The MEd in Special Education in Applied Behavior Analysis currently accepts applications for the Fall semester, with an August start. You can view application deadlines and requirements on our Application tab.
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Cameron Murray-Hicks
Online Enrollment Counselor
Online Master of Education in Applied Behavior Analysis
The online Master of Education (MEd) in Special Education with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis was designed for professionals who want to develop expertise in applied behavior analysis without obtaining a teaching license.
UofL's online master's in special education can prepare you to meet learners' behavioral challenges and needs through a comprehensive curriculum; one that includes a verified course sequence (VCS) for those seeking to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). As a student, you will learn how to become a behavior analyst knowledgeable of your science, effective in your practice and ethical in your interactions.
The MEd in Special Education in Applied Behavior Analysis is offered by the College of Education and Human Development at the University of Louisville.
Note: this program is not designed to lead to teacher certification.
How Much Will I Pay?
$830 per credit hour
$250 per credit hour active-duty tuition rate
This program is a Title IV federal financial aid eligible program. Tuition rate does not include costs associated with a specific course or program, such as textbooks.
Please note that other fees apply – check our tuition page for all applicable costs.
Tuition, fees, and charges are subject to change and effective on the date enacted.For additional information on educational expenses and the Cost of Attendance, please visit the Student Financial Aid Office website.
Online MEd in Special Education: Applied Behavior Analysis Program Highlights
- Prepare to work with students who have intellectual disabilities that impede academic achievement and adaptive behavior skills (e.g., communication, social behavior and daily living activities).
- Take advantage of the opportunity to complete the educational requirements necessary to sit for your Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification examination.*
- Complete your degree in as little as two years.
- Experience the flexibility of a fully online program—designed to fit your life with 24/7 access to classes and coursework completed when it’s right for you.
- Skip the GRE/GMAT—it's not required for admission.
- Learn from faculty with distinguished academic credentials, industry experience and a strong commitment to applied research.
*Students will complete most of the required 2,000 hours of supervised field experience on their own outside of the program after earning the degree.
100% ONLINE COURSES
With UofL Online, you can complete this degree on your own time through fully online coursework.
Learn More
10 COURSES
Complete the program in just 10 courses.
Learn More
SKIP THE GRE/GMAT
The GRE/GMAT is not required for admission to the MEd in Special Education.
"Our graduates will leave our program equipped with knowledge they need to make a difference in the lives of students who have disabilities."
Jon Burt, PhD
Program Director
START YOUR APPLICATION REQUEST INFORMATION
Online MEd in Special Education: Applied Behavior Analysis Application Deadlines
| Application Deadline | Term | Start Date |
|---|---|---|
| August 1 | Fall | August |
How to Apply for the Online MEd in Special Education in Applied Behavior Analysis
- Start your application for graduate admission
- Submit $65 non-refundable application fee
- Upload required materials*
- Request official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities. Transcripts are only accepted directly from the institution(s) by email: gradadm@louisville.edu (recommended) or mail: University of Louisville, Graduate School, 2211 S. Brook St., Louisville, KY 40292.
- Upload your signed Acceptable Use of Technology and Code of Ethics statement to your online graduate application
- Create a financial plan
START YOUR APPLICATION REQUEST INFORMATION
Online MEd in Special Education in Applied Behavior Analysis Admissions Requirements and Materials
To be considered for admission, applicants must have:
- a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution
- coursework in in special education, psychology, speech language pathology, occupational therapy or social work
- a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale (applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA may inquire about conditional acceptance)
- a professional certification/license/experience in a field related to autism/intellectual disability
*Required application packet materials include:
- a personal statement of no more than 500 words, double-spaced, describing your interest in the program and whether you wish to apply to the program as a full-time or part-time student
- two letters of recommendation from people who are well acquainted with your previous academic work
*Your Application Portal:
Once you have started the graduate application, you can check the status and review any additional checklist to-do items. Log in to your application using the email address you used to apply for admission and your password. Your checklist items may include additional materials or documentation that facilitate a smooth admissions process. You will also have access to important contact information and next steps after an admissions decision is made.
