With an Autism Spectrum Disorder Certificate, you’ll prepare to impact the lives of people with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Applied Behavior Analysis (MA)
MA
On-Campus
Main Campus
DEGREE TYPE
Master's Degree
PROGRAM TYPE
Graduate
LOCATION
DEPARTMENT
Lead with insight, act with purpose. The Master’s in applied behavior analysis prepares you to help others thrive.
With a master's degree in applied behavior analysis, you can improve the lives of those with psychological neurodevelopmental disabilities as a practitioner of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Demand for certified experts is increasing at a fast pace in both therapy and research settings.
Courses for Southeast's applied behavior analysis program have been designed to meet the Fifth Edition Task List issued by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® (BACB®) and we are a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI).
Where Bold Ideas Take Shape
In your second year, you'll work first-hand with clients with the support of a Behavior Analyst Certification (BCBA) supervisor. You choose your practicum site, giving you flexibility to work in an area of your interest. Though coursework and training you’ll have the opportunity to:
- Get personal attention from a faculty advisor with expertise in your field.
- Complete the program within two years.
- Access online study modules and other tools to help prepare you to pass the BCBA exam.
What Can You Do with an M.A. in Applied Behavior Analysis?
A majority of graduates from the applied behavior analysis program go on to work in settings that include individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, various neurodevelopmental disabilities, and other behavioral health challenges.
Other opportunities in this field include working in parent training, behavioral pediatrics, child welfare, and brain injury rehabilitation.
Career Opportunities
- Counselor
- Psychological Assistant
- Special Education Assistant
- Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
- Social Work
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Applied Behavior Analysis by the Numbers
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$93K
School and Career Counselors
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for school and career counselors is $93,610.
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$80k
Human Resources Specialist
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for a human resources specialist is $79,730 per year.
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$111K
Psychologists
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics the median annual salary for psychologists is $111,340.
Applied Behavior Analysis Curriculum
The program has a cohort model, so students will take classes with the same group of students throughout both years, helping to build a life-long behavior analytic community. Students may apply for admission for Summer or Fall; however, only electives are available during the first summer semester. ABA classes always begin in the fall.
Admission is considered only for the summer and fall semesters. In addition to the criteria established for general admission to graduate studies, applicants must have the following:
For graduate studies admissions deadlines, visit Graduate Admissions Requirements
- An undergraduate GPA of 3.25 or higher on a 4.0 scale or 6 hours of graduate-level coursework with a 3.0 equivalent in each course
- Letter of intent addressing preparation for graduate study, ability to succeed at the graduate level and professional goals and objectives. The letter should address what the applicant expects to achieve through graduate level study. The letter of intent should be typed and a maximum of 750 words in length.
- Two letters of recommendation
- Identification of potential site to obtain supervised experience
For graduate studies admissions deadlines, visit Graduate Admissions Requirements
- AB531 Basic Principles in Applied Behavior Analysis (3)
- AB532 Methods for Studying the Behavior of Individuals (3)
- AB533 ABA I: Skill Acquisition and Assessment (3)
- AB534 ABA II: Function Based Assessment and Treatment of Challenging Behavior (3)
- AB536 Experimental Analysis of Behavior (3)
- AB537 Behavioral Consultation & Management (3)
- AB601 Conceptual Topics in Behavior Analysis (3)
- AB603 Ethics, Disciplinary Systems, and Professionalism in Applied Behavior Analysis (3)
- GR698 Masters’ Final Project (0)
Choose 6 Hours from:
- CE614 Family/School Partnerships in Early Childhood (3)
- CF602 Trauma-Informed Care (3)
- ED535 The Trauma-Informed Professional (3)
- EX507 Family and Child with Exceptionalities (3)
- EX555 Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorder (3)
- EX601 Educational Assessment Techniques (3)
- EX693 Special Education and the Law (3)
- PY555 Health Psychology (3)
- PY556 Organization Psychology (3)
Other 500 or 600 level courses may be considered for electives but must be approved by the Program Coordinator or advisor. All elective courses must be taken at the graduate level.
Recommended Sequence of Required Course Work
Because of the intensive workload for this program, all courses must be completed in order with the exception of the approved elective that may be taken during any semester, though is recommended to be taken during the first summer semester.
Supervised Experience
Individuals seeking to sit for the BCBA® certification exam after January 1, 2022 must complete either 2000 hours of Supervised Fieldwork or 1500 hours of Concentrated Supervised Fieldwork. Supervision by SEMO Faculty is limited. Potential students should contact the SEMO Applied Behavior Analysis Program Coordinator prior to beginning the program if they do not have access to a qualified ABA Supervisor locally.
The accelerated Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis degree program allows undergraduate students to take classes in their senior year that count for both undergraduate credit and graduate credit. Students majoring in Education, Psychology, Child Development, Communication Disorders, or working towards an Autism Studies Certificate could benefit from this opportunity.
Program Requirements:
- Junior Standing with at least 75 credit hours completed
- Limit of 12 hours (500 level)
- Minimum grade point average of 3.0
- 2 letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
Program Notes:
- Must be admitted to the accelerated graduate program prior to taking courses
- Course fee will be at undergraduate rate.
- Course will be initially recorded as undergraduate class at the end of semester.
After grades are submitted at the end of the semester, the courses will be added to the graduate course list for graduate credit.
Laura Stroud
Class of ‘17, Applied Behavior Analysis
It was easier and more convenient because everything was online. I really like how Southeast offered the supervision for my practicum as part of the curriculum. It has better prepared me to take the state exam.
Read Her Story
What will it cost?
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
This degree is housed within the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. The college prepares students for lifelong careers by developing the problem-solving, critical thinking, communication, organization, and adaptability skills employers value across every industry.
Earn Your Degree on Your Schedule.
Do more than dream about the future. Take the first steps to make it all happen.
Verified Course Sequence by ABAI
Getting the Job
Your education is just one piece to launching an extraordinary career. SEMO's Career Services office is here to help you with the next step. Our boldly supportive team will provide the expertise and support you need, so you're landing your dream job.
Accelerated ABA
You can begin taking courses for your ABA while working on your bachelor’s degree, saving you time and money. Students majoring in education, psychology, child development, communication disorders, or working towards an autism studies certificate could benefit from this opportunity.
Additional Resources
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Scully 404
Mailing Address
One University Plaza, MS 5700
Cape Girardeau, Missouri 63701
Cape Girardeau, Missouri 63701