Learn To Assess Autism's Behavior Challenges with an Online M.Ed. in Applied Behavior Analysis
The St. Edward’s University online Master of Education - Applied Behavior Analysis (M.Ed. - ABA) will help you learn how to assess, analyze, and help individuals with autism's abilities and challenging behaviors. Our M.Ed. program will also advance your skills and give you clinical experience in preparation for the Board-Certified Behavior Analyst Exam.

Degree Plan
For detailed descriptions, please request a Program Overview by filling out a Request for Information form.
The online M.Ed. - Applied Behavior Analysis is a 30-credit hour program that you can complete in 21 months while working full-time. Courses are offered in a 7-week accelerated online format and taken one at a time. The program culminates with experience courses Practicum I: Seminar Course and Practicum II: Supervised Clinical Experience.
Fall Semester | Credits |
---|---|
Principles of Applied Behavior Analysis I | 3 |
Principles of Applied Behavior Analysis II | 3 |
Spring Semester | |
Ethical Issues and Professional Standards in Applied Behavior Analysis | 3 |
Child Development: A Behavioral Systems Approach | 3 |
Summer Semester | |
Behavior Research Methods | 3 |
Functional Behavior Assessment | 3 |
Fall Semester | |
Development of Applied Behavioral Analysis Intervention Programs | 3 |
Organizational Behavior Management | 3 |
Spring Semester | |
Practicum I: Seminar Course | 3 |
Practicum II: Supervised Clinical Experience | 3 |
The Association for Behavior Analysis International has verified the following courses toward the coursework requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® or Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst® examination. Applicants will need to meet additional requirements before they can be deemed eligible to take the examination.
Learning Goals
With your online M.Ed. – ABA you will gain:
- A deep understanding of applied concepts and principles of behavior analysis.
- Effective research methods including measurement principles, data analysis and experimental design.
- Ability to understand behavior change in clients and specific procedures to help create positive change.
- Capacity to conceptualize, analyze, and implement effective applied behavior analysis programs.
- Advanced knowledge of the theoretical foundations of ethical and professional conduct.
Outcomes
The rising diagnosis rate for children with autism spectrum disorder has led to a demand for specially trained professionals. The career outlook for behavior analysts is strong, with the nationwide growth expected at 19% by 2024. That growth level is considered significantly faster than average by the Bureau of Labor and Statistics. The demand for BCBAs has also doubled in recent years. With your advanced degree, you will be highly sought for career opportunities in K-12 schools and other professional settings that serve students with developmental and behavioral disorders.
How to Apply
We require all applicants for the M.Ed. - ABA to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. International applicants may be required to submit a Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score to demonstrate English proficiency.
To start your application, follow these steps:
1. St. Edward’s University application for admission
The admissions application for the online M.Ed. - ABA can be completed online here. You will need to create and validate an account before beginning the application. Note there is a $50 application fee to apply.
2. Official transcripts from all institutions attended
St. Edward’s University prefers transcripts submitted electronically. If your undergraduate institution does not provide electronic transcripts, please have official transcripts mailed to:
St. Edward’s University
Office of Admissions
3001 South Congress
Austin, TX 78704-6489
3. Submit personal statement
Please use the personal statement to describe your background and interests and to explain why you wish to pursue an M.Ed. – ABA. Please include some information on your post-graduation goals.
4. A copy of a government-issued ID
Driver’s License, State ID or Passport
5. Additional Requirements for International Students or permanent resident applicants
Foreign applicants may be required to submit scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) to demonstrate proficiency in English sufficient to successfully complete the program.
NOTE: The GRE and/or other standardized admissions tests are not required for admission.
Admissions Timeline
The School of Behavioral and Social Sciences at St. Edward’s University uses a rolling admissions process to evaluate each candidate. Applicants should be expected to be contacted within two business days of their finalized application regarding next steps, and the Admissions Committee should make their decision within two weeks.
Request Information
Are you interested in speaking with an enrollment counselor to find out more about the online M.Ed. - Applied Behavior Analysis?

Explore the Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
If you want to make a difference for children and young people with autism or other disabilities, the online Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis from St. Edward’s University could be right for you. In as few as 14 months, you can develop the skills and knowledge you need to pursue certification as a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA) in schools and other settings—all while continuing to work in full-time employment. Read more »