The Top 30 ABA Degree Programs for 2025

Exploring the Top 30 ABA Degree Programs in the U.S. (2025)

As the demand for behavior analysts continues to grow in clinical, educational, and organizational settings, so does the number of academic programs designed to prepare the next generation of professionals. For those considering a career in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), choosing the right undergraduate or graduate program is a key decision—one that involves balancing practical needs, personal goals, and long-term career plans.

What Sets These Programs Apart

The programs featured in this guide were selected based on a combination of factors: accreditation, curriculum quality, delivery format, affordability, and alignment with BACB certification requirements. Beyond rankings, what they share is a clear commitment to academic excellence, hands-on learning, and meaningful student support.

From accessible tuition rates to high BCBA exam pass rates, these programs reflect the wide range of paths available in the field. Most include a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI), and many offer supervised fieldwork, capstone projects, or research opportunities that bridge the gap between theory and real-world practice.

This guide brings together 30 programs tailored to different profiles and career stages: from bachelor’s degrees in ABA or related fields for those just starting out, to master’s programs focused on BCBA certification and advanced clinical training. You’ll also find specialized options in areas such as autism, organizational behavior management, or special education. And for those needing greater flexibility, there are fully online options—ideal for working professionals or students who need more accessible formats in 2025.

Whether you’re just beginning or ready to take the next big step, this list offers practical, up-to-date, and realistic options to help you grow in the field of applied behavior analysis.

University of Washington

  • Seattle, WA
  • 2 years
  • On Campus

Program: 
Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Applied Behavior Analysis

Why We Ranked This Program:
If you’re looking for a clinically focused, research-driven ABA program, the University of Washington’s Master of Education in Applied Behavior Analysis combines rigorous academic training with intensive hands-on experience on its Seattle campus. The program includes an ABAI Verified Course Sequence (VCS) and prepares graduates for the BCBA exam. In addition, its field-based learning model and in-person coursework offer one of the most comprehensive ABA training pathways in the country.

  • Includes 1,500 hours of supervised fieldwork across schools and clinics
  • Capstone project focuses on real-world challenges and inclusive practices
  • Strong emphasis on serving individuals with developmental disabilities

Things to Consider:

  • On-campus only — not suited for students seeking an online program
  • Higher tuition for out-of-state students (approx. $46,800)
  • Fieldwork component requires significant time and in-person commitment

Length: 67 credit hours

Tuition:

  • In-State: $620 per credit hour
  • Out-of-state: $1,040 per credit hour
More Details

Ball State University

  • Muncie, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online

Program: 
Bachelor of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis

Why We Ranked This Program:
Ball State University offers a program focused on behavioral health and services for individuals with autism. The Bachelor of Science in ABA is a cost-effective option for students who want to become ABA technicians or assistants, and it’s also accessible for those seeking a broader graduate path toward BCaBA certification.

  • Affordable tuition
  • ABAI Verified Course Sequence
  • Fully online and accessible for students nationwide

Things to Consider:

  • Undergraduate degree—additional graduate study required for BCBA certification
  • Does not include built-in supervised fieldwork
  • Focused more on foundational training than advanced specialization

Length: 120 credit hours

Tuition:

  • In-State: $358 per credit hour
  • Out-of-state: $358 per credit hour
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Florida State University

  • Panama City, FL
  • 2.5 years
  • On Campus

Program: 
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis

Why We Ranked This Program:
Designed to be completed in five semesters, the Master of Science in ABA program stands out for its intensive fieldwork and offers practicum opportunities within the Early Childhood Autism Program (ECAP) on the Panama City campus.

It is ABAI Verified and maintains high academic rigor.

  • Over 1,500 hours of supervised fieldwork
  • Tuition waivers and scholarships available through partner agencies
  • Cohort model that fosters collaboration and continuity

Things to Consider:

  • On-campus format may not suit students needing online flexibility
  • Out-of-state tuition is significantly higher ($41,925)
  • Transfer credits not accepted
  • Program does not offer a thesis track (final project and professional portfolio instead)

Length: 39 credit hours

Tuition:

  • In-State: $444 per credit hour
  • Out-of-state: $1,075 per credit hour
More Details

University of Southern Maine

  • Portland, ME
  • 2 years
  • Online

Program: 
M.S. in Educational Psychology – Applied Behavior Analysis concentration

Why We Ranked This Program:
This fully online master’s program in educational psychology with a concentration in ABA is designed for working professionals who need a flexible, self-paced format. It is ABAI Verified and emphasizes real-world application across clinical and educational contexts.

