Online Master of Arts in Special Education – Applied Behavior Analysis
With Arizona State University’s online Master of Arts in special education with a concentration in applied behavior analysis, you’ll study the principles and practices of ABA and how they provide meaningful, evidence-based support. This program explores how ABA can be used to promote learning, increase independence and enhance quality of life. Courses are verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International® and can prepare you to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA) exam.
Quick facts
Next start date: 08/21/2025
Total classes: 10
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 30
Improve the lives of people of all ages using the principles of ABA
This program helps you apply the science of behavior to assist individuals across diverse settings. You’ll learn how to encourage socially significant growth, foster autonomy and enhance daily experiences. As an ABA practitioner, your approach will be tailored to each person or situation, with the overall goal of promoting learning and reinforcing helpful behaviors and skills. Strategies can be applied across populations, including children, adults, families and communities. Coursework emphasizes ethical practices, data-informed strategies and implementing individualized plans to meet each learner’s goals. You’ll also study how people learn and the theories that shape behavior-based approaches.
A program that prepares you for the BCBA exam
This program meets the 315-hour coursework requirement for the BCBA exam and aligns with the BACB® Test Content Outline (6th Edition). It also meets the upcoming 2027 academic content standards under Pathway 2. The course "Fundamentals of Organizational Behavior Management" can also support alumni who previously completed coursework under the 5th Edition standards
All instructors in this program are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with real-world experience across clinical, educational and community settings. You’ll benefit from direct mentorship, practical insights and expert feedback as you progress through your coursework.
ABA therapist and more: The career paths you’ll be ready for
Becoming an ABA therapist is one of the potential career paths for graduates from this program. This program is designed to prepare you for any and all ABA careers, equipping you for roles in education, health care, business and community services.
Program recognition and professional licensure and certification
Program recognition
ASU’s ABA program curriculum meets the Association for Behavior Analysis International verified course sequence requirements to qualify to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA) exam. You must satisfy any additional requirements to be eligible to take the exam.
Note: More information is available in the admissions section below.
Professional licensure and certification
ASU's academic programs that prepare you for professional licensure or certification are designed to meet Arizona's requirements. Completing an ASU program may not fulfill educational requirements for licensure or certification in other states. For additional information, visit the professional licensure webpage.
Contact MLFTCCompliance@asu.edu if you have questions about licensure or certification.
Will my diploma say ‘online’?
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”
Learn what you can accomplish with a Master of Arts in special education – applied behavior analysis.
ABA graduate program classes
This ABA degree offers verified coursework that meets the requirements for the BCBA exam. This means our curriculum meets the highest standards and teaches empathetic and scientifically proven methods for behavior change. Program courses give you the opportunity to gain practical experience with ABA and get feedback from certified instructors with professional experience in the field.
The careers an ABA master’s prepares you for
The demand for ABA professionals continues to grow. According to the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, job postings for individuals with BCBA or BCBA-D certification increased by 80% in recent years.
Upon graduating, you’ll be prepared for roles in education, behavioral consulting, program management, social services and more. ABA is commonly applied in special education to assist students with learning or behavior challenges, such as autism or ADHD, but it’s also used to improve organizational performance, support community health initiatives and enhance team dynamics in fields like sports.
While certification as a BCBA may expand your opportunities, it’s not required for many ABA-informed roles. This degree does not lead to teacher certification.
Career paths may include:
Learn from certified experience across ABA settings
The Mary Lou Fulton College for Teaching and Learning Innovation faculty draws from a range of academic disciplines, including cognitive science, psychology and economics. They seek to answer questions about the process of learning, teaching practices and effects of education policy. Our faculty is also committed to connecting research to schools and other learning environments. They ensure teacher and leadership preparation programs combine scholarly rigor with practical application.
Learn from certified experience across ABA settings
The Mary Lou Fulton College for Teaching and Learning Innovation faculty draws from a range of academic disciplines, including cognitive science, psychology and economics. They seek to answer questions about the process of learning, teaching practices and effects of education policy. Our faculty is also committed to connecting research to schools and other learning environments. They ensure teacher and leadership preparation programs combine scholarly rigor with practical application.
How to apply
Applicants to the Master of Arts in special education who want to pursue the applied behavior analysis concentration must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Mary Lou Fulton College for Teaching and Learning Innovation.
Join one of the best colleges of education in the nation
Mary Lou Fulton College for Teaching and Learning Innovation brings people and ideas together to increase the capabilities of educators and the performance of education systems. Our university has been recognized with peer-reviewed honors from U.S. News & World Report.
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Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
