Missouri offers a wide selection of master’s programs designed for behavioral health professionals. These programs are in line with state initiatives to expand services for people with autism, developmental disabilities, and other behavioral needs.
Students can choose from several course formats, many of which include supervised internships in schools, agencies, or institutions. Curricula vary depending on the field of application. Whether your goal is to support individuals with autism spectrum disorders, work in organizational behavior management, or contribute to behavioral health policy, ABA programs in Missouri provide a solid foundation for making an impact.
Quick Facts
ABAI/VCS-aligned programs in Missouri: 10
Fully online ABA master’s programs: 7
Programs with optional GRE: 9
Average program length: 36-42 credits
Tuition range (per credit): $295 – $1,270
Masters Programs in Missouri to Become a BCBA
In Missouri, those seeking certification as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) can choose from a variety of graduate programs that meet the academic and supervised experience requirements established by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). These programs are designed to equip students with the skills needed to assess behavior, design effective interventions, and apply ethical decision-making across diverse practice settings.
Most programs in Missouri include:
- A master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis, special education, psychology, or a related field
- Completion of a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI)
- Supervised practicum or field experiences that integrate theoretical learning with direct work in schools, clinics, and community agencies
Online ABA Masters Programs in Missouri
These programs allow individuals to gain essential knowledge and practical skills in ABA without having to attend campus, making higher education more accessible. Many of Missouri’s online ABA programs follow a structured but adaptable format, incorporating live virtual sessions, self-paced courses, and interactive learning experiences to ensure comprehensive training.There are about 10 universities in Missouri that offer fully online or hybrid applied behavior analysis (ABA) programs. Among them is Southeast Missouri State University (Cape Girardeau).
Other programs with these characteristics are listed below.
Truman State University
- Kirksville, Missouri
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in Disability Studies: Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: Online
Length: 38 credit hours
GRE Required: no
Tuition: $507 per credit hour for in-state residents and $507 for out-of-state residents. With a total of 38 credit hours required, the total program cost is around $19,266 for both in-state and out-of-state students. Does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Overview:
With a small cohort format, Truman State University’s master’s program offers close and consistent mentorship from faculty. The curriculum integrates professional practice early on, fostering relevant intervention skills.
Key Highlights:
- Small cohorts that promote collaborative learning.
- Live interaction with experts to discuss and resolve practical cases.
Additional Considerations
- Competitive admission with limited spots; early application is recommended.
- Program format and schedule designed to balance education with professional commitments.
Accreditation
- Institutional: Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
- Program-specific: Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by ABAI.
University of Missouri – St. Louis
- St. Louis, Missouri
- Online
Program:
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: Online
Length: 40 credit hours
GRE Required: not specified
Tuition: $500 per credit hour for in-state residents and $1,150 per credit hour for out-of-state residents. With a total of 40 credit hours required, the total program cost is around $20,000 for in-state students and $46,000 for out-of-state students. This does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Overview
UMSL offers a highly structured plan that integrates 10 practicum credits and culminates in a 6-credit thesis with a defense. The thesis begins in the second year and is organized by term, allowing research work to be managed without overloading the academic schedule. The program is designed to be completed in two years, making it time-efficient compared to other master’s degrees.
Key Highlights
- Opportunities to present research and projects at specialized academic events.
- Connection to a broad network of professionals and alumni in the St. Louis metropolitan area.
Additional Considerations
- Admission offered exclusively in the fall semester; deadlines: July 1 (domestic) and May 1 (international).
- Out-of-state applicants should verify licensing availability and requirements in their state of residence.
Accreditation
- Institutional: Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
- Program-specific: Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by ABAI.
University of Central Missouri
- Warrensburg, Missouri
- Online
Program:
Master of Science in Behavior Analysis — Behavior Analysis Therapy Option
Modality: Online
Length: 42 credit hours
GRE Required: no
Tuition: $425 per credit hour. With a total of 42 credit hours required, the total program cost is around $17,850. This does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Description
With an intensive track, the Master of Science in Behavior Analysis can be completed in two years. The program includes a supervised practicum that allows students to accumulate the required fieldwork hours for the certification exam, integrating professional practice with courses such as Behavior Analysis and Therapy I–II, among others. It also offers additional training in behavioral medicine and behavioral therapy, expanding the range of interventions beyond the standard VCS.
