Applied Behavior Analysis, M.S.

Saint Louis University's M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis involves the application of behavioral principles to produce socially significant changes in behavior. 

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is the science of how and why behavior occurs. The science is used to work with individuals and organizations looking to make socially significant changes in behavior, focused on increasing well-being. Those who use applied behavior analysis work in a variety of fields, including working with individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities, those with mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders, working in organizations to improve culture and performance, sports, health, and fitness, criminal justice, diversity, equity, inclusion and access (DEIA), schools and education and medical health institutions. Practitioners use direct assessments, research and foundational principles and concepts of behavior to design and evaluate interventions. SLU’s ABA programs focus on providing students with a diverse set of experiences in the many applications of ABA while ensuring a focus on providing a safe space for students to develop their cultural humility so they can effectively work with a diverse client population.

There are three things that set SLU’s master's ABA program apart from other programs. First, we are dedicated to creating a culturally humble environment where students are required to explore their own biases and develop the skills necessary to provide culturally humble services to clients across all settings. Second, students are provided a flat fee for their education, ensuring there are no unforeseen expenses or unplanned cost increases in tuition. Third, students complete their required fieldwork experience as part of the program, providing additional guidance and oversight as they practice their skills and ensuring they do not have to seek out fieldwork experiences on their own.

SLU’s ABA program provides state-of-the-art in-person and online learning that prepares students for a successful career. The program has a strong diversity, equity and inclusion focus to ensure students are prepared to provide the best services possible to a variety of clients across settings. Graduates of SLU’s ABA program are well-positioned to apply to Ph.D. programs around the country in behavior analysis and other fields. Students who complete a thesis often gain opportunities to present their research at local and national conferences and gain publication in peer-reviewed journals.