In this article, we profile the 10 best ABA master’s degree programs in the West.
Earning a degree in ABA therapy from a quality school is important. It is important both for career advancement and future practice as an ABA therapist. Quite a few ABA therapy graduate programs exist. But not all provide approved course sequences. Not all provide eligibility to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analysis (BCBA) examination. We reviewed a number of schools that offer some of the best ABA master’s programs in the United States. This may help you with your research in determining the school that best suits your needs.
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10 Best ABA Master’s Degree Programs in the West Ranking Methodology
For the purpose of this list, we examined 44 accredited applied behavior analysis master’s programs that were located in the West and Midwest portions of the United States. We looked at programs that were accredited. We looked at programs that provided a course sequence approved by the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). This course sequence prepares students to sit for the BCBA certification examination. We collected graduate tuition and fees from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES College Navigator). We ranked the schools on our list according to raw affordability.
Below is our list of the 10 best ABA master’s degree programs in the West.
10. Eastern Michigan University
Master’s in Psychology – Clinical Behavioral
Ypsilanti, Michigan
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,100
Eastern Michigan University offers one of the best ABA master’s degree programs on our list. The training provides a foundation in areas of:
- behavioral analysis
- behavioral psychology
- psychological assessment
- psychotherapy
Students must complete their training under supervision and in the field. Some of the courses required of the program include:
- clinical behavioral analysis
- cognitive assessment
- experimental analysis of behavior
- psychological statistics
- scientific and professional ethics
To be admitted to the program, which is one of the top ABA programs, competitive GRE scores are required. The program also prepares students for:
- licensure and clinical practice at the master’s level as a Limited License Psychologist
- doctoral degree studies in psychology
- certification in behavior analysis (BCBA)
In addition to accreditation credentials, EMU ranks with U.S. News and World Report as a top national university.
9. University of Washington
Online Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis
Seattle, Washington
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,590
University of Washington offers one of the few online degrees in ABA therapy programs. This ABA master’s degree may be completed through distance learning by taking online courses and a supervised intensive practicum. Coursework is designed to prepare online learners to sit for the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) exam. Some of the courses include:
- application of behavioral principles
- behavioral measurement and assessment
- educating students with autism
- instruction of students with moderate to severe disabilities
- methods of applied behavior analysis research
- tiered approach to inclusive instruction
Prospective students should note that they must also complete a capstone project and master’s examination to fulfill requirements of the program.
8. Western Michigan University
Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis
Kalamazoo, Michigan
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,561
Earning a degree in ABA therapy from Western Michigan University can help prepare you for a career as an ABA therapist. Western Michigan University offers one of the few accredited ABA master’s programs recognized by the Association for Behavior Analysis International. To be admitted, prospective students need:
- a bachelor’s degree with at least 18 semester hours in psychology
- a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
- satisfactory GRE scores
Coursework is taught by leading scholars and esteemed faculty with years of experience in the ABA field. Also, the coursework is designed to prepare students for entry to doctoral programs. In addition to quality coursework and curriculum, WMU ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. Recent 2020 rankings with U.S. News include #246 in best national universities and #119 in top public schools.
7. Southern Illinois University
Master’s in Behavior Analysis and Therapy
Carbondale, Illinois
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,626
One of the best ABA master’s degree programs on our list is located at Southern Illinois University. This program is designed for individuals interested in becoming a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst. Courses may be taken on-campus or in a hybrid format with some classes offered online. These courses include:
- basic behavior analysis
- behavior analysis research designs
- complex behavior analysis
- legal and ethical issues in behavior analysis
- staff training and development
Students must complete an internship under supervision of a behavior analysis and therapy faculty member. Also, a research paper or thesis must be completed under the direction of a chairperson at Southern Illinois University. Rankings with U.S. News and World Report include #254 in best national universities and #123 in top public schools.
6. University of California
M.Ed. in Applied Behavior Analysis
Riverside, California
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,584
This is one of the few M.Ed. degrees on our list. Best ABA programs in California include the accredited ABA master’s programs offered by University of California at Riverside. This program is one of the top ABA master’s programs in California. It is designed for educators who want to gain additional knowledge in the practice and instruction of behavior principles and behavioral health in children and adults. Classes are taught by university professors and cover topics like:
- advanced behavioral interventions
- child behavioral theory
- ethics for applied behavior analysis
- principles of social behavior intervention
- school psychological consultation
Admission requirements include an earned bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0 during the last two years of study. The GRE is not required for admission. UC Riverside ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 91st best national university in the country.
