ABA Programs at Auburn University

Auburn University offers a Master of Science degree in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) that prepares students to become successful behavior analysts. Students in this non-thesis program receive detailed training through academic coursework and hands-on experience to become skilled professionals.

Applied Behavior Analysis is a scientific discipline that studies human behavior. Its goal is to understand, explain, describe, and predict how people act. The field has two main branches: the Experimental Analysis of Behavior (EAB) focuses on laboratory research in all species, while Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) applies these findings to real-life applications.

The program’s strength lies in its rigorous structure. Students must complete an intensive practicum of 1,500 hours in different service settings. They spend about 20 hours each week in on-site training during each semester and work with people from various backgrounds. The program also includes weekly practicum classes, small group supervision, and one-on-one meetings to give a full professional development experience.

Students must attend full-time and complete six consecutive semesters (24 months) on campus. They train in various settings throughout the Alabama community:

• An on-campus ABA clinic for early intervention in autism/developmental disabilities
• Home-based services for intervention and caregiver training
• Public school district consultation and staff training
• Inclusive pre-school intervention programs
• Services in the foster care system through collaboration with Alabama Department of Human Resources
• Juvenile corrections facility for behavioral intervention and academic instruction

This variety of training environments helps graduates apply behavior analytic principles effectively with different groups and situations.

Auburn’s program stands out with its thesis-equivalent capstone research project. Students begin this work in their first year and continue throughout their studies. This research helps them develop critical thinking and scientific inquiry skills they need for evidence-based practice.

The program’s results speak for themselves. In the last five years, 100% of enrolled students graduated within two years and all graduates passed the BCBA certification exam. The program takes pride in its 100% pass rate for first-time BCBA certification exam test takers over the last five years.

Getting into the program isn’t easy. Each year, about 47 people apply, but only 6 students get accepted. This selective approach ensures each student gets personal attention and maintains high standards.

The program meets all coursework and experience requirements set by the Behavior Analysis Certification Board (BACB). Graduates can take the certification exam to become Board Certified Behavior Analysts right after completing the program. The BACB has approved both the coursework and experience training.

The program aims to:

• Provide excellent graduate coursework that teaches both theory and practice of behavior analysis
• Offer clinical internships in different practice areas
• Add to the field through research on social and behavioral problems
• Prepare students for possible doctoral training

The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) Accreditation Board has accredited this program. This recognition confirms the program’s quality and shows it meets field standards.

Auburn University started in 1856 and now offers several psychology-focused degrees, including this specialized ABA program. The program belongs to the College of Liberal Arts and represents one part of Auburn’s educational offerings.

What ABA programs does Auburn University offer?

Auburn University’s Department of Psychological Sciences offers several specialized graduate-level programs in Applied Behavior Analysis. Students get both theoretical knowledge and practical skills they need to build successful careers in behavior analysis.

Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis

Auburn’s flagship ABA program is the Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis. This non-thesis program started in Fall 2003 and boasts a 92 percent BCBA certification success rate. Students complete the program in six consecutive semesters, which takes two full years including summer terms.

The MS in ABA program requirements are:

• 24 semester hours of classroom coursework
• 21 semester hours of formal practicum training
• A total of 45 credit hours overall

Students complete 750 practicum hours at the on-site ABA Clinic and partner locations like Engage Behavioral Health, Transformations Autism Treatment Center, and Monarch House. Their practical experience adds up to 1,500 supervised hours in settings of all types.

The curriculum combines behavior analytic principles with clinical applications. Required courses are:

• PSYC 7220: Behavioral Principles
• PSYC 8550: Applied Behavior Analysis
• PSYC 8570: Applied Behavior Analysis 2
• PSYC 7240: Methods for Studying Individual Behavior
• PSYC 7320: Clinical Psychopharmacology
• PSYC 7310: Autism and Intellectual Disabilities
• PSYC 8540: Behaviorism
• PSYC 7260: Ethical & Professional Issues in Behavior Analysis
• PSYC 7910: Practicum in Applied Psychology (12 credits)
• PSYC 7980: Applied Behavior Analysis Capstone Project (9 credits)

Students start their capstone research project in the first year and continue throughout the program. This project helps them gain research experience and contribute to behavior analysis advancement.

The MS in Applied Behavior Analysis earned accreditation from the Association of Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) in 2024, valid through December 31, 2028. Dr. John Rapp leads the program with emphasis on socially meaningful research, clinical application, collaboration, and behavior science sharing.

