Best Online ABA Master’s Programs in 2026

Key Takeaways:

• Online ABA master’s programs in 2026 range from around $14,000 to $26,000, making graduate-level study more accessible than many assume.
• All programs listed here are accredited and designed to prepare graduates for the BCBA exam, the gold standard credential in the field.
• Most programs are 30 credits and fully online, so working professionals can complete their degree without putting their career on pause.

Applied behavior analysis, or ABA, has become one of the most in-demand specializations in psychology and education. If you want to work with individuals with autism, developmental disabilities, or behavioral challenges, an online ABA master’s program could be the credential that opens those doors. Demand for Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) is growing steadily, and graduates with the right credentials are finding opportunities across schools, clinics, and community organizations.

Sorting through the options on your own can be a lot. GetEducated helps you compare accredited ABA programs side by side, with verified cost data and student reviews. Below, we have pulled together 18 of the best online ABA master’s programs available in 2026, sorted by estimated cost.

Top Online ABA Master’s Programs for 2026

Whether your goal is to become a BCBA, support students with autism in schools, or lead behavioral health teams, these programs have you covered. Each is 100% online and accredited by a recognized regional or national body.

1. Purdue University: MS in Educational Studies / Applied Behavior Analysis

Purdue University’s online ABA master’s program is built for professionals who want rigorous academic training with the flexibility to keep working. The curriculum is aligned with the BACB’s (Behavior Analyst Certification Board) fifth-edition task list, preparing graduates to sit for the BCBA exam.

• Estimated Cost: $20,154
• Credits: 30
• Format: 100% Online
• Admission: Bachelor’s degree required
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Purdue’s reputation in research and science-driven education carries into this program. Visit Purdue’s tuition page for current rates.

2. Arcadia University: MEd in Applied Behavior Analysis

Arcadia University offers a fully online MEd in Applied Behavior Analysis that blends evidence-based behavioral principles with practical application. The program is a strong fit for educators and clinicians looking to add formal ABA credentials to their work.

• Estimated Cost: $22,200
• Credits: 30
• Format: 100% Online
• Admission: Bachelor’s degree; minimum 3.0 GPA; proof of English proficiency for international students
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Arcadia’s small class sizes mean more individualized interaction with faculty. Check Arcadia's tuition page for financial details.

3. University of Massachusetts Lowell: MEd in Curriculum & Instruction / Applied Behavior Analysis & Education

UMass Lowell’s program sits at the intersection of curriculum design and applied behavior analysis. It is a great option for teachers and school-based professionals who want to bring ABA strategies directly into their classrooms.

• Estimated Cost: $14,220
• Credits: 30
• Format: 100% Online
• Admission: Bachelor’s degree required
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education

At under $15,000 total, this is one of the most affordable ABA master’s options on this list. See UMass Lowell's tuition page for per-credit costs.

4. Southeast Missouri State University: MA in Applied Behavior Analysis

Southeast Missouri State University offers a focused MA in Applied Behavior Analysis designed to prepare students for the BCBA certification exam. The program covers the core principles of behavior analysis with an emphasis on ethical practice.

• Estimated Cost: $15,330
• Credits: 42
• Format: 100% Online
• Admission: Bachelor’s degree; minimum 3.0 GPA
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

At 42 credits, this program is more comprehensive than many peers, which can mean stronger preparation for complex caseloads. Visit SEMO's cost page for current tuition information.

5. Cairn University: MA in Applied Behavior Analysis

Cairn University blends behavioral science with a faith-informed perspective in its online MA in Applied Behavior Analysis. The program prepares students for BCBA eligibility while emphasizing ethical foundations and compassionate practice.

• Estimated Cost: $16,710
• Credits: 30
• Format: 100% Online
• Admission: Bachelor’s degree; minimum 3.0 GPA
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

A distinctive option if you are looking for values-based training alongside rigorous ABA content. See Cairn's tuition page for pricing details.

6. University of Colorado Denver: MA in Special Education / Applied Behavior Analysis

CU Denver’s online ABA master’s focuses on applying behavior analysis in special education settings. It is built for educators who work with students with autism and other developmental disabilities and want to strengthen their classroom impact.

• Estimated Cost: $16,807
• Credits: 30
• Format: 100% Online
• Admission: Bachelor’s degree; proof of English proficiency for international students
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

This program is particularly well-suited for licensed teachers seeking to add a BCBA credential. Check CU Denver's tuition page for graduate rates.