Online MEd in Special Education in Applied Behavior Analysis for International Students
If you live outside of the United States and intend to complete an online academic program from your home country, be sure to view special requirements for international students.
- Students for whom English is not their primary language must show English language proficiency by successfully completing one of the following:
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS) examination – minimum score: 6.5
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) examination – 85 or higher on the internet-based TOEFL
- Duolingo English Test with Subscores – minimum score of 105 and exam must have been taken after January 1, 2020. Note: Students who have earned a degree from an accredited college or university in the U.S. are not required to complete the TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo.
Transfer Crefit for Online MEd in Special Education: Applied Behavior Analysis Students
If you have received graduate credit from another institution, you may transfer up to 6 credits that directly replace approved courses in the program. Approval must be granted by the program director.
For more information on the admission and application process, please contact our Online Learning Enrollment Counselors at 800.871.8635 or by email at online@louisville.edu.
The online MEd in special education with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis is a 30-39 credit hour (10-13 course) program with 18-27 credit hours in core curriculum and 12 credit hours in the ASDABA concentration. This program is not designed to lead to teacher certification The program is offered 100% online. Courses are asynchronous, and delivered in standard term length. Additional practicum hours are available for full-time students.
| Course Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|
| Inquiry (9 hours) | |
| EDSP 644 Applied Behavior Analysis | 3 |
| EDSP 654 Radical Behaviorism | 3 |
| EDSP 669 Single Subject Research Methods and Designs | 3 |
| Advocacy (6 hours) | |
| EDSP 651 Professional and Ethical Practice of Applied Behavior Analysis | 3 |
| EDSP 673 Research Seminar in Autism Spectrum Disorders | 3 |
| Action (3-12 hours) | |
| EDSP 653 Practicum in Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis | 3 |
| Applied Behavior Analysis (12 hours) | |
| EDSP 570 Autism: Introduction and Understanding | 3 |
| EDSP 671 Autism: Strategies and Techniques | 3 |
| EDSP 546 Behavior Analytic Approach to Communication | 3 |
| EDSP 650 Advanced Applied Behavior Analysis | 3 |
| Minimum Total Hours | 30-39 |
Entry, midpoint and exit assessments are also required for graduation.
START YOUR APPLICATION REQUEST INFORMATION
Online MEd in Special Education: Applied Behavior Analysis Course Descriptions
EDSP 546 Behavior Analytic Approach to Communication
This course prepares practitioners to use principles of ABA to assess and teach communication skills to individuals with disabilities and develop knowledge of current AAC technology and assessment procedures.
EDSP 570 Autism: Introduction and Understanding
Increase understanding of individuals with Autism/Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD) across the life-span. Characteristics of this population, namely communication, social and behavioral attributes will be examined as they are manifested across all ages in the context of the family and community. Historical, diagnostic, and identification issues will be addressed.
EDSP 644 Applied Behavior Analysis
Field experience in school settings where the student will observe, assist, assess, and instruct students with learning and behavioral disorders.
EDSP 651 Professional and Ethical Practice of Applied Behavior Analysis
This course is designed to address behavioral consultation across settings. Particular emphasis will be placed on professional ethics as well as the skills necessary for successful consultation.
EDSP 653 Practicum in Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis
This course is designed to guide students in the application of behavior analysis with students on the autism spectrum. Students will identify learning needs, develop instructional objectives, select and use behavioral measures, collect and analyze data, implement behavior change methods, design behavioral instructional plans, apply reinforcement-based change procedures and adhere to established ethical standards.
EDSP 669 Single Subject Research Methods and Designs
Students will learn principles and methods of designing single subject research in educational settings and are required to design and defend a research proposal.
EDSP 671 Autism: Strategies and Techniques
Course participants will examine instructional approaches used with students with autism. Emphasis is placed on research-based strategies that have utility in facilitating increases in communication, social, and academic skills.
EDSP 673 Research Seminar in Autism Spectrum Disorders
In this research seminar, course participants examine a variety of current issues related to individuals with autism spectrum disorders. Particular emphasis will be placed on early intervention, comprehensive treatment models and meeting the support needs of adolescents and adults.
