Mississippi has made Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) training part of a broader vision that brings together education, community service, and a strong commitment to behavioral health. Through initiatives led by the Department of Mental Health (DMH), the state promotes programs that expand access to evidence-based interventions and enhance the quality of care in schools, clinics, and local organizations.
In this context, universities offer master’s degrees in ABA that prepare students for Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification, with online, hybrid, and on-campus options available. These programs combine a rigorous curriculum with supervised experiences that allow students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings, producing professionals capable of making a tangible impact in the communities they serve.
Quick Facts
ABAI/VCS-Aligned Programs: 3
Fully Online ABA Programs: 2
GRE-Optional Programs: 3
Average Program Length: 30–40 credit hours
Tuition Range (per credit): $315 – $1,580
Masters Programs in Mississippi to Become a BCBA
Those seeking to become professionals specialized in designing, implementing, and evaluating evidence-based behavioral interventions, known as Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), can pursue this goal in Mississippi through master’s programs that meet the requirements set by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). In general, most common criteria for earning this certification include completing a master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis, psychology, education, or a related field; fulfilling the BACB-required course sequence; and completing supervised fieldwork that meets its professional standards.
These programs combine rigorous academic preparation with hands-on experience in settings such as schools, autism treatment centers, behavioral health clinics, and community organizations. Depending on the university, students may choose on-campus, hybrid, or fully online formats, making it easier to access the training and progress toward certification with greater flexibility.
Online ABA Masters Programs in Mississippi
Pursuing a master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) online is an excellent option for students in Mississippi who need to balance graduate studies with work or personal commitments. Without the need to attend on-campus classes, these programs provide solid, consistent preparation for taking the BCBA exam.
In addition, most online programs in the state offer asynchronous courses, while others may also include live sessions to interact in real time with faculty and classmates.
Mississippi State University
- Starkville, Mississippi
- 40 hours
- Online + Campus
Program:
Master of Science in Educational Psychology with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: Fully Online or On Campus
Length: 40 credit hours
GRE Required: not specified
Tuition: $558 per credit hour. With a total of 40 credit hours required, the total program cost is approximately $22,340. This estimate does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Overview
From the early stages of the program, the master’s degree combines academic instruction with supervised experience. The cohort model, with admission only in the fall, provides access to practicum placements in settings such as the university’s Autism and Developmental Disabilities Clinic, early intervention centers, and school-based programs.
Key Highlights
- Annual admission with limited spots, fostering small group learning and close academic mentorship.
- Opportunity to participate in applied research projects in collaboration with community centers and partner organizations.
Additional Considerations
- Requires passing a comprehensive master’s examination to complete the degree.
- External practicum placements must be approved by the academic advisor to ensure the quality of the clinical experience.
Accreditation
- Verified Course Sequence approved by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI), meeting BACB standards.
ABAI Accredited Masters Programs in Mississippi
In Mississippi, fully accredited master’s programs by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) are still limited, but several universities offer an ABAI-approved Verified Course Sequence (VCS). Having a VCS means the curriculum meets the requirements set by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), making it a key step for those pursuing Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification.
These programs not only ensure that courses cover the essential content for professional practice but also uphold the quality of instruction and prepare students to apply behavior analysis effectively across a variety of settings.
The University of Mississippi
- Oxford, Mississippi
- 30 hours
- Online + Campus
Program:
Master of Education in Special Education with a specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: Online or On Campus
Length: 30 credit hours
GRE Required: not specified
Tuition: $534 for in-state residents and $1,580.00 for out-of-state residents. With a total of 30 credit hours required, the total program cost is approximately $16,020 for in-state students and $47,400.00 for out-of-state students. This estimate does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Overview
Recognized for the quality of its School of Education, the University of Mississippi offers a specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis that emphasizes working with diverse populations, addressing both skill development and the reduction of problem behaviors. Students participate in supervised experiences and applied projects that allow them to build practical competencies from the early stages of the program.
Key Highlights
- Includes formal field supervision and a research project as part of the curriculum.
