Masters in Applied Behavior Analysis (Online)
Applications Are Open!
Priority Deadline: January 2, 2026
Applications for our 2026 cycle are now open.
What you can earn
Duration
Credits earned
Format
Time commitment
Upcoming deadline
Join a rewarding career that creates positive change
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a rapidly growing and dynamic field. In the subspecialty concentration of special education, behavior analysts are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.
Our program uses synchronous online classes to promote student and faculty collaboration, while providing the flexibility to attend class from students’ preferred learning environments.
Graduates of the program will have completed the coursework required to sit for the to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, to apply for as a School Behavior Analyst, and to apply for as a Licensed Behavior Analyst.
Curriculum
Overview
Our synchronous online classes leverage advanced technology to support engaging lectures, meaningful discussions, and collaborative group work. With sequential courses, you'll progress through the curriculum in sync with your peers and complete the program in two years.
- Year 1: Three courses each quarter (autumn, winter, and spring) and one course summer quarter
- Year 2: Four courses each quarter (autumn, winter, and spring)
Classes are held Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays beginning at 5pm PST.
Need a slower pace? We can adjust the course sequence to take three years for completion:
- Year 1: Two courses each quarter (autumn, winter, and spring) and one course summer quarter
- Year 2: Two courses each quarter (autumn, winter, and spring)
- Year 3: Three courses each quarter (autumn, winter, and spring)
Technical requirements: To make the most of our program, ensure that you have a reliable internet connection, a computer or laptop, a video camera for effective communication, a high-quality headset for clear audio, and a quiet location that fosters focused learning.
Courses
 | The Master of Education degree program in Special Education - Applied Behavior Analysis is recognized as Tier 2A by the . |
- EDSPE 533 Concepts and Principles of ABA I (3 credits)
- EDSPE 534 Concepts and Principles of ABA II (3 credits)
- EDSPE 571 Measurement in ABA (3 credits)
- EDSPE 536 Assessment in ABA I (3 credits)
- EDSPE 537 Assessment in ABA II (3 credits)
- EDSPE 552 Evidence-Based Instructional Strategies in ABA (3 credits)
- EDSPE 531 Designing Comprehensive Behavioral Interventions (3 credits)
- EDSPE 511 Single Case Research Design (3 credits)
- EDSPE 529 Ethics and Professionalism in ABA (5 credits)
- EDSPE 553 Supervision in ABA (3 credits)
- EDSPE 538 Experimental Analysis of Behavior (3 credits)
- EDSPE 535 History and Philosophy of ABA (3 credits)
- EDSPE 554 Behavior Analysts in Schools (3 credits)
- EDSPE 530 Readings in Applied Behavior Analysis (3 credits)
- EDSPE 500 Practicum (3-9 credits)
- EDSPE 601 Internship (9 credits)
Fieldwork
Fieldwork plays a crucial role in applying the strategies and skills learned during coursework. Students complete between 12-18 credits of practicum and internship coursework. While students are ultimately responsible for obtaining their own fieldwork site, our program and fieldwork directors provide support to incoming students in obtaining a fieldwork site the summer before beginning the program.
To be eligible for the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) exam, students must complete fieldwork under the supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). The BACB requires a total of 1,500 fieldwork hours, including both individual and group supervision by a qualified BCBA.
To support students in meeting these requirements, we offer an optional full supervision package that includes 75 hours of remote group supervision and 75 hours of remote individual supervision provided by UW-affiliated BCBAs.
To learn more about BACB supervised fieldwork requirements, which includes completing 1500 hours total of fieldwork, visit the .
Completion
Capstone Project
During the final year of the program, students complete a Capstone Project employing single case research design, guided by their yearlong EDSPE 601: Internship fieldwork course. This hands-on experience focuses on coaching and training others in behavior analytic strategies while evaluating the impact of those efforts. Through this process, students deepen their applied expertise and contribute to meaningful change in their communities.
Behavior Analyst Certification Board examination
After finishing this program, students will have met the coursework requirements to sit for the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) exam.
It is important to note that while the BCBA certification is valid in all 50 states, many states also require behavior analysts to be licensed. State laws related to licensure of behavior analysts vary and do not necessarily reflect the same requirements as the BCBA certification. Please research the requirements for the state you plan to apply for licensure in. For more information, .
IMPORTANT: Only individuals residing in the United States, Canada and UK may apply for BACB certification. .
Admission requirements and process
Overview
We highly value candidates who have experience working with individuals with disabilities. A minimum of one year of applied behavior analysis experience is preferred. Whether you've worked as a behavior technician, paraeducator, or teacher in an ABA-focused program, your practical experience is valuable. Candidates with additional ABA experience are given preference.
While we do not impose specific requirements about the field of your bachelor's degree, we highly value any related experiences you may have. Your experiences, regardless of study field, contribute to your understanding and perspective, making you a well-rounded candidate.