Graduate Certificate in Intervention for Students with Autism & Developmental Disabilities

Auburn’s Graduate Certificate in Intervention for Students with Autism & Developmental Disabilities serves as another option. Dr. Margaret Flores directs this certificate program specifically designed for professionals who already hold master’s degrees.

Students complete 15 online VCS credits through Blackboard, including courses like Advanced Behavior Management. Working professionals can gain specialized knowledge in autism intervention strategies without pursuing a full degree.

Doctoral Program with ABA Focus

The Cognitive & Behavioral Sciences Ph.D. program awaits those seeking advanced study. Dr. Jennifer Robinson mentors students through this 62-credit doctoral track with dissertation research. Students conduct innovative research in behavior analysis at the MRI Research Center.

Practical Training Environments

Auburn’s ABA programs stand out for their variety of practical training environments. Students learn to work with different populations in multiple settings:

• An on-campus ABA clinic focusing on early intervention for autism spectrum disorders
• Public school district consultation services
• Home-based consultation and intervention services
• Foster family support services throughout Alabama
• Juvenile correction facilities

Weekly practicum classes combine with small group supervision sessions and individual meetings to ensure students master practical skills.

Financial Support Opportunities

The ABA master’s program’s Agency Fellowships help qualified students succeed. Public and private human service agencies throughout the United States sponsor these fellowships. Students receive .50 FTE assistantships with a monthly stipend of $160,000 plus tuition coverage. Fellowship recipients work for their sponsoring agency for one to two years after graduation.

These fellowships support 50-75% of students. Most placements occur in Alabama and the Southeast, though some students work in Utah and Indiana. The program automatically considers all ABA-MS students for fellowships without extra applications.

Students must apply to the master’s program by February 1 for fall semester admission. Small cohort sizes ensure individual attention in this selective program.

Auburn’s ABA programs excel at combining rigorous academics with extensive hands-on experience. Graduates meet all BACB coursework and experience requirements, preparing them for success in applied behavior analysis settings of all types.

Accreditation

Auburn’s Applied Behavior Analysis programs hold prestigious accreditations that prove the university’s excellence in behavior analytic education. The university goes beyond basic coursework by maintaining high standards that leading accrediting bodies recognize.

Auburn’s MS in Applied Behavior Analysis program earned full accreditation from the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) Accreditation Board through December 31, 2028. The ABAI Accreditation Board voted in 2024 to award this five-year status. The Board found that Auburn’s program meets their standards, with just one minor requirement – reporting on an open faculty search within a year.

ABAI accreditation is the gold standard for behavior analysis education and certification preparation. The ABAI Accreditation Board gives programs a complete review against quality standards. Students who join ABAI-accredited programs can trust their education meets the highest standards in the field.

Students get a major advantage because effective January 1, 2022, ABAI-accredited programs fulfill the Behavior Analyst Certification Board’s (BACB) degree and coursework requirements through Pathway 1 for BCBA and BCaBA certification applications. Graduates can move straight into professional practice without certification barriers.

Auburn’s ABA program meets both the BACB’s coursework and experience requirements. The BACB has approved the program’s coursework and experience training components. Graduates can take the Board Certified Behavior Analysts certification exam right after completion.

Auburn University’s ABA Program aligns with the 5th edition BCBA certification standards under the 1500-hour Concentrated Supervised Fieldwork option, with approval from both BACB and ABAI. This shows Auburn’s focus on preparing graduates for real-world success.

The accreditations extend beyond the main ABA program. Auburn University’s Center for Autism Research, Treatment, and Training (CARTT) has earned BHCOE Preliminary Accreditation. This status recognizes CARTT’s commitment to improving applied behavior analysis services. BHCOE Accreditation highlights providers with excellent clinical quality, qualified staff, and satisfied consumers.

CARTT Director Corina Jimenez-Gomez says, “It’s a huge achievement for the team to have earned BHCOE Accreditation. It’s a direct reflection of the care and dedication exemplified each day and we’re all proud to work for a university that supports evidence-based, quality ABA services”.

Students who choose Auburn’s accredited ABA program get:

• A guarantee of high academic and professional standards
• A clear path to BCBA certification through approved coursework and supervised experience
• Better recognition from employers who value accredited program graduates
• Education based on current best practices
• Training that meets national behavior analysis standards

These accreditations give peace of mind to students thinking about Auburn’s masters programs. The credentials prove the program’s quality and adherence to professional standards.

The ABAI Accreditation Board aims to create and implement behavior analysis education standards. Their approval shows Auburn’s program meets these benchmarks. Programs must pass a detailed review of everything from curriculum and faculty credentials to resources and student outcomes.