  • Affordable tuition for in-state students
  • Faculty actively involved in clinical and research work
  • Practical curriculum designed for immediate use in the field

Things to Consider:

  • Students must independently arrange supervised fieldwork
  • Higher tuition for out-of-state students ($43,776 total)
  • Best suited for self-directed learners comfortable with remote study

Length: 36 credit hours

Tuition:

  • In-State: $429 per credit hour
  • Out-of-state: $1,216 per credit hour
More Details

Endicott College

  • Beverly, MA
  • 1.5+ year
  • Online + Hybrid + On Campus

Program: 
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis

Why We Ranked This Program:
If you’re looking for a program with flexible learning formats, the Master of Science in ABA at Endicott College offers the option to be completed online, in a hybrid format, or on campus. It also allows students to tailor their studies with specialized concentrations such as Autism or Organizational Behavior Management.

  • Includes supervised fieldwork and a final capstone project
  • ABAI Verified
  • Can be completed in as little as 18 months

Things to Consider:

  • $22,000 total tuition may still be a barrier for some despite flexible format
  • Students must be proactive in selecting and managing concentration tracks
  • Practical placements may vary depending on delivery mode and location

Length: 40 credit hours

Tuition:

  • In-State: $550 per credit hour
  • Out-of-state: $550 per credit hour
More Details

University of Cincinnati

  • Cincinnati, OH
  • 1.5+ year
  • Online

Program: 
Master of Education in Foundations in Behavior Analysis

Why We Ranked This Program:
The Master of Education program offers a fully online, asynchronous format. The University of Cincinnati designed this option with busy professionals in mind, those who have a tight schedule but are motivated to pursue BCBA certification in the future.

  • Can be completed in just five semesters
  • ABAI Verified Course Sequence
  • 90% graduation rate

Things to Consider:

  • Does not include supervised fieldwork—students must arrange it independently
  • No specialization options or concentrations
  • Asynchronous delivery may lack live interaction or community-building for some students

Length: 30 credit hours

Tuition:

  • In-State: $581 per credit hour
  • Out-of-state: $596 per credit hour
More Details

Bay Path University

  • Longmeadow, MA
  • 2 years
  • Online

Program: 
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis

Why We Ranked This Program:
The master’s program offered by Bay Path University meets BACB requirements and features an ABAI-approved curriculum.

Fully online, it also includes integrated supervision and allows students to choose specialized tracks such as Autism, Organizational Behavior Management (OBM), or Trauma-Informed Practice.

  • Includes 2,000 hours of supervised fieldwork
  • Capstone project focused on applied clinical skills
  • Remote supervision available

Things to Consider:

  • $31,200 total tuition may be a barrier for some students
  • Fieldwork is integrated but still requires strong self-management
  • Fully online delivery may lack in-person networking or support.

Length: 48 credit hours

Tuition:

  • In-State: $650 per credit hour
  • Out-of-state: $650 per credit hour
More Details

University of Kansas

  • Lawrence, KS
  • 2 years
  • On Campus (Online option available)

Program: 
Master of Arts in Applied Behavioral Science

Why We Ranked This Program:
The Master of Arts in Applied Behavioral Science at the University of Kansas combines research-based coursework with practical training across clinical and community settings. Students can also earn a one-year Certificate in Community Health and Development as part of the program, making it a strong fit for those interested in behavioral work with a social impact.

  • ABAI-recognized and BACB-aligned curriculum
  • Hybrid format available with synchronous and asynchronous online courses
  • Faculty expertise in autism, developmental disabilities, and OBM

Things to Consider:

  • Out-of-state tuition is significantly higher ($35,906)
  • Students must self-navigate fieldwork and capstone logistics
  • Fully online version is a mix of formats, which may require strong time management skills

Length: 36 credit hours

Tuition:

  • In-State: $421 per credit hour
  • Out-of-state: $997 per credit hour
More Details

Pepperdine University

  • Los Angeles, CA
  • 1.5+ year
  • On Campus

Program: 
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis

Why We Ranked This Program:
With ABAI approval, Pepperdine University’s master’s in ABA combines academic rigor with applied training in autism intervention, education, organizational behavior management (OBM), and rehabilitation. The program includes supervised fieldwork alongside experienced professionals, meeting the required hours for certification.

