Applied Behavior Analysis

The Master of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) at Arizona State University is a comprehensive graduate program designed to prepare students for impactful careers in the field of behavior analysis. This program provides students with in-depth knowledge of the principles of behavior, assessment techniques, intervention strategies, and ethical practices essential for promoting positive behavior change across diverse populations. Through a combination of coursework, practical experience, and research opportunities, students gain the skills needed to analyze complex behavioral issues and develop effective, evidence-based solutions. The curriculum is accredited by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), ensuring that graduates meet the rigorous standards required for certification as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). ASU’s ABA program emphasizes applied learning, allowing students to work with individuals in real-world settings such as schools, clinics, and community programs under supervision. The program also fosters professional development and ethical decision-making, preparing graduates to excel in clinical practice, research, and advocacy roles within the field. With a strong faculty expertise in behavior analysis, students are supported throughout their academic journey, gaining the knowledge and practical skills necessary to make a meaningful difference. Whether students aspire to work with children with autism spectrum disorder, individuals with developmental disabilities, or other populations requiring behavioral interventions, the Arizona State University ABA program offers a rigorous and flexible pathway to achieving their professional goals. Upon completion, graduates are well-equipped to pursue certification and contribute to evidence-based practices that improve quality of life for many individuals and families.

42 Credit hours including the required applied project course (PSB 593)

Core Courses: (24)

• PSB 501 Basic Principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) (3)
• PSB 510 Basic Principles of Experimental Analysis of Behavior (2)
• PSB 511 Advanced Research Methods (2)
• PSB 520 Ethical Issues and Professional Standards in ABA (3)
• PSB 530 Behavioral Observation and Functional Assessment (3)
• PSB 540 Development of Applied Behavioral Intervention Programs (3)
• PSB 563 Basic Principles of Organizational Behavior Management (OBM) (2)
• PSB 573 Advanced Principles of Learning and Analysis of Behavior (3)
• PSB 578 Applied Behavior Analysis in Developmental Disorders (3)

Elective or Research Courses: (4)

• PSB 591 Seminar (2)
• PSB 598 Special Topics (elective) (2)

Culminating Experience: (5)

• PSB 593 Applied Project (5)

Other Requirements: (9)

• PSB 580 Practicum: Applied Behavior Analysis (4)
• PSB 583 Fieldwork: Applied Behavior Analysis (5)

In addition to submitting an online graduate admission application, prospective students must also must provide documentation that meets the following requirements:

1. bachelor's degree in psychology, human development, sociology or a closely related field from a regionally accredited college or university in the United States or an equivalent degree from a recognized international postsecondary institution
2. a minimum 3.00 cumulative GPA (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 credit hours of the student's bachelor's degree program
3. proof of English language proficiency*
4. official transcripts from each college or university attended
5. GRE scores
6. statement of purpose describing professional and academic aspirations
7. a current resume or curriculum vitae and at least two letters of recommendation, one of which should be from a tenure-track faculty member associated with the applicant's most recent degree program**

*An applicant whose native language is not English (regardless current residency) must provide proof of English proficiency.

**If the applicant's graduation year is greater than five years from the application date, then a letter from a recent or current employer may be substituted. For example, if the applicant received a bachelor's degree in 2006 and was applying in 2014 then a letter from an employer may be used instead of a letter from a faculty member. No more than four letters of recommendation may be submitted.

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Division of Graduate Education and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Scholarships

Financial assistance for graduate study is available through several Federal loan options including Perkins; Stafford; and the Federal Direct Plus Loan program for graduate and professional students. Noted above, graduate students enrolled in the master's program may earn a small stipend related to their practicum training hours.

Opportunities for additional funding are also offered by the Department of Psychology as awards in recognition of excellence and exceptional scholarship. These awards include one $1,500 scholarship each year to an outstanding rising second year student and up to three awards of $1,000 each for the most outstanding capstone projects. 

The Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program at Arizona State University is designed to provide students with comprehensive training in the scientific principles of behavior and their application to improve socially significant behaviors. This program emphasizes the development of core competencies in behavior analysis, including assessment, intervention, and ethical considerations. Students gain theoretical knowledge through coursework covering topics such as behavioral theory, measurement methods, data collection, and behavior change procedures. The curriculum integrates practical experience, encouraging students to apply their skills in real-world settings through supervised practicum and internship opportunities, which are essential components for those pursuing certification as behavior analysts.

Arizona State University's ABA program is aligned with the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) standards, preparing graduates to sit for the BACB licensure exam and become Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs). The program is delivered through a flexible format to accommodate working professionals and offers coursework both online and in hybrid formats. The faculty comprises experienced behavior analysts and researchers dedicated to advancing the field through scholarship and community engagement.

Graduates of the program can pursue diverse career paths, including working in clinical settings with children with autism spectrum disorder, developing behavior management programs, consulting with educational and healthcare organizations, or engaging in research to contribute to the scientific community. The program also prepares students for advanced roles involving supervision and organizational leadership in behavioral health services.

Overall, Arizona State University's Applied Behavior Analysis program provides a rigorous, science-based education fostering the development of competent, ethical, and innovative behavior analysts dedicated to improving lives through evidence-based practices. The university's commitment to inclusivity, research excellence, and practical training makes it a leading choice for students interested in pursuing a career in behavior analysis.