2025: ABAI-Accredited Master’s in ABA for the Most Streamlined Way to Earn the BCBA®
We know you’re laser-focused on finding the right master’s program to gear up for BCBA® certification. We’ve done the heavy lifting for you, compiling a comprehensive list of every ABAI-accredited program in the U.S., so you can make a well-informed decision without sifting through sources you’re not entirely sure you can trust.
If you already have a pretty good idea of where you’re heading with your ABA career, then this is your guide.
You’re looking for the master’s degree that will check every single box for BCBA® certification and provide the most streamlined path possible without a single shortcut or detour. You’ve come to the right place.
Our sole criterion in putting together this list is full ABAI accreditation, so you know that every program here includes coursework precisely aligned with BACB requirements for BCBA® certification. Selecting any of these programs means you’ll be enrolling in a Teir 1 ABA program that will set you traveling down BACBs recently defined Pathway 1 to BCBA® certification.
They call it Pathway 1 for a reason. By choosing an ABAI-accredited program, there will be absolutely zero additional verifications required and no hoops to jump through in the certification process. You will also find your ABAI-accredited master’s commands a lot of respect in the ABA community as you transition into professional practice.
2025 ABAI-Accredited Master’s in ABA Programs Listed in Descending Order From Highest to Lowest Tuition
Each program entry details the essentials: program structure and focus, estimated tuition (in-state or online rates where available), 2023 BCBA® exam pass rates for first-time candidates, and supervised fieldwork hours aligned with BACB requirements (typically 1,500–2,000 hours). Where data’s unavailable—like pass rates for programs with fewer than six graduates—we’ve identified it clearly.
For easy price comparison, programs are listed in descending order according to tuition cost, with in-state rates noted for public universities.
All the questions about academic quality, qualifying fieldwork, respect in the professional community, and eligibility for the BCBA® are out of the way with any of these programs. That means all you have to do is choose the one you like the most and that you feel best aligns with your goals—whether you’re aiming for independent practice, a position in an established clinic or local school system, or in an area of practice along a path less traveled. Whatever you hope to do in the field of ABA, one of the master’s programs on this list can get you there.
Teachers College, Columbia University
M.A. in Applied Behavior Analysis
Total Tuition: Approx. $57,750 (30 credit hours at $1,925/credit, estimate).
BCBA® Exam Pass Rate (2023): 65% (17 first-time candidates).
Total Practicum Hours: 1,500–2,000 (BACB-aligned supervised fieldwork).
Features:
- Emphasizes research and practice in educational and clinical settings.
- Includes supervised fieldwork and a thesis.
- Prepares students for BCBA® certification and advanced research roles.
Caldwell University
M.A. in Applied Behavior Analysis
Total Tuition: Approx. $39,300 (30 credit hours at $1,310/credit).
BCBA® Exam Pass Rate (2023): 33% (12 first-time candidates).
Total Practicum Hours: 1,500–2,000 (BACB-aligned supervised fieldwork).
Features:
- Offers on-campus and hybrid options with a fast-track combined B.S./M.A. path.
- Training at the Caldwell University Center for Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis.
- Emphasizes developmental services and special education.
- Accepts up to 12 transfer credits from related fields.
Florida Institute of Technology
M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis
Total Tuition: Approx. $39,300 (30 credit hours at $1,310/credit, Melbourne campus).
BCBA® Exam Pass Rate (2023): 60% (10 first-time candidates).
Total Practicum Hours: 1,500 (concentrated supervised fieldwork, BACB-approved).
Features:
- Offered on Melbourne and Orlando campuses with daytime, evening, and weekend schedules.
- Partners with The Scott Center for Autism Treatment for clinical training.
- Opportunities to publish in ABA journals and engage with the Behavior Analysis Student Association.
- ABAI-accredited and BACB-verified coursework and fieldwork.
The Ohio State University
M.A. in Educational Studies, Applied Behavior Analysis
Total Tuition: Approx. $38,430 (30 credit hours at $1,281/credit, in-state estimate).
BCBA® Exam Pass Rate (2023): Not listed (fewer than 6 first-time candidates).
Total Practicum Hours: 1,500–2,000 (BACB-aligned supervised fieldwork).
Features:
- Focuses on applying ABA in educational and clinical settings.
- Includes hands-on practicum and research opportunities.
