You’ll learn how behavioral problems can develop, as well as the proper methods for treatment. Behavioral psychologists are needed now more than ever, with autism cases on the rise as well as increased study on the effects of social media on mental health. Our brains and behaviors are linked in ways that many folks can’t even begin to understand; that’s why behavioral psychologists are so important!
What kind of Behavioral Psychology degree should you get?
While psychology degrees are fairly common, the study of behavioral psychology is becoming increasingly popular as well. So, what kind of degree should you get? Should you attend online? Or on-campus? Should you choose a concentration? Now that you’ve made the decision to earn a Master’s degree in Behavioral Psychology, plenty of other decisions will follow. Luckily, we’re here to help!
If you’re considering an online program, we’ve got you covered. In fact, College Choice has ranked the 50 Best Online Colleges and Universities – we know what quality online programs are made from. For those looking for a bit more flexibility in earning an advanced degree, an online behavioral psychology program is a great choice. Check out the top online programs below!
How much money do people make with a Master’s in Behavioral Psychology?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, psychologists can make upwards of $77,000 per year. And your salary will only increase with the more education and experience you have. Plus, the need for psychologists is on the rise. In fact, job opportunities within the field are expected to grow 14 percent from now until 2026.
Of course, your salary will also depend upon the actual career path that you choose. For example, you can become a social worker with a degree in behavioral psychology. Social workers, according to the BLS, make just under $50,000 annually. No matter your career goals, a degree in behavioral psychology can provide a steady check.
What can you do with a Master’s in Behavioral Psychology?
Earning a master’s degree in behavioral psychology will open up many doors for graduates. You can become a teacher, a researcher, a counselor, or a social worker. But don’t limit yourself with just these career options.
With a master’s in behavioral psychology, you can even pursue a career as a marketing executive! Learning how the mind works can be quite advantageous across industries – not just healthcare. You can also work in law enforcement, correctional centers, and even the government.
What are the best Master’s in Behavioral Psychology degrees?
While many schools offer Psychology degrees, it is now becoming increasingly more common to see bachelor’s degrees offered specifically in Behavioral Psychology. But, how do you choose the best program? If you’re looking to begin your psychology career, these 25 master’s degrees will serve you well so that you can go on to serve others.
From Northeastern University and Florida State University, to the University of Washington, the opportunities at these schools are endless. You’ll learn everything from behavior assessment and issues in classroom management, to research methods and more! Many of the below programs also require internships or a related fieldwork experience.
2018 Ranking
See our rankings methodology page.
1
Northeastern University
Overview
Home of the Huskies, Northeastern University is located in Boston and has consistently climbed the rankings year after year. The university’s distinctive approach to education and research is built on the values of experiential learning, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Now, students from around the world can obtain an online Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis through Northeastern’s Bouvé College of Health Sciences.
Program Features
Though this program is online, you’ll still have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and work on team projects. Required courses may include:
- Systematic Inquiry
- Behavior Assessment
- Programmed Learning
- Service Administration
- Research and Design Methods
Most students complete this program in two years’ time. All students must also complete a professional portfolio as their capstone project. You may choose to complete this 30 credit-hour program as a full-time or part-time student.
Notables
Graduates of this program will be fit to assist children and adults with autism and other disabilities. The Northeastern University Applied Behavior Analysis program will prepare you for the Behavior Analyst Certification Board exam to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. The cost of this program is $1,054 per semester hour. Northeastern offers plenty of financial aid and scholarship opportunities for those who need it.
2
University of South Florida
Overview
Located in Tampa, FL, USF is a public research university. Founded in 1956, USF continues to grow, boasting 14 colleges and over 180 majors for students to choose from. Now, students can pursue the fully-online Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis. This program, offered through USF’s College of Behavioral and Community Sciences, will prepare you to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst exam.
Program Features
This program allows graduate students to study and take courses from anywhere in the world. Plus, you can graduate in as little as five semesters with your Master’s degree. Each class is eight weeks long. Required courses may include:
- Observational Methods and Functional Assessment
- Behavior Analysis and Developmental Disabilities
- Ethics in Applied Behavior Analysis
- Single Case Experimental Design
- Behavior Theory
All graduate students must also complete 1,000 total hours of supervised practicum experience in order to receive their degree. You will be required to secure a practicum site and supervisor for admission to USF’s online program.
