Top Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis Programs

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is a psychology discipline that helps people improve their communication and social skills. Being a certified applied behavior analyst, which requires at least a master’s degree, can earn you as much as $93,000 per year, according to Payscale. And that’s to say nothing of the lives you can impact as part of this profession.

Here you’ll learn more about online master’s programs in applied behavior analysis and how to choose the one that’s right for you.

There are several factors to consider when evaluating an ABA master’s program, including accreditation, fieldwork requirements, cost, program length, and career outlook.

The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) Accreditation Board establishes a rigorous review process for ABA programs. Choose an ABAI-accredited program to guarantee that the quality and integrity of the learning process meet high standards to prepare you for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) exam and your professional journey.

The Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), a leading certification board for behavior analysts, establishes that analysts must complete either 2,000 hours of supervised fieldwork or 1,500 hours of concentrated supervised fieldwork, which requires more intensive supervision.

Look for programs that are aligned with BACB coursework and degree requirements and offer site placement assistance for supervised fieldwork.

Consider that costs vary widely by school and residency status. Among the schools in this ranking, the average graduate tuition ranges from $8,350 in-state at the University of South Florida to $39,100 at Pepperdine University.

Also, take into account that online degrees are typically more affordable than on-campus degrees, and you have the additional savings in housing and commuting costs.

Program length varies by school, with a typical master’s completion time of two years. However, several programs offer accelerated options that can be completed in less time (1-1.5 years).

Format is another important factor. Most schools offer fully online or hybrid online/on-campus options, with synchronous (real time) or asynchronous (more self-paced) coursework. Consider that while some fieldwork could be completed via remote telehealth platforms, some schools might require in-person attendance.

Students who wish to specialize in specific ABA areas should consider each program’s curriculum. Some ABA subspecialties include:

During the 2019-2020 academic year, the average tuition and fees for an online master’s in psychology were around $12,000, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). However, the average net price was approximately $11,000, including grants and scholarships.

You can explore several options to help lower the cost of a degree, including the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), scholarships, assistantships, loans, grants, and employer tuition benefits.

A master’s degree in ABA typically requires 30-45 credits and can be completed in about 2 years. An accelerated online degree program can help you earn a master’s degree in as little as 12 months, saving you time and money.

A master’s in ABA prepares you for jobs in healthcare, education, or organizational consulting. The most common path forward for graduates is as a BCBA, designing and implementing treatment plans for autistic individuals and individuals with developmental disabilities.

With or without BCBA certification, some in-demand roles include clinical supervisor, school behavior analyst, organizational behavior management (OBM) specialist, clinical counselor, and social worker, as well as other roles in the expanded field.

A master’s program in applied behavior analysis helps students gain hands-on experience and fulfill other requirements for licensure and certification as a BCBA.

Career opportunities seem to be ample. According to a recent BACB report, demand for behavior analysts has increased annually since 2010, including 28% growth from 2024-2025.