autism Postbaccalaureate Certificate
- Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate
Temple University (public)
College of Education
Philadelphia, PA
Website
Master of Science in Education in Applied Behavior Analysis (on campus, online)
Total Program Cost (tuition + fees): $39,780
Student to faculty ratio: 12 to 1
Credits to complete: 36
- Full or part-time attendance options available
- Many students appreciate access to group such as the Philadelphia Metropolitan Association for Behavior Analysis and the Temple Student Pennsylvania State Education Association
- Program starts your field experience off with two 150 hour practica courses at a wide range of Philadelphia area locations
- Ranked as the 48th Best Graduate School of Education by S. News & World Report
- The curriculum exemplifies excellence in both research and professional training
- Includes interdisciplinary coursework preparing students for ABA work in educational settings and beyond
Temple stacks the deck in your favor as an educational ABA specialist with faculty that bring top academic credentials and practical on-the-job experience to the classroom. Centrally located, the school sets you up for practice in either Pennsylvania or New Jersey. With a blend of courses from the worlds of education and psychology, you’ll graduate with the tools to move your career in either direction.
Also offers:
- Master of Education in Special Education
- Educational Specialist in School Psychology
- Doctor of School Psychology
- Doctor of Education with Special Education concentration
- PhD in Psychology
- Undergraduate Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate
- Graduate Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate
University of Pittsburgh (public)
School of Education
Pittsburgh, PA
Website
Master of Education in Applied Behavior Analysis (on campus)
Total Program Cost (tuition + fees): $34,914
Student to faculty ratio: 13 to 1
Credits to complete: 33
- Full and part-time attendance options available
- No GRE required for admission
- Students from the school have an impressive 75 percent pass rate on the BCBA exam
- Superior professors and resources offer unique experiences and educational opportunities
- Program also fulfills evidence-based coursework requirements for the Pennsylvania Behavior Specialist License
- Ranked as the #1 Best Public Education School for 2025, and at #24 for all public schools in the country and #34 overall
- Graduates enjoy a 97 percent employment rate within a year of graduation
Pitt is a big-name school with big-time outcomes for graduates from education programs. Everything from BCBA and teacher certification exam pass rates to employment rates come out above average. Educators, policy makers, and community leaders get a strong grounding here, and the same is true for ABA professionals who want to get ahead in their profession.
Also offers:
- Bachelor of Science in Applied Developmental Psychology
- Master of Science in Applied Developmental Psychology
- PhD in Applied Developmental Psychology
- Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate
East Stroudsburg University (public)
Department of Special Education and Rehabilitative and Human Services
East Stroudsburg, PA
Website
Master of Education in Special Education Applied Behavior Analysis Concentration (online)
Total Program Cost (tuition + fees): $20,124
Student to faculty ratio: 20 to 1
Credits to complete: 39
- Graduate assistantships are available based on merit and achievement to full-time graduate students
- Program is also specialty accredited by CAEP, the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
- Professional opportunities available to students at the school included the Council For Exceptional Children, Best Buddies, and the Rehabilitative Student Services Student Organization
- A diverse group of expert faculty members are committed to teaching excellence and include leaders in state, national, and international professional associations
If you’re looking for the best preparation you can get for meeting the needs of a diverse group of special needs students and their families, East Stroudsburg has you covered. Their MEd in Special Ed is already a highly respected and well-rounded program for anyone dealing with special needs populations in education. With the optional ABA concentration, you will also walk away with the education needed to perform the most effective, scientifically-validated treatment for ASD available today.
Also offers:
- Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate
Lehigh University (public)
College of Education
Bethlehem, PA
Website
Master of Education in Behavior Analysis (online)
Total Program Cost (tuition + fees): $19,800
Student to faculty ratio: 19 to 1
Credits to complete: 30
- Combines academic rigor with practical application and a supportive academic community
- Graduates have a superb 100 percent pass rate on the BCBA exam
- Instructors are experts in the field with proven experience
- Current educators in Pennsylvania can enjoy a 10 percent discount on tuition
- No GMAT or GRE scores required for admission
- Financial aid available to all graduate students
- Ranked 26th among Best Value Schools for 2025 by S. News & World Report
Complete your degree on a full- or part-time basis at Lehigh, which is designed for professionals who have or are working toward the requirements to sit the BCBA exam. That means you’ll get a focused, supportive, yet rigorous education in inspiring positive change across ABA populations. The school prepares students for leadership roles using evidence-based, cross-disciplinary education that will serve you throughout your career.
