A KU applied behavioral analysis student works with a child in a classroom

Online Master's in Applied Behavioral Science

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. This flexible, fully online program is designed for working professionals who want to build practical skills while advancing toward leadership roles in behavior analysis.

Applied behavior analysts, behavioral scientists, and researchers play a vital role in improving outcomes across a wide range of fields, including special education, autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities, psychology, and more. These professionals use evidence-based practices to enhance learning, behavior, and overall quality of life, making a significant impact on individuals and communities.

100% online | 2-2.5 years to complete a full degree

Applications are open

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

KU is one of the founding institutions in behavior analysis and is ranked among the top 10 in the nation for research. Faculty contribute to leading publications and present at national and international conferences.

You will learn from faculty with real-world clinical experience, including work in autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Courses are designed to provide personalized attention and practical insight, helping you apply behavior analysis principles in real-world settings.

This online ABA master’s program is designed for working professionals. As a full-time student, you can complete your degree in approximately 2 to 2.5 years while balancing your career and other commitments. KU’s online master’s in applied behavior analysis includes a mix of asynchronous, synchronous, and hybrid courses. This structure is designed to provide flexibility while maintaining a clear and supportive learning experience

KU is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), a group of leading research institutions in the United States. Earning your online master’s in applied behavior analysis from KU reflects both academic quality and preparation for professional advancement in a growing field.

Prepare for BCBA Certification

KU’s ABA curriculum is designed to align with industry standards and help prepare students for certification pathways in behavior analysis. This program is specifically designed to help you meet the requirements for Board Certified Behavior Analyst BCBA certification, opening doors to a range of specialized career opportunities. 

Graduates of KU's online applied behavioral analysis program have a 93% BCBA exam pass rate, ranking KU in top 5 of online programs for BCBA exam pass rates.

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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

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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KU Resources

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.

Take the next step

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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