- Covers behavioral interventions applicable to both children and adults, addressing a variety of behavioral disorders.
Additional Considerations
- Requires a capstone research project as the academic culmination.
- May require a teaching license or standardized test scores (such as Praxis or GRE), depending on the applicant’s background.
Accreditation
- Accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) in the ABA specialization
ABA Certificate Programs in Mississippi
For professionals who already hold a master’s degree in a related field—such as psychology, education, or counseling—or for those who see this as an alternative to specialize in behavioral intervention, these certificate programs offer a direct pathway to completing the required academic training. They generally consist of around 21 credit hours and include key courses essential for professional practice.
While they do not always include supervised practice, many institutions provide guidance to help students arrange it independently, allowing them to strengthen their skills and meet the growing demand for behavioral health specialists in the state.
Online ABA Certificate Programs in Mississippi
The online format offers access to advanced training without the need to relocate or make major lifestyle changes. Delivered in asynchronous or hybrid formats, these programs cover core areas such as behavior assessment, ethics, and intervention design. The flexibility of online learning makes this an ideal option for those without access to in-person programs who wish to build a career in behavior analysis..
Mississippi State University
- Mississippi State, Mississippi
- 21 hours (7 courses)
- Online
Program:
Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate
Modality: Online
Length: 21 credit hours (7 courses)
GRE Required: not specified
Tuition: $558 per credit hour plus a $25.00 instructional support fee per credit hour. With a total of 21 credit hours required, the total program cost is around $12,236. This estimate does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses
Program Overview
Designed for professionals who already hold a master’s degree in Education or Psychology and wish to obtain the academic preparation required for certification as behavior analysts. With an exclusive fall start, the program fosters collaborative work and ongoing interaction with faculty.
Over the course of two years, students complete a sequence of seven courses developed by the faculty to align with the most current competencies in the field, covering topics such as intervention design, personnel management, data analysis, and socio-emotional and behavioral assessment.
Key Highlights
- All students pay in-state tuition, regardless of their place of residence.
- Access to personalized academic advising throughout the program, with individual and group virtual sessions.
Additional Considerations
- Applicants must already hold a master’s degree in a related field to be eligible.
- Supervised fieldwork is not integrated, but the academic advisor can provide guidance on how to arrange it externally.
Accreditation
- Verified Course Sequence approved by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI), meeting BACB standards.
William Carey University
- Hattiesburg, Mississippi
- 18 hours
- Online
Program:
Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate (Minor)
Modality: Online
Length: 18 credit hours
GRE Required: no
Tuition: $315 per credit hour for in-state residents and $315 for out-of-state residents. With a total of 18 credit hours required, the total program cost is around $5,670. This estimate does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses
Program Overview
Aimed at students in education, psychology, nursing, or other service-related fields, the program prepares graduates to address behavioral needs in classroom and clinical settings.
Over the course of 18 credit hours, students gain skills in basic and advanced ABA principles, research, behavioral assessment, among others.
Key Highlights
- Designed for students from various disciplines who wish to integrate ABA knowledge into their professional practice.
- Includes specific training to develop and apply behavioral assessments and interventions.
Additional Considerations
- It is not specified whether the program is part of an ABAI-approved Verified Course Sequence.
- The delivery format is not specified; it is recommended to confirm with the university’s academic departments.
Accreditation
- Institutional: Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
- Program-specific: No ABAI accreditation specified.
Regulation and Professional Practice in Mississippi
In Mississippi, Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) practice under the national standards established by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), with no additional state-issued license required.
Job Outlook in Mississippi
Mississippi continues to expand its behavioral health workforce to meet the needs of children, adolescents, and adults with developmental, psychological, and behavioral challenges. Opportunities for BCBAs exist in public schools, early intervention programs, private clinics, and community organizations. With ongoing state investment in mental health services and substance use disorder treatment, graduates of ABA programs in Mississippi are well positioned to make a meaningful impact on individuals and families across the state.