In addition, UCM’s program has been ranked among the top online BCBA master’s programs.
Key Highlights
- Additional emphasis on behavioral medicine and behavioral therapy, with courses specifically focused on prevention and treatment.
- 100% job placement rate reported by the program.
Additional Considerations
- Admission only for the fall semester; priority application by April 15 and limited enrollment (competitive process).
- Non-degree option available for graduate degree holders (coursework + field hours only) who need to fulfill the academic requirements for the BCBA exam.
Accreditation
- Institutional: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Program-specific: Verified Course Sequence (VCS), 5th edition, approved by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI).
ABAI Accredited Masters Programs in Missouri
Master’s programs in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) maintain rigorous academic and professional standards, ensuring that students receive high-quality training in behavior analysis.
Missouri has several ABAI-accredited master’s programs that focus on evidence-based methodologies and real-world application. One of these is at the University of Central Missouri (Warrensburg). Other equally relevant programs are listed below.
University of Missouri
- Columbia, Missouri
- Campus
Program:
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: On Campus
Length: 36 credit hours
GRE Required: not specified
Tuition: $458 per credit hour for in-state residents and $1,270 per credit hour for out-of-state residents. With a total of 36 credit hours required, the total program cost is around $16,488 for in-state students and $45,720 for out-of-state students. This does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Description
The Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis at the University of Missouri combines academic training with hands-on experience at the Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders, a center recognized for its work with individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. Students take part in assessments, interventions, and research projects that are integrated into the center’s real-world activities and those of other partner institutions, blending theoretical preparation with supervised practice in clinical and educational settings.
Key Highlights
- Access to applied research projects in collaboration with faculty.
- Thesis project with personalized faculty mentorship.
Additional Considerations
- Annual fall admission; applying before February 1 is recommended to maximize funding opportunities.
- Out-of-state applicants should coordinate with the university to verify practicum requirements in their state of residence.
Accreditation
- Institutional: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Program-specific: Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by ABAI
Webster University (St. Louis)
- St. Louis, Missouri
- Online + Campus
Program:
Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: Online and On Campus
Length: 33 credit hours
GRE Required: not specified
Tuition: $690 per credit hour for all students. With a total of 33 credit hours required, the total program cost is around $22,770. This does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Overview
Webster University offers a master’s degree in ABA designed for working professionals, with fully asynchronous 8-week online modules that make it easier to balance studies, work, and personal life. From the first courses, students apply skills such as direct observation, functional behavior assessment, and environmental variable measurement, strengthening their ability to implement effective interventions in clinical, educational, and organizational settings.
Key Highlights
- BCBA exam pass rate of 70% in the 2023–2024 academic year.
- Option to add a certificate in Organizational Behavior Management (OBM) to broaden professional qualification.
Additional Considerations
- Rolling admissions with multiple start dates throughout the year, allowing for flexible academic planning.
- Post-master’s certificate option in ABA for those who already hold a graduate degree.
Accreditation
- Institutional: Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
- Program-specific: Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by ABAI.
No GRE Required ABA Masters Programs in Missouri
A dozen universities within Missouri offer their programs in ABA without requiring students to take the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) for admission. One of them is University of Missouri (Columbia). This change reflects a growing emphasis on evaluating applicants based on academic performance, relevant professional experience and personal qualifications, rather than standardized test scores. By eliminating the GRE requirement, these programs increase accessibility for students from diverse backgrounds, allowing them to focus on showcasing their skills and experience in the field of behavior analysis.
Lindenwood University (St. Charles)
- St. Charles, Missouri
- Campus
Program:
Master of Arts in Behavior Analysis
Modality: On Campus
Length: 42 credit hours
GRE Required: no
Tuition: $551 per credit hour for all students. With a total of 42 credit hours required, the total program cost is around $23,142. This does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Overview
Designed to prepare students for Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification, the Master of Arts in Behavior Analysis includes 2,000 hours of supervised fieldwork guided by an experienced faculty team. The program combines on-campus learning with synchronous sessions and direct access to laboratories and real casework, all within a cohort model that fosters professional development. It places strong emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion, preparing graduates to work with diverse populations across clinical, educational, and corporate settings.
