The MEd in Applied Behavior Analysis incorporates the science of Behavior Analysis as it applies to meaningful, socially valid behavior change for individuals and organizations. The program prioritizes the design and implementation of high-quality interventions that facilitate individual achievement and promote quality of life for individuals with challenging behavior, their families, and the professionals who serve them. Content areas include basic and advanced principles of behavior, underlying theoretical and philosophical foundations of the science, behavior assessment, intervention development, and implementation of behavior change strategies, as well as ethical practice with individuals with a wide range of life experiences. Students will be guided through the process of learning from the analysis of existing research within a facilitated case-study model and then be expected to apply their understanding to real-life situations with guiding feedback. Pedagogy includes readings requiring active student responses, recorded lectures, interactive learning activities, and applied assignments. Students in this program will complete a single-case design research project to demonstrate competencies necessary for effective service provision after graduation. Students who complete this program and fulfill additional outside supervision requirements will be eligible to take the national exam to become BCBAs. Once certified, all graduates will be career-ready and uniquely qualified as behavior specialists in schools, agencies, and organizations. Graduates of the program can become direct care, consulting, and administrative professionals who competently support individuals with and without disabilities who are exhibiting challenging behavior (e.g., aggression, addictions, self-harm), as well as career professionals who promote organizational functioning and productivity. Once they are BCBAs, graduates can apply for licensure as a behavior analyst (LBA) in their states of residence. Students may complete the master's program in as few as five semesters by enrolling in two classes per semester. It is recommended that students do not exceed this course load, considering the rigorous nature of the program.
To receive a master's degree at Northern Arizona University, you must complete a planned group of courses from one or more subject areas, consisting of at least 30 units of graduate-level courses. Many master's degree programs require more than 30 units.
You must additionally complete:
Individual degree programs may exceed the baseline University Policy for a master's degree. The program-specific requirements are provided on the Details tab below.
Read the full policy here.
In addition to University Requirements:
| Minimum Units for Completion | 30 |
| Additional Admission Requirements | Individual program admission requirements over and above admission to NAU are required. |
| Progression Plan Link | View Program of Study |
Purpose Statement
The MEd in Applied Behavior Analysis incorporates the science of Behavior Analysis as it applies to meaningful, socially valid behavior change for individuals and organizations. This new program prioritizes the design and implementation of high-quality interventions that facilitate individual achievement and promote quality of life for individuals with challenging behavior, their families, and the professionals who serve them. Content areas include basic and advanced principles of behavior, underlying theoretical and philosophical foundations of the science, behavior assessment, intervention development, and implementation of behavior change strategies, as well as ethical practice with diverse populations. Students will be guided through the process of learning from the analysis of existing research within a facilitated case-study model and then be expected to apply their understanding to real-life situations with immediate feedback. Pedagogy includes readings requiring active student responding, recorded lectures, interactive learning activities, and applied assignments. Students in this program will complete a single-case design research project. Students who complete this program and fulfill additional outside supervision requirements will be eligible to take the national exam to become Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs). Once certified, all graduates will be career-ready and uniquely qualified as behavior specialists in schools, agencies, and organizations. Graduates of the program can become direct care, consulting, and administrative professionals who competently support individuals with and without recognized disabilities who are exhibiting challenging behavior (e.g., aggression, addictions, self-harm), as well as career professionals who promote organizational functioning and productivity.
Student Learning Outcomes
The NAU graduate online application is required for all programs. Admission to many graduate programs is on a competitive basis, and programs may have higher standards than those established by the Office of Graduate and Professional Studies.
Admission requirements include the following:
Visit the NAU Graduate Admissions website for additional information about graduate school application deadlines, eligibility for study, and admissions policies.
Ready to apply? Begin your application now.
International applicants have additional admission requirements. Please see the International Graduate Admissions Policy.
Individual program admission requirements over and above admission to NAU are required.
*See the application for details.
This Master's degree requires 30 units.
Take the following 30 units:
Students enrolled in this plan may not enroll in or pursue the following due to the number of overlapping units:
Some courses may have prerequisites. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.