Notables
The University of South Florida is consistently ranked among the nation’s top universities. In fact, U.S. News and World Report included USF on its list of Best Value Schools, as well as its ranking of Top Public Schools.
3
Florida State University
Overview
Founded in 1851, FSU is the oldest continuous site of higher education in Florida. Located in Tallahassee, over 41,000 students now call Florida State University home. With over 350 degree programs (including bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, specialist, and professional degrees) and six Nobel Laureates on the faculty, there is no shortage of opportunities at FSU. Now, students can earn degrees online through FSU, including an online Learning and Cognition MS program.
Program Features
This 33-credit program can be completed in as little as two years. Required courses may include:
- Basic Descriptive and Inferential Statistics Applications
- Theories of Learning and Cognition in Instruction
- Methods of Educational Research
- Research Proposal Writing
- Classroom Assessment
While this program is offered online, if you’re interested in the thesis-track option you’ll have to take courses face-to-face.
Notables
Online courses at Florida State offer engaging lectures, interactive learning, and smaller classes with ample mentoring opportunities. With 16 colleges and tons of specialized programs, it’s no wonder that FSU is consistently ranked among the best universities. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranked FSU among the nation’s Best Colleges for Veterans as well as the Best Value Schools.
4
Simmons College
Overview
Located in Boston, MA, Simmons College was founded in 1899 as a private undergraduate women’s college. Today, Simmons offers graduate professional programs to both women and men in areas of health studies, management, social work, and more. Now, interested students can pursue an online Master of Science in Behavior Analysis. This program will prepare you to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst exam.
Program Features
Unlike other online programs, Simmons College offers weekly, live face-to-face classes where you’ll have the opportunity to interact with fellow students. In this 19-month master’s program, each class is made up of about 15 students. Required courses may include:
- Verbal Behavior
- Behavioral Assessment
- Ethics and Legal Issues
- Methodologies for Behavior Change
- Mentoring and Supervision: Intensive Practicum
All students are required to complete a two-term Intensive Practicum. You will complete a total of 750 work hours over this period which fulfills the Behavior Analyst Certification Board’s requirements for completion of supervision under the “Intensive Practicum” category.
Notables
Students in this program will also benefit from both group mentoring and individual mentoring. It’s no surprise that U.S. News and World Report has ranked Simmons College as the fourteenth Best Regional University in the North.
5
Oregon Institute of Technology
Overview
This public university located in Klamath Falls, OR, is home to over 5,000 students. Ranked third in the nation among Top Public Schools by U.S. News and World Report, the Oregon Institute of Technology is known for its unique and rigorous programs. Now, OIT has teamed up with Southern Oregon University to offer a Master’s degree in Education with emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Program Features
This unique program offers the best of not one, but two universities for your benefit. All graduates will receive a Master degree in Education from SOU and a Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis from Oregon Tech. Required courses may include:
- Foundations of ABA
- Intensive Practicum
- Behavioral Assessment
- Research Methods in ABA
- Ethical and Professional Issues
Graduate students can complete this program in as little as one year. By the end of the program, you’ll also be prepared to take the national exam to become a certified behavior analyst.
Notables
The Oregon Institute of Technology offers Oregon’s only master’s degree in applied behavior analysis. With a comprehensive course schedule and affordable tuition rates, it’s no wonder so many students choose OIT for their degrees.
6
Drexel University
Overview
Founded in 1891, this private research university is located in Philadelphia, PA. Drexel University is ranked among the Top 100 in the country and is one of America’s 15 Largest Private Universities. With over 20,000 students and endless degree opportunities, Drexel is an excellent place to further your education. Especially noteworthy is Drexel’s Online Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis.
Program Features
This online program is organized into four 10-week quarters per year. All students must complete a total of 45 credits. Required courses may include:
- Behavioral Interventions
- Measurement and Experimental Design
- Action Research for Special Education Teachers
- Consultation, Systems Change, and Supervision
- Ethical Considerations and Professional Conduct
All graduate students must also choose from one of two concentrations: Autism Spectrum Disorders Concentration or the Practicum Concentration. If you choose the practicum concentration, you may finish the program with 750 practicum hours.