  • Evening on-campus class option
  • Partnerships with over 50 practicum sites
  • Can be completed in 16 to 21 months

Things to Consider:

  • High tuition ($62,000 total) may be prohibitive for some students
  • Fully in-person program may not suit those seeking online or hybrid flexibility
  • Competitive admission for a limited number of practicum placements

Length: 40 credit hours

Tuition:

  • In-State: $1,550 per credit hour
  • Out-of-state: $1,550 per credit hour
More Details

Texas Tech University

  • Lubbock, TX
  • 2 years
  • Online

Program: 
M.Ed. in Special Education – Applied Behavior Analysis Concentration

Why We Ranked This Program:
Fully online and with partnerships across more than 35 school districts in the state, Texas Tech University’s master’s program offers extensive practicum opportunities and a solid curriculum grounded in Applied Behavior Analysis.

Students receive training in Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) in Lubbock and gain supervised experience working with children and adolescents with autism and developmental disabilities.

  • Practical training embedded in real educational settings
  • ABAI Verified Course Sequence
  • Ongoing mentorship and supervision

Things to Consider:

  • Out-of-state tuition is significantly higher ($29,538 total)
  • No built-in fieldwork hours—students arrange supervision separately
  • Some components (FBA training) may require location-based collaboration in Lubbock

Length: 36 credit hours

Tuition:

  • In-State: $395 per credit hour
  • Out-of-state: $820 per credit hour
More Details

University of North of Texas

  • Denton, TX
  • 4 years
  • On Campus

Program: 
Bachelor of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis

Why We Ranked This Program:
UNT made history by becoming the first university in the U.S. to establish a department solely dedicated to behavior analysis.

The undergraduate ABA program at the University of North Texas is one of the few in the country focused entirely on behavior analysis. Students gain early hands-on experience through fieldwork and research in diverse settings, including schools, autism clinics, hospitals, and even zoos.

  • ABAI Verified Course Sequence for BCaBA certification
  • Opportunity to explore both human and animal behavior
  • First U.S. university to create a department exclusively focused on behavior analysis

Things to Consider:

  • As an undergraduate program, a graduate degree is still required for BCBA certification
  • On-campus only—no online or hybrid options available
  • Out-of-state tuition is considerably higher ($90,288 total)

Length: 120 credit hours

Tuition:

  • In-State: $342 per credit hour
  • Out-of-state: $752 per credit hour
More Details

Simmons University

  • Boston, MA
  • 2.5 years
  • On Campus

Program: 
Master of Science in Behavior Analysis

Why We Ranked This Program:
The Master’s in Behavior Analysis at Simmons University offers evening and weekend classes, making it ideal for students looking to balance their studies with other responsibilities. With intensive faculty mentorship and a focus on social justice and inclusive ABA practices, the program combines academic depth with hands-on training.

  • ABAI-accredited with a Verified Course Sequence
  • 89% first-time BCBA exam pass rate
  • On-campus format with integrated practicum in schools, clinics, and other settings

Things to Consider:

  • At $48,510 total, tuition may be a barrier for some students
  • Fully in-person format may limit accessibility for those outside the Boston area
  • Demanding five-semester timeline may be intensive for those balancing full-time work

Length: 42 credit hours

Tuition:

  • In-State: $1,155 per credit hour
  • Out-of-state: $1,155 per credit hour
More Details

University of Nevada

  • Reno, NV
  • 2 years
  • Campus

Program: 
Master of Science in Behavior Analysis

Why We Ranked This Program:
This master’s program has over 25 years of experience and is well-regarded for its strong blend of academic rigor and practical training. Students complete supervised fieldwork and have the opportunity to collaborate with faculty on research projects in clinical, educational, and community settings. The curriculum places a strong emphasis on theoretical foundations, ethics, and applied behavioral science.

  • ABAI-accredited with a Verified Course Sequence that meets BCBA exam requirements
  • Offers supervised fieldwork in clinical, educational, and community settings
  • 66.67% first-time BCBA exam pass rate in 2021

Things to Consider:

  • GRE scores are required for admission
  • Program is only available on campus
  • Higher total cost for out-of-state students ($23,733)

Length: 36 credit hours

Tuition:

  • In-State: $286 per credit hour
  • Out-of-state: $659 per credit hour
More Details

Southern Illinois University

  • Carbondale, IL
  • 2+ years
  • Campus

Program: 
Master of Science in Behavior Analysis and Therapy

Why We Ranked This Program:
With over 50 years of experience, the Master’s in Behavior Analysis and Therapy at SIU is one of the most clinically and academically rigorous programs available.

The program also offers mentorship and research opportunities, culminating in an empirical thesis that further develops students’ scientific and research skills.

