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Autism Spectrum Disorder
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis

Want to make a difference for autistic children and adults? Capella’s MS in Applied Behavior Analysis, Autism Spectrum Disorder can give you the tools to help clients modify behavior and reach their full potential. You’ll learn to conduct behavioral assessments, develop interventions, collect and analyze data and even supervise other analysts. The program includes a seven-course sequence that meets the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA) exam eligibility requirements under Pathway 2.* Take the next step on your academic path to help autistic individuals and their families communicate better and improve their social skills in home, clinical, community and agency settings.

*Applicants must meet additional requirements to qualify.

It is important to understand all education and individual requirements for licensing. Capella University cannot guarantee licensure, certification or endorsement. State regulations vary regarding professional licensure. Not all programs are offered to residents of every state due to regulatory requirements. It is your responsibility to understand and comply with requirements for your state.

Alignment with BACB 6th edition Test Content Outline and Pathway 2 eligibility

Our course sequence and ABA-specific capstone are intentionally designed to support your preparation for the BCBA exam under Pathway 2. Students benefit from structured learning, academic guidance and access to exam-readiness tools that promote competence and confidence.

Comprehensive support and exam-readiness resources

Receive expert guidance from enrollment specialists, academic coaches and faculty throughout your journey. Our curriculum includes exam-readiness resources to help you build confidence for the BCBA exam.

Grow your expertise and make a lasting impact

Examine the latest theories on autism in virtual lectures with scholar-practitioner faculty then apply what you’ve learned to develop effective intervention plans.

Classes start November 3

Apply today with no application fee.

At a glance

  • Online
  • 10 Core courses
  • 2 Specialization courses
  • 60 Total credits, no transfer (0 max transfer)

Reduce your tuition by $2,500*

*Enroll in a qualified program and apply for a $2.5K Capella Progress Reward scholarship to help fund your master's degree. Eligibility rules and exclusions apply. Connect with us for details.

What can you do with an MS in ABA Autism Spectrum Disorder degree?

Earning an MS in Applied Behavior Analysis, Autism Spectrum Disorder specialization from Capella University can help prepare you to reach both your professional and personal goals. While Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific career outcome, such as a job title, promotion or salary increase, we encourage you to explore potential jobs and employment settings. Here are some ideas and examples for a graduate with an MS in Applied Behavior Analysis, Autism Spectrum Disorder specialization.

Job titles to explore*

  • ABA program manager
  • ABA supervisor
  • Applied behavior analyst
  • Behavior consultant
  • Behavior intervention specialist
  • Behavior interventionist
  • Behavior specialist
  • Behavior support specialist
  • Board certified behavior analyst

Employment settings to explore*

  • Child and youth services
  • Child care services
  • Elementary and secondary schools
  • Home healthcare services
  • Other individual and family services
  • Residential intellectual and developmental disability facilities
  • Services for the elderly and persons with disabilities
  • All other outpatient care centers

*These are examples intended to serve as a general guide. Some positions may prefer or even require previous experience, licensure, certifications, and/or other designations along with a degree. Because many factors determine what position an individual may attain, Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific job title, a promotion, salary increase, or other career outcome. We encourage you to research requirements for your job target and career goals.