Notables
Drexel Online also offers a one-of-a-kind dual master’s program in Applied Behavior Analysis and Special Education. This program is also offered through the university’s highly regarded A.J. Drexel Autism Institute. You’ll benefit from the same faculty, curriculum, and degree as Drexel’s on-campus program. Graduates will also be prepared to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst exam upon completion of coursework.
7
Arizona State University
Overview
This public research university has five locations throughout Phoenix and four other learning centers in Arizona. Home to mascot Sparky the Sun Devil as well as over 70,000 students, ASU is a hub of innovators and go-getters. Now, interested students can pursue an online Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction: Applied Behavior Analysis. The program is offered through ASU’s Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College.
Program Features
Each class in this program lasts 7.5 weeks. Students will take ten courses for a total of 30 credit-hours. Required courses may include:
- Behavior Change Systems
- Ethics of Applied Behavior Analysis
- Applied Behavior Analysis in Inclusive Settings
- Research Methods in Applied Behavior Analysis
- Methods of Applied Behavior Analysis for Exceptional Populations
Graduates often go on to pursue one of the following career paths: School Psychologist, Marriage and Family Therapist, CTE Teacher, Counselor, or Social Worker. As with other programs on this list, this one will prepare you to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst exam.
Notables
Arizona State University is consistently ranked among the top universities in the nation. Known for its affordable and flexible degree programs, U.S. News and World Report ranked ASU among the nation’s Top Public Schools. It was also ranked the number one Most Innovative School in the country.
8
The Sage Colleges
Overview
Located in New York State’s capital of Albany, The Sage Colleges is made up of three colleges, including Russell Sage College, Sage College of Albany, and the Sage Graduate School. The colleges offer bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees to over 3,000 students. Now, interested students may pursue an online Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism through the Esteves School of Education.
Program Features
This 42-credit program includes an optional Behavior Analyst Certification board-approved course sequence. Required courses may include:
- Ethical and Professional Conduct for Behavior Analysts
- Introduction to Behavior Analysis
- Professional Practice in ABA
- Behavioral Assessment
- Research in ABA
Graduate students may also choose whether or not they’d like to take a thesis sequence. Upon completion of this program, you’ll be prepared to take the national examination to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).
Notables
Not only is this program affordable, it’s convenient as well. In fact, both the practicum and non-practicum track options take just five semesters to complete. It’s no surprise that U.S. News and World Report has ranked The Sage Colleges among the nation’s 100 Best Regional Universities in the North.
9
The University of West Florida
Overview
Located in Pensacola, FL, the University of West Florida is home to mascot Argie the Argonaut and over 10,000 students. Founded in 1963, UWF is home to many traditions and over 150 student clubs and organizations. Now, UWF’s College of Education and Professional Studies offers a comprehensive MA in Exceptional Student Education. The program offers specializations in Special and Alternative Education, and Applied Behavior Analysis.
Program Features
Students in this program must complete a Department of Teacher Education and Educational Leadership core as well as an Educational Investigative Sequence. Required courses may include:
- Investigative Strategies and Empirical Foundations in Learning and Development
- Issues in Teacher Education: A Biopsychosocial Perspective
- Issues in Classroom Management
- Educational Assessment
- Exceptionalities
All students must also complete a cognate program of at least 15 semester hours. Areas of study include: Special Education, Exceptional and Alternative Educational Studies, Applied Behavior Analysis, and Applied Behavior Analysis Intensive.
Notables
The University of West Florida offers flexible and affordable degree options for working professionals. The school’s acronym, UWF, cleverly doubles as its motto for students: “You Will Finish.” U.S. News and World Report has ranked the university among the Best Online Bachelor’s Programs.
10
University of Kansas
Overview
Located in Lawrence, KS, this public research university was founded in 1865. The University of Kansas is home to over 28,000 students who pursue a range of studies. KU is known for its flexible programs and affordability. In fact, the university awards over $200 million in financial aid each year. Now, interested students can pursue an online MA in Applied Behavioral Science.