Also offers:
- Master of Education in Mental Health Counseling
- Graduate Certificate in Behavior Analysis
TEXAS
Texas State University (public)
Department of Curriculum and Instruction
San Marcos, TX
Website
Master of Education in Special Education with Concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis (on campus, hybrid)
Total Program Cost (tuition + fees): $12,852
Student to faculty ratio: 21 to 1
Credits to complete: 36
- Most classes are conducted in the evenings, in-person, with select courses offered online
- Graduates have a 77 percent pass rate on the national BCBA exam
- On-site practicum courses at the Clinic for Autism Research, Evaluation, and Support launches your required field experience
- Applied research opportunities are available
- Faculty members are all currently qualified BCBAs
You can get a sense of the quality of education offered at Texas State from the data point that around 20 percent of their graduates go on to earn doctoral degrees and become researchers in the field of ABA. Much of that high standard comes from the presence of the university-operated CARES clinic, which prepares educators and specialist in the real-world applications of evidence-based practices.
Also offers:
- Master of Education major in Special Education (Learning Disabilities/Inclusion and Learning and Behavioral Disabilities concentrations)
- Master’s in School Psychology
Texas Tech University (public)
Department of Special Education
Lubbock, TX
Website
Master of Education in Special Education – Applied Behavior Analysis (online)
Total Program Cost (tuition + fees): $19,044
Student to faculty ratio: 21 to 1
Credits to complete: 36
- Has a 63 percent pass rate among graduates taking the BCBA exam
- Program is aimed at currently certified teachers working with ASD students
- An on-site intensive experience at TTU offers additional training and skill development
- Tap into the expertise of the Burkhart Center for Autism Education & Research
- Faculty are all doctorally-qualified, many with BCBA-D certifications
As a newly created entity at Texas Tech, the Department of Special Ed has hit the ground running to put a unique stamp on their MEd in Special Ed with an ABA concentration. This degree is focused on delivering much-needed behavioral education, and a track to BCBA certification, for current Texas teachers working with students on the spectrum. Admissions criteria are aimed to get underserved student populations across the state more qualified educators. As part of the process, you’ll share your own experiences and developments in teaching skill in current classroom environments, a unique opportunity in the world of ABA education.
Also offers:
- Masted of Education in Special Education
- PhD in Special Education
- Graduate Certificate in Autism
University of Houston – Victoria (public)
College of Education and Health Professions
Victoria, TX
Website
Master of Education in Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis Concentration (on campus, online)
Total Program Cost (tuition + fees): $15,210
Student to faculty ratio: 14 to 1
Credits to complete: 39
- A virtual orientation session gets you ready to hit the ground running without a campus visit prior to beginning classes
- New graduate students may apply for a $500 scholarship offered by the school
UHV offers an ABA concentration to your MEd in Special Ed designed to boost your abilities to assess and teach individuals with disabilities. The broad applications of behavior analysis give you new assessment, intervention, and program development skills to cover both common issues like ASD and more advanced behavioral problems. A combination of core ABA sequence courses and studies in the specific applications of those tools in special education develops communication, research, and teaching strategies you will use for a lifetime.
Also offers:
- Master of Education in Special Education (Autism Spectrum Disorders, Educational Diagnostician, and Dyslexia concentrations)
University of Texas at Austin (public)
Department of Special Education
Austin, TX
Website
Master of Education with Concentration in Autism and Developmental Disabilities (on campus, online)
Master of Arts in Education with Concentration in Autism and Developmental Disabilities (on campus, online)
Total Program Cost (tuition + fees): $18,540
Student to faculty ratio: 18 to 1
Credits to complete: 36
- School has a 75 percent pass rate among graduates taking the BCBA exam
- More than 10 research centers on campus provide opportunities for experimental research and hands-on training
- Consistently ranked as one of the top ten education schools in the country, and #7 in Special Education, by S. News & World Report
- A multicultural population ensures exposure to a wide range of developmental and behavioral challenges
- Build skills in assistive devices at the Assistive and Instructional Technology Lab
Clinicians, researchers, educators, and leaders come out of the highly-respected UT-Austin program each year. With a focus on autism and developmental disabilities, the curriculum covers the major applications of ABA in the educational environment. But as a full-on BACB-approved course sequence, it also delivers all the skills you need for clinical practice or to move up to a PhD in the field and important work in research. You’ll develop a culturally-attuned practice model that will serve you well across Texas or anywhere in the country.
Also offers:
- Master of Education in Counselor Education
- Master of Arts in School Psychology
- PhD in Autism and Developmental Disabilities
University of Texas San Antonio (public)
College of Education and Human Development
San Antonio, TX
Website
Master of Arts in Applied Educational Psychology with Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate (on campus)
Master of Arts in School Psychology with Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate (on campus)
Total Program Cost (tuition + fees): $19,800
Student to faculty ratio: 25 to 1
Credits to complete: 36
- Degrees are balanced for applications in either active practice or research contexts
- Licensure available as both a Texas school psychologist and as a BCBA after graduation
- Both school psychology and ABA programs have a 100 percent job placement rate
- Graduates from the program have a 75 percent or 89 percent BCBA passage rate depending on their degree type
- Pick up valuable experience at the school-run San Antonio Applied Behavior Analysis Project at the Children’s Hospital of San Antonio
- Only institution in Bexar county or the surrounding region offering this type of program
- Pursue coursework in public policy, sociology, social work, or teaching with flexible degree plans
- The Graduate Certificate option may also be combined with another certificate program to earn a Master’s in Interdisciplinary Studies
When a school has a superb stand-alone MS in Behavior Analysis alongside highly-reputed school and educational psych programs, you know that you are truly getting the best of both worlds. That’s the case with the applied educational and school psychology degrees at UT San Antonio when you slather on the peanut butter of a 15-credit ABA certificate from the same school. It’s a system that offers maximum flexibility in structuring your career plans without sacrificing quality.