Key Highlights
- Includes lab experiences that complement both experimental and practical training.
- Active focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion as an integral part of clinical preparation.
Additional Considerations
- Fall-only admission through a cohort model; students must complete the program within five years and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Option to complete either 1,500 or 2,000 supervised fieldwork hours (two tracks depending on student choice).
Accreditation
- Institutional: Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
- Program-specific: Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by ABAI.
Saint Louis University (St. Louis)
- St. Louis, Missouri
- Online + Campus
Program:
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: Online and On Campus
Length: 39 credit hours (18 to 36 months)
Tuition: $1,000 per credit hour for all students. With a total of 39 credit hours required, the total program cost is around $39,000. This does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Description
Saint Louis University’s Master’s program blends academic coursework with supervised professional experience, integrating 1,500 hours of practicum over five semesters under the guidance of certified behavior analysts. Students can choose from three tracks: research (on campus), clinical (online), and a dual degree with social work (M.S. ABA/M.S.W.), all featuring a curriculum that covers behavioral principles, assessment, and intervention design. A distinctive feature is its emphasis on cultural humility and the application of behavioral science across diverse areas such as health, education, criminal justice, organizational management, and sports.
Key Highlights
- Opportunities to present research at conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals.
- Cohort model that fosters collaboration and structured learning.
Additional Considerations
- Two annual admission dates: March 1 (for scholarships and assistantships) and August 1 (for fall start).
- Practicum integrated into the curriculum, eliminating the need for students to independently secure field experiences.
Accreditation
- Institutional: Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
- Program-specific: Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by ABAI.
Missouri’s Most Affordable ABA Masters Programs
In addition to being affordable, these programs stand out for their flexibility, with part-time, hybrid, and online options, allowing students to balance their studies with work or other responsibilities.Among the universities offering this type of program is the University of Missouri–St. Louis (St. Louis). Another prominent institution is mentioned below.
University of Central Missouri
- Warrensburg, Missouri
- Online
Program:
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Spectrum Disorder
Modality: Online
Length: 42 credit hours
GRE Required: not specified
Tuition: $425 per credit hour. With a total of 42 credit hours required, the total program cost is around $17,850. This does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Description
With an intensive focus on Autism, the Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis can be completed in two years, combining synchronous online courses with supervised practicum experiences. The program incorporates collaboration with families and interdisciplinary teams as part of its intervention approach and includes courses dedicated to planning lifelong supports, from childhood through adulthood.
Key Highlights
- Autism specialization with courses in social communication, adaptive skills, and complex behavioral supports.
- Online format with synchronous classes that foster direct interaction with faculty and peers.
Additional Considerations
- Admission in fall or spring; applications submitted by April 15 receive priority consideration for admission and placement.
- Includes an option for students who already hold a graduate degree and only need to complete the VCS and supervised fieldwork hours.
Accreditation
- Institutional: Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
- Program-specific: Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by ABAI.
Accelerated Missouri ABA Masters Programs
Some universities offer intensive programs that can be completed in as little as 12 to 16 months.
Missouri’s accelerated programs are designed to maximize efficiency, with condensed courses, intensive training, and optimized schedules that allow students to meet the educational requirements for Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification in a faster and more structured manner.
Among the institutions offering this modality is University of Central Missouri (Warrensburg), along with two other universities mentioned below.
Missouri State University (Springfield)
- Springfield, Missouri
- Campus
Program:
Master of Science in Behavior Analysis and Therapy
Modality: On Campus
Length: 39 credit hours
GRE Required: no
Tuition: $295 per credit hour for in-state residents and $605 per credit hour for out-of-state residents. With a total of 39 credit hours required, the total program cost is around $11,505 for in-state students and $23,595 for out-of-state students. This does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Description
Missouri State University offers the Master of Science in Behavior Analysis and Therapy on its Springfield campus, combining academic training with intensive practice in real-world settings. Students engage in applied projects and a supervised practicum carried out in collaboration with clinics, schools, and community programs specializing in autism and developmental disabilities.