Program Features
Offered through the KU Department of Applied Behavioral Science, this program incorporates both synchronous and asynchronous formats. Requirements for this 33-credit degree include:
- 18 hours in six content areas
- Three hours of research or practicum
- Three thesis hours
Graduate students must also conduct, write, and orally defend an empirically-based thesis. Accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International, this program will also prepare you for Behavior Analysis Certification Board certification.
Notables
Online courses at the University of Kansas offer all the same benefits as taking classes on-campus, with the flexibility to complete them from anywhere in the world! You’ll be required to join once-weekly “live” virtual classroom discussions with instructors, as well as participate in online quizzes and readings. Other courses will be taught via recorded video and audio lectures.
11
Florida Institute of Technology
Overview
Located in Melbourne, FL, Florida Tech is ranked among the nation’s top technical institutes. In fact, students from more than 100 countries choose to study at this prestigious Institute. Now, the school offers an online MA in Professional Behavior Analysis. Perfect for those looking for a more flexible way to earn their degree, Florida Tech’s program is one of the best.
Program Features
This unique online program includes a required one-year practicum component in collaboration with ABA service agencies across the country. Required courses may include:
- Basic Elements of Applied Behavior Analysis
- Developing, Strengthening and Maintaining Behavior
- Introduction to Ethical and Professional Conduct of Behavior Analysts
- Decreasing, Eliminating and Replacing Problem Behavior
- Ethical and Professional Conduct of Behavior Analysts
As a graduate student in this program, you can earn your degree in as little as two years.
Notables
With access to the Evans Library online and the chance to collaborate with other online students, students in this program will not be missing out. In fact, students who obtain their degrees online are still welcome to join the on-campus commencement. Your diploma will not indicate that you’ve completed your degree “online.” It holds the same merit as if you were on campus!
12
George Mason University
Overview
Originally founded as a branch of UVA, George Mason University is located in Fairfax, VA and is home to nearly 34,000 students. Consistently ranked as one of the best universities in the nation, George Mason offers plenty of unique degree options. In fact, students can now earn an online Master of Education in Special Education.
Program Features
Offered through Mason’s College of Education and Human Development, this program requires completion of 30 credits. Required courses may include:
- Computer Applications for Special Populations
- Applied Behavior Analysis: Empirical Bases
- Characteristics of Individuals with Autism
- Universal Design for Learning
- Special Education Research
All students must also choose from one of two specialized certificate tracks: Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate or Autism Spectrum Disorders Certificate. George Mason’s online program is part-time, making it ideal for working professionals and busy families.
Notables
Most courses for GMU’s online M.Ed. in Special Education are offered in both asynchronous and synchronous formats. The cost of this program is $775 per credit hour. The university also offers many scholarships, as well as financial aid and tuition waivers for those who qualify.
13
Southeast Missouri State University
Overview
Located in the city of Cape Girardeau, MO, this public university is home to mascot Rowdy the Redhawk as well as nearly 12,000 students. Southeast Missouri State University offers more than 145 undergraduate majors, 100 minors, and more than 75 graduate programs. Students can now take advantage of all this university has to offer in an online setting. Check out the school’s affordable online Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis.
Program Features
This 42-credit program includes 24 credit hours of coursework and 18 credit hours of Intensive University Practicum. Most students earn their degrees in just two years. Required courses may include:
- Special Education and the Law
- Family and School Collaboration
- Theories and Issues in Child Development
- Methods for Studying the Behavior of Individuals
- Intro to Ethics and Professional Conduct in Applied Behavior Analysis
This program is based on a cohort model, meaning you’ll take courses with the same group of students during your studies. Though online, you’ll be able to engage and interact with fellow graduates, as well as your professors.
Notables
Southeast Missouri State University is consistently recognized for academic excellence by U.S. News and World Report. The university was ranked twenty-third among Top Public Schools and made the list of Best Online Graduate Education Programs as well. Not only that, but Southeast Missouri is a very affordable option. In fact, students receive over $17 million annually in the form of institutional scholarships.
14
Bay Path University
Overview
Located in Longmeadow, MA, this private university is home to mascot Roary the Wildcat as well as over 2,000 students. Founded in 1897, Bay Path University now offers over 25 graduate programs. Interested in behavioral psychology? With an online Master of Science degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from Bay Path, you can pursue all of your career goals.
