Please note the following admission requirements for the Applied Behavior Analysis (M.S.) program:
College of Education, Dept. of Early Childhood, Special Education, & Counselor Education Applied Behavior Analysis (M.S.)
What can you do with this degree?
Our ABA graduates go on to pursue a number of roles in a variety of settings, including schools, clinics, hospitals, private practices, and research institutions. Here are just a few possibilities:
- School-based behavior specialist
- Private practice consultant, providing ABA services to clients in home, community, or clinical settings
- Researcher conducting studies to advance the field and improve intervention strategies
- Organizational behavior management specialist
- Policy advisor working to support individuals with behavioral needs
Delivery Method: In-person
Credit Hours: 42 (one calendar year, full time)
Department of Early Childhood, Special Education, & Counselor Education
Program Details
This degree program will teach you to become a competent, compassionate behavior analyst who is prepared to serve children with disabilities and their families in an authentic, individualized, and ethical way. You'll gain the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to effectively assess, design, implement, and evaluate evidence-based behavioral interventions, advocate for the rights and well-being of individuals with disabilities, and promote positive social change.
You will learn to provide behavior analytic services to individuals with challenging behavior and/or skill deficits through direct care, consultation, support, and training to teachers, staff, parents, and clients. The MS in ABA provides opportunities for graduate students to work within schools, homes, clinics, or related settings with individuals with or at-risk for disabilities (Birth – 21 years of age).
The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) has accepted courses within the MS in ABA program as a verified course sequence. In addition, students in the MS in ABA program will receive required supervision within the practicum setting. The verified course sequence and practicum/supervision requirements will prepare those who complete the MS in ABA to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) examination. More information regarding the BCBA examination and requirements can be found at www.bacb.com.
The University of Kentucky Verified Course Sequence has a strong history of high pass rate percentages. For the MOST recent pass rates, as well as previous pass rates, please visit the Behavior Analysis Certification Board Verified Course Sequences page.
Admission Requirements
- Applicants must meet the Graduate School admission requirements
- CV, including degree(s), relevant work history, service to the community, honors, membership(s), organizations
- Personal Statement describing previous experiences that led to this career goal
- Writing sample: a research, literature review, or professional paper from a previous college course. Make sure the paper conforms to APA 6th edition guidelines.
- Three letters of recommendation: ideally one from a previous faculty member, and at least one describing your interactions with individuals with disabilities.
- Contact information to set up interview with faculty.
The GRE is not required for admission to this program.
Application deadline (Fall start only): December 15
Request Information
Questions about applying? Complete our form to be contacted by a recruiter for more information.
Cost of Attendance
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Tuition and Fees
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