Key Highlights
- Accelerated track option allowing undergraduate students to apply up to 12 credits toward the master’s degree.
- Access to field experiences in partner centers working with complex behavioral needs.
Additional Considerations
- Annual fall admission.
- Opportunities to collaborate on research and projects presented at regional and national behavior analysis conferences.
Accreditation
- Institutional: Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
- Program-specific: Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by ABAI.
Southeast Missouri State University
- Cape Girardeau, Missouri
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: Online
Length: 42 credit hours
GRE Required: not specified
Tuition: $382.94 per credit hour for all students. With a total of 42 credit hours required, the total program cost is around $16,083.48. This does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses
Program Overview
Offered entirely online and following a cohort model, the Master of Arts in ABA allows students to complete between 1,500 and 2,000 hours of supervised practice, with the option to select their own practicum site to match their professional interests. The program also includes an elective component, enabling students to deepen their expertise in areas such as autism, trauma, or professional ethics.
Key Highlights
- Supervised practicum included within the curriculum, eliminating the need for students to arrange it independently.
- Accelerated track option allowing undergraduate students to apply up to 12 credits toward the master’s degree.
Additional Considerations
- Admission available for summer or fall; core ABA courses always begin in the fall.
- Applicants must identify a potential practicum site before starting the program.
Accreditation
- Institutional: Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
- Program-specific: Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by ABAI.
ABA Certificate Programs in Missouri
ABA certificate programs in Missouri offer professionals a flexible and cost-effective way to obtain specialized training in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). These programs are ideal for individuals who already have a bachelor’s or master’s degree and want to deepen their expertise without committing to a full graduate program.
With the possibility of completion in as little as one year, these programs focus on the essential principles of ABA, such as behavior assessment, intervention strategies, and ethical considerations. While they do not provide the broader academic foundation of a master’s degree, they offer valuable and specific training aligned with industry standards.
Online ABA Certificate Programs in Missouri
The online ABA certificate programs in Missouri are designed in a structured learning format but are convenient for professionals seeking a balance between work and education.
The online certificate programs emphasize core ABA competencies through interactive resources, asynchronous and live classes. This helps students to follow their own pace while focusing on learning the fundamentals and key principles of behavior and applied behavioral analysis.
University of Missouri
- Columbia, Missouri
- Online
Program:
Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: Online
Length: 12 credit hours
GRE Required: no
Tuition: $485.90 per credit hour for in-state residents and $1,135.00 for out-of-state residents. With a total of 12 credit hours required, the total program cost is around $5,830.80 for in-state students and $13,620.00 for out-of-state students. Does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses
Program Overview
The Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis at the University of Missouri combines conceptual foundations with direct experience at the Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders, a leading institution in the care and research of autism and other developmental disabilities. The curriculum, approved by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® (BACB®), fulfills the academic requirements to sit for the BCBA® certification exam.
Key Highlights
- Courses taught by faculty from the School of Health Professions and the College of Education.
- Can be pursued as a stand-alone program or as a complement to a master’s or doctoral degree at the university.
Additional Considerations
- Admission offered only in the fall semester, with three priority deadlines: January 15, March 30, and June 30.
- Requires a letter of recommendation supporting the applicant’s academic preparation or professional experience.
Accreditation
- Institutional: Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
- Program-specific: Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by ABAI.
Saint Louis University (St. Louis)
- St. Louis, Missouri
- Online + Campus
Program:
Applied Behavior Analysis Post-Master’s Certificate
Modality: Online or On Campus
Length: 21 credit hours
GRE Required: no
Tuition: $1,170 per credit hour. The certificate program requires 21 credit hours, totaling approximately $24,570. Does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses
Program Overview
The Post-Master’s Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) at Saint Louis University is offered in both online and on-campus formats and consists of seven core academic courses. A distinctive feature of the program is its emphasis on cultural humility, encouraging students to examine their own biases and develop the skills needed to work effectively with diverse populations in areas such as healthcare, education, criminal justice, organizational management, and sports.