Program Features
Students at Bay Path University can choose to complete one of three program options, including: a 36-credit MS in Applied Behavior Analysis, a 39-credit Ed.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis/Applied Research Focus, or a 45-credit MS in Applied Behavior Analysis/Autism Spectrum Disorders. For those pursuing the 36-credit option, required courses may include:
- Research Methods in ABA
- Behavior Change Systems in Education
- Ethical Practice in Applied Behavior Analysis
- Interventions and Behavior Change Procedures
- Behavioral Assessment and Ongoing Evaluation
This five-semester program is ideal for those who wish to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst examination.
Notables
At Bay Path University, online courses can be completed on either a part-time or full-time schedule. With classes that start every October and February, students have the flexibility to complete this degree on their own terms. Plus, no GMAT or GRE is required to apply for admission to this program.
15
University of Cincinnati
Overview
The University of Cincinnati is a public research university with an enrollment of nearly 44,000 students. The university has been named among the top tier of the Best National Universities, according to U.S. News and World Report. Interested in behavioral psychology? Now, UC students can now pursue a comprehensive online Master of Education in Foundations in Behavior Analysis.
Program Features
This program is made up of ten courses, each lasting 15 weeks. Required courses may include:
- Applied Behavior Analysis
- Functional Behavior Assessment
- Ethics for Behavioral Practice and Research
- Behavior Research Methods/Accountability Methods
- Working with Cultural and Linguistic Diversity in School Psychology
Completion of this degree will prepare you to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst Examination. In less than two years, graduates will be that much closer to becoming behavior analysts, or pursuing related careers.
Notables
U.S. News and World Report has ranked the University of Cincinnati among the Best National Universities and Top Public Schools. The university was also ranked as a Best Value School and as one of the Best Colleges for Veterans. Not only that, but UC is also very affordable and offers a variety of scholarship and financial aid options for eligible students.
16
University of Washington
Overview
The University of Washington is a public research university that was founded in 1861. Located in Seattle, this university is now home to over 46,000 students. The university is currently ranked among the Best National Universities by U.S. News & World Report. Its College of Education is particularly noteworthy. In fact, interested students can now pursue an online Master’s of Education in Applied Behavior Analysis.
Program Features
The University of Washington’s online ABA program can be completed in one or two years depending on your schedule. Required courses may include:
- Educating Students with Autism
- Application of Behavioral Principles
- Methods of Applied Behavior Analysis Research
- Designing Comprehensive Behavioral Interventions
- Becoming an Ethical and Professional Behavior Analyst
Graduate students will also be required to complete a capstone project. This project will be presented at an annual Student Capstone Conference. A Master’s Examination is also required for those seeking their Master of Education degree.
Notables
This university is consistently ranked among the top schools in the nation. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranked the University of Washington among the Top 20 Public Schools in the nation. It’s also one of the Best Colleges for Veterans and a Best Value School.
17
University of Houston-Victoria
Overview
Located in Victoria, TX, UHV is home to three diverse schools, including the School of Education, Health Professions, and Human Development. With a variety of flexible and affordable degree options, more and more students are choosing UHV. Interested in behavioral psychology? Check out the university’s Master of Education in Special Education Applied Behavior Analysis degree plan.
Program Features
Graduate students in this program must complete a total of 39 semester hours to earn their degree. Required courses may include:
- Appraisal, Instructional Coaching, and Collaboration for Students with Disabilities
- Education in a Multicultural Society
- Foundations of Educational Research
- Human Growth and Development
- Programming and Collaboration
While this is an online program, all students are required to take comprehensive exams the semester before they intend to graduate. You will have to make arrangements to come to a testing site in Victoria or Katy.
Notables
All online programs at the University of Houston-Victoria are accredited, affordable, and flexible. Perfect for working professionals and those with busy families, UHV is a great option for adults seeking an advanced degree. Plus, online students benefit from the same great staff, faculty, and campus resources as those on-campus.