Online MEd in Special Education: Applied Behavior Analysis Success Team
Online MEd in Special Education: Applied Behavior Analysis Featured Faculty
- Tim Landrum
Ph.D.
Professor
- Terry Scott
Ph.D.
Professor, Distinguished Scholar, Director of CIBRS
- Samantha Walte
Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Online MEd in Special Education: Applied Behavior Analysis FAQ
-
Which term should I apply for?
-
Can I start teaching with this degree?
No, the MEd in Special Education in Applied Behavior Analysis does not lead to teacher certification. This program is designed for professionals who want to develop expertise in applied behavior analysis without obtaining a teaching license.
-
Who is this program for?
The online Master of Education in Special Education in Applied Behavior Analysis is designed for professionals who want to develop expertise in applied behavior analysis without obtaining a teaching license.
If you’re an educator seeking a Rank II and are interested in autism spectrum disorder and applied behavior analysis, please check out the concentration within the MEd in Teaching and Learning—also available 100% online!
-
Can you tell me more about this program?
Students in the MEd in Applied Behavior Analysis program’s traditional option will complete a verified course sequence (VCS) for the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) Certification Exam, allowing them to meet the educational requirements for board certification. Only one practicum course is included in this sequence of coursework, making this a good option for working students. However, it is important to note that hours completed during the required practicum are separate from the fieldwork supervision hours required for the BACB exam.
In addition to coursework requirements, students must complete 2,000 hours of supervised field experience to be eligible to take the BACB exam. Hours completed during the field-based practicum experience may be used toward both the course and the BACB fieldwork hours, as long as the requirements for both are met. In this option, students will complete most of the required supervised field experience hours on their own outside of the program after earning the degree. It is important for prospective students to understand that they will not be eligible to sit for the BCBA exam until they have completed all requirements, including 2,000 hours of supervised fieldwork. Because the supervised fieldwork hours are not completed during the program, the traditional (non-concentration) option within the MEd in Applied Behavior Analysis at University of Louisville is not designed to prepare students for licensure immediately upon graduation in any US state or other jurisdiction.
For more information about professional licensure, you can view our Professional Licensure Notifications and Disclosures resource.
-
Is financial aid available for this program?
Yes, there is financial aid available for this program. You can learn more by visiting our Financial Aid tab on the Tuition page.
How Much Will I Pay?
$830 per credit hour
$250 per credit hour active-duty tuition rate
This program is a Title IV federal financial aid eligible program. Tuition rate does not include costs associated with a specific course or program, such as textbooks.
Please note that other fees apply – check our tuition page for all applicable costs.
Tuition, fees, and charges are subject to change and effective on the date enacted.For additional information on educational expenses and the Cost of Attendance, please visit the Student Financial Aid Office website.
Online MEd in Special Education: Applied Behavior Analysis Program Highlights
- Prepare to work with students who have intellectual disabilities that impede academic achievement and adaptive behavior skills (e.g., communication, social behavior and daily living activities).
- Take advantage of the opportunity to complete the educational requirements necessary to sit for your Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification examination.*
- Complete your degree in as little as two years.
- Experience the flexibility of a fully online program—designed to fit your life with 24/7 access to classes and coursework completed when it’s right for you.
- Skip the GRE/GMAT—it's not required for admission.
- Learn from faculty with distinguished academic credentials, industry experience and a strong commitment to applied research.
*Students will complete most of the required 2,000 hours of supervised field experience on their own outside of the program after earning the degree.
100% ONLINE COURSES
With UofL Online, you can complete this degree on your own time through fully online coursework.
Learn More
10 COURSES
Complete the program in just 10 courses.
Learn More
SKIP THE GRE/GMAT
The GRE/GMAT is not required for admission to the MEd in Special Education.
"Our graduates will leave our program equipped with knowledge they need to make a difference in the lives of students who have disabilities."
