Programs in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Master's Degree (MS) or Advanced Certificate Start Your Application We welcome applications on a rolling basis. The next priority application deadline is July 1, 2025. View deadline details Part-Time or Full-Time Online Learning Options Start Any Semester Program Overview The Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program at the Warner School prepares students to be leaders in the clinical practice of behavior analysis. Our comprehensive program prepares students for the national board certification examination in behavior analysis as well as the New York State licensure requirements. Our program is the only ABA master’s degree program in the country that is offered in collaboration with a major medical center. Tailor your education to your professional interests and career goals by choosing from six specialization areas: Autism and Developmental DisabilitiesDevelopment (Child/Adolescent/Adulthood)Diversity, Equality and Inclusion GerontologyMedical Applications of ABAResearchThis program offers a fully supported practicum in which students receive mentorship from board-certified and New York State-licensed behavior analysts. Students are carefully matched to practicum sites that are available within the University of Rochester Medical Center behavioral treatment clinics and in community-based settings such as schools and early intervention programs. Additionally, research opportunities are available to students who are interested in learning how to conduct research or want to better prepare themselves for doctoral studies. Graduates of our program have the potential to become board-certified shortly after completing their degree. Join a network of successful alumni who are employed throughout New York State, nationally and internationally. Key Program FeaturesVerified Course Sequence: Our program ensures that graduating students meet the educational requirements for both the national credential examination and the New York State behavior analyst licensure.Co-constructed Program of Study and Curriculum: Collaborate with program advisors and mentors to tailor your education. Develop an individualized program of study reflecting your unique clinical research and leadership interests within the field.Supervised Practicum: Gain hands-on experience through a minimum of one semester of practicum. Our concentrated supervised fieldwork meets the requirements set by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. As “behavior analysts-in-training,” you’ll have the opportunity to complete your practicum in a wide variety of settings, such as school districts, non-profit agencies and the University of Rochester Medical Center behavioral clinics. Mentorship: Benefit from a junior colleague model, where students receive supervision and guidance from program faculty and community-based behavior analysts. Our mentors meet supervisory requirements and demonstrate clinical aptitude and effectiveness in their respective areas of clinical specialization. Additionally, mentorship in behavioral-analytic research is available for students interested in pursuing doctoral studies in the future. PrerequisitesFor the Master’s Degree: Successful completion of a bachelor’s degree. Historically, most behavior analysis students have had an undergraduate degree in education, psychology, human development, sociology or a related field. However, anyone interested in behavior analysis, helping people or addressing issues of social importance is welcome to apply. Before initiating the application process, program faculty are available to meet with students who believe that behavior analysis may meet their career goals. For the Advanced Certificate: Completed master’s degree in psychology, education or other approved subjects (as required by the Behavior Analysis Certification Board). Program faculty are available before the application process to answer questions and determine if an Advanced Certificate matches your career goals. For Both: Both programs include all the coursework and at least 225 hours of a university credit-bearing practicum experience; the additional practicum hours needed to sit for the state licensing and BCBA exams may be accrued by students independently, or by taking our credit-bearing practicum for multiple semesters. Applicants must display the disposition needed to work as clinicians in collaboration with other disciplines, serving a diverse population with learning and behavioral needs across different service contexts. Scholarships, Tuition, & Financial Aid Learn more ABA Scholarships & AwardsContact our admissions team to see if your school district is eligible for scholarships or awards.admissions@warner.rochester.edu(585) 275-3950 Questions? Contact us Certification Options Both of the following programs include all the coursework and at least 225 hours of university-supervised ABA practicum experience; the additional practicum hours needed to sit for the state licensing and BCBA exams can be accrued by students independently, or by taking our credit-bearing practicum multiple times: MS in Applied Behavior Analysis and Human DevelopmentThe 30-credit program is for individuals who do not have a master’s degree in an approved area. MS in Applied Behavior Analysis and Human Development Advanced Certificate in Applied Behavior AnalysisFor individuals who already have a master’s degree in an approved area; may allow for some transfer credits from previous and/or concurrent graduate programs. Advanced Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis Licensure in other statesFor information on whether completion of this program will qualify for licensure in another state, please consult with the Department of Education in that state. Customize Your DegreeOur degrees are designed to meet your interests and career aspirations. Whether you want to add an advanced certificate or specialize in a distinct area of emphasis, we can help craft the best option for you. Contact us Frequently Asked Questions Is Applied Behavior Analysis only for individuals with Autism? Behavior analysts have the opportunity to work with a diverse range of individuals, including those with developmental and intellectual disabilities, young children with behavioral challenges, professionals in organizational management and individuals with Autism. Their expertise is sought after in various settings, including schools, hospitals, businesses, nursing homes and specialized clinics. Do I need to be a board-certified behavior analyst? In New York State and all other states that require a license to practice behavior analysis, Board Certification is required as part of the pathway to licensure. The ABA program at Warner meets the requirements for taking the BCBA Certification Examination administered by the Behavior Analysis Certification Board. We work with our students to develop individualized study plans for the certification examination. The National Board Certification Examination information is also available on the Behavior Analysis Certification Board’s website. Do I need to be licensed to practice behavior analysis in New York? A license is required to legally practice behavior analysis in New York State. Additionally, licensure is currently required in 32 other states. Ready to Apply? Start Your Application We welcome applications on a rolling basis. The next priority application deadline is July 1, 2025. View deadline details A Growing Need for Behavior Analysts Behavior analysts work with a wide variety of people. Some of the professional areas in which behavior analysts are employed include:AgingAutism Early intervention servicesCorporations and businesses that use organizational behavior management strategies Head injuries and other neurological conditionsIntellectual and developmental disabilitiesPublic and private schoolsMedical clinics Mental health services Employment Outlook The employment outlook in New York State, the United States and internationally is strong. Jobs for behavior analysts are frequently advertised and available throughout the country. It is anticipated that jobs for behavior analysts in New York will increase due to the recent legislative changes. The starting salary range for behavior analysts is between $60,000 to $85,000 per year with many behavior analysts making significantly more within a few years of graduation. /directory/david-mcadam Program Director David McAdamAssociate Professor (Clinical) View David's profile Contact Admissions (585) 275-3950 admissions@warner.rochester.edu Request InformationReceive a $70 application fee waiver when you complete the form below.Loading... Take a Course Before You ApplyTake a course before you apply to one of our programs for a discounted price. Inquire with admissions to learn about credits that also apply toward degree requirements. 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