ABAI logoHelp People Solve Their Behavioral Issues

Applied behavior analysis is the scientific study of human behavior with the goal of helping individuals improve their social, educational, health, adaptive skills, and behavioral outcomes through the development of programming based on the principles of ABA.

UM-Dearborn offers two different paths to earning your Master of Science degree in applied behavior analysis. The accelerated 4+1 path can save you significant time and more than $12,000 in tuition.

Where an Applied Behavior Analysis Degree Will Take YouStudent teacher working with student.

The degree will equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to work in clinical, educational, pre-vocational, vocational, home, and community settings. You may provide services to individuals who have problems involving academic performance, basic skills, behavior, and social interactions. You also may collect and analyze data, write and evaluate behavior intervention plans, train others to implement treatment plans, and oversee implementation of treatment plans.
Completion of the M.S. prepares you to complete the required supervised field work and sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst examination.

Career and Salary Outlook

The information in this table is meant to give you an idea of career opportunities with this degree. All information is pulled from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and is meant to be averages across the United States for 2023. Please note that these figures reflect overall averages and may not represent entry-level salaries.

$53,710 Median Salary

Behavioral Counselors (master’s usually required)

Employment of substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors is projected to grow 19 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.

About 48,900 openings for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Program Details

Ready to Apply?

Tuition

Estimate your cost of attendance per semester.

Graduate Tuition Calculator

Application Deadlines

This program will only admit students starting in the Fall term. Priority application deadline is March 15 and the hard application deadline is May 15.

View Advisory Deadlines

Graduate Scholarships

Learn about scholarship opportunities for new and continuing graduate students.

View Scholarships

Next Steps

Become a part of the UM-Dearborn community and put your dreams to work for you.