Master of Arts in Special Education (LIDA)

Master of Arts in Special Education (LIDA)

The Low Incidence Disabilities and Autism (LIDA) program at SHSU is a blend of special education and Applied Behavior Analysis coursework designed for individuals who are seeking board certification in behavior analysis. We welcome students from a variety of backgrounds; students do not need to have an undergraduate degree in education or a related field. The program has two degree options:

• Master of Arts (thesis): requires successful completion of a master's thesis defense
• Master of Arts (non-thesis): requires successful completion of a research project or literature review

Completion of this program is not sufficient to become a practicing behavior analyst in Texas; persons must meet the requirements of the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.

The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI), Inc.® has verified select courses toward the coursework requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® examination. Applicants will need to meet additional requirements before they can be deemed eligible to take the examination.

The Board Certified Behavior Analyst Examination Pass Rates are available on the BACB website.

Pass-rate data is not published for sequences with fewer than six first-time candidates in a single year, or for sequences within their first four years of operation.

FAQ

• Q: Are classes offered online or in person?

  While a few courses in this program can be completed online, attendance at The Woodlands Center campus is still required for all students.

• Q: What is the application deadline?

  The priority deadline for applications is May 1st. The final deadline is August 1st. Applications are reviewed for fall semester start dates only.

• Q: What are the admission requirements?

  1. Graduate Application
  2. Application fee
  3. Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended, both undergraduate and graduate (Note: A minimum GPA of 2.5 in undergraduate and graduate work is expected)
  4. Two letters of recommendation
  5. Acceptable writing sample

  
  Please see the catalog for the most up-to-date admission requirements.

• Q: When do classes begin and how long does the program take for completion?

  The program begins each fall semester. Students who take two courses per semester typically graduate in two years.