Materials
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
Your degree can be in-progress when applying but must be completed before the program starts.
- Unofficial transcript(s) with minimum 3.0 GPA
You must submit an unofficial transcript(s) with your application. The UW Graduate School requires a cumulative GPA of 3.0, or 3.0 for your most recent 90 graded quarter credits (60 semester credits), however this is just one part of the application.
Our programs review all applications holistically, so we encourage you to still apply. You do not need to take classes to increase your GPA. Instead, we would like for you to focus on a goal statement which discusses your interests and how the program will meet your professional or individual goals and strong letters of recommendation. You can also feel free to address why your GPA is lower than a cumulative 3.0.
- Two letters of recommendation
At least one letter should speak to your work experience in applied behavior analysis. During the online application process, you will be given instructions for adding your recommenders and getting their letters submitted electronically. All recommenders must submit their letters online.
- Resume/vita
A current academic and professional resume or vita is required. In addition to educational degrees and professional experience, you should include a listing of all relevant awards, publications, presentations or other achievements that will help us evaluate your application. We are looking for at least one year of experience with applied behavior analysis.
- Statement of Purpose
The admissions committee uses your statement of purpose, along with other evidence, to determine whether your goals are well-matched with our program. Your statement should answer the following questions:
- What experiences have influenced your interest in applied behavior analysis?  
- How has your academic and work experience prepared you for graduate school in ABA?
- Why is the program at the ±¬×ߺÚÁÏ a good match for your academic and career goals?
- Please share the unique characteristics, experiences and/or perspectives you bring to our ABA program and the field at large. How do you see these shaping your future work with individuals with developmental disabilities?
Your statement should be 2 pages, double-spaced.
- Personal history statement (optional)
While optional, you can add to your application by submitting a personal history statement. This statement should address your intellectual growth and development, inclusive of and beyond your academic goals. Speak to topics like:
- Educational, cultural and economic opportunities and disadvantages you've experienced.
- Ways these experiences affected the development of your special interests, career plans and future goals.
- Any additional topics requested on a specific program's page.
Statements should be no longer than two pages long. And while there are no standard formatting requirements, we encourage double-spaced text with a legible font.
Submitting
Program is open to all eligible persons regardless of race, sex or other identity.
- Gather all required documents
- Log into your account or create a new profile if you are a first-time applicant
- Complete all steps in application process and upload your documents
- Pay the nonrefundable $90 application fee
- You may request a during the application process
- Submit your application
When completing your application, you will select the following options:
- Graduate type:
- Graduate if you want to earn your master’s degree
- Program:
- Education - Seattle (MEd - Special Education - Applied Behavior Analysis Online Education)
Next Steps
Costs and funding
Estimated Costs
The ABA Online program is a self-sustaining, fee-based program. Course fees are charged on a per-credit basis and are the same for Washington residents and non-residents. Course fees for 2025-2026 are $589 per credit. Course fees do not include the cost of textbooks and materials.
Because the ABA Online program is fee-based, fiscal operations are managed through UW Professional & Continuing Education (). The relationship between UWPCE and the program has no impact on your degree. The Master of Education degree is conferred by the ±¬×ߺÚÁÏ’s ±¬×ߺÚÁÏ.
Funding & Scholarships
Federal financial aid is available for students enrolled in 5 more credits per quarter. for information and resources.
ABA Online General Scholarship
The Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) General Scholarship consists of awards up to $8,000. Students in the ABA Online program will be invited to apply for the scholarship after they are admitted to the program. The selection process is based on admission materials, a personal essay, and financial need.
ABA Online Fieldwork Scholarship
The Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Fieldwork Scholarship consists of awards up to $6,000. Students in the ABA Online program will be invited to apply for the scholarship after they are admitted to the program. The scholarship pays $1000 per quarter towards the student's enrollment in EDSPE 500: Practicum and EDSPE 601: Internship.
Program core ethical principles
- Beneficence
Behavior analysts have a responsibility to engage in practices that maximize their clients' well-being and avoid those that cause harm. We understand that behavior analytic services are most likely to benefit our clients when they are provided in the context of a trusting and compassionate relationship. Where conflicts of interest arise between consumers of behavior analysis, we prioritize outcomes for the most vulnerable clients.
- Inclusion
Behavior analysts have a responsibility to provide individuals of all backgrounds and abilities access to and authentic participation in meaningful activities that promote relationships, a sense of community, and an improved quality of life.
- Professional excellence
Behavior analysts have a responsibility to be honest and transparent. We engage in ongoing professional development and analyze our own practices. Professional excellence requires respectful and effective collaboration with individuals from other disciplines while maintaining a commitment to data-based decision-making. Analyzing evidence from different methodologies is encouraged as a way of collaborating with others and improving practice.
- Self-determination
Behavior analysts respect clients’ rights and promote client dignity, privacy, and autonomy. We assist clients to set and achieve their own goals, develop their own agency, and make decisions about their own lives.
