Online Master of Science in Educational Studies (MSEd): Applied Behavior Analysis

GRADUATE PROGRAMS

Discover how people learn and explore theories of behavior change.

The Purdue University College of Education’s online master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a fast-paced way for individuals to broaden their professional skillset and gain confidence to be successful.

This 30-credit program will focus on the principles and foundations of applied behavior analysis and how they can be used to teach new skills and improve human behavior. Students will earn a master’s in education degree and be prepared to sit for the Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)® exam. This is an online program with synchronous and asynchronous components.  

What is applied behavior analysis?

Applied behavioral science is a broad field of study using behavioral research and knowledge to solve real-world problems. The study of applied behavioral science is based on principles of exploring and understanding complex human behavior. ABA can be used to teach new skills, enhance performance, or reduce challenging behaviors in people of all ages, with or without disabilities. The specific focus of ABA interventions is unique to each person or situation, but in general, the goal is to increase behaviors that are helpful and promote learning. ABA can be used with any population including children, adults, families, and communities.

Our degree program will focus on ethical principles and evidence-based best practices. This includes assessing behavior, developing personalized intervention plans, and using data to track progress.

Purdue quality. Flexible schedule.

Online students enjoy the same rigorous academic programs as on-campus students, but with a much more flexible class schedule. Classes are taught in synchronous, distance modality allowing students to network and build professional relationships while still building in the flexibility to complete coursework from the comfort of your own home. Coursework and interactions occur in an online learning environment with students meeting online on specific dates and at set times (according to EST Eastern Standard Time Zone).

Assignments, discussions, and other coursework are posted each week in the virtual classroom.    

The 30-credit hour program also serves as an avenue for recruitment into the Special Education doctoral program for which credits (maximum 30) accrued from the Master’s can count towards the doctoral program of study.

Content of the program is an ABAI approved Verified Course Sequence for the 5th Edition Task List.

MAKE YOUR NEXT GIANT LEAP

April 1st is the priority deadline for consideration for Fall admission

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For more information, view the
Admissions Application Checklist

Request Information – MS ABA

This program does not lead to an instructional or administration licensure in the state of Indiana or elsewhere. Program completion will prepare students to sit for the Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)® exam. Please email ABA@purdue.edu with any additional questions regarding the Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)® exam.

Courses

Students spend an average of 15 hours a week on homework.

Program Overview

  • Cohort model to foster professional learning communities
  • Synchronous, distance class meetings to interact with professors and classmates
  • Community developed with collaborative opportunities in the coursework
  • Opportunity to participate in independent applied behavior analysis research

Core Courses (27 credit hours)

  • EDPS 54700 – Foundations and Principles of Behavior Analysis
  • EDPS 54800 – Ethics of Applied Behavior Analysis
  • EDPS 54900 – Verbal Behavior and Social Communication
  • EDPS 50800 – Cultural and Linguistic Diversity
  • EDPS 61200 – Advanced Applied Behavior Analysis
  • EDPS 68800 – Single Subject Research Design
  • EDPS 55200 – Basic Concepts of ABA
  • EDPS 62800 – The Behavior Analyst as Supervisor

Choose one of the following:

  • EDPS 55300 – Application of Applied Behavior Analysis to Manage and Support Personnel

or

  • EDPS 55000 – Behavioral Consultation and Systems Change

Educational Studies Required Course (3 credit hours)

  • EDPS 53300 – Introduction to Educational Research

CBA Modules

All students in the program are required to purchase a one-year subscription to the CBA Learning Modules, offered by Behavior Development Solutions. Students will receive a discount on the price of the subscription due to this being a program requirement which brings the total to $345 for 12 months. Students will receive instructions for subscribing to the CBA modules via email from Behavior Development Solutions. It will be used in all courses and is required for taking the certification exam.

The CBA modules were specifically developed for learners to become fluent with the ABA terminology and prepare for the certification exam. Each learning module set consists of a 60 minute acquisition module and a timed fluency module. Specific CBA modules will be assigned in each of the 6 core courses. Within each module, students will complete the acquisition section followed by the fluency test. Though not required, students are encouraged to maintain their subscription until they sit for the BCBA exam. More information about the CBA modules >

Make your next giant leap

Apply

Questions?

Admissions:
 edgrad@purdue.edu
Course Content Information:
ABA@purdue.edu
Course Registration, payment, drops/withdraws, and removing holds:
Purdue Online purdueonline@purdue.edu
Career accounts:
ITaP (765) 494-4000