Key Highlights
- Practicum courses allowing students to accumulate up to 1,500 hours of supervised field experience, with guidance and continuous feedback provided as part of the program.
- Strong emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion as an integral component of professional training.
Additional Considerations
- Annual admission with an August 1 deadline and rolling application review.
- Opportunities to engage in research and present at conferences or publish in peer-reviewed journals.
Accreditation
- Institutional: Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
- Program-specific: Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by ABAI.
University of Missouri–St. Louis
- St. Louis, Missouri
- Online
Program:
Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate
Modality: Online
Length: 34 credit hours
GRE Required: no
Tuition: $1,388 per credit hour. The certificate program requires 34 credit hours, totaling approximately $47,192. Does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses
Program Description
Designed for individuals who already hold a master’s degree, this program meets both the coursework and supervised practice requirements to sit for the BCBA® certification exam. Students develop evidence-based competencies to support individuals with behavioral challenges and prepare for roles in educational, clinical, and community settings. For those seeking teacher certification in Missouri, in-person practicum opportunities are available.
Key Highlights
- Supervised practicum integrated into the program, meeting BCBA® experience requirements.
- Field experiences that fulfill the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education standards.
Additional Considerations
- Specifically designed for candidates who already possess a graduate degree.
- Proof of a master’s degree is required for admission.
Accreditation
- Institutional: Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
- Program-specific: Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by ABAI
Webster University
- St. Louis, Missouri
- Online
Program:
Applied Behavior Analysis Advanced Graduate Certificate
Modality: Online
Length: 21 credit hours
GRE Required: no
Tuition: $690 per credit hour. The certificate program requires 21 credit hours, totaling approximately $14,490. Does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Description
Offered by the School of Education at Webster University, this advanced certificate is delivered entirely online and prepares professionals to apply behavior analysis in educational, community, residential, and family settings. It places particular emphasis on working with individuals with autism spectrum disorder, significant disabilities, and other developmental conditions.
Key Highlights
- Focus on practical skills that enable intervention in real-world settings with varying levels of behavioral complexity.
- Curriculum includes functional behavior assessment and the design of interventions for children and adolescents.
Additional Considerations
- Requires a master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
- The certificate does not guarantee automatic eligibility for the BCBA® exam; it is the student’s responsibility to verify all requirements with the BACB®.
Accreditation
- Institutional: Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
- Program-specific: Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by ABAI.
Webster University
- St. Louis, Missouri
- Online
Program:
Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis and Organizational Behavior Management
Modality: Online
Length: 18 credit hours
GRE Required: no
Tuition: $690 per credit hour. The certificate program requires 18 credit hours, totaling approximately $12,420. Does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Description
The Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis and Organizational Behavior Management (ABA/OBM) is designed for professionals with a background in ABA who wish to expand their expertise into organizational settings. The curriculum combines behavioral science principles with performance management strategies, behavioral systems analysis, and more.
Key Highlights
- Specialized courses in OBM.
- Asynchronous, flexible online format designed for working professionals seeking leadership roles.
Additional Considerations
- Requires BCBA certification or a graduate degree in Applied Behavior Analysis or a related field.
- Students must have a professional, volunteer, or agency affiliation where they can apply OBM concepts in practice.
Accreditation
- Institutional: Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Truman State University
- Kirksville, Missouri
- Online
Program:
Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate
Modality: Online
Length: 24 credit hours
GRE Required: no
Tuition: $507 per credit hour, totaling approximately $12,168 for the entire program.
Program Overview
Offered in an asynchronous, fully online format, the Graduate Certificate in ABA emphasizes cultural awareness, the core principles of behavior analysis, and effective collaboration with neurodiverse individuals —including those diagnosed with autism— and their families.
Key Highlights
- Focus on neurodevelopment, neurodivergence, and their support networks.
- Preparation to meet the academic requirements for the BCBA® or BCaBA® certification exam.
Additional Considerations
- Requires a master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Not eligible for federal financial aid; students needing such assistance may consider Truman’s Master’s in Disability Studies: Applied Behavior Analysis.
Accreditation
- Institutional: Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
- Program-specific: Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by ABAI.
