Special Education (MA) - Applied Behavior Analysis (MA)
Main Campus, Tucson, United States
Master of Arts in Special Education – Applied Behavior Analysis (MA)
University of Arizona
Special Education / Applied Behavior Analysis
Program Overview: MA in Special Education – Applied Behavior Analysis
The Master of Arts in Special Education with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) at the University of Arizona delivers a flexible yet rigorous fully online education designed to prepare students for working with individuals who exhibit problem behavior or delays in communication, social, and adaptive skills. The program equips graduates to provide evidence-based services in applied behavior analysis across clinical, school, and home settings.
This 36-unit program includes seven courses (21 units) verified by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), fulfilling the didactic requirements to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) examination. Students also complete an original applied project supervised by faculty, conducted in lieu of a traditional master's thesis.
Designed for completion in approximately six semesters or 24 months, the program is ideal for working professionals seeking to advance their careers in behavioral health, education, or clinical services. Graduates emerge with the academic foundation and practical competencies needed to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with diverse behavioral needs.
Key Program Highlights
- BACB-verified coursework fulfilling all didactic requirements for the BCBA certification examination
- Fully online delivery enabling flexible study from anywhere in the world
- Applied project experience supervised by expert faculty in behavior analysis
- Comprehensive training in Functional Behavior Assessments (FBA), function-based interventions, and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIP)
Curriculum and Course Modules
The MA in Special Education – Applied Behavior Analysis curriculum consists of 12 three-unit courses totaling 36 units. The coursework builds progressively from foundational principles of special education and behavior analysis to advanced research methods and applied project work, ensuring graduates are thoroughly prepared for professional practice.
Foundations of Special Education and Rehabilitation
3 UnitsProvides an overview of issues surrounding the fields of special education and rehabilitation, including legal principles, assessment concepts, and principles of teaching and counseling for individuals with exceptionalities.
Functional Behavior Assessment and Intervention I
3 UnitsGrounds students in the basic behavioral principles and techniques needed to complete effective Functional Behavior Assessments (FBA), function-based interventions, and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIP).
Functional Behavior Assessment and Intervention II
3 UnitsAddresses environmental factors affecting student behavior and continues developing competency in FBAs, function-based interventions, and effective BIPs through a second complete assessment cycle.
Advanced Behavior Intervention and Legal Issues
3 UnitsCovers advanced factors affecting development and implementation of interventions including legal issues, crisis intervention, teaming, and collaboration. Students complete two FBAs and monitor two function-based interventions.
Research Methods in Education
3 UnitsCovers basic concepts essential to comprehension of research in education, including measurement principles, descriptive statistics, single subject research designs, and data graphing techniques.
Applied Project in Behavior Analysis
3 UnitsAn original applied project in an area of behavior analysis, supervised by individual faculty members and conducted in lieu of a master's thesis as the program's culminating experience.
Additional Coursework Areas
Admission Requirements
Admission to the MA in Special Education – Applied Behavior Analysis program is competitive and requires a strong academic background along with relevant experience. All applications and inquiries are handled through Uni4Edu, which will guide you through each step of the process.
Academic Requirements
- Bachelor's DegreeBA or BS from an accredited college or university
- Minimum GPA3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale
- GRE RequirementNot required
- Relevant ExperienceExperience with and access to persons with disabilities
- Teacher CertificationApplicants must not be seeking state certification as a special education teacher
English Language Requirements
- TOEFL iBTMinimum score required; must be dated within 2 years of enrollment term. Contact Uni4Edu for current minimums.
- IELTSAccepted as proof of English proficiency. Contact Uni4Edu for current score requirements.
- Test ValidityAll English proficiency test scores must be dated within 2 years of the enrollment term
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
The University of Arizona and its College of Education offer various funding opportunities to support graduate students pursuing the MA in Special Education – Applied Behavior Analysis. Uni4Edu can help you identify and apply for scholarships that match your profile and financial needs.
University of Arizona Graduate Tuition Scholarship
Merit-based scholarships available to qualified graduate students demonstrating strong academic records and professional potential in the field of special education.
College of Education Graduate Fellowships
Fellowship opportunities offered through the College of Education to support graduate students in education-related master's programs, including special education concentrations.
External ABA and Special Education Scholarships
Varies by organizationVarious professional organizations in behavior analysis and special education offer scholarships to graduate students. Uni4Edu can assist you in identifying relevant external funding sources.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects for ABA Graduates
Graduates of the MA in Special Education – Applied Behavior Analysis program are well-positioned to enter one of the fastest-growing fields in behavioral health. The BCBA credential opens doors to diverse employment settings including clinics, schools, hospitals, and private practice, with demand for qualified behavior analysts projected to grow significantly over the coming decade.
Potential Career Roles
Types of Employers
Rankings and Recognition
The University of Arizona is a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU) and is consistently recognized among the top public research universities in the United States. The university's College of Education has earned strong marks in national graduate program rankings, with several specialties ranked among the best in the country.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Rehabilitation Counseling (College of Education) | U.S. News & World Report | #7 Overall |
| Education (Overall) | U.S. News & World Report | #57 Overall |
| Best Online Programs | U.S. News & World Report | Top 15 |
| U.S. Public Universities (THE) | Times Higher Education | #22 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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