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With Walden’s master’s in psychology Applied Behavior Analysis specialization, you’ll learn to use the principles of human behavior to transform problem behaviors, build positive social skills, and improve lives. This specialization offers a course sequence verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI). Walden’s curriculum meets the 5th edition Task List requirements to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®) exam.
As you explore psychology concepts, build skills such as research and data analysis, written communication, social and global awareness, and evidenced-based decision making.
Learn Current ABA techniques
Feel confident in an ABA curriculum that meets the 5th edition Task List requirements to sit for the BCBA® exam.
Positively impact lives
Use psychological principles and behavior analytic methods to make a difference for individuals and their families.
Learn From ABA Practitioners
Walden’s faculty features active BCBAs and subject matter experts who incorporate practical, firsthand insights into their teaching.
Learn more about Walden’s MS in Psychology ABA online program, from our admissions requirements to our relevant curriculum.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a set of skills used in the assessment and treatment of individuals with a variety of behavioral problems and developmental delays, including autism spectrum disorders. Students in this course will explore the concepts and principles of applied behavior analysis. They also examine the concepts and principles of behaviorism to the application of behavioral principles in the context of applied behavior analysis, including behavioral observation and measurement, functions of behavior, developing and maintaining behaviors, and related ethical considerations. Students explore the impact of promoting positive social change through the application of ABA.
This course covers tasks from the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Task List (5th ed.) and includes knowledge and skills foundational for the BCBA examination. The course is part of a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International as meeting specific coursework requirements, content hours, and faculty standards and meets coursework eligibility criteria for BCBA Eligibility Pathway 2 coursework requirements as part of the application for Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc.® (BACB®) examinations.
With a focus on the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Task List (5th ed.) issued by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc.® (BACB®), this course covers the basic principles of behavioral assessment and applied behavior analysis. Course participants explore fundamental techniques leading to the implementation of behavioral procedures and behavioral programs. More specifically, instruction focuses on conducting functional assessments and functional analyses, developing and implementing intervention procedures based on the outcome of the assessments and analyses, and data-based decision-making.
This course covers tasks from the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Task List (5th ed.) and includes knowledge and skills foundational for the BCBA examination. The course is part of a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International as meeting specific coursework requirements, content hours, and faculty standards and meets coursework eligibility criteria for BCBA Eligibility Pathway 2 coursework requirements as part of the application for Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc.® (BACB®) examinations.
This course extends students' knowledge of operationalizing behavior, behavioral assessment, developing interventions, functional analysis/assessment, and social validity concerns through the utilization of applied behavior analysis methodologies. Course content emphasizes the relationship between valid assessment data and socially relevant interventions.
This course covers tasks from the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Task List (5th ed.) and includes knowledge and skills foundational for the BCBA examination. The course is part of a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International as meeting specific coursework requirements, content hours, and faculty standards and meets coursework eligibility criteria for BCBA Eligibility Pathway 2 coursework requirements as part of the application for Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc.® (BACB®) examinations.
With a focus on the Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts issued by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc.® (BACB®), students in this course review responsible conduct of behavior analysts, ethical responsibilities to clients and their welfare, and ethical responsibilities to other individuals (e.g., colleagues) and the BACB®. In addition, students examine professional and legal issues involved in providing services in different contexts and with different client groups.
This course covers tasks from the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Task List (5th ed.) and includes knowledge and skills foundational for the BCBA examination. The course is part of a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International as meeting specific coursework requirements, content hours, and faculty standards and meets coursework eligibility criteria for BCBA Eligibility Pathway 2 coursework requirements as part of the application for Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc.® (BACB®) examinations.
This course covers a variety of methods for data collection, measurement data collection, data analysis, and experimental designs that are common to applied behavior analysis. In addition to the theoretical background for single-subject research, this course emphasizes practical applications of research methods from baseline measurement to treatment evaluation. Advantages and limitations of various single-subject research methods are examined. Students design a small-n research study based on a research question developed from the applied behavior analysis literature. In addition, they critically evaluate research studies for the appropriate research design and methodology.
This course covers tasks from the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Task List (5th ed.) and includes knowledge and skills foundational for the BCBA examination. The course is part of a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International as meeting specific coursework requirements, content hours, and faculty standards and meets coursework eligibility criteria for BCBA Eligibility Pathway 2 coursework requirements as part of the application for Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc.® (BACB®) examinations.
You’ll work one-on-one with an Enrollment Specialist who’ll guide you through every step—from finding the right program to funding your education.
Pursuing your applied behavior analysis specialization online is an exciting step forward. To make the admissions process easier, Walden offers:
No application fee
No essay or SAT/ACT/GRE requirement
Easy credit transfer
Program Admission Considerations: A bachelor's degree or higher.
General Admission Requirements: Completed online application and transcripts. Please note that the materials you are required to submit may vary depending on the academic program to which you apply. More information for international applicants.
Cost is important when you’re exploring degree programs offering an ABA specialization. Walden offers opportunities to lower your tuition through:
Tuition savings
Transfer credits
Believe & Achieve Scholarship®
Stay Inspired. Stay on Track. Save Money.
Discover progress-based savings that inspire you to stay on track to graduation.
| Curriculum Component | Requirements | Cost | amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition | 63 quarter credit | $590 per quarter hour | $37,170 |
| Program Fee | Per quarter | $180 | $1,260 |
$38,430** | |||
| BELIEVE & ACHIEVE SCHOLARSHIP YOUR TUITION | -$5,900 | ||
*Represents the course-based learning format, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) specialization, minimum time to completion, and Believe & Achieve Scholarship. Your actual total program time and costs may vary. Believe & Achieve Scholarship savings based on current tuition. See Scholarship Details for more information.
**Tuition reflects the minimum time to completion. Time to completion varies by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships or other tuition reductions. Walden may accept up to 24 transfer credits. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 855-646-5286.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included and may cost between $2,500 to $3,500.
In Demand
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors
Advise people on a range of issues, such as those relating to alcoholism, addictions, or depression.
Expected growth:19%1
Estimated annual wage: $36,700–$70,1301
1Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Job outlook | Estimated wage
No guarantee is made that a person who enrolls in the MS in Psychology program with an Applied Behavior Analysis specialization will obtain a job or will earn the stated salaries. Percentile wage estimates are based on the 10th–75th percentile.
In addition to the core program learning outcomes, graduates in this specialization will be prepared to:
Apply foundational knowledge (e.g., philosophy, concepts and principles) to the science of behavior analysis.
Define the dimensions of applied behavior analysis.
Appropriately conduct behaviorally based assessments (e.g., functional behavioral analysis/assessment, skill based behavioral assessment).
Evaluate results of behavior analytic research using single-subject experimental designs.
Implement behaviorally based assessments for behavior change that promote positive social change.
Apply professional and ethical behaviors according to the Professional and Ethical Compliance Code for Behavior Analysts.
Synthesize applied behavior analysis knowledge and research to apply in real-world situations such as in educational, social, organizational, and health settings.
