Applied Behavior Analysis
Master of Science
Introduction
Change behavior. Change lives.
The field of applied behavior analysis is growing at a rapid pace, and it’s an incredibly wide-reaching discipline. Behavior analysts work with a variety of client populations and settings:
- Large companies to increase employee satisfaction and retention
- Athletes to improve overall performance
- Teachers to increase classroom management practices and student success
- Clients seeking support with health and wellness routines
- Government agencies working in the criminal justice field
- Individuals with autism to increase socially significant behaviors and independence
John Carroll University’s innovative M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis prepares you for professional BCBA certification. You’ll build a strong foundation in the science of behaviorism through in-depth coursework and immersive field experiences.
Pathway to BCBA Certification
Our ABA program prepares students to apply for certification as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and as a Certified Ohio Behavior Analyst.
Rich Fieldwork Experiences
Gain valuable experience in healthcare facilities, outpatient clinicals, public schools, and other settings related to behavior change.
Networking Opportunities
Build relationships with your peers, professors, and industry leaders. Your classroom and fieldwork experiences alike can connect you with career opportunities.
Academics
Program Overview & Outcomes
In our rigorous, 39-credit ABA master’s program, you will learn to:
- Measure and analyze dimensions of behavior
- Design and implement appropriate and ethical behavior change procedures
- Apply the principles of behavior change in business, counseling, and education settings
- Communicate skillfully across multidisciplinary teams
Rooted in JCU’s Jesuit values of whole-person care, you will also develop into a compassionate, ethical leader ready to positively impact lives. See full degree requirements at the JCU Academic Catalog.
Program Mission & Values
The Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis program aims to create professional behavior analysts who embody the Jesuit value of caring for the whole person. The program strives to provide rigorous instruction of behavior analytic principles and concepts to ensure our students engage in high quality and person centered services. The program strives to offer a broad range of experiences that prepare students to develop strong competencies in all areas of behavior analytics. We encourage our students to develop a strong identity as a behavior analyst rooted in values aligned with becoming leaders in the field.
Program objectives:
- Prepare students to become competent and effective behavior analysts and support the behavior change of socially valid goals.
- Provide rigorous instruction in the experimental, applied, and conceptual analysis of behavior and in research methods analyzing behavior change.
- Ensure understanding of basic principles of human behavior and apply those concepts in their specific area of interest.
- Provide a rigorous curriculum along with high quality applied experiences to build strong behavior analytic skills.
- Promote commitment to the field of behavior analysis through involvement in professional organizations and encourage a professional identity as a behavior analyst.
The Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis program values the ethical and moral application of behavior analytic principles to all clients we serve. In alignment with our mission our values include:
- Walking alongside our clients in the behavior change process
- Supporting socially valid behavior change
- Supporting the development of self-determination skills
- Providing assent based services
- Care for all direct and indirect consumers of our services
- Listening to and supporting the voices of the consumers of our services
The BCBA Demand Gap
The need for Board Certified Behavior Analysts is growing at a rate rarely seen in any other profession. In 2025, there were over 132,000 job postings for BCBA positions, but only about 83,000 professionals held the credential nationwide (CertifyndABA, 2026).
Convenience Meets Connection
Our hybrid model combines the convenience of remote learning with the faculty mentorship and peer-to-peer networking essential for professional growth. With classes meeting online twice a month and in-person twice a month, you get a predictable routine that allows you to apply what you learn in real-time at your job site.
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The BCBA Demand Gap
The need for Board Certified Behavior Analysts is growing at a rate rarely seen in any other profession. In 2025, there were over 132,000 job postings for BCBA positions, but only about 83,000 professionals held the credential nationwide (CertifyndABA, 2026).
-
Convenience Meets Connection
Our hybrid model combines the convenience of remote learning with the faculty mentorship and peer-to-peer networking essential for professional growth. With classes meeting online twice a month and in-person twice a month, you get a predictable routine that allows you to apply what you learn in real-time at your job site.
Admission
To apply to the M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis program at JCU, you need:
- an undergraduate degree in a recognized area from an accredited institution
- an undergraduate cumulative GPA of at least 2.75 (on a 4.0 scale)
The following documents are required for a complete application to the ABA program:
- Online application
- Official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended
- Resume/CV, which includes work and volunteer experience
- Two letter(s) of recommendation
- Statement of Purpose - in 400-600 words, explain your career objectives and goals
- Faculty Interview
Additional requirements for international students can be found under "Global Admission Steps" on the How To Apply page..
Applicants are admitted on a rolling basis. The Applied Behavior Analysis program accepts applications for the summer and fall terms.
For best consideration, applications for specific terms should be received by the following dates:
- August 1: For a fall semester start
- February 15: For Graduate or Athletic Assistant positions (fall semester start)
- April 1: For a summer semester start
Other JCU Graduate Programs
If you studied psychology, social work, education, or a related field at the undergraduate level, these JCU master’s programs may also appeal to you.
Careers
Affiliated Organizations
JCU's ABA program works closely with a number of affiliated organizations to prepare students for rewarding careers in autism intervention, general and special education, healthcare, human resources, and other areas. During the program, and after, they can work as case managers, program directors, coaches, and counselors; allowing them the opportunity to experience ABA in diverse and expanding fields.
Next Steps
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