7. Bowling Green State University: MEd in Special Education – Applied Behavior Analysis

Bowling Green State University’s MEd in Special Education with an ABA concentration is accredited by CAEP (Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation), the leading accreditor for educator preparation programs. The curriculum focuses on assessment, intervention, and ethical application of ABA in educational environments.

• Estimated Cost: $16,972
• Credits: 34
• Format: 100% Online
• Admission: Bachelor’s degree; GRE; PRAXIS scores
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission; CAEP

The CAEP accreditation sets this program apart for education professionals. Visit BGSU’s tuition page for current fee schedules.

8. University of Northern Colorado: MA in Special Education / Intervention Specialist – Applied Behavior Analysis

UNC’s online ABA master’s prepares graduates to serve as intervention specialists and BCBAs. The program blends special education coursework with applied behavior analysis, making it a natural path for school-based practitioners.

• Estimated Cost: $17,490
• Credits: 30
• Format: 100% Online
• Admission: Bachelor’s degree; minimum 3.0 GPA
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

This dual-focus on intervention and ABA is a strong combination for those working in K-12 settings. Head to UNC's program page for tuition and enrollment details.

9. University of Virginia: MEd in Curriculum & Instruction / Applied Behavior Analysis

Earning a master’s from UVA carries significant weight in the field. This online MEd combines curriculum and instruction theory with applied behavior analysis, preparing graduates to lead in school-based and clinical ABA settings.

• Estimated Cost: $18,380
• Credits: 30
• Format: 100% Online
• Admission: Bachelor’s degree; GRE scores
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

UVA’s program offers the prestige of a flagship public research university at a competitive price point. See UVA's tuition page for graduate rates.

10. University of Southern Maine: MS in Educational Psychology / Applied Behavior Analysis

USM’s program focuses on the educational psychology foundations of ABA, preparing graduates for careers in schools, clinics, and community settings. The curriculum is aligned with BACB standards for BCBA exam eligibility.

• Estimated Cost: $18,504
• Credits: 36
• Format: 100% Online
• Admission: Bachelor’s degree; minimum 2.5 GPA; GRE required
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education

USM’s public university pricing makes this a budget-friendly choice in the Northeast. Visit USM's tuition page for current graduate fees.

Not sure if a program’s accreditation checks out? GetEducated’s accreditation guide explains what regional and specialized accreditation mean for your degree’s value with employers and licensing boards.

11. Ball State University: MA in Applied Behavior Analysis / Autism

Ball State’s program combines ABA with a focused autism track, making it a go-to choice for professionals who primarily work with individuals on the autism spectrum. CAEP accreditation adds an extra layer of credibility for school-based practitioners.

• Estimated Cost: $20,870
• Credits: 30
• Format: 100% Online
• Admission: Bachelor’s degree; minimum 2.75 GPA
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission; CAEP

The autism specialization gives this program a clear edge for those focused on that population. Check Ball State's tuition page for online program costs.

12. University of Kansas: MA in Applied Behavioral Science

The University of Kansas has long been a leader in behavioral science research, and its online MA reflects that heritage. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice across organizational behavior management, clinical settings, and education.

• Estimated Cost: $21,000
• Credits: 30
• Format: 100% Online
• Admission: Bachelor’s degree; minimum 3.0 GPA
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

KU’s strong behavioral science pedigree makes this an excellent choice for research-oriented students. Visit KU's tuition page for Edwards Campus graduate rates.

13. Eastern Kentucky University: MS in Psychology / Applied Behavior Analysis

EKU’s online ABA program is housed in the psychology department, giving it a strong clinical foundation. Graduates are prepared for the BCBA exam and for roles in mental health, education, and human services settings.

• Estimated Cost: $21,846
• Credits: 33
• Format: 100% Online
• Admission: Bachelor’s degree; minimum 2.5 GPA
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

EKU Online offers dedicated advising for online students, which can make a real difference in navigating a graduate program. Head to EKU's tuition page for online program rates.

14. University of Cincinnati: MEd in Foundations of Behavior Analysis

UC’s MEd takes a foundational approach to behavior analysis, building conceptual and applied skills from the ground up. This is a smart choice for professionals coming from education or mental health backgrounds who want a thorough grounding in ABA theory.

• Estimated Cost: $22,830
• Credits: 30
• Format: 100% Online
• Admission: Bachelor’s degree; minimum 3.0 GPA; proof of English proficiency for international students
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

UC’s strong research reputation and affordable out-of-state pricing make this a compelling pick. Visit UC's tuition page for program-specific cost details.