Also offers:
- Master of Science in Behavior Analysis
- PhD in School Psychology
- Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
UTAH
Utah Valley University (public)
School of Education
Orem, UT
Website
Master of Education in Applied Behavior Analysis (hybrid)
Total Program Cost (tuition + fees): $13,283
Student to faculty ratio: 28 to 1
Credits to complete: 37
- Graduates here enjoy an 80 percent pass rate on the BCBA examination
- No GRE required to apply
- Students have the opportunity to work at the Melisa Nellesen Center for Autism on Campus to gain practical supervision field experience
- Program can be completed in six semesters, with courses offered one day per week
- Includes the entire 1,500 hours of supervised experience required for BCBA certification
This is a program that, top-to-bottom, is aimed at caring practitioners who want to make a difference in the lives of students. You’ll find similar consideration as a student yourself here, with empathetic and expert professors dedicated to training you up in the same mold. You’ll find hands-on opportunities to build up that level of care and skill at the UVU Melisa Nellesen Center for Autism, a resource that assists educators, first responders, patients, and families throughout the Valley.
Also offers:
- Bachelor of Science in Special Education
- Autism Studies Certificate
- Minor in Autism Studies
The Questions People Frequently Ask About Master’s in Education Programs With an Applied Behavior Analysis Emphasis
How Does Applied Behavior Analysis Apply to Individuals Studying in the Field of Education?
Applied behavior analysis is a kind of psychological approach to assessing and treating a wide range of issues using scientific, experimental engineering of antecedents, behaviors, and consequences (the ABCs of ABA).
Any teacher will recognize that this is basically a long-standing part of any educator’s toolkit in both individual and classroom management. With a little more insight, it’s also apparent that the ABCs are also behind most pedagogical theory.
So the applications of a deeper understanding of how ABA works can be a huge advantage to almost any teacher in any kind of school or subject area. However, ABA is most critical and most closely associated with special education work. In particular, it’s one of the only scientifically validated treatments for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), a major challenge for many school systems today. Experts who have both a strong command of educational principles and ABA therapy are in great demand.
What Are The Advantages of Studying ABA Coursework as Part of a Master of Education Degree?
Considering the close ties between knowledge acquisition and theories of behavior analysis, any teacher will come away from an ABA program better equipped to both manage a classroom as well as deal with any individual students facing challenges in self-management or learning.
Of course, another significant advantage is often that you can meet your educational requirements both for becoming certified as a BCBA® (Board Certified Behavior Analyst) and as a teacher in your state. This is dependent on both the state licensure requirements and how each individual schools structures their degree program. But you will find a number of schools on the list where their Master of Education will qualify you both for a BCBA® and special education teaching licensure in the state.
What Are the Disadvantages of Studying ABA Coursework as Part of a Master of Education Degree?
There are only so many credits to go around in any master’s degree program. So the downside to incorporating an ABA VCS as part of your education degree is that you are either giving up some potential training in behavior analysis, or in your education studies, depending on how you look at it.
Clearly, for someone interested only in BCBA® certification and general practice as a behavior analyst outside of the school system, a MEd with ABA coursework is probably not a good choice. Similarly, for an educator who doesn’t plan to use ABA principles in research, teaching, or special education classrooms, the ABA training won’t have much value. But for many special educators and even administrators and curriculum designers, it’s a balance that is worth taking.
Does it Matter If My Master of Education Doesn’t Hold Full ABAI or APBA Accreditation?
Eventually, after 2031, all programs accepted by BACB must be accredited by ABAI (Association for Behavior Analysis International) or APBA (Association of Professional Behavior Analysts). But that’s a long process, and it’s not on the top of the agenda for many schools of education, which do not have a sole focus on ABA programs.
So you will be happy to learn that the existing VCS (Verified Course Sequence) system is working just fine for credentials. Through 2025, each school will ensure that a VCS coordinator can attest to your coursework meeting standards. Most already have someone in this position, and most students won’t notice any difference.
Other schools are moving into the ABAI Tiered Model of Education, which allows schools to get course approval on a pathway to full accreditation. Any of these programs that have been recognized by ABAI in various tiers are also fully recognized for certification purposes.