The Master’s of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program at Penn State Harrisburg is designed to prepare graduates to develop comprehensive solutions to socially important problems. The program includes coursework required to sit for the Behavior Analysis Certification Board (BACB) Exam and at least 1,000 hours of Concentrated Supervised Fieldwork. Most students complete the entirety of the BACB fieldwork requirement (1,500 hours) before graduation. In addition to course work and practicum, students complete a master’s project (e.g., empirical research) under the guidance and mentorship of a faculty member.
Currently accepting applications for Fall 2025.
The program admits about 15 students, full-time (9 credits/semester) or part-time (3-6 credits/semester), each academic year. Applying for admissions in the fall semester is recommended, although spring applicants are considered on a case-by-case basis. Admissions to the program is competitive, with preference for highly qualified applicants with demonstrated proficiency in academic (e.g., undergraduate) and clinical (e.g., related work experience) settings. Full-time students typically complete the program in about two years, perhaps with an additional semester to complete the master project. The length of the program for part-time students depends on the individual program of study.
When Kimberly Schreck and Richard Foxx established the master’s of arts in applied behavior analysis program more than 20 years ago, it was intended not only to prepare students to meet the requirements to sit for the Behavior Analysis Certification Board Exam, but also ... continue reading about ABA's 20th anniversary >>>
ABA Program Features
- Verified Course Sequence (5th Edition Task List) and Concentrated Supervised Fieldwork, which meet the requirements of the Behavior Analysis Certification Board.
- Evening class times designed to meet the needs of working professionals.
- Attend classes full- or part-time.
- Receive training from national recognized experts in Applied Behavior Analysis.
- Graduates are eligible for Pennsylvania licensure as a Behavior Specialist.
- Numerous opportunities to participate in research, labs, conferences, and many other unique professional development activities.
- Be part of a vast network of supportive alumni, peers, and practicing behavior analysts.
- At Penn State Harrisburg, our students are our focus.
In-person Training Model
- The ABA Program offers a decidedly in-person, face-to-face graduate training experience. We believe this approach is critical to prepare highly skilled behavior analysts.
Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) 5th edition course work
The Association for Behavior Analysis International has verified the following courses toward the coursework requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® examination.
About Applied Behavior Analysis
Do you ever wonder why people do what they do? After all, many of the problems people face each day are the result of human behavior. Perhaps more importantly, have you ever wondered how to help someone change his or her behavior to live a happier and healthier life?
We in the Applied Behavior Analysis program at Penn State Harrisburg seek answers to these questions, as well as other important questions related to human behavior. Our overriding mission is to improve socially important behavior through applied behavior analysis and to teach our students to do the same.
The course of study in the ABA Program at Penn State Harrisburg is designed to give students the skills of a component behavior analyst: In-depth understanding of applied behavioral technology, experimental analysis, methodology, and behavioral philosophy.
If you are passionate about applied behavior analysis and want to do your part to make the world a better place, consider applying to the Penn State Harrisburg Applied Behavior Analysis program today.
After Graduation
A 2018 report published by the Behavior Analysis Certification Board shows that demand for behavior analysts has increased by approximately 800 percent from 2010 to 2017 in almost every state. Graduates of the Penn State Harrisburg ABA program serve a wide range of individuals across a multitude of settings around the world. Many of our graduates take positions as behavior analysts serving individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Some of our graduates forge new paths and avenues for behavior analysis (e.g., training teachers and school support staff in behavioral interventions). Graduates of the program have completed doctoral training, started service provider companies, act as program directors, engage in advocacy and legislative change, and most importantly, serve as behavior analysts providing support for individuals in need.
Certification and Licensure
- Students who complete the program will have completed the coursework and degree requirements to sit for the Behavior Analysis Certification Board (BACB) exam, as well as at least 1,000 Supervised Fieldwork hours. Most students complete the entirety of the BACB fieldwork requirement (1,500 hours) before graduation.
- Students who complete the program meet the requirements to apply for the Pennsylvania Behavior Specialist License.
- Many US states and territories require professional licensure/certification to be employed. If you plan to pursue employment in a licensed profession after completing this program, please visit the Professional Licensure/Certification Disclosures by State interactive map.
Program Overview - Video Presentation
