Oklahoma has been actively working to strengthen its behavioral health system in response to growing needs across the state, particularly in areas such as mental health, autism, and developmental disabilities. The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) supports a wide range of community-based services, from crisis intervention to school-based mental health programs. As the demand for trained professionals continues to rise, the state has embraced Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) as a key tool for addressing behavioral challenges and improving outcomes for individuals and families.
ABA has become well-established in Oklahoma as a highly effective intervention for individuals with autism and other developmental conditions. In this context, ABA master’s programs play a crucial role in training professionals equipped to meet this growing need. With a practical approach, flexible learning formats, affordable tuition, and a strong alignment with state behavioral health priorities, these graduate programs are specifically designed to prepare specialists capable of making a meaningful impact on the well-being of individuals, families, and communities throughout the state.
Masters Programs in Oklahoma to Become a BCBA
Master’s programs in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) in Oklahoma are designed to prepare students for certification as Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA), a professional credential that qualifies individuals to independently design and implement interventions based on the principles of ABA. This certification, regulated by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), is widely recognized in clinical, educational, and community settings. These programs combine solid theoretical training with supervised fieldwork, enabling students to assess behavior, design effective interventions, and apply evidence-based strategies in various settings.
Online ABA Masters Programs in Oklahoma
Oklahoma offers limited but valuable opportunities for those seeking to pursue a master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) online. These programs are designed to meet the growing demand for qualified behavior analysts while offering flexibility for students with other commitments.
This format is especially beneficial for working professionals—such as teachers, therapists, or clinicians—who live in remote areas of the state, where access to in-person programs may be more challenging. The online option allows them to continue their academic training without the need to relocate or interrupt their professional responsibilities.
University of Oklahoma
- Norman, Oklahoma
- 33 hours
- Hybrid + Online
Program:
Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Special Education – Applied Behavior Analysis Emphasis
Modality: Hybrid or 100% Online
Length: 33 credit hours
Tuition: $320 per credit hour for in-state residents and $876 for out-of-state residents. With a total of 33 credit hours required, the total program cost is around $10,578 for in-state students and $28,892 for out-of-state students. Does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Overview:
The Master of Education in Special Education with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) at the University of Oklahoma offers a comprehensive 100% synchronous online format, ideal for working professionals. The program has a Verified Course Sequence approved by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) and the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI), ensuring academic eligibility for BCBA certification. Although the courses are fully verified, OU does not directly grant BCBA certification; students must apply independently to the BACB.
Students must complete the foundational core and specific ABA courses, and those without prior special education courses must take an additional prerequisite that does not count toward the degree. With a strong academic foundation and professional alignment, this program is a solid choice for aspiring behavior analysts.
ABAI Accredited Masters Programs in Oklahoma
The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) plays a fundamental role in accrediting master’s programs in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), ensuring they meet high academic and professional standards. ABAI accreditation reflects a program’s commitment to quality education, strong curriculum design, and the ethical and effective preparation of students to become Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs).
In Oklahoma, while fully ABAI-accredited programs are limited, several universities offer master’s degrees with Verified Course Sequences (VCS), which indicates that they meet the academic requirements necessary to sit for the BCBA certification exam and provide rigorous, high-quality education.
Students interested in pursuing ABA studies in Oklahoma should carefully review each program’s structure, faculty expertise, and alignment with BACB and ABAI standards. Even if some institutions are still in the process of obtaining full accreditation, having a VCS is an excellent starting point for a quality education in ABA.
University of Central Oklahoma
- Edmond, Oklahoma
- 36 hours
- Campus
Program:
Master of Science in Behavior Analysis
Modality: On Campus
Length: 36 credit hours
Tuition: $292 per credit hour for in-state residents and $709 for out-of-state residents. With a total of 36 credit hours required, the total program cost is around $10,526 for in-state students and $25,540 for out-of-state students. Does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Overview:
The Master of Science in Behavior Analysis at the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) provides an on-campus graduate program that prepares students to become competent, ethical, and culturally sensitive behavior analysts. The program features an ABAI-Verified Course Sequence (VCS), ensuring that students meet the academic requirements to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA®) exam. Students are trained to apply behavior analytic principles in a wide range of settings, including autism services, education, clinics, homes, and organizational settings.
The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, fostering critical thinking and research skills within the scientist-practitioner model.
Oklahoma State University
- Stillwater, Oklahoma
- 36 hours
- Campus
Program:
Master of Science in Teaching, Learning and Leadership – Option in Special Education Applied Behavior Analysis Emphasis
Modality: On Campus
Length: 36 credit hours
Tuition: $233 per credit hour for in-state residents and $876 for out-of-state residents. With a total of 36 credit hours required, the total program cost is around $8,398 for in-state students and $31,952 for out-of-state students. Does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Overview:
The Master of Science in Teaching, Learning, and Leadership – Special Education Option is designed for individuals seeking to provide intensive behavioral and academic interventions. The program emphasizes Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), positive behavior interventions, and special education principles. The curriculum is verified by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), allowing students to obtain national certification as behavior analysts.
The program features courses such as Applied Behavior Analysis, Behavioral Assessment and Consultation, Classroom & Behavior Management, and Culturally Responsive Teaching. It also boasts a 100% job placement rate in various K-12 educational settings.
ABA Certificate Programs in Oklahoma
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) certificate programs offer a practical and focused path for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree and want to meet the academic requirements for Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification. These programs are especially appealing to professionals in fields such as education, psychology, speech-language pathology, and behavioral health who wish to expand their knowledge without committing to a full master’s degree. Although they do not include supervised fieldwork, they represent an important academic step toward national certification and professional growth.
Online ABA Certificate Programs in Oklahoma
Oklahoma offers limited but valuable opportunities to complete ABA certificate programs entirely online, providing greater flexibility for professionals looking to advance their education.
These online programs are delivered in a synchronous format, with live virtual classes held at scheduled times. This structure fosters real-time interaction with instructors and peers and replicates the experience of a traditional classroom—without the need to relocate or commute long distances.
University of Oklahoma
- Norman, Oklahoma
- 21 hours
- Online
Program:
Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: Online
Length: 21 credit hours
Tuition: $320 per credit hour for in-state residents and $876 for out-of-state residents. With a total of 21 credit hours required, the total program cost is around $6,731 for in-state students and $18,399 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 Oklahoma is a program delivered in a 100% synchronous online format, offering flexibility for working professionals. Designed to meet the academic requirements for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA®) exam, the program features an ABAI-approved Verified Course Sequence (VCS). Courses emphasize ethical practice, research-based interventions, and basic knowledge in ABA, preparing students for supervised fieldwork and the certification exam.
The certificate must be completed in its entirety through OU no transfer credits or substitutions are accepted and students must maintain a minimum 3.00 GPA. The program is ideal for individuals who already hold a graduate degree in a related field and are seeking to meet the academic requirements for BCBA certification.
ABA and BCBA Programs in Oklahoma
| Degree Title | University Name | Program Length | Program Cost | ABAI Recognition | GRE Required | City | State |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis | University of Oklahoma | 5-6 | ~$300 per credit (in-state) | ABAI Accredited & VCS Approved | No | Norman | OK |
| Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis | University of Oklahoma | 2-3 | ~$300 per credit (in-state) | VCS Approved | No | Norman | OK |
| M.S. in Educational Psychology (ABA Focus) | Oklahoma State University | 5-6 | ~$230 per credit (in-state) | VCS Approved | No | Stillwater | OK |