18
Texas A&M University
Overview
Located in College Station, TX, this public research university is the second-largest in the United States based on enrollment. From the Dwight Look College of Engineering to the Mays Business School, Texas A&M offers a variety of unique degree options. Now, through the College of Education and Human Development, students can pursue an online M.Ed. or MS in Special Education.
Program Features
This 36-credit online degree program can be completed in as little as two years. Graduate students will also have the option of participating in an 18-credit Applied Behavior Analysis option. Required courses may include:
- Behavior Management
- Assessment in School Settings
- Educating Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders
- Early Literacy for Students with Diverse Instructional Needs
- Ethical and Professional Conduct in Special Education and Applied Behavior Analysis
Online courses are offered in both asynchronous and synchronous course formats. You’ll be able to interact with fellow students, as well as with your professors, on a regular basis. This online program starts each summer in June.
Notables
The university’s pass rates for ABA certification are in the top 10 percent of the country for distance programs. TAMU has also been named a Best Value School by U.S. News and World Report.
19
Saint Cloud State University
Overview
Located in St. Cloud, MN, this public university was founded in 1869 and is now home to over 15,000 students. With more than 60 degree programs offered through its School of Graduate Studies, Saint Cloud State University is a hub of activity. Now, interested students can pursue an online Master of Science degree program in Applied Behavior Analysis.
Program Features
Offered through the university’s Department of Community Psychology, Counseling, and Family Therapy, all students in this program must complete a 750-hour clinical internship. Other requirements may include courses like:
- Behavioral Applications
- Social Bases of Behavior
- Experimental Analysis of Behavior
- Ethics in Psychology and Behavior Analysis
- Behavioral Foundations of Autism Treatment
Graduate students may opt to take a 45-credit Thesis option or a 46-credit Comprehensive Exam option. Either way, you’ll graduate with the same MS degree in Applied Behavior Analysis. Each plan requires an internship, core courses, electives, and research.
Notables
Students come to Saint Cloud State University from 18 countries, 50 states, and all Canadian provinces. The university has been ranked among the Top Public Schools and Best Regional Universities in the Midwest by U.S. News and World Report.
20
Ball State University
Overview
This public university is located in Muncie, IN; a city with a population of just over 69,000. Ball State is home to nearly 22,000 students and offers eight academic colleges and top-of-the-line research facilities. The university now offers more than 20 online master’s degrees. Check out Ball State’s online Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis with an Emphasis in Autism.
Program Features
This 30-credit program is offered through Ball State’s Department of Special Education. The degree courses are completely online and the program can be completed in less than two years. Required courses may include:
- Advanced Applied Behavior Analysis
- Research Methods for Behavior Analysis
- Professional Issues in Applied Behavior Analysis
- Interventions and Treatments for Persons with Autism
- Introduction to Persons with Autism Spectrum Disorders
All graduate students in this program are also required to take part in a field-based experience. This field-option can either be in Autism or in Applied Behavioral Analysis.
Notables
Graduates of this program will be eligible to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst Examination. Whether you have a background in psychology, criminal justice, social work, or education, this degree will serve you well and push you to new career heights.
21
Saint Joseph's University
Overview
This private Roman Catholic Jesuit university is located just outside of Philadelphia, PA. Founded in 1851, the university now offers over 50 graduate programs and over 30 degree completion and certificate programs, including many online options. Interested in joining the crimson and gray Hawks? Check out the university’s online Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice with a Behavior Analysis Concentration.
Program Features
Prior to joining this program, you must have at least one year of applied behavior analysis work or volunteer experience. Once admitted, you’ll take courses that may include the following:
- Criminological Theory
- Ethics and Criminal Justice
- Ethics in Behavior Analysis
- Research Methods and Analysis
- Professional Writing for Law Enforcement
The coursework within this program will give you the foundation you need to become a Certified Behavioral Analyst. Most graduates typically earn their degrees in one and a half years.
Notables
U.S. News and World Report has included Saint Joseph’s University in many of their rankings. In fact, SJU came in fourth for Best Colleges for Veterans and was ranked eleventh for Best Regional Universities in the North. The university was also ranked as having one of the Best Online Graduate Education Programs in the country.
