M.S. with BCBA Coursework

The Department of Special Education and Rehabilitation Counseling at Utah State University offers a M.S. in Special Education with Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) coursework as well as an ABA coursework only option. Both options are described below. Our ABA courses are part of an Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) Verified Course Sequence (VCS). This means ABAI has verified the courses toward the coursework requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® or Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst® examination. Applicants will need to meet additional eligibility requirements and demonstrate they reside in an authorized country before they can be deemed eligible to take the examination.

For more information about the program, contact: Audrey Hoffmann

VCS logo

VCS number: 51270

BCBA® Pass Rates

M.S. with ABA Coursework

This program is a 3-year master’s sequence that will prepare students as behavior analysts. As part of the M.S., students will complete the coursework necessary to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)® exam. Students will gain valuable clinical and research experience that will strengthen their professional skills and/or prepare them for further graduate study. To learn more about BCBA® certification, please visit the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB)® website: https://www.bacb.com/

M.S. with ABA Planning Guide

Thesis Requirements

M.S. with ABA Application Deadline

Individuals applying to work with a specific faculty member or laboratory or who want an early decision should submit their application by January 15^th for fall semester. All applications are due by March 15^th. We only accept students for a start in fall semester.

M.S. with ABA Application Requirements

Application (Apply online through the School of Graduate Studies)
Application fee ($55)
Three letters of recommendation (Applicants should assure that letters speak to their experience or potential in the area of behavior analysis.)
Official transcripts (GPA of 3.00 on the last 60 credits of college work)
A cover letter describing your prior experience in ABA, reasons for applying to the program, and career goals.

ABA Coursework Only

Individuals already possessing a qualifying master’s degree per the BACB® requirements can apply to take only ABA preparation courses. These are the courses necessary to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)® exam. Please review the BACB® requirements carefully to ensure that you possess a qualifying master’s degree: https://www.bacb.com/

ABA Course Sequence ONLY Planning Guide

Job Aid Planning Guide

ABA Only Application Requirements and Deadline

Submit the following to Megan Murdock, megan.murdock@usu.edu.