Program Overview
M.Ed in Special Education - ABA Track
The M.Ed. in Special Education – Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Track is designed for professionals with an undergraduate degree in education, psychology, or a related field, who are interested in becoming behavior analysts or teachers who use ABA techniques in their classrooms. ABA includes the design and implementation of assessment procedures and intervention strategies to teach new behaviors that are socially valid and to replace behaviors that are problematic for the individual and society. Additional requirements by the BACB to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst include supervision, degree status, and examination; more information can be found on their website at www.bacb.com.
The Pathway 2 coordinator is Kalynn Hall EdD BCBA-D Hall_Kalynn@columbusstate.edu
Master of Education in Special Education – Applied Behavioral Analysis Track
The Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Special Education – Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) Track at Columbus State University prepares highly skilled educators and inspiring behavior analysts to deliver evidence-based interventions that promote meaningful learning, independence, and quality of life for individuals with diverse needs. Grounded in scientific research and practical application, the program emphasizes ethical decision-making, data-driven practice, and effective collaboration across educational and clinical settings.
This competitive Pathway 2 program is intended for professionals currently working in environments where behavior-analytic services are provided. Because of the program’s rigorous expectations and limited cohort size, meeting the minimum admission requirements does not guarantee acceptance.
Beginning Fall 2026, the ABA Track will admit new cohorts during the fall and spring semesters only. To ensure students meet required supervision and fieldwork expectations, qualifying employment, volunteer work, or self-placed practicum is required throughout the program (minimum 20 hours per month). Employment must provide opportunities aligned with ABA supervision standards and allow candidates to engage in meaningful, supervised applied practice.
Graduates of the program will be prepared to apply ABA principles ethically and effectively, designing, implementing, and evaluating interventions that support individuals across a range of settings. Graduates will be provided with a Pathway 2 Coursework Attestation upon applying to sit for the BACB BCBA Exam. Please note that supervision is provided at a rate up to 4 hours of group supervision and 4 hours of individual supervision each month during this program as part of your practicum courses, but it is up to the student to acquire the total required number of hours to sit for the exam.
Admission Requirements
This program operates on a cohort model with competitive admission. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
Admission Requirements
- Minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA in an appropriate field of study.
- Optional GRE scores may be submitted. GRE scores are highly recommended for applicants with lower GPAs to strengthen the application.
- Eligible applicants will receive a request via email for additional information and a writing sample.
Admission Deadlines
Tentative Fall Admission (beginning Fall 2026):
- Application Deadline: May 1
- Document Deadline: May 30
- Admission Decisions Released: June 30
Tentative Spring Admission (beginning Spring 2027):
- Application Deadline: September 1
- Document Deadline: September 30
- Admission Decisions Released: October 30