Washington University in St. Louis
- St. Louis, Missouri
- Campus
Program:
Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate
Modality: On Campus
Length: 15 credit hours
GRE Required: no
Tuition: $1,560 per credit hour, totaling approximately $23,400 for the entire program.
Program Description
At its St. Louis campus, Washington University offers a certificate designed for those seeking a solid introduction to applied behavior analysis. The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical strategies to address behavioral challenges in real-world contexts, preparing students to take the national Registered Behavior Technician® (RBT®) exam from the BACB®. Upon completion, graduates are equipped to work in community, educational, or clinical settings, as well as in intensive behavioral intervention programs for children with autism.
Key Highlights
- Targeted preparation for the role of Registered Behavior Technician® (RBT®), providing a direct pathway into professional practice.
- Practical focus on behavioral tools applicable in schools, clinics, and home settings.
Additional Considerations
- Requires a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Accessible entry into specialization with a solid academic foundation, without requiring prior training in ABA.
Accreditation
- The program covers the RBT® Task List established by the BACB®, ensuring its curriculum aligns with the competencies required for certification.
Missouri State University
- Springfield, Missouri
- Online
Program:
Master of Science in Special Education: Autism Spectrum Disorders with Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Certification
Modality: Online
Length: 37 credit hours
GRE Required: no
Tuition: 295 per credit hour for in-state residents and $595 for out-of-state residents. With a total of 37 credit hours required, the total program cost is around $10,915 for in-state students and $22,015 for out-of-state students. Does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Overview
The Graduate Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) from Missouri State University offers advanced training for professionals working with individuals on the autism spectrum, integrating evidence-based and culturally sensitive strategies. The curriculum focuses on developing communication, social, and leisure skills, as well as adapting supports across various contexts and life stages. It can be completed as a standalone program or as a complement to a master’s degree, and is designed to enhance the competencies of educators, psychologists, therapists, and other specialists in developmental fields.
Key Highlights
- Interdisciplinary approach with practical application in educational, clinical, and community settings.
- Does not lead to teacher certification but enhances the qualifications of professionals in fields related to diversity support.
Additional Considerations
- Rolling admissions; early application is recommended to optimize enrollment and academic planning.
- Requires a prior undergraduate degree; open to graduates in education, psychology, social work, medicine, and related fields.
Accreditation
- Institutional: Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
BCBA Legislation in Missouri
Missouri integrates Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) into its broader behavioral health initiatives, with oversight provided by the Missouri Behavior Analyst Advisory Board. To practice, professionals must hold national certification as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA®) and meet the state’s licensure requirements. The Missouri Department of Mental Health (DMH) and its Division of Developmental Disabilities promote the use of evidence-based practices, crisis intervention programs, and early childhood support services. State policies such as Medicaid expansion and targeted funding for community-based mental health programs help ensure that ABA services are accessible to children and adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities.
BCBA Demand in Missouri
The demand for certified behavior analysts in Missouri is growing in response to expanding services for individuals with autism spectrum disorder, developmental disabilities, and complex behavioral needs. Opportunities are available in schools, healthcare facilities, and community-based programs, with many positions linked to early intervention and behavioral assessment. Professional organizations such as the Missouri Association for Behavior Analysis (MOABA) actively support continuing education and advocacy, creating a strong network for practitioners. With competitive employment prospects and statewide investment in behavioral health, Missouri offers a favorable environment for BCBAs seeking both career growth and community impact.
ABA and BCBA Programs in Missouri
| Degree Title | University Name | Program Length | Program Cost | ABAI Recognition | GRE Required | City | State |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis | University of Missouri | 5-6 | ~$480 per credit (in-state) | ABAI Accredited & VCS Approved | No | Columbia | MO |
| Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis | University of Missouri | 2-3 | ~$480 per credit (in-state) | VCS Approved | No | Columbia | MO |
| M.A. in Psychology – ABA Track | Southeast Missouri State University | 5-6 | ~$400 per credit (in-state) | VCS Approved | No | Cape Girardeau | MO |
| M.A. in Counseling Psychology (ABA Emphasis) | Webster University | 5-6 | ~$725 per credit | University Accredited | No | St. Louis | MO |
