Special Education Applied Behavioral Analysis Concentration

Program Facts

Delivery Method:

Online

Start Term:

All

Completion Time:

18-30 Months

Credits:

33-36

Request info about Special Education ABA

About Our Special Education ABA Program

If you’re passionate about helping others and making a meaningful impact, consider becoming a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Behavior analysts support individuals with exceptionalities, including those with Autism Spectrum Disorders, by using evidence-based assessment and intervention strategies. They work alongside parents, educators, healthcare providers, and counselors to create effective behavior plans that improve lives. In schools, they play a vital role in Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (PBIS) and help shape learning environments that foster success. Slippery Rock University’s M.Ed. in Special Education with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a 33–36 credit online program designed to meet growing demand in the field. The program is verified by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) as meeting coursework eligibility for the BCBA exam under the 5th edition task list, preparing you for practice in education, mental health, social work, and beyond.

Why Get a Special Education ABA Degree?

Complete your degree 100% online with flexibility that fits your schedule.
Learn from world-class faculty who are leaders in Behavioral Supports and Special Education in Pennsylvania.
Gain a strong foundation in theory and research backed by practical, hands-on experience.
Follow a BACB-verified course sequence that meets the 5th edition requirements to sit for the Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) exam.

Career Outcomes

A Master of Education in Special Education with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is your direct pathway to a high-demand career as a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). With the demand for BCBAs growing significantly each year, this master's degree and verified course sequence position you as a highly qualified expert. Graduates are prepared for clinical leadership, supervisory, and consulting roles in schools, clinics, and community-based organizations, where they design and implement effective behavior plans to make a profound difference in the lives of individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. This degree prepares you for advanced roles such as:

Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
Behavior Specialist Consultant in a school district
Clinical Supervisor or Director of an ABA program
Special Education Teacher with BCBA credential
Autism Specialist or Coordinator
Early Intervention Program Director
In-home ABA Consultant
Creator of behavior-analytic curriculum and training programs

Requirements

What are the admission requirements for this program at SRU? Check out the requirements in the dropdowns of this section!

Program Director / Coordinator

Program Director
Dr. Stephen Larson
School of Business
724.738.4528
stephen.larson@sru.edu

When are applications accepted?

Email graduate.admissions@sru.edu or call 724.738.2051 for information regarding this program’s graduate application deadlines.

What are all of the admissions requirements?

Attention: To apply for admission, please use the following link to apply now.

$25 Application Fee
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Two electronic recommendation forms: two professional references or one academic reference from a former or current college or university faculty member with knowledge of the applicant’s academic abilities and one professional reference from a school administrator, teacher, or supervisor with knowledge of the applicant’s professional attributes.
Official undergraduate and any graduate transcripts (Official transcripts must be sent by the institution via electronic transcript e-share to graduate.admissions@sru.edu or via mail. Faxed copies will not be considered official).
SRU current/Alumni/former students, click here to order your official SRU final transcript and have it sent to graduate.admissions@sru.edu.

If you are requesting review of your graduate transcripts for transfer of credit, please complete the transfer of credit form and submit to the Office of Graduate Admissions with official graduate transcripts. Please review SRU's transfer of credit policy.

Please note: For more information, visit www.sru.edu/graduate. Transfer course evaluation information can be found on our graduate website.

Special Education ABA (M.Ed.)

About Our Special Education ABA Program

Why Get a Special Education ABA Degree?

Career Outcomes

Requirements

Program Director / Coordinator

Resources from SRU