Program Overview
The master’s in applied behavioral science at the University of Kansas is a nationally recognized graduate program grounded in the science of behavior and its application to socially significant challenges. Offered as a Master of Arts (MA) in Applied Behavioral Science with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis, this program prepares students for professional practice, research, and leadership roles in clinical, educational, and community settings.
Through interdisciplinary and intensive coursework, students in the master’s in applied behavior analysis develop expertise in behavioral theory, experimental design, ethical practice, and data-based decision-making. The curriculum emphasizes measurable outcomes, direct observation, and analytic reasoning to improve individual and community well-being. Students gain hands-on experience through supervised practica, applied research, and field placements that prepare them for professional credentialing and advanced study.
The master’s degree in applied behavioral analysis at KU is designed to meet coursework requirements for BCBA certification, aligning with national standards in behavior analysis. Graduates are prepared to pursue Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) credentials and meet licensure requirements in many states. This focus on professional preparation distinguishes KU among applied behavioral science graduate programs.
In addition to the on-campus format, KU offers an online modality of the master’s in applied behavior analysis, designed for working professionals seeking flexible access to high-quality instruction. The online program follows the same rigorous curriculum and is taught by KU faculty with expertise in applied behavioral science. Courses are delivered in a structured format that supports engagement, collaboration, and supervised experiential learning, allowing students across the country to pursue a master of applied behavioral science without relocating.
Students explore foundational and advanced topics such as behavioral assessment, intervention design, conceptual foundations, and ethical practice. Whether completing the degree on campus or online, students benefit from KU’s long-standing leadership in behavior analysis and its reputation among applied behavioral science master’s programs nationwide.
With a strong foundation in behavioral science principles, research methodology, and applied intervention strategies, graduates are equipped to address complex behavioral challenges in healthcare, schools, clinics, nonprofit organizations, and community agencies. The master’s in applied behavior analysis prepares students for impactful professional pathways, doctoral study, and leadership roles in behavioral health systems.
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Graduate
For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
Applied Behavioral Science, MAKU College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
The Masters’s of Applied Behavior Analysis is part of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, home to a collaborative and creative community making the world better through inquiry and research.Master’s in Applied Behavioral Science Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the master’s in applied behavior analysis will:
- Demonstrate advanced understanding of behavioral principles, experimental analysis, and applied intervention strategies
- Design, implement, and evaluate behavior analytic interventions using data-driven methodologies
- Conduct research employing single-subject and group research designs
- Apply ethical and professional standards consistent with national guidelines for behavior analysts
- Analyze behavioral systems across clinical, educational, and community contexts
- Meet academic requirements necessary to pursue BCBA certification and related licensure pathways
Learning outcomes are aligned with national standards in behavior analysis and reflect expectations across leading applied behavioral science graduate programs.
What Careers are Possible with a Master’s in Applied Behavioral Science?
A master’s in applied behavior analysis opens doors to a wide range of professional roles in clinical, educational, and organizational settings. Graduates often pursue positions such as:
- Social work and human services
- Research and data analysis
- Healthcare and behavioral therapy
- Education and training
Many graduates pursue jobs with master’s in applied behavior analysis in schools, hospitals, private clinics, nonprofit agencies, and government organizations.
According to Lightcast, demand for professionals trained in applied behavior analysis continues to grow nationwide, reflecting strong projected applied behavioral science master’s jobs and competitive applied behavioral science master’s salary outcomes.
Tuition and Financial Aid
KU offers competitive tuition rates and financial aid options. Learn more about costs and available aid at KU Financial Aid.Admission Requirements
To be admitted to the master’s in applied behavior analysis, students must meet different criteria for the in-person and online programs, including:
In-person
- Personal statement
- Resume
- Three letters of recommendation
- GRE is optional, but recommended
- Official transcripts
- List of faculty members with whom the prospective student is interested in working
- For more details, please visit the in-person ABA FAQ
Online
- A 3.0+ undergraduate GPA preferred
- GRE is optional, but recommended
- Official transcripts
- For more details, please visit the ABA FAQ
For full admission details, visit KU Graduate Admissions.
Student Life and Learning Experiences
Students in the master’s in applied behavior analysis engage in experiential learning through:
- Research collaboration with faculty in behavioral science laboratories
- Supervised practica in clinical, school, and community settings
- Data-driven intervention projects addressing socially significant behaviors
Online students in the master’s in applied behavior analysis participate in interactive coursework, structured field experiences, and faculty mentorship designed to ensure professional skill development. The online modality incorporates applied learning requirements consistent with bcba certification standards.
Master’s in Applied Behavioral Science Sample Courses
Students pursuing the master’s in applied behavior analysis complete foundational and advanced coursework in behavior analysis. Courses may include:
- Within Subjects Research Methodology and Direct Observation
- Experimental Analysis of Behavior
- Conceptual Foundations of Applied Behavioral Science
- Principles of Behavior Analysis
View full degree requirements in the KU Catalog.
Master’s in Applied Behavioral Science Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
The application deadline for the in-person program is December 2, and July 1 for the online program.
How long will it take to complete the degree?
Students typically complete this degree in two years.