- Prepares students for BCBA® certification and potential doctoral studies.
Simmons University
M.S. in Behavior Analysis
Total Tuition: Approx. $33,600 (30 credit hours at $1,120/credit, estimate).
BCBA® Exam Pass Rate (2023): 84% (32 first-time candidates).
Total Practicum Hours: 1,500–2,000 (BACB-aligned supervised fieldwork).
Features:
- Offers on-campus and online options with a focus on practical application.
- Includes supervised fieldwork and research opportunities.
- Prepares students for BCBA® certification and leadership roles.
The Chicago School
M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis
Total Tuition: Approx. $33,600 (30 credit hours at $1,120/credit, estimate).
BCBA® Exam Pass Rate (2023): 38% (13 first-time candidates).
Total Practicum Hours: 1,500–2,000 (BACB-aligned supervised fieldwork).
Features:
- Offered in multiple campuses (Chicago, Anaheim, Dallas, Los Angeles, San Diego, Washington, D.C.) and online.
- Focuses on practical training and diverse applications.
- Includes BACB-verified coursework and fieldwork.
Salve Regina University
M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis
Total Tuition: Approx. $33,300 (30 credit hours at $1,110/credit, estimate).
BCBA® Exam Pass Rate (2023): Not listed (fewer than 6 first-time candidates).
Total Practicum Hours: 1,500–2,000 (BACB-aligned supervised fieldwork).
Features:
- Focuses on evidence-based interventions for developmental disabilities.
- Includes practical training and research opportunities.
- Prepares students for BCBA® certification.
Auburn University
M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis
Total Tuition: Approx. $30,240 (in-state, 30 credit hours at $1,008/credit; out-of-state: $90,720).
BCBA® Exam Pass Rate (2023): 100% (6 first-time candidates).
Total Practicum Hours: 1,500–2,000 (BACB-aligned supervised fieldwork).
Features:
- On-campus program with a focus on socially meaningful research and clinical applications.
- Includes on-campus ABA clinic, home-based services, public school district consultations, and foster care system services.
- Requires a practicum and capstone project for hands-on training.
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 20:1.
Rollins College
M.A. in Applied Behavior Analysis and Clinical Science
Total Tuition: Approx. $27,676 (in-state, 9-credit semester estimate, 30 credits total).
BCBA® Exam Pass Rate (2023): Not listed (fewer than 6 first-time candidates).
Total Practicum Hours: 1,500–2,000 (BACB-aligned supervised fieldwork).
Features:
- Small cohorts (max 12 students) with evening classes.
- Includes 11 core courses, 2 clinical science electives, 1 professional development, and a thesis/capstone.
- Ranked #1 private regional university in the South.
California State University, Los Angeles
M.S. in Counseling, Option in Applied Behavior Analysis
Total Tuition: Approx. $24,750 (30 credit hours at $825/credit, in-state estimate).
BCBA® Exam Pass Rate (2023): 71% (7 first-time candidates).
Total Practicum Hours: 1,500–2,000 (BACB-aligned supervised fieldwork).
Features:
- On-campus program with a focus on behavioral interventions.
- Includes coursework in human development, psychopathology, and developmental disabilities.
- Offers hands-on research and clinical opportunities.
Salem State University
M.S. in Behavior Analysis
Total Tuition: Approx. $24,750 (37.5 credit hours at $660/credit, in-state estimate).
BCBA® Exam Pass Rate (2023): Not listed (fewer than 6 first-time candidates).
Total Practicum Hours: 1,500–2,000 (BACB-aligned supervised fieldwork).
Features:
- 37.5 credit hours, including supervised experience and directed study.
- Recognized as a top 10 U.S. program.
- Focuses on practical application in various settings.
Regis College
M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis
Total Tuition: Approx. $24,300 (30 credit hours at $810/credit).
BCBA® Exam Pass Rate (2023): 50% (12 first-time candidates).
Total Practicum Hours: 1,500–2,000 (BACB-aligned supervised fieldwork).
Features:
- Offers in-person, online, and hybrid options for flexibility.
- Includes a certificate-level program for those with a related master’s.
- Active learning through role-play, peer presentations, and practicum.
University of Kansas
M.A. in Applied BehaviorAl Science
Total Tuition: Approx. $22,500 (30 credit hours at $750/credit, in-state estimate).