  • ABAI-accredited with a Verified Course Sequence
  • Access to practicum sites such as the SIU Autism Center and Project 12-Ways
  • Over 1,000 hours of supervised fieldwork

Things to Consider:

  • Program is offered only on campus, limiting flexibility for remote learners
  • Out-of-state tuition is significantly higher ($52,857 total)
  • Thesis requirement may extend program duration for some students

Length: 45 credit hours

Tuition:

  • In-State: $469 per credit hour
  • Out-of-state: $1,174 per credit hour
More Details

Purdue University Global

  • West Lafayette, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online

Program: 
Bachelor of Science in Psychology—Applied Behavior Analysis

Why We Ranked This Program:
Purdue University Global’s fully online bachelor’s degree offers an accessible entry point for students interested in behavior analysis, behavioral health or autism services. Designed with career readiness and academic progression in mind, it establishes a solid foundation for BCaBA certification and graduate study.

  • Online mode, more flexible learning.
  • Personalized academic support
  • Well-suited for students planning to pursue graduate degrees in ABA or psychology

Things to Consider:

  • BCaBA certification still requires supervised fieldwork not built into the program
  • As an undergraduate degree, a graduate program is needed for BCBA certification
  • Higher total credit load (180 hours) increases overall tuition cost ($66,780)

Length: 180 credit hours

Tuition:

  • In-State: $371 per credit hour
  • Out-of-state: $371 per credit hour
More Details

Rowan University

  • Glassboro, NJ
  • 2 years
  • Online

Program: 
Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis

Why We Ranked This Program:
The Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) at Rowan University is a part-time program designed for professionals with demanding schedules who want to advance their careers and become Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs).

  • ABAI Verified Course Sequence that combines academic and clinical guidance with flexibility
  • Supportive and actively engaged faculty who guide students throughout their practicum
  • Total cost of approximately $21,600 for both in-state and out-of-state students

Things to Consider:

  • Fieldwork must be arranged independently
  • No in-person learning options available
  • Tuition does not include fees or materials

Length: 36 credit hours

Tuition:

  • In-State: $600 per credit hour
  • Out-of-state: $600 per credit hour
More Details

University of Oregon

  • Eugene, OR
  • 2 years
  • Hybrid

Program: 
M.S. in Special Education – Applied Behavior Analysis Concentration

Why We Ranked This Program:
With an ethical and inclusive approach, the Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program combines online coursework, in-person supervised fieldwork, and a final research project.

  • Supported by a partnership with the Behavioral Health Center of Excellence (BHCOE)
  • Focus on practical preparation for diverse and inclusive settings
  • ABAI Verified Course Sequence courses

Things to Consider:

  • Fieldwork must be arranged by the student
  • Higher tuition for out-of-state residents
  • Some components may require in-person participation

Length: 49 credit hours

Tuition:

  • In-State: $620 per credit hour
  • Out-of-state: $1,100 per credit hour
More Details

University of Houston-Victoria

  • Victoria, TX
  • 2 years
  • Online

Program: 
Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Special Education – Applied Behavior Analysis

Why We Ranked This Program:
The Master of Education in Special Education program with a concentration in ABA focuses on training and interventions in both educational and clinical settings. It includes an ABAI Verified Course Sequence and offers a flexible option to meet the academic requirements for BCBA certification.

  • Designed for education professionals seeking to apply ABA in their practice
  • Among the most affordable tuition rates for in-state residents
  • 100% online

Things to Consider:

  • Students must independently arrange supervised fieldwork
  • Higher tuition for out-of-state students
  • Does not include built-in practicum or placement services

Length: 36 credit hours

Tuition:

  • In-State: $370 per credit hour
  • Out-of-state: $770 per credit hour
More Details

Capella University (MS)

  • Minneapolis, MN
  • Flexible timeline
  • Online

Program: 
Master of Science in Psychology – Applied Behavior Analysis

Why We Ranked This Program:
If you’re looking for a program geared toward organizational, educational, or clinical settings, the ABA master’s program at Capella University offers a fully online format with the option to choose specialized tracks in Organizational Behavior Management, Behavior Analysis in Education, or Autism Spectrum Disorder.

The final capstone project combines hands-on work with BCBA exam preparation through modules developed by Behavior Development Solutions.

