The Online BA in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Studies at MBU

Prepare Yourself to Make a Difference in the Lives of Children and Adults

Make a lasting difference in the lives of people with autism and other developmental disorders with a 100% online Bachelor of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Autism Studies from Mary Baldwin University. 

This comprehensive program equips you with the skills, knowledge and compassion to address the needs of individuals across diverse settings. 

Designed for those who want to create positive change, this program offers the flexibility to learn from anywhere, preparing you to become a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) or to pursue further education in the field.

Why Earn Your BA In Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Studies at Mary Baldwin?

The prevalence of autism continues to rise, with the CDC reporting 1 in 36 children under 8 have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, an increase from 1 in 44 children just 5 years earlier.* There’s a growing need for skilled professionals who can deliver evidence-based interventions. At MBU, we prepare students to excel in this vital field, equipping them with the skills to create meaningful change. Students learn to:

  • Support individuals and families. Learn how to design and implement effective behavioral interventions that improve quality of life.
  • Prepare for certification. Complete Association for Behavior Analysis International-verified coursework that meets the educational requirements to sit for the BCaBA exam.
  • Learn from experts. Study with experienced faculty dedicated to the science and practice of ABA.
  • Study on your schedule. Take advantage of a flexible, fully online format that fits into your busy life.

Curriculum Highlights

Students in the BA in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Studies program gain expertise in behavior analysis, assessment techniques and intervention strategies. They explore autism-specific topics, including characteristics, support strategies and inclusive practices. 

They also get the opportunity to study the ethical and practical applications of ABA in real-world scenarios, fulfilling 70 hours of practicum work. The MBU program collaborates with students to arrange and secure ideal matches with qualified supervisors. Majors also complete a culminating capstone project.

Students can also choose to save time and money by earning the BA in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Studies and an MS in Applied Behavior Analysis in five years.

Admissions Requirements

No application fee is required for undergraduate students. The Online Admissions Office reviews applications and renders an admission decision within three business days. More information on admission requirements for online students can be found here: https://catalog.marybaldwin.edu/mbu-online-undergraduate-admission

  • All undergraduate degree programs require a high school diploma or some college experience.
  • Students with no prior college experience who have a cumulative GPA of 2.6 on their high school transcript are automatically accepted into MBU Online pending they have no academic, disciplinary, or criminal issues.
  • Students below 2.6 will be sent to a review by the MBU Online Committee to evaluate if the student can be offered conditional admission, “special student status” or would be denied admission to the University.
  • Students applying for an undergraduate degree program with some college experience:  
  • Students with a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher on their most recent college transcripts are automatically accepted into MBU Online pending they have no academic, disciplinary or criminal issues.
  • Students with a 1.7 to 2.0 could be offered conditional admission to the University pending approval by committee.
  • Students with a 1.7 or lower will be sent to a review by the MBU online admissions committee to evaluate if the student can be offered “special student status” or would be denied admission to the University.
  • Undergraduate students are not required to provide a personal statement or resume for admission.
  • Proof of English proficiency: Fluent in written and spoken English. Non-native English speakers must submit one of the following with the minimum score noted: Duolingo, 130; IELTS, 7.0; TOEFL, 98.

Eligibility For Certification Exams

The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) has verified applicable MBU courses toward the coursework requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® or Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst® exam. Applicants must meet additional eligibility requirements and demonstrate they reside in an authorized country to be eligible to take the examination.

All ABAI Verified Course Sequences are required to publish pass rates of their students who take the BCaBA and BCBA examinations. View the BCBA and BCaBA Examination Pass Rates 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.

Ready to Find Out More About MBU Online Degree Programs?

If you have questions, reach out to discuss your goals and explore how this program aligns with them. Our admissions team is dedicated to supporting you every step of the way – from selecting your degree and completing your application to preparing for your first day of class.

We’re excited about the opportunity to help you take the next step in your academic journey.