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MA in Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

Gain skills to help you advocate for those with disabilities and improve the teaching strategies used to impact their success in the classroom.

Enhance Student Performance with a Master’s in Behavior Analysis

Learn to identify social significant behaviors and use behavior intervention to help students improve in the classroom. By pursuing a master’s degree in special education with a concentration in applied behavior, you’ll gain skills for collecting data on behaviors, implementing behavior change procedures and evaluating progress. This MA in Special Education curriculum aligns with the Council for Exceptional Children's Advanced Content Standards.

As a Master of Arts in Special Education, ABA  student, you will:

  • Define, measure and assess behavior using evidence-based best practices.
  • Explore different strategies for experimental design.
  • Explore evidence-based best practices for gathering and evaluating behavioral data.
  • Understand factors that influence behavior change.
  • Learn appropriate educational technology for addressing and identifying behavioral needs.

Next Session

Summer I (Apr 29, 2024)

Estimated Tuition

Ways to Learn

Online

WSCUC

University of Massachusetts Global is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

California Commission on Teaching Credentialing

University of Massachusetts Global's School of Education is accredited by the California Commission on Teaching Credentialing.

What can you do with Special Education: Behavior Analysis

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    Compared to a brick and mortar, the professors are more open and I was able to learn better from them. The online community is what kept me going. I think this is the first time in my life that I can say I am proud of myself. 
    Leonard W.
    MA in Special Education, Behavior Analysis
    Amy J.
    I took the Autism classes [through Extended Education] and found the passion of special education, which I really never thought of as an option. I finished the Autism program and enrolled in the Master of Special Education.  I have learned to reflect on my teaching and determine if I am reaching all students and on how to better reach any struggling students.
    Amy J.
    MA, Special Education

    Admission Requirements

    Applicants for this program must complete the formal application process with all required documents, which include:

    • Completed application
    • 2.75 grade point average (GPA)
    • Hold a current special education teaching credential or take EDUU 511 Collaboration For Inclusive Schooling
    • Resume showing at least part-time employment in a field which uses Applied Behavior Analysis (i.e., education, medicine, social work, occupational or speech therapy)
    • Official transcripts from all regionally accredited institutions where baccalaureate and/or post-baccalaureate coursework was completed or attempted
    Transcripts

    Only credits from regionally accredited institutions may be accepted in transfer. Failure to report any previous academic work at another college or university may be considered a violation of academic integrity.

    HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT THE MASTER'S IN BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS REQUIREMENTS? Request more information>

    Master of Arts in Special Education Program Curriculum

    • Code Course Name Credits
       Prerequisite:    
       EDUU 511

       Collaboration For Inclusive Schooling for current special education credential

      (not required for students in the Teaching and Learning program)

      3
       Core (18 credits)    
      EDUU 600 Research and Evaluation Methods

      3

      EDUU 630 Leadership and Policy in Special Education

      3

      EDUU 631 Program Development and Organization in Special Education

      3

      EDUU 632 Advanced Assessment and Program Evaluation in Special Education

      3

      EDUU 661 Collaboration in Special Education

      3

      EDUU 633 Special Education Capstone

      3

      Emphasis Area Elective Courses

      12-21

      When applying, students must select one emphasis area from the options below.

       

      Total Credits

      33-42

    • Students admitting into the Behavior Analysis emphasis area must be employed at least part-time in a field of employment which uses Applied Behavior Analysis. It is strongly recommended that candidates complete their Behavior Analysis emphasis area courses prior to taking the core courses. ABA courses are taken in sequential order at a maximum of one course per session. See an advisor for more information.

      Code Course Name Credits
      EDUU 692 The Science and Philosophical Underpinnings of Applied Behavior Analysis

      3

      EDUU 693 The Foundational Concepts and Principles of Applied Behavior Analysis

      3

      EDUU 694 Using and Analyzing Measurement, Data and Experimental Design in Applied Behavior Analysis

      3

      EDUU 695 Assessment to Guide and Evaluate Intervention in Applied Behavior Analysis

      3

      EDUU 696 Selecting and Implementing Interventions for Behavior Change in Applied Behavior Analysis

      3

      EDUU 697 Program Oversight, Collaboration and Management in Applied Behavior Analysis

      3

      EDUU 698 Ethical Behavior and the Compliance Code for Applied Behavior Analysis   
      Total Credits

      21

    Want More Information About Teaching?

    Explore career opportunities in education that fit your future.

     

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Learn more about special education and strategies that can prepare you for the classroom.

    Special Education

    What are key characteristics of a special education teacher?

    There are many characteristics that are essential for teachers who work with special needs students. Some examples include:

    • They are active listeners
    • They have strong social perception skills
    • They understand how to support different learning styles
    • They’re adept at complex problem solving
    • They are service oriented

    Find out more about these qualities and explore if this helping profession is right for you.  

    What is the difference between special education and inclusive education?

    Historically, students with disabilities were taught separately from the other students, hence the term "special education." That is no longer the case. Today, schools strive to deliver "inclusive education," where special education services are delivered in the general education environment. "All means all" is the philosophy where all students can learn together in the same classroom. Get strategies for fostering inclusive learning

    What is an IEP?

    IEP stands for “Individualized Education Program.” Once a child has been evaluated and their eligibility for services is confirmed, the IEP serves as the roadmap for success based on the student’s unique needs. Special Educators work with a team that includes parents, administrators, and other related service providers to develop the IEP and document.

    Take the next step toward your Master's in Special Education at UMass Global

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