  • Delivered through Capella’s GuidedPath format
  • Customizable curriculum with optional concentrations
  • Same tuition rate for all students, regardless of location

Things to Consider:

  • Supervised fieldwork must be arranged by the student
  • No live sessions—designed for self-directed learners
  • High credit load (60 hours) increases total program cost

Length: 60 credit hours

Tuition:

  • In-State: $540 per credit hour
  • Out-of-state: $540 per credit hour
More Details

Saint Joseph’s University

  • Philadelphia, PA
  • 2 years
  • Online + On-Campus

Program: 
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis

Why We Ranked This Program:
The Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program at Saint Joseph’s University stands out for its rigorous academic approach, offering both online and on-campus learning options.

The curriculum is ABAI Verified and includes a dedicated clinical practicum course and optional supervised fieldwork.

  • Small class sizes are led by professionals with BCBA experience.
  • Opportunity for hands-on training at the Kinney Center for Autism Education and Support
  • Institutional and state-level accreditation

Things to Consider:

  • Higher tuition compared to similar programs
  • Fieldwork experience is optional, not guaranteed
  • Limited credit load may require additional
    planning for fieldwork

Length: 30 credit hours

Tuition:

  • In-State: $1,080 per credit hour
  • Out-of-state: $1,080 per credit hour
More Details

University of West Florida

  • Pensacola, FL
  • 2 years
  • Online

Program: 
Master of Science in Behavior Analysis

Why We Ranked This Program:
The online ABA master’s program at the University of West Florida offers live virtual sessions, connection with faculty and peers, and great flexibility throughout the course.

  • Supervised fieldwork and a final project focused on practical application
  • Access to credentials such as QBA (QABA®) and IBA (IBAO)
  • Affordable tuition for in-state residents

Things to Consider:

  • Higher tuition for out-of-state residents
  • Oral interview required for admission
  • Minimum 3.25 GPA required

Length: 42 credit hours

Tuition:

  • In-State: $384 per credit hour
  • Out-of-state: $1,044 per credit hour
More Details

Oregon Institute of Technology

  • Klamath Falls, OR
  • 4 years
  • On-Campus + Online

Program: 
Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology with an ABA Option

Why We Ranked This Program:
Oregon Tech’s Bachelor’s Program in Applied Psychology provides a strong foundation in Behavioral Sciences and includes an ABA option for students pursuing BCaBA certification or solid preparation for graduate studies.

Available both online and on campus, the curriculum requires 12 credits of applied internships or fieldwork. It also allows students to take electives in human services, mental health, or education.

  • Personalized academic path with elective course options
  • APA-aligned curriculum with a focus on applied learning
  • Opportunities to participate in conferences, research, and graduate programs

Things to Consider:

  • High out-of-state tuition compared to similar programs
  • Total program requires 180 credit hours
  • BCBA certification still requires a graduate degree

Length: 180 credit hours

Tuition:

  • In-State: $234 per credit hour
  • Out-of-state: $861 per credit hour
More Details

National University

  • San Diego, CA
  • Flexible timeline
  • Online + On Campus

Program: 
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis

Why We Ranked This Program:
National University’s master’s program in ABA offers year-round enrollment, monthly start dates, and the option to study online or on campus.

The curriculum is ABAI Verified and designed for those who want to work with neurodivergent populations, particularly individuals on the autism spectrum.

  • No entrance or admissions exam required
  • Strong clinical focus and specialized coursework in autism
  • Final project centered on the practical application of ABA

Things to Consider:

  • Students must arrange supervised fieldwork
  • Tuition is calculated by quarter unit, not credit hour
  • Total cost excludes fees and materials

Length: 45 credit hours

Tuition:

  • In-State: $464 per credit hour
  • Out-of-state: $464 per credit hour
More Details

California State University, Northridge

  • Northridge, CA
  • 2 years
  • On Campus

Program: 
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis

Why We Ranked This Program:
Offered through Tseng College, CSUN’s ABA master’s program follows a cohort model with evening and weekend classes, designed for working professionals.

The ABAI Verified curriculum is complemented by intensive supervised fieldwork.

  • Students receive mentorship and gain hands-on experience through placements in local agencies.
  • Emphasis on supervised fieldwork with diverse populations
  • Same tuition rate for all students, regardless of residency

Things to Consider:

  • Fully on-campus—no online option available
  • Fieldwork hours require external placement coordination
  • Total cost does not include additional fees or materials

Length: 37 credit hours

Tuition:

  • In-State: $742 per credit hour
  • Out-of-state: $742 per credit hour
More Details

Columbia University – Teachers College

  • New York, NY
  • 2 years
  • On Campus

Program: 
Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis – Dual Certification Track

Why We Ranked This Program:
Teachers College at Columbia University offers a dual certification program that prepares students for both BCBA certification and New York State licensure in special education. The cohort-based format combines intensive academic training with supervised fieldwork in schools and clinics across New York City.