- Social justice
Behavior analysts have a responsibility to attend to injustice where they see it, avoid perpetuating inequitable systems, and advocate for equitable systems change. We are uniquely qualified to identify controlling and contextual variables that contribute to inequitable educational and service-delivery systems and develop solutions to supplant them.
ABA online program student data
| Reporting category | 2022-2023 | 2023-2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Number of students whose degrees were conferred by the program | 31 | 27 |
| Median years until graduation for students whose degrees were conferred by the program | 1.7 | 1.88 |
| Number of students enrolled in the program on January 1st of the reporting year | 58 | 56 |
| Number of students no longer enrolled for any reason other than conferral of degree | 0 | 0 |
| Number of completed applications received | 72 | 86 |
| Number of students admitted | 38 | 43 |
| Percentage of first-time candidates passing the BCBA certification examination | 83% | 74% |
Frequently asked questions
UW ABA Optional Fieldwork Supervision Package
We offer an optional supervision package that meets the Behavior Analyst Certification Board’s (BACB) requirements for Concentrated Supervised Fieldwork. Go to to learn more about the BACB’s Concentrated Supervised Fieldwork requirements.
- UW SUPERVISION DETAILS
The UW supervision package consists of weekly group supervision meetings via the EDSPE 500: Practicum seminar course in Year 1 and the EDSPE 601: Internship seminar course in Year 2. In addition, the supervision package includes weekly or biweekly individual supervision meetings with a UW-affiliated BCBA. Individual and group supervision occur using the Zoom platform. UW supervision meets or exceeds the BACB’s requirements for Concentrated Supervised Fieldwork by providing the following:
- 112.5 hours of supervision total over the course of 2 years (i.e., 7.5% of the 1500 total fieldwork hours required via the Concentrated Supervised Fieldwork pathway)
- Weekly observations by your individual supervisor conducted via video recordings and/or live observations, totaling a minimum of 90 minutes of observation per month
- FIELDWORK SITE REQUIREMENTS
You may complete your fieldwork experience at a fieldwork site that meets the following requirements:
- Ability to video record work weekly to share with your UW supervisor.
- Provides at least biweekly oversight of your work via an onsite BCBA (unless approved by the UW ABA Fieldwork and Program Directors).
- Opportunity to work with at least 5 clients/students, including at least 2 clients/students with developmental disabilities, over the course of the 2 years of supervised fieldwork.
- Weekly opportunities to work 1:1 with clients/students.
- Provides an average of 20 hours per week of fieldwork, with opportunities to complete unrestricted activities weekly (to learn more about restricted vs. unrestricted fieldwork activities, see the BACB FAQ on Supervised Fieldwork Requirements).
- HOW DOES YOUR PROGRAM APPROACH THE SUPERVISION OF APPLIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS?
Our supervisors prepare you to apply behavior analytic principles compassionately and collaboratively. We encourage you to read through the UW ABA Mission Statement for more information about our overall approach to ABA.
- HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO COMPLETE THE UW FIELDWORK SUPERVISION EXPERIENCE?
It takes 6 quarters over the course of 2 years (Year 1: Fall, Winter, Spring; Year 2: Fall, Winter, Spring) to acquire the 1500 fieldwork hours and 112.5 hours of supervision you need to meet the BACB’s Concentrated Supervised Fieldwork requirements. You are expected to complete a combination of restricted and unrestricted activities for approximately 25 hours per week during that time.
- WHAT KIND OF FIELDWORK ACTIVITIES WILL I BE DOING?
Both restricted and unrestricted activities, as specified by the BACB. The BACB defines restricted activities as those that involve the direct implementation of behavior analytic strategies with a client/student. Unrestricted activities are those more likely be done by a BCBA, such as writing goals and behavioral programs (instructional programs, behavior support plans), conducting assessments and creating measurement systems, data graphing and analysis, and training others to implement behavior
analytic strategies.- DO I HAVE TO FIND MY OWN FIELDWORK SITE?
Yes, you are ultimately responsible for finding your own fieldwork site. However, we may be able to help you in this process. If you are in the Seattle area, we can provide you with a list of fieldwork sites that currently or recently have worked with UW students. We do have some contacts in schools and agencies in other parts of the US. Email abainfo@uw.edu if you need additional guidance while searching for your fieldwork site.
- DO I GET PAID FOR MY FIELDWORK?
This depends on where you complete your fieldwork experience. Most agency and school fieldwork sites do pay students for at least a portion of their fieldwork hours.
- HOW MUCH DOES UW SUPERVISION COST?
In Year 1, you pay for the supervision package by enrolling in 2 additional credits per quarter of EDSPE 500: Practicum. In Year 2, you pay for the supervision package by paying a $900 quarterly fee as part of EDSPE 601: Internship registration.
