LP – M.S. Applied Behavior Analysis
M.S. Applied Behavior Analysis
Engage in behavior-analytic research alongside top-tier faculty and acquire hands-on experience serving clients with diverse needs while working toward becoming a BCBA®.
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Accreditation*
Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) Accreditation Board
Time to Completion
2-2.5 years full time
Education and Practicum Requirements
Meets requirements to pursue certification as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst®
Program Description
Study the science of behavior and learn how to help clients with diverse needs thrive. The M.S. Applied Behavior Analysis program prepares you to pursue Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA®) certification through training in ethical, evidence-based ABA practice.
Our ABAI-accredited* program covers four domains of behavior analysis:
- Theory and Philosophy
- Experimental Analysis of Behavior
- Applied Behavior Analysis
- Service Delivery
*Chicago, Dallas, and Online Campus programs are accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI)
Two Tracks to Support Your Professional Goals
Both tracks meet the coursework requirements to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA):
Practitioner Track: Looking to pursue clinical roles? Our Practitioner Track focuses on applied service delivery and developing the clinical skills needed to design, implement, and evaluate ABA interventions. Build hands-on experience through structured practica and supervised fieldwork aligned with BCBA® requirements.
Research Track: Interested in doctoral study or research-focused roles? Our Research Track emphasizes research design, scientific writing, and experimental analysis. Develop data collection and analysis skills through lab-based research practica over multiple terms.
Which Track Is Right for You?
| Practitioner Track | Research Track | |
| Goal | Clinical practice, supervision, direct service | Research career or doctoral study |
| Final Project | Applied project (real-world intervention evaluation) | Empirical thesis (experimental research study) |
| Credits | 38 credit hours | 39 credit hours |
Certificate Programs
Already have a bachelor’s or master’s degree? Our Applied Behavior Analysis certificate programs offer focused pathways to build ABA skills without completing the full M.S. Applied Behavior Analysis program:
Post-Bachelor’s Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis: Build a foundation in ABA principles and learn how to apply them in clinical work and everyday settings. Designed for bachelor’s degree holders, this certificate prepares you to pursue Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA®) certification and support the implementation of behavior-analytic interventions.
Post-Master’s Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis: Develop advanced ABA skills in behavior assessment, intervention design, supervision, and ethical practice. Designed for master’s degree holders, this certificate prepares you to pursue BCBA® certification and guide behavior-analytic interventions across diverse client needs.
Applied Behavior Analysis certificate programs are not available to residents of North Carolina.
Career Pathways
The M.S. Applied Behavior Analysis program prepares students to become Board Certified Behavior Analysts® (BCBAs®), which is a graduate-level certification in behavior analysis. Professionals who are certified at the BCBA® level can supervise the work of BCaBAs®, Registered Behavior Technicians, and others who implement behavior-analytic interventions.
Locations
Anaheim
Discover fieldwork opportunities from a vibrant and diverse group of learners and educators.
Chicago
Our flagship location offers an unrivaled education along with field experience and networking opportunities.
Dallas
Engage with likeminded colleagues and gain unique training opportunities in the greater Dallas area.
Los Angeles
Examine global perspectives with diverse communities in a city known for its countless opportunities. Explore our undergraduate and graduate programs offered at our Los Angeles Campus.
Online
The Chicago School’s online learning experience allows you to transform your life without putting it hold.
Washington, D.C.
Take on innovative fieldwork opportunities in an engaging historical and political setting.
Chivon Niziolek, Ph.D.
Our Approach
The Chicago School Approach is an immersive, applied learning model focused on developing professionals who can address present challenges and anticipate future needs. It combines four core elements of The Chicago School experience—Education, Innovation, Community, and Impact—to give students a practical and solutions-oriented education.
Education
Preparing tomorrow’s integrated health professionals.
Innovation
Embracing next-gen learning and practice.
Community
Creating connection, inclusion, and belonging.
Impact
Supporting individuals, organizations, and communities.
