Special Education and Child Development: Applied Behavior Analysis, M.Ed. – Online
Program Overview
The Master of Education in Special Education and Child Development with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is crafted for those seeking to advance their expertise in special education and fulfill the coursework required to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Our program includes a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) that aligns with the 5th Edition coursework requirements set by The Behavior Analyst Certification Board, qualifying you to sit for the BCBA exam.
Program Highlights
100% Online Coursework: Enjoy the flexibility of completing your 33-credit hour program entirely online. Most courses are offered in a “live” synchronous format, providing real-time interactions between instructors and students to foster a supportive learning community.
Specialized Instruction: Courses are tailored to discuss strategies and concepts specifically for supporting individuals with disabilities in various settings such as schools, homes, and communities.
Professional Faculty: Learn from distinguished faculty members who are either board certified behavior analysts or have extensive training and experience in applied behavior analysis.
Special Education and Child Development: ABA, M.Ed. at a Glance
Advance your expertise with the Special Education and Child Development: Applied Behavior Analysis, M.Ed. program at UNC Charlotte. Designed for educators and professionals, this program equips you with the skills to support individuals with disabilities. Learn evidence-based practices and prepare for BCBA certification.
Delivery
Online
Credits
33 Credit Hours
Admits
Spring, Summer & Fall
Courses
The majority of coursework is offered via synchronous instructional formats. Synchronous online learning involves live, online teaching in recurring weekly time slots.
A bachelor’s degree from a university accredited by a US Department of Education-recognized institutional accreditor, in special education, psychology, social work, or a related field.
All previous work beyond high school documenting an overall grade point average of at least 3.0 (based on a 4.0 scale).
Copies of unofficial transcripts from all academic coursework beyond high school.
Official agency reports of satisfactory Graduate Record Examination (GRE) test score (30th percentile or above).
At least 6 months of documented experience working with individuals with exceptionalities.
Three recommendations from professional educators familiar with the applicant’s personal and professional qualifications. Applicants will provide reference contact names and email addresses through the application portal.
A copy of resume, listing the applicant’s professional experience.
A statement of purpose of no more than two pages describing the applicant’s experience and objective in undertaking graduate study in applied behavior analysis.
Please note: The Applied Behavior Analysis concentration will not lead to eligibility for advanced teaching licensure.
Application Deadlines
The next available term for admission will be Spring 2026.
What Can You Do With the UNC Charlotte Special Education and Child Development: Applied Behavior Analysis, M.Ed. program?
UNC Charlotte alumni who are Board Certified Behavior Analysts serve in diverse occupations such as:
School Psychologists
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers
School Teachers
Behavioral Specialists
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists
Medical Assistants
Strong salary expectations
Lightcast, a global leader in labor market analytics research, collects job and salary data from UNC Charlotte graduates. Lightcast surveyed UNC Charlotte graduates who are Board Certified Behavior Analysts and found their estimated average annual salary to be $72,400.
Why UNC Charlotte?
Flexible Learning: Study from the comfort of your home or office with our fully online program.
Interactive Community: Participate in synchronous classes that promote a collaborative learning environment, offering support and problem-solving opportunities with peers and instructors.
Career-Ready Skills: Develop the skills, knowledge, and competencies required to become an effective behavior analyst, improving the quality of life for individuals with disabilities.
Tuition
Resident: $288.82 per credit hour
Outside of NC Non-Resident: $536.98 per credit hour