What is a Master’s Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis?

A Master’s Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis is designed for those who are driven to make an impact in the lives of individuals with complex behavioral needs. A master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis or a related field is required to become a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA).

Why Pursue an MS in Applied Behavior Analysis through Drexel University’s School of Education?

Drexel’s Master of Science (MS) in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) equips students with the skills and knowledge they need for a successful career in the ABA field. Students can take the required courses within our program that are needed before they can take the Behavior Analyst Certification Board exam. The program offered by Drexel University's School of Education is taught via an online format to offer optimal convenience and flexibility to busy students without sacrificing quality.

Drexel University is proud to offer an Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) verified course sequence for our Applied Behavior Analysis program. ABAI verification ensures that our program’s curriculum meets national content standards and incorporates the latest research in the field.

Additional benefits include:

• Access to renowned faculty and staff
• Individualized staff and faculty advisement and support

ABA CURRICULUM & ABAI VERIFIED COURSES

The Master’s Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis curriculum is built on Drexel University’s signature emphasis on collaboration and experience. Our curriculum engages students with behavior analytic coursework, discussion of current and seminal research, and hands-on clinical research experience facilitated by exceptional Drexel University faculty. Students will be instructed in systematic, data-driven approaches to support individuals with educational and behavioral needs.

Through our ABAI-verified course sequence, students are required to complete the following course load to earn a Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis:

• 31.5 core credits (7 courses)
• 9 credits in advanced ABA content
• 6 credits in capstone courses (2 courses)

Drexel University utilizes the quarter system with students completing four, 10-week terms throughout the course of a year. This allows students to complete more courses in a shorter period of time.

The Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis program also builds a strong foundation for students who wish to enter PhD programs in applied behavior analysis or related areas of study.

Course descriptions may be found in the Drexel University Course Catalog.

What Can I Do With A Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis?

Experts in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) have a multitude of career options within the education and clinical space. Graduate students who are interested in taking a data-driven approach to understanding human behavior learn valuable skills and clinical strategies in Drexel University’s Master's of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis program.

The MS in Applied Behavior Analysis prepares students for rewarding careers in a variety of roles, including:

• Behavior Analyst
• Behavior Analyst Consultant
• Program Coordinator
• Clinical Director
• Wellness Coach

Learn more about potential careers with a master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis.

Graduates of the ABA Master’s program at Drexel University have become successful behavior analysts, educators, behavioral consultants and interventionists, program coordinators, and clinical directors in public and private institutions.

Are Behavior Analysts in Demand?

The need for certified Behavioral Analysts continues to rise. According to the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, demand for behavior analysts that have BCBA or BCBA-D certification has increased by 5,852% since 2010. Additionally, the Bureau of Labor Statistics expects overall employment for positions related to behavior analysts to grow by 10% from now until 2031. Job postings for positions that either require or prefer BCBA or BCBA-D certification rose each year since 2010. In Pennsylvania, the number of job openings for board certified behavior analysts increased 62% from 2020-2021.

MS IN APPLIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY

The Applied Behavior Analysis graduate program accepts applications for admission throughout the year. The program admits students for the fall (September start) and spring (March start) terms.

Admissions Requirements

To be considered for the Master’s of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis graduate program, prospective students must meet the following criteria:

• A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution
• Undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher
• GRE and GMAT scores are not required for admission

Required Documents

In order for your application to the ABA program to be considered, the following forms of documentation must be submitted:

• A completed application
• Official transcripts from all universities or colleges and other post-secondary educational institutions (including trade schools) attended
• Two letters of recommendation
• Personal essay that addresses the following:
  • Why you are interested in this field
  • Why you are interested in attending the program at Drexel University
  • What are your career goals and how will Drexel’s program help you achieve those goals?
  • How does this program relate to your previous education and/or work experience?
• Resume
• Additional requirements for International Students

With multiple ways to submit documents, Drexel makes it easy to complete your application. Learn more by visiting Drexel Online's Completing Your Application Guide.

HOW TO APPLY TO THE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN APPLIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS PROGRAM

The application can be started and completed entirely online and all documents (transcripts, letters of recommendation, etc.) can be uploaded electronically.

Start an Application

LEARN MORE ABOUT DREXEL UNIVERSITY’S APPLIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS GRADUATE PROGRAM

If you’re interested in the MS in Applied Behavior Analysis and would like to learn more, request more information to speak with a program recruiter today.