edX Online

About the program

  • BCBA preparation:

    Prepare to sit for the BCBA exam to become a behavior analyst through the ABA online program and completing necessary experience hours.

  • Top-quality learning:

    Follow the same curriculum as in-person learners, experience clinical work near you, and attend face-to-face online classes.

  • Help clients:

    Assist clients as they develop the adaptive skills they need to function optimally in different settings.

Featured courses

The Master of Science in ABA program utilizes an evidence-based, data-driven perspective for understanding behavioral psychology. Learners explore principles and techniques of applied behavior analysis through assessing behavior patterns, selecting strategies to promote change, and determining target behaviors for clients diagnosed with impairments such as traumatic brain injury, developmental disabilities, or autism. Below are two of the program’s featured courses:

  • Multiculturalism and Diversity in Applied Behavior Analysis:

    Delve into discovering how socioeconomic backgrounds, gender, belief systems, ethnicity, and race affect working with diverse populations.

  • Assessment Procedures for ABA:

    Collaborate with providers, determine assessments, interpret data while identifying client difficulties, and convey concepts in nontechnical language.

Ready to advance your career?

Clinical training

Learners must take part in at least 20 hours of BCBA-supervised clinical training a month while enrolled in PSY 620 Practicum in ABA. Afterward, they must complete the hour requirement in the BACB’s fieldwork standards to qualify to take the BCBA exam independently. 

While taking part in fieldwork, learners gain real-world experience at an agency approved by Pepperdine University in or near their community. They focus on diversity, multicultural considerations, and the practitioner-client relationship.

Frequently asked questions

What can you do with a master’s degree in applied behavior analysis?

After completing all courses and necessary experience hours — and passing the BCBA exam — you can pursue work in a variety of settings as a behavior analyst or behavior coach. You can help children and adults with disabilities to develop adaptive skills, for example. Graduates might also pursue work as educational or organizational consultants, sharing their expertise to promote and help advance evidence-based behavioral treatments.

What is applied behavior analysis?

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) focuses on improving targeted behaviors. By identifying goal behaviors, using positive reinforcement, and measuring outcomes, they help individuals develop skills they need in everyday life, such as communicating effectively, fine motor dexterity, increasing attention, social skills, and memory.

Does this online MS in ABA help you become a BCBA?

Yes. Earning your Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis is the first step to becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Pepperdine’s course sequence is Association for Behavioral Analysis International (ABAI) verified, which confirms the program coursework makes learners eligible for the BCBA exam. The program’s clinical practicums and mentorship from an experienced BCBA will help you develop skills and the confidence you need to succeed in a real-world setting. Once you complete the program, and complete all necessary experience hours, you will be ready to sit for the BCBA exam.

Is a bachelor’s degree in psychology required to apply to the MS in ABA?

No, a bachelor’s degree in psychology is not required to apply to the MS in ABA. In fact, candidates with any bachelor’s degree are welcome to apply to the program. Throughout the course sequence, learners gain the foundational knowledge, and practical, real-world experience necessary to be eligible to sit for the BCBA exam. 

Can you work while completing this program?

Yes. Many students work while completing the program. The school offers a full-time option and a part-time one. Courses feature asynchronous coursework between live classes that you can complete on your own schedule.