Learn to Assess Behavior Changes
The online Master of Education (MEd) in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program will help you learn how to assess, analyze and work to develop interventions for challenging behavior that lead to prosocial behavior in individuals with autism and related disorders.
Our MEd program will also advance your skills and support your clinical experience in preparation for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® exam and becoming a BCBA.
Why earn your master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis at St. Edward’s?
St. Edward’s offers small, interactive classes and convenient schedules, a highly accomplished faculty, a prime location in Austin, and relationships with employers seeking our graduates. Our impeccable academic standards and personalized approach prepare you to take on a whole new level of success.
Take advantage of flexibility
Offered 100% online, this 30-credit hour program is ideal for full-time working professionals and can be completed in 21 months. Courses are offered in a 7-week accelerated, online format and are taken one at a time, with two courses taken per semester.
Learn from experts
Our outstanding faculty members are practicing clinicians, consultants and mentors who teach from real-life cases and the latest insights. They’ll get to know you and become trusted advisors during and after your time on the hilltop.
Broaden your ABA network
Learn in interactive, discussion-based classes with like-minded colleagues and professors who are well-connected in the field. You’ll be encouraged to network among your classmates and the local Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) community.
Gain real-world experience
The Applied Behavior Analysis program culminates with practicum courses that provide opportunities to work in clinical or educational settings. You’ll work with individuals with special needs and apply the intervention concepts and practices you’ve learned.
Reap the Rewards of Austin
Austin is a leading center for research on autism and developmental disabilities, and home to an active membership of the Texas Association of Behavior Analysis (TxABA). Our Austin location, partnerships and connections allow you to immerse yourself in a dynamic ABA environment where BCBAs are in high demand.
What can our graduates do?
The Master of Education in Applied Behavior Analysis program offers an educational and training experience that prepares graduates for roles in both K–12 settings and professional agencies serving students with developmental and behavioral disorders, including students with autism.
Careers in applied behavior analysis can include a number of different paths that extend beyond the educational environment. Among them, Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA) find opportunities to target behavior change inside hospitals, private and nonprofit organizations, and residential treatment settings. Graduates can also consult with businesses to support business practices such as organizational behavior management.
A graduate’s career path could include:
- Special education assistant
- Independent practitioner of behavior analysis services
- Supervisor of behavior technicians and assistant behavior analysts
Explore Details About the MEd in Applied Behavior Analysis
The Master of Education in Applied Behavior Analysis program prepares students to create transformational change in the lives of clients and their families. Program Director Dr. Cayenne Shpall explains how this program at St. Edward’s University leads to graduates making a significant impact. Check out this helpful Q&A with Dr. Shpall.
Learning Goals
With your MEd in Applied Behavior Analysis, you’ll be prepared to:
- Employ a deep understanding of applied concepts and principles of behavior analysis.
- Practice effective research methods including measurement principles, data analysis and experimental design.
- Understand behavior change in clients and specific procedures to help create positive change.
- Conceptualize, analyze and implement effective applied behavior analysis programs.
- Demonstrate advanced knowledge of the theoretical foundations of ethical and professional conduct.
Career Outcomes
The rising diagnosis rate for children with autism spectrum disorder has led to a demand for specially trained professionals. The career outlook for behavior analysts is strong, with nationwide growth projected at 20% by 2029. That growth level is considered significantly faster than average by the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, projecting long-term career stability.
With your advanced degree, you’ll be highly sought after for career opportunities in K–12 schools and other professional settings that serve individuals with developmental and behavioral disorders.
The Online Master of Education in Applied Behavior Analysis is a 30-credit hour program that you can complete in 21 months while working full-time. Courses are offered in a 7-week accelerated online format and taken one at a time. The program culminates with experience-based courses — Practicum I: Seminar Course and Practicum II: Supervised Clinical Experience.
Semester 1
Principles of Applied Behavior Analysis I
Foundations of Behavior Analysis
Semester 2
Ethical Issues and Professional Standards in Applied Behavior Analysis
Behavioral Research Methods
Semester 3
Functional Behavior Assessment
Development of Applied Behavioral Analysis Intervention Programs
Semester 4
Organizational Behavior Management
Child Development: A Behavioral Systems Approach
Semester 5
Practicum I: Seminar Course
Practicum II: Supervised Clinical Experience
The Association for Behavior Analysis International has verified the above courses toward the coursework requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® or Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst® examination. Applicants will need to meet additional requirements before they can be deemed eligible to take the examination.
For detailed degree requirements and course descriptions, please see the Graduate Bulletin or request more information.
If you want to make a difference for children and young people with autism or other disabilities and special needs, the online Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis from St. Edward’s University could be right for you. In as few as 14 months, you can develop the skills and knowledge you need to pursue certification as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) in schools and other settings — all while continuing to work in full-time employment.
This non-degree graduate certificate can be completed while also pursuing an online graduate degree or as a stand-alone certificate. Learn more about the Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis.
At St. Edward’s, our faculty are outstanding scholars, practitioners, teachers and mentors who bring energy and enthusiasm to our vibrant learning community. They take pride in getting to know you, helping you achieve your goals and celebrating your successes.
View a list of our faculty members and their contact information on the Department of Applied Behavioral Analysis, Criminal Justice, Social Work, and Sociology webpage.
At $37,260, the Master of Education in Applied Behavior Analysis (MEd-ABA) degree is a smart investment. The knowledge and skills acquired in this program prepare you to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® exam and enter a rewarding career as a BCBA.
Tuition* includes all course fees but does not include books, comprehensive fees or other course materials. Once accepted to the program, you are required to submit a $500 non-refundable tuition deposit. Deposits are applied toward tuition and secure your place in the upcoming class.
*Tuition is subject to change at the discretion of the St. Edward’s University Board of Trustees.
Financial Aid
The St. Edward’s University Financial Aid Office provides information about financial aid opportunities available to graduate students. Please visit our Financial Aid page or call us at 512-387-3110 for additional details.
To apply for the Master of Education in Applied Behavior Analysis (MEd-ABA) program, students are required to have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. Review application steps, key dates and requirements for the program.
Need more information? Please contact an Enrollment Counselor at 512-326-7501.