BCBA® Exam Pass Rate (2023): 67% (6 first-time candidates).
Total Practicum Hours: 1,500–2,000 (BACB-aligned supervised fieldwork).
Features:
- Emphasizes research and practical applications in diverse settings.
- Includes supervised fieldwork and thesis opportunities.
- Prepares students for BCBA® certification and doctoral studies.
University of Maryland, Baltimore County
M.A. in Applied Behavior Analysis
Total Tuition: Approx. $21,450 (30 credit hours at $715/credit, in-state estimate).
BCBA® Exam Pass Rate (2023): 60% (10 first-time candidates).
Total Practicum Hours: 1,500–2,000 (BACB-aligned supervised fieldwork).
Features:
- Partners with The Shafer Center for on-site autism training.
- Includes UMBC Psychology Training Clinic and practicum options in neurobehavioral and pediatric feeding disorders.
- Access to distinguished lecturers and cutting-edge research.
University of Houston, Clear Lake
M.A. in Behavior Analysis
Total Tuition: Approx. $21,150 (30 credit hours at $705/credit, in-state estimate).
BCBA® Exam Pass Rate (2023): 75% (8 first-time candidates).
Total Practicum Hours: 1,500–2,000 (BACB-aligned supervised fieldwork).
Features:
- Focuses on clinical and educational applications.
- Includes practicum and research opportunities.
- Prepares students for BCBA® certification.
West Virginia University
M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis
Total Tuition: Approx. $20,790 (30 credit hours at $693/credit, in-state estimate).
BCBA® Exam Pass Rate (2023): Not listed (fewer than 6 first-time candidates).
Total Practicum Hours: 1,500–2,000 (BACB-aligned supervised fieldwork).
Features:
- Emphasizes clinical and educational applications.
- Includes supervised fieldwork and research opportunities.
- Prepares students for BCBA® certification.
Western Michigan University
M.A. in Behavior Analysis
Total Tuition: Approx. $20,070 (30 credit hours at $669/credit, in-state estimate).
BCBA® Exam Pass Rate (2023): 64% (11 first-time candidates).
Total Practicum Hours: 1,500–2,000 (BACB-aligned supervised fieldwork).
Features:
- Renowned for its long-standing ABA program.
- Includes extensive practicum and research opportunities.
- Prepares students for BCBA® certification and leadership roles.
University of South Florida
M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis
Total Tuition: Approx. $19,305 (45 credit hours at $429/credit, in-state).
BCBA® Exam Pass Rate (2023): 75% (16 first-time candidates).
Total Practicum Hours: 1,500–2,000 (BACB-aligned supervised fieldwork).
Features:
- 45-credit interdisciplinary program across three colleges.
- Includes BACB-verified coursework, practicum, and thesis.
- Prepares students for diverse fields like autism, education, and mental health.
University of Missouri, Columbia
M.A. in Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis
Total Tuition: Approx. $18,300 (30 credit hours at $610/credit, in-state estimate).
BCBA® Exam Pass Rate (2023): 67% (6 first-time candidates).
Total Practicum Hours: 1,500–2,000 (BACB-aligned supervised fieldwork).
Features:
- Focuses on evidence-based interventions for disabilities.
- Includes supervised fieldwork and research opportunities.
- Prepares students for BCBA® certification.
University of Nevada, Reno
M.S. in Behavior Analysis
Total Tuition: Approx. $17,250 (30 credit hours at $575/credit, in-state estimate).
BCBA® Exam Pass Rate (2023): 67% (6 first-time candidates).
Total Practicum Hours: 1,500–2,000 (BACB-aligned supervised fieldwork).
Features:
- Emphasizes student-driven paths to certification.
- Includes community outreach through Psychological Services Center, Spectrum Learning Center, and BECS.
- Prepares students for BCBA® certification and diverse practice settings.
University of Texas at San Antonio
M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis
Total Tuition: Approx. $16,410 (30 credit hours at $547/credit, in-state estimate).
BCBA® Exam Pass Rate (2023): Not listed (fewer than 6 first-time candidates).
Total Practicum Hours: 1,500–2,000 (BACB-aligned supervised fieldwork).
Features:
- Focuses on practical and research-based training.
- Includes supervised fieldwork and capstone/thesis options.
- Prepares students for BCBA® certification.
University of North Texas
M.S. in Behavior Analysis
Total Tuition: Approx. $15,750 (30 credit hours at $525/credit, in-state estimate).