15. University of Louisville: MEd in Special Education / Applied Behavior Analysis

U of L’s online ABA master’s is designed for special education professionals who want to integrate behavior analytic practices into their work. The 30-credit program covers assessment, intervention planning, and ethical conduct under the BACB guidelines.

• Estimated Cost: $23,250
• Credits: 30
• Format: 100% Online
• Admission: Bachelor’s degree; minimum 2.75 GPA
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Louisville’s program is a practical, professionally focused option for those already working in special education. See U of L's tuition page for online graduate rates.

16. Russell Sage College: MS in Applied Behavior Analysis & Autism

Russell Sage College combines ABA with an autism specialization in a 36-credit online MS. The program covers verbal behavior, functional behavior assessment, and early intensive behavioral intervention, giving graduates the skills to work across a range of clinical contexts.

• Estimated Cost: $24,755
• Credits: 36
• Format: 100% Online
• Admission: Bachelor’s degree; proof of English proficiency for international students
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

The autism focus makes this program especially relevant for those targeting early intervention or school-based roles. Visit Russell Sage's tuition page for online program pricing.

17. Florida Institute of Technology: MA in Behavior Analysis Practice

Florida Tech’s program is designed for practitioners who want to move into leadership roles in ABA. The curriculum emphasizes clinical supervision, ethics, and advanced intervention strategies, positioning graduates for senior BCBA positions.

• Estimated Cost: $25,641
• Credits: 33
• Format: 100% Online
• Admission: Bachelor’s degree; minimum 3.0 GPA
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Florida Tech Online has a strong track record in behavioral science programs. Check Florida Tech's tuition page for current online rates.

18. Endicott College: MS in Applied Behavior Analysis

Endicott College rounds out the list with a 40-credit MS in Applied Behavior Analysis that has built a strong reputation in the ABA community. The program is structured to meet BACB coursework requirements for BCBA exam eligibility.

• Estimated Cost: $25,920
• Credits: 40
• Format: 100% Online
• Admission: Bachelor’s degree required
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education

Endicott’s ABA faculty are active practitioners, which keeps the curriculum grounded in real-world application. Visit Endicott's tuition page for graduate program costs.

Online ABA Master’s Programs FAQ

Choosing the right ABA master’s program involves more than just picking a school. Here are answers to the questions most prospective students ask first.

What is an ABA master’s program?

An ABA master’s program trains you in applied behavior analysis, a scientific approach to understanding and changing behavior. Graduates are typically eligible to sit for the BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst) exam, administered by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). BCBAs work with children and adults with autism, developmental disabilities, and behavioral challenges in schools, clinics, homes, and hospitals.

How long does it take to complete an online ABA master’s degree?

Most programs are 30 to 42 credits and designed to be completed in two years of full-time study. Part-time options are widely available, which can stretch completion to three years. Some accelerated tracks allow motivated students to finish in as little as 18 months.

How much do online ABA master’s programs cost?

Costs vary quite a bit. On this list, estimated totals range from around $14,220 at the University of Massachusetts Lowell to $25,920 at Endicott College. Public universities generally offer lower out-of-state rates for online programs, so it pays to compare. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, average graduate tuition at public institutions is considerably lower than at private ones, and many of the programs on this list reflect that advantage.

Do I need to be already working in the field to apply?

Most programs require only a bachelor’s degree for admission, not prior work experience in ABA. That said, many programs include supervised fieldwork hours as part of the curriculum, which you typically complete in your own community. If you are already working with individuals with disabilities, you may be able to count that time toward your supervised hours.

Are online ABA master’s programs recognized by employers?

Yes, as long as the program is regionally accredited (accreditation is the process by which an independent body evaluates a school’s quality and confirms it meets recognized standards) and approved for BCBA coursework by the BACB. All programs on this list meet both criteria. What matters most to employers after that is your BCBA credential and your supervised experience hours.

What can I do with an online ABA master’s degree?

Graduates typically pursue BCBA certification and go on to work as behavior analysts in schools, autism clinics, group homes, hospitals, or private practice. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that psychologists and behavioral specialists earn a median annual salary of around $85,000, with experienced BCBAs often earning considerably more depending on setting and location.

Find the Best Online ABA Master’s Program for You

The programs on this list represent some of the most affordable and well-regarded online ABA master’s degrees available in 2026. Whether you are drawn to school-based practice, clinical work, or organizational behavior management, there is a program here that can get you there. Browse GetEducated's full directory to compare more programs, read student reviews, and find the accredited ABA master’s degree that fits your goals and budget.