5. Whitworth University
Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis
Spokane, Washington
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,168
Whitworth University is one of our top choices for a degree in ABA therapy. The school offers a master’s in applied behavior analysis, which consists of 37 credits and takes approximately two years to complete. Whitworth’s ABA coursework is approved and verified by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, and BCBA certification options are also available. Program curriculum includes classes like:
- assessment and IEP planning
- ethical research and treatment method
- intervention and autism spectrum disorders
- intervention through positive behavior support
- a final exit project and fieldwork experience
Whitworth, a private and accredited institution, ranks with U.S. News and World Report. In fact, Whitworth ranks #3 in best regional universities in the West as of 2020.
4. University of Kansas
Online Master’s in Applied Behavioral Science
Lawrence, Kansas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,027
With both online and traditional pathways, University of Kansas offers some of the best ABA master’s degree programs on our list. Enrolled students may earn a master’s in applied behavioral science by completing a series of courses that explore human behavior problems of societal importance. The master’s degree requires 30 credits and includes courses, practicum, and master’s thesis. Courses include:
- applied behavior analysis
- conceptual foundations
- legal and ethical issues in applied behavioral science
- principles of behavior
- research methods
- research or intervention practicum
If you are interested in pursuing BCBA certification, all practicum courses must be completed. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank the university as a top national institution.
3. Saint Cloud State University
Online Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis
Saint Cloud, Minnesota
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,040
Saint Cloud State University offers a degree in ABA therapy that is both BACB-approved and accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International. The program has also been identified as having one of the top-rated master’s in autism spectrum disorder, as ranked by the Applied Behavior Analysis Programs Guide. To add to the program’s diversity, online options are available, making it one of the only online ABA master’s level programs in the country. Students with an earned master’s degree may take the Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) online courses. Saint Cloud ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 105th best regional university in the Midwest and the 30th best top public school.
2. California State University
Master’s in Counseling – Applied Behavior Analysis
Los Angeles, California
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,183
California State University offers one of the best ABA master’s degrees on our list due to affordability. This is one of the top applied behavior analysis master’s programs in California. The accredited applied behavior analysis master’s program at California State accepts 15 students each year and offers them a pre-approved course sequence by the BACB. There is also an option to tailor the degree toward autism, ideal for those interested in pursuing careers in education. Some of the required courses include:
- applied behavior analysis
- conceptual analysis of behavior
- experimental foundations of applied behavior analysis
- legal and ethical issues in ABA
- lifespan human development for counselors
A comprehensive examination and thesis or culminating project are also required for graduation. In addition to accreditation credentials, Cal State ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. Cal State’s rankings include #31 in best regional universities in the West and #11 in best value schools.
1. University of Nevada
Master’s in Psychology – Behavior Analysis
Reno, Nevada
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $5,575
The accredited ABA master’s programs at University of Nevada allow enrolled students to earn a master’s in psychology with a specialization in behavior analysis. Due to affordability, University of Nevada offers the best ABA master’s degree program on our list. The degree consists of 36 graduate credits, and the program is accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International. Also, the program has a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) approved course sequence through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. Some of the courses offered include:
- behavioral and systems assessment
- behavioral interventions
- behavior management and consultation
- ethics in psychology
- principles of behavior
- research methods in applied behavior analysis
In addition to quality classes, University of Nevada offers rankings with U.S. News and World Report. In fact, University of Nevada’s most recent rankings include #240 in best national universities and #117 in top public schools.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ABA?
ABA is short for applied behavior analysis. Applied behavior analysis is the study and application of how human behavior works. In other words, the knowledge of behavior is put to use in practical ways to make peoples’ lives better. This involves learning what motivates people and what causes them to continue or discontinue certain behaviors.
Applied behavior analysis is often used for children with autism spectrum disorder. It can help them to learn to manage behaviors that are harmful to themselves or to others. It can also help teach important social skills. There are multiple methods used for applied behavior analysis. Some of these are based on observation and repitition. Others are play-based.
Applied behavior analysis is also used for other disorders, such as:
- post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
It is sometimes also used by people who simply want to start better personal habits.
What are some pros and cons of studying online?
