At Mary Baldwin University, we recognize the pressing need for educators and human services professionals with expert training in the fields of Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Studies. We go beyond traditional approaches, providing a deep understanding of behavior change principles grounded in theory and effective practice—you’ll gain the comprehensive tools and expertise needed to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and communities.
Our online programs provide exceptional value and flexibility in how you earn your degree or certificate. With 100% online coursework centered on current best practices, you will acquire the skills and knowledge you need on your schedule. Apply today to begin preparing for a career in one of the fastest-growing, in-demand fields in clinical services.
Did you know?
Coursework in ABA has been offered at Mary Baldwin since 1993, with a comprehensive certificate in ASD since 2019, and an approved program for those seeking ABA board certification first offered in 2012.
At Mary Baldwin University, we’ve designed our graduate Applied Behavior Analysis programs to prepare you to do effective, ethical work in the field. Through our curriculum, you’ll explore cutting-edge strategies and evidence-based practices, all backed by the latest research in the field while centering around values of compassion, quality of life, and best practice when working with clients/patients.
The field of ABA is not limited to working with individuals with autism and other disabilities; often those with training in ABA explore other areas of application including business, criminal justice, social work, and related fields. At MBU, we do offer additional specialized training related to individuals with autism spectrum disorders (required for students in the ABA & Autism Studies major; optional for other ABA students). Those who complete this additional course sequence will also receive the Comprehensive Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorder, which has been endorsed by the Virginia Autism Council.
Additionally, students seeking credentials through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® will learn and practice a number of behavioral strategies in the context of their program during supervised fieldwork experiences.
All ABA programs 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.
Time for Completion: 2 years
Degree Earned: Master of Science
Learn the knowledge and skills needed to improve the lives of others by enrolling in the MS in Applied Behavior Analysis from MBU. Our program is designed to provide a thorough understanding of behavior change principles grounded in theory and applied practice. Our faculty are industry professionals committed to mentoring students throughout their academic journey, providing personalized support to match their goals. Students apply what they learn through hands-on experience that’s essential to becoming an effective behavior analyst. Our flexible online format allows students to study fully online, balancing their education with professional and personal commitments.
Our comprehensive curriculum meets the BACB®’s Pathway 2 requirements for board examination eligibility to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® examination. Applicants will need to meet additional eligibility requirements and demonstrate that they reside in an authorized country before the BACB® will approve them to take the examination. Course highlights include:
Time for Completion: 18-24 months
Degree(s) Earned: Master of Arts, Comprehensive Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Our comprehensive Master’s in Autism Studies will prepare you for effective and ethical work alongside students with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Through inquiry-based courses, you’ll learn about the neurological, communicative, and sensory experiences of children with ASD. You’ll also study practical strategies for nurturing K-12 students with ASD, such as behavioral interventions and instructional practice. Course highlights include:
Time for Completion: 1 year
Degree(s) Earned: Certificate
The Post-Bachelor’s Certificate in ABA program at Mary Baldwin provides you with an understanding of behavior change principles grounded in theory and effective practice. This program was specifically designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree and are seeking undergraduate-level ABA credentials. Through the program, you’ll learn to systematically improve socially significant behaviors, identify variables crucial for behavior change through experimentation, teach appropriate behaviors, and reduce problem behaviors while replacing them with more desirable alternatives.
Our comprehensive curriculum meets the BACB®’s Pathway 2 requirements for board examination eligibility to take the Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst® examination. Applicants will need to meet additional eligibility requirements and demonstrate that they reside in an authorized country before the BACB® will approve them to take the examination.
Courses are offered online and are centered on affirming clinical practice. Course highlights include:
Time for Completion: 15-18 months
Degree(s) Earned: Certificate
The Post-Master’s Certificate in ABA program at Mary Baldwin provides you with an understanding of advanced behavior change principles grounded in theory and effective practice. This program was specifically designed for students who already hold a master’s degree and are seeking graduate-level ABA credentials.
Our comprehensive curriculum meets the BACB®’s Pathway 2 requirements for board examination eligibility to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® examination. Applicants will need to meet additional eligibility requirements and demonstrate that they reside in an authorized country before the BACB® will approve them to take the examination.
Courses are offered online and are centered on affirming clinical practice. Course highlights include:
Mary Baldwin’s Comprehensive Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is specifically designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively support autistic individuals, both within educational settings and the wider community. Approved by the Virginia Autism Council, this certificate program is a testament to MBU’s commitment to excellence and innovation in the field. By enrolling in our 100% online autism certificate program, you’ll be part of a pioneering initiative that aims to transform the lives of individuals with autism.
This certificate is available as:
Time for Completion: 15-18 months
Degree(s) Earned: Certificate
The IBA Coursework in ABA program at Mary Baldwin provides you with an understanding of advanced behavior change principles grounded in theory and effective practice. This program was specifically designed for international students who already hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree who are seeking to become credentialed as an International Behavior Analyst® through the International Behavior Analysis Organization®.
Through engaging coursework and personal advising, the International Behavior Analyst Coursework Certificate prepares you for a variety of professional roles like:
Mary Baldwin University’s Graduate Applied Behavior Analysis degrees and certificates provide the tools you need to take the next step in your career and make an even bigger difference in your community. We place a strong emphasis on collaboration and encourage interdisciplinary approaches, recognizing that addressing the needs of individuals with autism and other developmental disorders requires a holistic and inclusive approach. Earning your master’s degree or certificate from MBU can open new doors for career growth, leadership opportunities and personal fulfillment.
