Masters in ABA
Masters in ABA
Master of Arts (MA) in Applied Behavior Analysis
The Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis program prepares independent practitioners who are grounded in the science and philosophy of behavior analysis and skilled in data-informed, evidence-based practice. Students learn to evaluate research, apply behavior analytic principles with technical precision, and make sound professional judgments that promote dignity, autonomy, and meaningful improvements in the lives of the individuals and communities they serve. Training integrates supervised practicum in diverse service settings with participation in active faculty research teams, promoting skill development consistent with the highest contemporary standards of professional practice. Graduates are prepared to provide high-quality behavior analytic services, to supervise and mentor others responsibly, and to contribute to the ongoing development and integrity of the field in both established and emerging areas of application.
BCBA® / BCaBA® Pathway 2
Our program meets the behavior-analytic coursework requirements for those pursuing the BCBA® / BCaBA® Pathway 2 eligibility route.
Deadline for Applications for the MA in ABA Program is February 15.
Interviews will be held virtually in March. Interviews are by invitation only.
Course Content Verification Form 5th edition Task List (retired)
Course Content Verification Form 4th edition Task List (retired)
For financial information, click here.
Program Goal
The goal of the MA in ABA is to provide students with the necessary educational degree, coursework, and experience to function effectively as an applied behavior analyst and to pursue certification as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA®), which is a national credential granted by The Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc.®
Specific Objectives
- Students will describe the basic principles of behavior and the empirical research supporting these principles.
- Students will apply behavioral principles to assess and modify individual behavior effectively.
- Students will demonstrate the ability to assess behavior, identify its function, and analyze behavior-related concerns.
- Students will examine the characteristics of the populations they serve as behavior analysts.
- Students will analyze the roles and functions of the systems in which they collaborate to support client needs.
- Through supervised experience in community agencies, students will develop proficiency in conducting behavioral assessments and designing individualized treatment plans.
- Students will evaluate the effectiveness of interventions and provide data-informed feedback to clients and stakeholders.
- Students will develop a professional identity as behavior analysts and apply ethical principles.
Program Structure
Program Requirements
I. Fundamental Behavioral Analytic Knowledge and Skill (15 credits)
- PSY 01.510 History, Philosophy & Conceptual Foundations of Behavior Analysis (3 credits)
- PSY 02.500 Basic Principles of Behavior (3 credits)
- PSY 02.610 Applied Behavior Analysis (3 credits)
- PSY 02.620 Behavioral Assessment and Functional Analysis (3 credits)
- PSY 02.710 Advanced Experimental Analysis of Behavior (3 credits)
II. Advanced Practice of Behavior Analysis (12 credits)
- PSY 01.500 Professional Skills for Behavior Analysts (3 credits)
- PSY 02.670 Ethics & Legal Issues in ABA (3 credits)
- PSY 02.680 Advanced Practice in ABA (3 credits)
- PSY 02.671 Behavioral Consultation, Supervision, and Management (3 credits)
III. Experiential Learning (6 credits)
- PSY 01.660 Practicum in ABA (3 credits)
- PSY 01.661 Practicum in ABA II (3 credits)
VI. Research in Applied Behavior Analysis (9 credits)
- PSY 02.510 Research Methods in Applied Behavior Analysis (3 credits)
- PSY 02.660 Research Project in Applied Behavior Analysis I (3 credits)
- PSY 02.662 Research Project in Applied Behavior Analysis II (3 credits)
Total credits: 42 credits
Admissions
The MA in Applied Behavior Analysis is designed for working students (i.e., evening classes) and can be completed in 4 semesters for full-time students. The admission requirements for the Master in ABA can be found at the Rowan Global website.
Admission Process
Students are admitted to the MA in ABA in the Summer/Fall semester only; therefore, applications for admission to the MA in ABA are due once a year on February 15.
Interviews are by invitation only and will be held virtually via Zoom in March. We anticipate that all decisions will be made by April 15.
Accepted applicants for the Summer/Fall 2026 semesters will be required to attend orientation in May.
Transfer Credits
Any student interested in applying for the transfer of graduate credits from another agency or from another program at Rowan, should complete the Transfer Request Form and submit to the Program Director.
Course Schedule
| Summer | Fall | Spring | |
| Year 1 |
(1) History, Philosophy & Conceptual Foundations of Behavior Analysis (2) Professional Skills for Behavior Analysts |
(1) Basic Principles of Behavior
(2) Behavior Assessment/ Functional Analysis |
(1) Applied Behavior Analysis (2) Research Methods in Applied Behavior Analysis |
| Year 2 | (1) Advanced Experimental Analysis of Behavior
(2) Ethics & Legal Issues in ABA |
(1) Practicum in ABA (I) (2) Advanced Practice in ABA (3) Research Project in ABA I |
(1) Practicum in ABA (II) (2) Behavioral Consultation, Supervision, and Management (3) Research Project in ABA II |
NOTE: If you are a part-time student, please take the class indicated with a (1) first.