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Autism Spectrum Disorder
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis
Make a difference in the lives of children and adults, helping them understand their behavior with an MS in Applied Behavior Analysis, Autism Spectrum Disorder specialization from Capella University. You’ll have access to courses that teach how to help individuals and their families better communicate with each other, improve social skills and discover their highest potential. This program is designed to prepare you to bring positive change in home, clinical, community and agency settings.
Coursework includes conducting behavioral and skills assessments, developing intervention and support plans, collecting and analyzing data, and supervising and managing.
Classes start November 4
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 Capella Progress Reward, a $2,500 scholarship to help fund your master’s degree. Eligibility rules and exclusions apply. Connect with us for details.
Explore Autism Spectrum Disorder courses
- This degree requires a total of 60 program credits
- You’ll need to complete ten core courses and two specialization courses
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PSY7710
Ethics in Applied Behavior Analysis
5 quarter credits
In this course, learners gain knowledge about the Professional and Ethical Compliance Code for Behavior Analysts. Learners practice navigating ethical dilemmas commonly encountered in the practice of behavior analysis. Learners gain perspective on how to weigh risks and benefits associated with the implementation of behavior change procedures. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite: Completion of or concurrent registration in PSY5260 or PSY7708.
5 quarter credits
PSY7711
Measurement and Research in Applied Behavior Analysis
5 quarter credits
In this course, learners gain knowledge on measurement, data display, and experimental methods commonly used in applied behavior analysis. Learners distinguish the different types of measurement that may be used and determine the conditions under which certain types should be used. Learners gain knowledge about single-subject design as well as different types of research methods used in behavior analysis. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite: PSY5260 or PSY7708 or PSY7701 and PSY7702; PSY7710 or PSY7703 and PSY7704; completion of or concurrent registration in PSY5280 or PSY7709 or PSY7705 and PSY7706.
5 quarter credits
PSY6311
Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnosis and Early Intervention
5 quarter credits
In this course, learners identify diagnostic criteria related to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Learners explore research, treatments, and assessments targeted for children diagnosed with ASD. Learners develop an individualized ASD intervention plan, which incorporates collaboration, compassionate practices, and the specific diagnostic and environmental circumstances of the child. For MS in Applied Behavior Analysis and PhD in Behavior Analysis learners only. Prerequisite: PSY7711 or PSY8003 or PSY8002. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer.
5 quarter credits
PSY6313
Lifespan Interventions and Autism Spectrum Disorder
5 quarter credits
In this course, learners assess a variety of strengths and challenges associated with autism spectrum disorder at different ages and stages of life. Learners evaluate varied interventions associated with different times of life, including childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and geriatric. For MS in Applied Behavior Analysis and PhD in Behavior Analysis learners only. Prerequisite(s): PSY6311. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer.
5 quarter credits
*Course has prerequisite(s). See catalog for details.
What you'll learn
The Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis program, Autism Spectrum Disorder specialization, combines foundational knowledge of major competency areas in the behavior analytic field with specialized knowledge in autism spectrum disorder.
On successful completion of this program, you should be able to:
- Identify symptoms associated with autism spectrum disorder
- Communicate autism spectrum disorder diagnosis criteria
- Evaluate frequently used treatment options related to the treatment of symptoms associated with autism spectrum disorder
- Evaluate assessment methods used to evaluate treatment options related to autism spectrum disorder
- Critically evaluate cultural humility and compassion in communication, assessment, and programming regarding autism spectrum disorder
Review the Capella career exploration guide to learn more about this program and career paths to explore.
A structured learning format with an active peer community and faculty guidance. We’ll set the schedule, you meet the deadlines.
- Based on the quarter system; 1–3 courses per 10-week quarter
- 1 semester credit = 1.5 quarter credits
- Weekly assignments and courseroom discussions
- Pay for what you take, price varies by courseload or quarter
$30,600
NO TRANSFER CREDITS
$40,290
NO TRANSFER CREDITS; ADDITIONAL CREDITS NECESSARY
$510 per credit, $160 resource kit fee, 60 total quarter credits, 0 max transfer credits
*This is only an estimate, effective July 8, 2024, and is subject to change. Your tuition amount will vary depending on your unique circumstances, such as your program specialization, transfer credits and any applicable tuition discounts. This estimate does not include the cost of books, course materials, supplies, equipment and other expenses. Tuition estimates shown for the GuidedPath learning format depend on the number of credits accepted for transfer. New or recently revised program tuition estimates are based on comparable programs.
Capella is committed to transparency in tuition and pricing. You will be responsible for costs in addition to tuition, which may include travel expenses and practicum costs. You will be charged $50-$200 each quarter or billing session for your resource kit, which includes required books, software and other course materials. Click here to review program-specific fee amounts in our University Catalog.
Find out more about financing and payment options to help you complete your program. Federal aid also is available to help manage the costs of higher education. Learn more about financing your education.
Questions about cost?
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It is important to understand all educational and individual requirements for licensing. Capella University cannot guarantee licensure, certification, or endorsement. State regulations vary regarding professional licensure. It is your responsibility to understand and comply with requirements for your state. Here are some resources to help you start your research:
Professionally aligned, ABAI Verified
The Association for Behavior Analysis International has verified this seven-course sequence as meeting the coursework requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst exam.
See all BCBA exam pass-rate data.*
*Pass-rate data are not published for sequences with fewer than six first-time candidates in a single year or for sequences within their first four years of operation.
Admission requirements
Applicants to the MS in Applied Behavior Analysis program must provide the following information for admission:
- A bachelor’s degree from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or from an internationally recognized institution
- Your official transcripts, with a minimum grade point average of 2.3 or higher on a 4.0 scale
- A valid, government-issued form of photo identification
- Admission application – no application fee required
GRE and GMAT are not required for admission.
International student requirements
If you completed your most recent academic coursework, degree, or credential at an institution outside the United States, regardless of your citizenship or where you currently live, you are considered an international applicant.
In addition to the above admission requirements, you will need to submit these materials:
- Minimum score on acceptable test for proof of English proficiency
- Transcript evaluation
Learn more about international student admissions.
What support does Capella offer online students?
Our programs are designed to meet the unique needs of a master’s student. We’ve structured the experience in manageable pieces to help you earn your degree with support from faculty, staff and online resources.
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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.