Auburn’s ABA programs rank among the most carefully evaluated behavior analysis education options available, thanks to both ABAI accreditation and BACB approval. This recognition makes an Auburn ABA degree more valuable in today’s competitive behavior analyst job market.

Tuition

Auburn’s ABA programs offer great value despite being a big financial investment. Students see excellent career outcomes and certification pass rates that make the cost worthwhile. Money matters are a vital factor for anyone looking at Auburn’s master’s programs.

• Alabama Residents: $6,653.00 per semester
• Non-Alabama Residents: $17,993.00 per semester

These rates cover standard on-campus enrollment at nine credit hours per semester – the usual full-time graduate load. Your actual costs might change based on your program and course choices.

Online students in the Auburn ABA program pay different fees. Rather than regular tuition, they pay by credit hour:

Students need about $20,000.00 to complete the 45-credit-hour Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis. This price point makes Auburn competitive nationally, as similar ABA graduate programs cost between $10,000.00 and $30,000.00.

Students should think over these extra costs:

• Books and course materials
• Housing and food expenses
• Transportation
• Personal expenses
• Student services fees

The ABA program provides excellent financial support. Master’s students can receive $160,000 monthly stipends ($19,200.00 yearly) plus tuition help. These stipends usually last two years if students maintain good grades and funding stays available.

Doctoral behavior analysis students receive even better support. They get $180,000 monthly ($21,600.00 yearly) before earning their MS degree, and $220,000 monthly ($26,400.00 yearly) after completing it.

Students with assistantships of .33 FTE or more get tuition fellowships. These cover in-state and out-of-state tuition up to 15 semester credit hours each term. Students just pay an assistantship enrollment fee – $779.00 per semester in fall and spring, or $350.00 in summer.

Health insurance is another key benefit. Students with .25 FTE assistantship or higher automatically join the Graduate Student Group Health Plan. The Graduate School provides a $100,000 subsidy, leaving students to pay $853.00 for single coverage during the academic year. Students who have similar coverage elsewhere can ask to opt out.

Auburn’s Office of Financial Aid helps make education more affordable through:

• Grants
• Loans
• Scholarships
• Federal Work Study
• Student Emergency Funds
• Veterans Benefits

ABA students can also benefit from the Applied Behavior Analysis M.S. program’s Agency Fellowship Program. This covers up to 15 credits per semester and helps students build professional networks while reducing costs.

Graduate education requires substantial investment, but Auburn University makes its ABA programs available to more people. Many students reduce their costs by combining assistantships, fellowships, and traditional financial aid.

Katie Simmons, a Public Relations student from Birmingham, AL shares her experience: “Financial aid played a vital role in my journey to attending Auburn. Taking the time to figure out finances and take action was the first step to investing in my future and getting to experience all that Auburn has to offer”.

Students should reach out to the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships before applying to learn about all funding options for this prestigious program.

Admissions

Getting into Auburn University’s selective ABA programs needs careful planning and attention to detail. The Applied Behavior Analysis Master’s program takes only 6 students annually from about 47 applications. This makes the selection process highly competitive.

Students can apply to the ABA master’s program until February 1 for fall admission. The Applied Behavior Analysis program admits students only in fall semester. This means you need to plan well ahead. Selected candidates will need to attend on-campus interviews, which play a vital part in student selection.

The ABA master’s program accepts students with bachelor’s degrees from any field. The program prefers applicants with grade point averages of 3.0 or higher. Your experience matters as much as your grades. You should highlight any behaviorally oriented courses and practical experience with individuals with disabilities in your application.

Your application for the auburn masters programs must include:

• Official transcripts from all institutions attended
• Statement of intent describing experiences that sparked your interest in applied behavior analysis
• Resume or CV highlighting relevant experience and skills
• Three letters of recommendation
• GRE General Test scores (required specifically for the Applied Behavior Analysis MS program)

The GRE score requirements include 150 on the Verbal and 145 on the Quantitative sections. Auburn University’s ETS institution code is 1005.

International students face additional requirements. Non-native English speakers must prove their English skills through tests. They need a minimum score of 79 on the TOEFL with at least 16 in each section (except speaking, which needs 23), or 6.5 on the IELTS with at least 7 in Speaking.

You can start your application through Auburn University’s Graduate School online portal. Create an account to submit all materials. The application costs $60.00 for domestic students and $70.00 for international students. Some groups can get application fee waivers, including current Auburn graduate students, full-time Auburn employees, and active-duty military personnel.

