Master’s in applied behavioral analysis (ABA)
An online master's in ABA can prepare you for a rewarding career in applied behavioral therapy. Learn how to become board certified through an accredited program.
Explore online ABA programs
Why earn a master's degree in ABA online?
Develop a versatile hard skill
Applied behavioral analysis has practical applications in psychology, counseling, social work, consumer research, marketing, and many other fields.
Prepare for certification exams
An online master's in applied behavioral analysis program can prepare you to earn board certified behavior analyst (BCBA) credentials.
Optimize your educational flexibility
Online students have more control over their schedule, learning pace, and choice of schools.
Applied behavioral analysis (ABA) is a method of psychology that treats people with emotional, social, behavioral, or mental health conditions. ABA has become increasingly common among therapists treating patients on the autism spectrum.
can help you prepare for careers in therapy, education, business, and marketing. Explore online programs and learn how to kickstart your career as an ABA therapist.
Browse accredited online ABA programs
What is an online master's in applied behavioral analysis?
Master's programs in applied behavioral analysis often appeal to students with related undergraduate academic backgrounds working toward BCBA certification.
These programs can develop the knowledge, skills, and competencies you need to apply the principles of applied behavioral analysis in professional settings.
Curriculum
You can learn about:
- Analytical assessments
- Behavioral conditioning, motivation, and reinforcement
- Intervention techniques
Programs also emphasize research literacy, professional ethics, and advanced ABA applications.
Specializations
While ABA already functions as a psychology specialization, you can still concentrate your learning by pursuing tracks in:
- Autism therapy
- Childhood clinical conditions
- Mental health
- Organizational behavior
Programs typically require you to complete 30-40 credits, and if you follow a full-time schedule, you can graduate in 2-3 academic years.
Admissions requirements for a master's in ABA
Applying to an online master's in ABA typically follows the same process as on-campus ABA programs. You'll need to submit the following with your application:
- Official transcripts showing a GPA of at least 3.0 (may vary by program)
- Résumé
- Personal statement
- At least one letter of recommendation
Some schools may also require an interview with an admissions counselor.
How to pay for a master's in ABA
An online master's in ABA program can cost $10,000-$50,000 or more, including tuition and other fees related to applications, technology, and books. Costs vary depending on the school, in-state and out-of-state tuition rates, and the program itself.
Online master's in ABA tend to be an affordable option, especially if they offer accelerated courses and set tuition rates for online learners.
You may also qualify for . Start by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for federal aid like grants, work-study programs, and PLUS loans. Colleges and universities may also use the FAFSA to determine your eligibility for institutional scholarships and fellowships.
How to become a board-certified ABA therapist
ABA therapists treat patients by implementing applied behavior analysis techniques to help minimize challenging behaviors and improve their adaptive skills. Aspiring ABA therapists must complete the following steps to become board certified.
1. Earn a bachelor's degree
Start your ABA training by completing a relevant bachelor's degree. Many ABA therapists study psychology or education at the baccalaureate level. Majoring in applied behavior analysis is helpful, but not necessary, to qualify for a master's program.
2. Complete an accredited ABA therapy master's program
To become board certified, you must complete an ABA master's program that meets the standards set by the Behavioral Analyst Certification Board (BACB). Qualified programs include graduate degrees accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI).
ABAI also verifies behavior-analytic coursework to qualify graduates for the board certification exam.
3. Gain post-graduate supervised experience
Each graduate of an online master's in ABA program must complete a supervised practicum to qualify for board certification. Qualified supervisors include active BCBAs without current disciplinary sanctions, licensed or registered psychologists tested in ABA, and authorized instructors.
Depending on your specific program, you may need 1,500 concentrated supervised hours or 2,000 supervised hours to qualify for BCBA certification.
4. Earn BCBA certification
You can qualify for BCBA certification after earning an accredited ABA therapy master's program, completing your post-graduate supervised experience, and passing the BCBA exam, which consists of 185 multiple-choice questions and takes four hours to complete.
The first attempt requires a $245 initial application fee and a $125 exam fee, plus additional fees for any required retakes.
5. Apply for ABA licensure with your state board, if applicable
Some states require licensure beyond national BCBA certification to practice ABA, while others make state-issued ABA licensure optional for therapists in this specialty. The laws governing the licensure of ABA therapists in each state are fluid and continue to develop year over year. Check the BACB website to find your local board, where you can verify your state's licensure guidelines.
Frequently asked questions
Last updated August 4, 2025