Jon Burt, PhD
Program Director
START YOUR APPLICATION REQUEST INFORMATION
Online MEd in Special Education: Applied Behavior Analysis Application Deadlines
| Application Deadline | Term | Start Date |
|---|---|---|
| August 1 | Fall | August |
How to Apply for the Online MEd in Special Education in Applied Behavior Analysis
- Start your application for graduate admission
- Submit $65 non-refundable application fee
- Upload required materials*
- Request official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities. Transcripts are only accepted directly from the institution(s) by email: gradadm@louisville.edu (recommended) or mail: University of Louisville, Graduate School, 2211 S. Brook St., Louisville, KY 40292.
- Upload your signed Acceptable Use of Technology and Code of Ethics statement to your online graduate application
- Create a financial plan
START YOUR APPLICATION REQUEST INFORMATION
Online MEd in Special Education in Applied Behavior Analysis Admissions Requirements and Materials
To be considered for admission, applicants must have:
- a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution
- coursework in in special education, psychology, speech language pathology, occupational therapy or social work
- a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale (applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA may inquire about conditional acceptance)
- a professional certification/license/experience in a field related to autism/intellectual disability
*Required application packet materials include:
- a personal statement of no more than 500 words, double-spaced, describing your interest in the program and whether you wish to apply to the program as a full-time or part-time student
- two letters of recommendation from people who are well acquainted with your previous academic work
*Your Application Portal:
Once you have started the graduate application, you can check the status and review any additional checklist to-do items. Log in to your application using the email address you used to apply for admission and your password. Your checklist items may include additional materials or documentation that facilitate a smooth admissions process. You will also have access to important contact information and next steps after an admissions decision is made.
Online MEd in Special Education in Applied Behavior Analysis for International Students
If you live outside of the United States and intend to complete an online academic program from your home country, be sure to view special requirements for international students.
- Students for whom English is not their primary language must show English language proficiency by successfully completing one of the following:
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS) examination – minimum score: 6.5
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) examination – 85 or higher on the internet-based TOEFL
- Duolingo English Test with Subscores – minimum score of 105 and exam must have been taken after January 1, 2020. Note: Students who have earned a degree from an accredited college or university in the U.S. are not required to complete the TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo.
Transfer Crefit for Online MEd in Special Education: Applied Behavior Analysis Students
If you have received graduate credit from another institution, you may transfer up to 6 credits that directly replace approved courses in the program. Approval must be granted by the program director.
For more information on the admission and application process, please contact our Online Learning Enrollment Counselors at 800.871.8635 or by email at online@louisville.edu.
The online MEd in special education with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis is a 30-39 credit hour (10-13 course) program with 18-27 credit hours in core curriculum and 12 credit hours in the ASDABA concentration. This program is not designed to lead to teacher certification The program is offered 100% online. Courses are asynchronous, and delivered in standard term length. Additional practicum hours are available for full-time students.
| Course Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|
| Inquiry (9 hours) | |
| EDSP 644 Applied Behavior Analysis | 3 |
| EDSP 654 Radical Behaviorism | 3 |
| EDSP 669 Single Subject Research Methods and Designs | 3 |
| Advocacy (6 hours) | |
| EDSP 651 Professional and Ethical Practice of Applied Behavior Analysis | 3 |
| EDSP 673 Research Seminar in Autism Spectrum Disorders | 3 |
| Action (3-12 hours) | |
| EDSP 653 Practicum in Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis | 3 |
| Applied Behavior Analysis (12 hours) | |
| EDSP 570 Autism: Introduction and Understanding | 3 |
| EDSP 671 Autism: Strategies and Techniques | 3 |
| EDSP 546 Behavior Analytic Approach to Communication | 3 |
| EDSP 650 Advanced Applied Behavior Analysis | 3 |
| Minimum Total Hours | 30-39 |
Entry, midpoint and exit assessments are also required for graduation.
START YOUR APPLICATION REQUEST INFORMATION
Online MEd in Special Education: Applied Behavior Analysis Course Descriptions
EDSP 546 Behavior Analytic Approach to Communication
This course prepares practitioners to use principles of ABA to assess and teach communication skills to individuals with disabilities and develop knowledge of current AAC technology and assessment procedures.
