Frequently Asked Questions 
MS in Applied Behavior Analysis

Graduates of the MS program in ABA have the coursework required for board certification in applied behavior analysis. A Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®) can work as a behavior analyst in a variety of settings such as schools, homes and community settings.

The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) has verified the 7-course sequence within the program toward the coursework requirements for eligibility to take the BCBA or Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst® (BCaBA®) examination. Applicants will need to meet additional requirements before they can be deemed eligible to take the examination.

The MS in Applied Behavior Analysis program provides a master of science degree in applied behavior analysis in addition to the verified coursework approved by the ABAI. The Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study in Applied Behavior Analysis is for those that have completed a master's degree and provides approved coursework only. Applicants with a bachelor's degree may pursue a Certificate of Graduate Study in Applied Behavior Analysis with the option to transfer certificate coursework into the MS degree program.

Approximately 50 percent of the coursework is offered online with the other 50 percent offered in person. Online programming is a mixture of hybrid (live discussion components with instructor and classmates) and asynchronous content.

The master's program can be completed in 11 months and requires 36 credits.

The program can be completed in two years if attending part-time.

The Office of Financial Aid provides detailed cost of attendance information.

Yes, due to the hybrid nature of the curriculum as well as in person classes offered in the evenings, students are able to work during the program as well as accrue supervised field experience if needed.

Yes, the ABA degree program has practicum coursework built in that would enable students to complete some (or all) of the supervised fieldwork hours required for the BCBA examination. Visit BACB.com for more details about the national certification.

In most cases, students will complete practica experiences that are geographically convenient. Faculty will assist and guide students in finding the appropriate placements. Students may also receive assistance from our Professional and Career Development Program run by the Office of Student Affairs.

For more information, please contact:

PCOM Office of Admissions
Email: admissions@pcom.edu
Phone: 215-871-6700 | Fax: 215-872-6719