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College of Education

Applied Behavior Analysis

The ABA program is a blend of special education and applied behavior analysis coursework to identify behavior and implement change techniques.

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Degree
  • Master of Arts
Location
  • Online
  • The Woodlands Center
Type of Instruction
  • Face to Face
Length

36 Credit Hours

Start Your Path to a Rewarding ABA Career

Our Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program combines specialized coursework in ABA and special education to prepare graduates for meaningful careers supporting students with behavioral needs.

In addition to learning about behavior, disorders, intervention strategies, and at-home training, students gain hands-on experience in diverse settings, including schools and clinics.

This real-world training equips them to work collaboratively with teachers, families, and other professionals to design and implement effective treatment plans that promote positive behavioral growth and student success.

Will this program certify me to practice Behavioral Analysis in Texas?

Applicants will need to meet additional requirements before they can be deemed eligible to take the Board-Certified Behavior Analyst® examination. 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.

What are the degree options available?

The Applied Behavior Analysis program is a blend of special education and applied behavior analysis coursework. This program has two-degree options:

Master of Arts (thesis required)
Master of Arts (non-thesis)

While eight courses in this program can be completed online, attendance at the Woodlands Center campus is still required for four courses.

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Assess Behavior, Change Lives

Build the skills needed and work towards certification for a rewarding career in Applied Behavioral Analysis

  • Special Education, Remarkable

    Combining ABA coursework with Special Education aligns the values of both careers to best assist students who need additional support. Work with students to increase and maintain healthy behaviors and emotional responses in a manner that fosters transferable skills for overall wellness and interpersonal success. Increase cognitive functioning, self-advocacy and independence, and confidence by working with students, caregivers, and teachers to develop and implement success plans.

  • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

    ABA Treatment has been widely recognized as a safe and effective treatment for ASD, earning wide support and recognition from state and federal agencies. Combining ABA coursework with special education prepares practitioners and educators to best assist students with ASD in developing tailored and individualized techniques to help with a variety of skills unique to the Autistic experience, from basic stills to more complex aptitudes.

  • TBIs, Student Athletics, and A

    Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) can impact anyone. Student athletes are particularly susceptible, and the impact can be life altering — especially for developing brains. ABA practitioners with a background in special education can make a big difference in recovery, addressing symptoms such as attention, judgment, problem solving, awareness, and much more.

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Find Your Future Career

Graduates with an MA in Applied Behavioral Analysis are on course for careers as a school psychologist, counselor, social worker, clinical behavioral analyst, special education administrator, and more.

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Faculty Experts in ABA

Our faculty are certified behavior analysts and accomplished researchers in special education, bringing both deep field experience and academic expertise to the classroom.

Become a Bearkat

Ready to learn how SHSU can help you or to start your application today? Our Admissions team is here to help. Call 936-339-0148