22
West Virginia University
Overview
This public, land-grant, space-grant, and research-intensive university is located in Morgantown, WV. Founded in the late 1800s, WVU is now home to nearly 30,000 students. Ranked among the top 100 public schools in the nation, WVU offers a variety of its degrees online. In fact, students can now pursue an online MA degree in Special Education with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis.
Program Features
Offered through WVU’s College of Education and Human Services, this program is approved by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. Graduate students must complete a total of 36-credit hours. Required courses may include:
- Designing Single-Case Research
- Professional Ethics for Behavior Analysts
- Naturalistic and Functional Analyses of Behavior
- Methods in Behavioral Intervention and Treatment
- Systems for Behavior Change, Team Building, and Case Management
All students are also required to complete a capstone course prior to graduating. For those who have already earned their master’s degree, WVU also offers a Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis.
Notables
All online programs and courses are offered through WVU’s eCampus. Students will participate in live class sessions through Blackboard Collaborate. Some courses offer live class sessions through an online virtual world called “Second Life.” Online programs at WVU are flexible, affordable, and offer the same integrity as those on-campus.
23
University of Massachusetts Dartmouth
Overview
Not to be confused with New Hampshire’s Dartmouth, the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth is one of five UMass campuses. Home to mascot Arnie the Corsair, UMass Dartmouth is a public research university with plenty of degree offerings. Now, students can pursue an online Master of Arts in Psychology with an Applied Behavior Analysis focus.
Program Features
This part-time MA program is meant to be completed in three years. Graduates will complete a total of 36-credit hours to earn their degree. Required courses may include:
- Child Psychopathology
- Research and Design in ABA
- Statistical Methods Psychology
- Ethics and Professionalism in ABA
- Implementing Behavior Analysis in Educational Settings
All students in this program will also be required to complete related fieldwork. If you’ve already earned your master’s degree, UMass Dartmouth also offers an Applied Behavior Analyst Graduate Certificate. This is a two year, 18-credit program that will prepare you to sit for the BCBA exam.
Notables
Online programs are both flexible and affordable. The tuition per three-credit course at UMass Dartmouth is approximately $1,500. Of course, the university offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid packages to eligible students.
24
College of Saint Elizabeth
Overview
Located in Morristown, NJ, the College of Saint Elizabeth is a private Roman Catholic liberal arts college. Founded in 1899, the college is now home to over 2,000 students. With small class sizes and a variety of degree options, many folks continue to choose CSE. Now, interested students can earn an online Master of Arts degree in Applied Behavior Analysis.
Program Features
Offered through the college’s School of Professional Studies, this unique program will prepare you for a variety of career options. Required courses may include:
- Behavior Management in Inclusive and Special Education
- Research Methods and Experimental Design
- Writing for Publication and Presentation
- Assessment and Strategic Design
- Behavior Change Systems
- Applied Ethics
This program is also intended for those who wish to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analysis exam. Graduates will have a comprehensive understanding of the field of applied behavior analysis.
Notables
Graduates of this program have gone on to pursue many rewarding careers. From teachers, school district behavior or autism specialists, and ABA therapists, to ABA program supervisors and business owners, researchers, and consultants for schools, businesses, and state or community agencies, there are so many opportunities with this degree.
25
McNeese State University
Overview
Located in Lake Charles, LA, McNeese State University was founded in 1939 and is now home to nearly 7,000 students. McNeese offers a variety of unique degree programs, including several Master’s programs. From engineering and education to arts and sciences, nursing, and business, the options are endless. Now, interested students can earn an online Master of Arts in Psychology with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis.
Program Features
Offered through the university’s Department of Psychology, this degree program requires students to complete 55-credit hours. Required courses may include:
- Physiological Psychology
- Applied Research Methods
- Ethics for Behavior Analysts
- Human Growth & Development
- Experimental Analysis of Behavior
While a thesis is not required as a part of this program, all graduate students must complete an internship prior to graduating. For those who live in Southwest Louisiana, the internship will be the McNeese Autism Program. If you don’t reside in the area, your internship site must be approved by the McNeese Department of Psychology.
Notables
Ranked one of the Top Public Schools in America by U.S. News and World Report, McNeese State University offers both flexibility and affordability for working professionals. Online students don’t have to sacrifice the quality of their program to earn a degree at McNeese.