BCBA® Exam Pass Rate (2023): 83% (6 first-time candidates).
Total Practicum Hours: 1,500–2,000 (BACB-aligned supervised fieldwork).
Features:
- Focuses on clinical and research training.
- Includes supervised fieldwork and thesis opportunities.
- Prepares students for BCBA® certification and doctoral studies.
University of North Carolina Wilmington
M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis
Total Tuition: Approx. $13,920 (30 credit hours at $464/credit, in-state estimate).
BCBA® Exam Pass Rate (2023): 100% (7 first-time candidates).
Total Practicum Hours: 1,500–2,000 (BACB-aligned supervised fieldwork).
Features:
- Includes research and applied practicum with an empirical thesis.
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 18:1.
- Prepares students for regional, national, and international recognition.
Southern Illinois University
M.S. in Behavior Analysis and Therapy
Total Tuition: Approx. $13,980 (30 credit hours at $466/credit, in-state estimate).
BCBA® Exam Pass Rate (2023): 50% (6 first-time candidates).
Total Practicum Hours: 1,500–2,000 (BACB-aligned supervised fieldwork).
Features:
- Emphasizes clinical and research training in diverse settings.
- Includes practicum and thesis opportunities.
- Prepares students for BCBA® certification and doctoral studies.
St. Cloud State University
M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis
Total Tuition: Approx. $13,500 (30 credit hours at $450/credit, in-state estimate).
BCBA® Exam Pass Rate (2023): 62% (13 first-time candidates).
Total Practicum Hours: 1,500–2,000 (BACB-aligned supervised fieldwork).
Features:
- Focuses on applying ABA in clinical and educational settings.
- Includes supervised fieldwork and research opportunities.
- Prepares students for BCBA® certification.
Florida State University, Panama City
M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis
Total Tuition: Approx. $12,840 (30 credit hours at $428/credit, in-state/online).
BCBA® Exam Pass Rate (2023): 100% (6 first-time candidates).
Total Practicum Hours: 1,500–2,000 (BACB-aligned supervised fieldwork).
Features:
- Five-semester, limited-access program taught via Interactive Television Network (accessible from Panama City and Tallahassee).
- Includes BACB-verified curriculum and practicum.
- Tuition waivers through paid assistantships at approved agencies (e.g., Early Childhood Autism Program).
- Requires a comprehensive exam and professional portfolio.
Jacksonville State University
M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis
Total Tuition: Approx. $12,840 (30 credit hours at $428/credit, in-state estimate).
BCBA® Exam Pass Rate (2023): 100% (6 first-time candidates).
Total Practicum Hours: 1,500–2,000 (BACB-aligned supervised fieldwork).
Features:
- Offered through the School of Human Services and Social Sciences with thesis and non-thesis options.
- Non-thesis students must pass a comprehensive exam.
- Provides practicum and independent research opportunities.
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 18:1.
McNeese State University
M.A. in Psychology with a Concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis
Total Tuition: Approx. $12,840 (30 credit hours at $428/credit, in-state/online).
BCBA® Exam Pass Rate (2023): 100% (7 first-time candidates).
Total Practicum Hours: 1,500+ (five-course sequence).
Features:
- On-campus and hybrid options with access to the McNeese Autism Program (MAP) for practicum.
- Five-course practicum sequence delivering over 1,500 hours.
- Includes rat laboratory and vivarium for research.
- Over 80% of students receive graduate assistantships.
- Online program is not ABAI-accredited.
Montana State University Billings
M.S. in Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis
Total Tuition: Approx. $12,840 (30 credit hours at $428/credit, online estimate).
BCBA® Exam Pass Rate (2023): Not listed (fewer than 6 first-time candidates).
Total Practicum Hours: 1,500–2,000 (BACB-aligned supervised fieldwork).
Features:
- Online-only program, typically 2–3 years, with GRE required for GPA <3.0.
- Focuses on evidence-based practices for disabilities.
- 96% placement rate post-graduation.
Care was taken to ensure the accuracy of the data provided, but information is subject to change and should be verified directly through university websites or by speaking with an enrollment counselor.
- All tuition data and details on program features drawn from university websites.
- BCBA® Exam pass rates sourced from the BACB’s 2023 Examination Pass Rates for University Training Programs report.