Some of the programs on our list are online programs, while some can only be earned in person. Online programs have skyrocketed in popularity over the past few years. They are known for their convience and affordability. However, you may be wondering whether you come out with the same education in the end with an online program. Here are some of the pros and cons of an online master of science or master of education in applied behavior analysis
There are things about an online degree that some people don’t like. The most obvious one is the lack of face-to-face contact with professors and other students. There are hours spent alone with the computer. For a field like ABA, where face-to-face contact is so important, this is a serious factor to consider. There is also the question of motivation. Online students have to be fairly self-motivated.
On the other hand, there are advantages to an online degree. There is the convenience factor. If you are already a working professional, you can continue to earn your degree while you study. In addition, you don’t have to drop everything and move to a brick-and-mortar institution away from family, friends and work responsibilites. You can study from the comfort of your own home. If classes are asynchronous, you can choose when you work on them. Online school can also be more affordable, as some institutions give students the in-state price for online classes.
In the end, it comes down to personal preference. Employers won’t see on your diploma that you earned your degree online, so it won’t affect your career. Would you rather study alone and have the convenience of an online master’s? Or would you rather be surrounded by professors and classmates as you learn? It is up to you.
What are the different levels of certification in ABA?
The most basic level of certification is RBT, or registered behavior technician. This level of certification doesn’t require a degree. It requires a 40-hour training and passing the BACB test, among other requirements. RBTs work under the supervision of behavior analysts with more experience and education.
The next level up for ABA certification is BCaBA, or board certified assistant behavior analyst. These individuals must have a bachelor’s degree and pass the BACB test. They work under the supervision of a BCBA, but may also supervise an RBT.
The master’s level certification is BCBA, or board certified behavior analyst. The BCBA has a master’s degree and is able to supervise both BCaBAs and RBTs. Their role is often making plans and directing other behavior analysts. They are often able to have their own clinic or work in people’s homes. They may work with a hospital. They may also work as a personal trainer or personal coach. This can happen when a client has not been diagnosed with a disorder, but wants to use ABA to help them with their personal life. This may be related to relationship habits, excercise, work-life balance, or other issues.
What is the average salary for a master’s in applied behavior analysis?
The average salary for a master’s in ABA varies depending on location. Payscale.com reports an average yearly salary of $70k for someone with a master of science in applied behavior analysis. Closely related occupations include:
- Board Certified Behavior Analysts ($55k-$83k)
- Clinical Directors ($67k-$104k)
- Behavior Analysts ($53k-$83k)
Elemy.com says that some of the highest paying cities to work as a BCBA are:
- San Jose, CA ($113,443)
- Chicago, IL ($105,942)
- Denver, CO ($103,844)
- Atlanta, GA ($102,578)
What makes someone a good ABA professional?
One trait that is important for ABA professionals is the ability to communicate well with others. They will need to communicate with clients. They will need to communicate with the families of clients. For BCBAs in a supervisory role, they need to communicate clearly with RBTs or BCaBAs that work with them. Clear communication is an essentail skill for BCBAs.
Another thing that is necessary for BCBAs is the ability to analyze and interpret data. They may not be the one collecting the data, but they need to be able to understand what it means. They are often the one to make the plan for how best to proceed with a particular client, so it is essential that they have this skill.
BCBAs must also have compassion and patience. A big part of this job is helping others to improve their lives by changing their behaviors, and this requires compassion. Patience is also very important, as this process is not easy and there can be many bumps in the road.
In Conclusion
Applied behavior analysis is not an easy career. You are constantly working with others and trying to help them improve their behaviors. There are challenges and difficulties along the way. However, this career can also be incredibly rewarding. These ten ABA graduate programs can give you the knowledge, skills and mindset needed for success in this field.
ABADP Staff
February 2020
Related Resources:
- 10 Best ABA PhD Degree Programs
- 10 Best Online ABA Degree Programs (Bachelor’s)
- 10 Best ABA Master’s Degree Programs
- 10 Best ABA Master’s Degree Programs in the East
- 20 Most Affordable Online ABA Graduate Certificate Programs
- 5 Traits of a Successful ABA Therapist
- 10 Duties of an ABA Therapist in an Autism Clinic
- 5 Conditions that Benefit from ABA Therapy
- What is In-Home ABA Therapy?
- What Can ABA Therapy Be Used For?
- Is ABA Therapy Expensive?
- How Much ABA Therapy is Needed?
- Does Insurance Cover ABA Therapy?
- What Jobs Can I Get with an ABA Degree?
- What is the Difference Between an ABA and an LBA?
- What Does an Applied Behavior Analyst Do?