Domestic students must submit all materials 45 days before classes start. International applicants need to submit 90 days before. All the same, you should apply early due to the program’s competitive nature.

Small class sizes help provide tailored attention and quality training. This strategy works well – 100% of admitted students graduate within two years and pass the BACB certification exam.

Auburn offers other psychology programs too. The Psychology Major B.A. accepts applications until January 15th for Fall and November 1st for Spring entrance. Transfer students can apply by June 1st, November 1st, or May 1st depending on the semester. The Cognitive & Behavioral Sciences Ph.D. program takes applications until January 15th each year.

The Department of Psychological Sciences sends its recommendations to the Graduate School’s Dean for final admission decisions. This careful selection process maintains high standards that make the auburn aba program a leader in behavior analyst training.

What sets Auburn apart?

Auburn University’s graduate programs in behavior analysis stand out in several remarkable ways. The program’s graduates have achieved a perfect 100% passing rate on the BCBA examination. This impressive track record sets Auburn apart from other institutions across the country.

Students benefit from a well-balanced 20:1 student-to-faculty ratio. This setup creates an ideal environment that combines individual attention with group learning. Auburn goes beyond typical requirements by making both practicum and capstone projects mandatory parts of the MS in ABA degree. This approach ensures students excel in both clinical work and research.

The program gives students 1,500 hours of practicum experience. This is a big deal as it means that students get more hands-on training than required for certification. Students work in different settings to prepare for various career paths. The university’s on-campus ABA Clinic serves as the main training facility where students focus on early intervention for autism spectrum disorders.

Students gain additional experience through:

• Home-based services offering intervention and caregiver training
• Public schools providing consultation opportunities
• Inclusive pre-school programs
• Foster care settings through Alabama’s Department of Human Resources
• Juvenile corrections facilities offering behavioral intervention experience

The program’s excellence dates back to its beginnings. Since the first class graduated in August 2003, every student has met the requirements for the BCBA examination. This success comes from careful program design that balances BACB requirements with faculty resources.

Auburn takes an innovative approach to supervised experience. The university built partnerships with service agencies for financial support, which helped hire practicum coordinators. This smart business model improved training quality while managing resources effectively.

Auburn University holds an R1 Doctoral Status with very high research activity in applied behavior analysis. We focused on meaningful research and clinical applications to encourage collaboration and share behavior science knowledge. Students complete an empirical capstone project to become skilled at ABA treatment.

The program’s fellowship model sets it apart. Qualified master’s students receive Agency Fellowships each year without extra paperwork. This shows Auburn’s steadfast dedication to student financial support while creating job opportunities.

Results speak volumes – most Auburn students have job offers before they graduate. This exceptional employment rate reflects the program’s stellar reputation and thorough student preparation.

Auburn’s smart funding approach creates unique benefits. The program attracts top candidates by using faculty resources efficiently and offering fellowship support. Stipends and full tuition waivers lead to a competitive selection process that keeps standards high.

Next steps

Want to apply for the ABA programs at Auburn University? Your experience toward enrollment starts with knowing the exact timeline and requirements needed for a successful application.

You should prepare your application well before the February 1 deadline for fall admission. Students can only begin the program in the fall semester. Your first step is to create an account on the Auburn University Graduate School online application portal and start the submission process.

The auburn masters programs require these materials for a complete application:

1. Statement of Intent describing experiences that stimulated your interest in behavior analysis
2. Detailed CV/Resume highlighting relevant experience
3. Three letters of recommendation from professional references
4. Official GRE General Test scores (required specifically for the ABA MS program)
5. Unofficial transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
6. List of psychology courses taken or planned before enrollment

Domestic students pay an application fee of $60.00 while international applicants pay $70.00. The department invites selected candidates to participate in an on-campus interview shortly after the application deadline.

Good news about funding – all ABA-MS students are automatically considered for Agency Fellowships without extra paperwork. These fellowships offer .50 FTE assistantships with monthly stipends of $160,000 and cover tuition. About 50-75% of students get funding this way.

You’ll hear about admission decisions by March 31 or earlier. Accepted students must confirm their enrollment and complete any additional requirements in their admission letter.

Admitted students should plan their relocation early. The auburn aba program runs exclusively on-campus with no distance education options. Students must commit to six consecutive semesters (24 months) of intensive study and practicum experience.

Your careful preparation of application materials matters a lot. The program accepts only 6 students from roughly 47 applications each year. This makes attention to detail crucial.

The Department of Psychological Sciences website remains your best source for current application information. You’ll find detailed instructions and updates about the admission process for Auburn University’s ABA programs there.