EDSP 570 Autism: Introduction and Understanding
Increase understanding of individuals with Autism/Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD) across the life-span. Characteristics of this population, namely communication, social and behavioral attributes will be examined as they are manifested across all ages in the context of the family and community. Historical, diagnostic, and identification issues will be addressed.
EDSP 644 Applied Behavior Analysis
Field experience in school settings where the student will observe, assist, assess, and instruct students with learning and behavioral disorders.
EDSP 651 Professional and Ethical Practice of Applied Behavior Analysis
This course is designed to address behavioral consultation across settings. Particular emphasis will be placed on professional ethics as well as the skills necessary for successful consultation.
EDSP 653 Practicum in Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis
This course is designed to guide students in the application of behavior analysis with students on the autism spectrum. Students will identify learning needs, develop instructional objectives, select and use behavioral measures, collect and analyze data, implement behavior change methods, design behavioral instructional plans, apply reinforcement-based change procedures and adhere to established ethical standards.
EDSP 669 Single Subject Research Methods and Designs
Students will learn principles and methods of designing single subject research in educational settings and are required to design and defend a research proposal.
EDSP 671 Autism: Strategies and Techniques
Course participants will examine instructional approaches used with students with autism. Emphasis is placed on research-based strategies that have utility in facilitating increases in communication, social, and academic skills.
EDSP 673 Research Seminar in Autism Spectrum Disorders
In this research seminar, course participants examine a variety of current issues related to individuals with autism spectrum disorders. Particular emphasis will be placed on early intervention, comprehensive treatment models and meeting the support needs of adolescents and adults.
Online MEd in Special Education: Applied Behavior Analysis Success Team
Online MEd in Special Education: Applied Behavior Analysis Featured Faculty
- Tim Landrum
Ph.D.
Professor
- Terry Scott
Ph.D.
Professor, Distinguished Scholar, Director of CIBRS
- Samantha Walte
Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Online MEd in Special Education: Applied Behavior Analysis FAQ
-
Which term should I apply for?
The MEd in Special Education in Applied Behavior Analysis currently accepts applications for the Fall semester, with an August start. You can view application deadlines and requirements on our Application tab.
-
Can I start teaching with this degree?
No, the MEd in Special Education in Applied Behavior Analysis does not lead to teacher certification. This program is designed for professionals who want to develop expertise in applied behavior analysis without obtaining a teaching license.
-
Who is this program for?
The online Master of Education in Special Education in Applied Behavior Analysis is designed for professionals who want to develop expertise in applied behavior analysis without obtaining a teaching license.
If you’re an educator seeking a Rank II and are interested in autism spectrum disorder and applied behavior analysis, please check out the concentration within the MEd in Teaching and Learning—also available 100% online!
-
Can you tell me more about this program?
Students in the MEd in Applied Behavior Analysis program’s traditional option will complete a verified course sequence (VCS) for the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) Certification Exam, allowing them to meet the educational requirements for board certification. Only one practicum course is included in this sequence of coursework, making this a good option for working students. However, it is important to note that hours completed during the required practicum are separate from the fieldwork supervision hours required for the BACB exam.
In addition to coursework requirements, students must complete 2,000 hours of supervised field experience to be eligible to take the BACB exam. Hours completed during the field-based practicum experience may be used toward both the course and the BACB fieldwork hours, as long as the requirements for both are met. In this option, students will complete most of the required supervised field experience hours on their own outside of the program after earning the degree. It is important for prospective students to understand that they will not be eligible to sit for the BCBA exam until they have completed all requirements, including 2,000 hours of supervised fieldwork. Because the supervised fieldwork hours are not completed during the program, the traditional (non-concentration) option within the MEd in Applied Behavior Analysis at University of Louisville is not designed to prepare students for licensure immediately upon graduation in any US state or other jurisdiction.
For more information about professional licensure, you can view our Professional Licensure Notifications and Disclosures resource.
-
Is financial aid available for this program?
Yes, there is financial aid available for this program. You can learn more by visiting our Financial Aid tab on the Tuition page.
