Student working with child using applied behavior analysis techniques in classroom setting

Online Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

Earn your online master’s in applied behavior analysis from the University of Kansas. Prepare for BCBA certification while building skills in behavior assessment, intervention, and data-driven decision-making in a flexible, fully online format.

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Earn Your Online Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis from KU

KU’s online master’s in applied behavior analysis (ABA) prepares you to apply evidence-based behavioral strategies in clinical, educational, and community settings. Build practical skills in behavior assessment, intervention, and data-driven decision-making through a flexible, fully online format.

The degree awarded is a Master of Arts in Applied Behavioral Science with a focus in applied behavior analysis. The curriculum is designed to align with BCBA certification requirements and support advancement in behavior analysis careers.

100% online | Complete in 2-2.5 years

Applications are open. Apply Now.

About KU’s online master's in applied behavior analysis

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Why Choose KU’s Online Master's in Applied Behavior Analysis?

  • Top 10 nationally ranked research program
  • 93% BCBA exam pass rate
  • Founding institution in behavior analysis
  • Member of the Association of American Universities (AAU)

The University of Kansas is one of the founding institutions in behavior analysis, with a long-standing reputation for research, innovation, and impact in the field. As a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), KU is part of a group of leading public research universities known for academic rigor and faculty expertise.

You’ll learn from faculty actively engaged in research and practice, including work in autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), education, and clinical settings. Courses emphasize applied learning, helping you develop skills in behavior assessment, intervention design, and data-driven decision-making.

Designed for working professionals, KU’s online ABA master’s program offers a flexible structure with a mix of asynchronous and synchronous coursework. Most students complete the program in 2 to 2.5 years while continuing to work.

Prepare for BCBA Certification

KU’s curriculum is aligned with industry standards to support your path toward Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification. Coursework is designed to help you meet certification requirements while building practical experience in applied behavior analysis.

Graduates of KU’s online program have a 93% BCBA exam pass rate, placing KU among the top-performing programs in this space.

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Applied Behavior Analysis Virtual Open House

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Learn more about KU's online master's in applied behavioral analysis program

Get more info on admission, deadlines, tuition and financial aid, career paths, and more when you fill out the form below. We’ll be in touch to answer any questions and help you get started.

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What careers are possible with a master's degree in applied behavior analysis

A master’s in applied behavior analysis (ABA) prepares you for roles that focus on improving behavior, learning outcomes, and quality of life across clinical, educational, and community settings. Graduates work in a wide range of fields where behavior analysis is applied in practice.

With a master’s in applied behavior analysis, you can pursue roles in:

  • Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities
  • Behavioral Gerontology     
  • Behavioral Pediatrics
  • Behavioral Sports Psychology      
  • Brain Injury Rehabilitation
  • Child Maltreatment Intervention and Prevention
  • Clinical Behavior Analysis
  • Education     
  • Environmental Sustainability
  • Health and Fitness
  • Organizational Behavior Management   
  • Public Health
  • Substance Use Disorders

Strong Outlook for Applied Behavioral Analysis Jobs: With over 500,000 jobs in the field and more than 50,000 new positions projected annually*, the demand for Board Certified Behavior Analysts and Registered Behavior Technicians is growing. The annual median salary for applied behavioral analysis graduates is $79,600*.

With demand for applied behavior analysts rising, this degree offers excellent opportunities for growth and impact in fields that require a deep understanding of human behavior.

Program Snapshot

Top 10
Research Institution
$79K
median salary*
54, 499
Annual Job Openings*

*Source: Lightcast. Information shown is not specific to the KU program, and KU students are not guaranteed to achieve these positions or income.

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How flexible is online learning at KU?

The online Master's in Applied Behavioral Analysis at KU offers a flexible learning experience with a mix of synchronous, asynchronous, and hybrid courses. Live classes, usually held from 5 to 8 p.m. CST, allow for real-time interaction with instructors and classmates, while the structured format helps you balance coursework with other responsibilities. This combination of learning styles gives you the flexibility to fit your studies into your schedule.

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Program Details

Ready to dig into the details? Learn more about KU’s Online Master of Arts in Applied Behavioral Science.

Costs

The flat-rate tuition for fully online ABS students is $795 per credit hour regardless of a student’s residency status. Click below to contact us for more info.
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Admissions

Degree-seeking students must follow the admission process of their program. For details and steps to apply, click here.
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Degree Requirements

Majors are encouraged to consult with the Academic Advisor or faculty members as early as possible about the major requirements, course choices, degree options, and Department and career opportunities.
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Degree Requirements & Curriculum

Curriculum

The coursework in our Master's program meets the requirements set by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. These programs are also accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International.
Curriculum Requirements

BCBA Certification

The MA program meets the educational requirements for licensure in Kansas and Missouri. If you plan to pursue licensure or certification in another state or U.S. territory, we recommend consulting the relevant licensing agency before starting the program to ensure eligibility.
Certifications

Coursework

The online M.A. degree requires a minimum of 30 credit hours: 21 hours in 6 content areas (required courses), 3 hours in a practicum, and research and elective courses. Students also must conduct, write up, and orally defend an empirically based thesis.
Coursework

FAQ: online applied behavioral analysis program

Applications are open and the deadline to the fall semester is July 1, 2026.

Students typically complete this degree in two years.

Yes, the online master’s is offered fully remote.

Good news! As a result of the Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act, 529 savings plans, traditionally used as tax-advantaged accounts for college or university expenses, have been expanded to cover costs for qualifying postsecondary credential programs. All three of the BACB certifications qualify, making it even easier to apply for and maintain your certification.

In addition to covering the already-approved 529 expenses, such as tuition, books, supplies, equipment, and other related costs for university training programs, the new federal law permits 529 plans to be used for the following BACB expenses: RBT 40-hour trainings, because they qualify as an expense for enrollment in a program that prepares individuals to take the RBT examination;

  • Certification applications, retake applications, and examination scheduling fees;

    BCBA or BCaBA continuing education and RBT professional development fees to maintain your BACB certification; AND 

  • Recertification application fees.

You can find out more about this change in the Professional Certification Coalition’s (PCC) FAQ about the 529 expansion. As mentioned in the FAQs, you will also need to check with your specific state 529 plan to determine if it is ready to implement this expansion.

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If you're ready to advance your career and make a meaningful difference, the KU online master's in applied behavioral analysis can help you get there. Contact us today to learn more about how this program can help you achieve your goals.
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