  • Faculty with extensive experience in ABA and special education
  • Approved by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI)
  • Cohort model with strong academic mentorship

Things to Consider:

  • GRE scores required for admission
  • Among the highest tuition rates in the country
  • Fully on-campus with no hybrid or online options

Length: 46 credit hours

Tuition:

  • In-State: $2,148 per credit hour
  • Out-of-state: $2,148 per credit hour
More Details

Vanderbilt University

  • Nashville, TN
  • 2 years
  • On Campus

Program: 
Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Applied Behavior Analysis

Why We Ranked This Program:
A Vanderbilt’s full-time, on-campus ABA program offers supervised clinical experience starting in the first semester.

Students train at Vanderbilt-affiliated clinics and partner sites while completing an ABAI Verified Course Sequence.

  • Personalized faculty mentorship
  • Access to cutting-edge research
  • High success rates on the BCBA exam and in job placement

Things to Consider:

  • GRE required for admission
  • High tuition compared to similar programs
  • Designed as a full-time, in-person experience only

Length: 42 credit hours

Tuition:

  • In-State: $2,087 per credit hour
  • Out-of-state: $2,087 per credit hour
More Details

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

  • Chicago, IL
  • 28–36 months
  • Online + On Campus

Program: 
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis

Why We Ranked This Program:
With multiple formats and delivery options, The Chicago School’s ABA master’s program can be completed in 28 to 36 months, offering students a flexible and personalized pace.

  • International accreditation (ABAI)
  • Students can choose between a research project or an applied project
  • Option to specialize in clinical ABA or developmental disabilities

Things to Consider:

  • Higher tuition compared to many similar programs
  • Fieldwork must be arranged independently in most formats
  • Full program cost does not include additional fees or materials

Length: 51 credit hours

Tuition:

  • In-State: $1,198 per credit hour
  • Out-of-state: $1,198 per credit hour
More Details

Northeastern University

  • Boston, MA
  • 2 years
  • Online

Program: 
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis

Why We Ranked This Program:
With over 45 years of experience in ABA training, Northeastern University’s master’s program features asynchronous classes with optional live sessions. The ABAI Verified curriculum is supported by elective practicum courses that can fully meet the supervised fieldwork requirement set by the BACB, making it an excellent option for students seeking a structured yet flexible certification path.

  • Practicum option covers 100% of the supervised hours required by the BACB
  • Strong academic reputation
  • Option to take elective courses

Things to Consider:

  • Fieldwork via practicum electives is optional, not built-in
  • No in-person or fully synchronous delivery format
  • Tuition excludes additional practicum and enrollment fees

Length: 45 credit hours

Tuition:

  • In-State: $775 per credit hour
  • Out-of-state: $775 per credit hour
More Details

Arizona State University (ASU Online)

  • Tempe, AZ
  • 1–2 years
  • Online

Program: 
Master of Arts in Special Education – Applied Behavior Analysis

Why We Ranked This Program:
Offered through the Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College, the Master of Arts in Special Education with a concentration in ABA is ABAI-approved and fully online.

  • Provides ongoing faculty support
  • Features an accessible admissions process
  • Includes a final capstone project aligned with each student’s professional goals

Things to Consider:

  • Supervised fieldwork is not built into the program
  • Final project required for completion
  • Tuition does not include additional fees or practicum costs

Length: 30 credit hours

Tuition:

  • In-State: $750 per credit hour
  • Out-of-state: $750 per credit hour
More Details

Capella University (BS)

  • Minneapolis, MN
  • 4 years
  • Online

Program: 
Bachelor of Science in Psychology – Applied Behavior Analysis

Why We Ranked This Program:
If you’re looking for a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a specialization in ABA, Capella University offers a program approved by ABAI that includes a final capstone project and incorporates tools like Behavior Development Solutions (BDS). This training prepares graduates to work in educational, healthcare, or therapeutic support settings.

  • Fully online format with rolling start dates and no application fees
  • Focus on practical skills such as intervention design and ethical analysis
  • Prepares students for BCaBA certification and future graduate studies

Things to Consider:

  • BCBA certification requires graduate-level training
  • Fieldwork not included—must be pursued independently
  • Total credit load is higher than most undergraduate programs

Length: 180 credit hours

Tuition:

  • In-State: $357 per credit hour
  • Out-of-state: $357 per credit hour
More Details