Since 2009, the practice of Applied Behavior Analysis has become more regulated. Minnesota formalized its requirements for ABA therapists in 2024. In Minnesota, practitioners who are a Licensed Behavior Analyst are independent practitioners who can provide ABA therapy under the law (MN Statute 148.9981).
Demand for BCBAs in Minnesota
In Minnesota, the recent demand for BCBA licensed professionals decreased from 2022 to 2023. In 2022, there were 636 job postings and in 2023 there were 512 job postings. This change is not aligned with the national trend; between 2022-2023, the national demand increased 14%.
According to Indeed, the average salary for an ABA therapist is $55,150 per year ($23.68 per hour). The salary does vary from city to city. For example, the average salary in Minneapolis-St. Paul is $62,812 while the average salary in Edina is $46,963.
Featured ABA Programs Accepting Minnesota Applicants
Master’s Programs in Minnesota To Become a BCBA
In Minnesota, the Minnesota Board of Psychology oversees BCBA licensure. Licensed behavior analysts in Minnesota must submit proof of:
- a completed master’s degree, and
- evidence of BCBA certification.
To earn the BCBA certification, practitioners must complete the Verified Course Sequence, pass the BCBA exam, and complete supervised practicum hours. The Verified Course Sequence is the set of courses, typically seven courses of 21 credit hours, that are verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International that prepares students to take the BCBA certification exam. The coursework ensures that all BCBA certified therapists have the same knowledge and skills. Universities may offer the set of courses in isolation, or part of a broader degree.
Students seeking to earn their BCBA credential have two options in Minnesota: St. Cloud State University and the University of Minnesota in the Twin Cities.
Online ABA Master’s Program in Minnesota
An online ABA Master’s program provides flexibility and the ability to learn the content necessary to become a BCBA while managing a job and family. In Minnesota, St. Cloud State University offers an online master’s in ABA.
St. Cloud State University
- St. Cloud, MN
- Online
Program:
Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: Online
Length: 52 credit hours
GRE Required: No
Tuition: $732.89 per credit hour
Accreditation: ABAI
Program Overview:
The M.A. in ABA provides professional training in behavior analysis with a specialization in autism spectrum disorder, developmental disabilities, community integration strategies, program evaluation, and organizational development. Students take courses in an online format to complete the Verified Course Sequence and additional electives. Depending on location, students also have opportunities for clinical practice and research.
Hybrid Master’s ABA Program in Minnesota
There are no hybrid Master’s ABA programs in Minnesota.
Graduate Certificate ABA Program in Minnesota
There are no graduate certificate programs in Minnesota.
On Campus Master’s in ABA Programs in Minnesota
Both St. Cloud State University and the University of Minnesota at the Twin Cities offer on campus master’s programs in ABA.
St. Cloud State University
- St. Cloud, MN
- Campus
Program:
Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: On campus
Length: 52 credit hours
GRE Required: No
Tuition: $732.89 per credit hour
Accreditation: ABAI
Program Overview:
The M.A. in ABA provides professional training in behavior analysis with a specialization in autism spectrum disorder, developmental disabilities, community integration strategies, program evaluation, and organizational development. The university has partnerships with more than 120 organizations and provides graduate assistantships on campus. Students may work at the Offerdahl Autism Discovery Center. Students are involved with research and have the opportunity to present at conferences.
University of Minnesota
- Minneapolis, MN
- Campus
Program:
Master’s of Arts in Special Education with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: On campus
Length: 4 semesters, 2 years
GRE Required: No
Tuition: $9,990 for full-time attendance (6-14 credits) for residents; $15,606 for non-residents
Accreditation: None listed
Program Overview:
The M.A. in Special Education with ABA emphasis includes the Verified Course Sequence and mentoring support. The program was specifically developed to support special education teachers. The topics of cultural responsiveness, anti-racism and anti-ableism are embedded into coursework. Students also gain experience working alongside practitioners and conducting research. Students also have the opportunity to work at the ABA Lab.
No GRE Required ABA Programs in Minnesota
Neither of the programs in Minnesota require the GRE for admission. The admission requirements vary from program to program, with some requiring a minimum GPA for admission, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.
ABAI Accredited ABA Programs in Minnesota
St. Cloud State University’s programs are ABAI accredited.
Affordable ABA Programs in Minnesota
St. Cloud State University offers their master’s degree at a rate or $732.89 per credit hour. However, the total cost of an ABA program will depend on factors like residency, prior credit hours, and other factors.
Accelerated ABA Programs in Minnesota
There is no accelerated path to an ABA degree in Minnesota; both colleges offer full master’s degrees.
