What can I do with a master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis?

Individuals with developmental disabilities or behavioral challenges can benefit a great deal from interventions that are rooted in science and understanding. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) professionals deliver just that, using evidence-based methods to provide customized treatment and improve learner outcomes. By earning a master’s degree in ABA, you’ll gain a high-demand skill set that opens doors to many life-changing careers.

Let’s explore where graduate study can take you — the career paths you could pursue, the settings you might work in, how ABA plays a central role, and what to expect in terms of job growth and salary potential with a master’s in applied behavior analysis.

What is Applied Behavior Analysis used for?

Applied Behavior Analysis is the science of understanding how behavior is influenced by environments — and how positive behaviors can be taught, reinforced and sustained over time. Practitioners use observation, data collection and research-based interventions to help individuals across a wide range of populations and settings build academic, social and daily living skills. They also support growth in confidence, independence and emotional regulation.

While ABA is widely known for its effectiveness in supporting individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities, its strategies also apply to mental health, education, addiction treatment and other areas focused on promoting positive behavior.

In any field where human behavior plays a role, ABA provides a structured, measurable approach to helping people build strengths and achieve meaningful outcomes.

Becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)

While earning the Board Certified Behavior Analyst credential isn’t required for all ABA-related careers, it can open the door to clinical work, leadership opportunities and long-term career growth.

What does a Board Certified Behavior Analyst do? BCBAs are credentialed professionals who apply the science of behavior to help individuals build meaningful skills and reduce challenging behaviors. They assess behavior, design personalized interventions and monitor progress to improve outcomes in areas like communication, social skills and daily living.

While many BCBAs work with individuals with autism or developmental disabilities, others practice in schools, mental health centers, healthcare settings or even businesses — anywhere behavior change can make a meaningful impact.

The BCBA job outlook continues to rise nationwide as more families, schools and businesses recognize the benefits of behavior analysis. According to the Behavior Analyst Certification Board’s 2024 Workforce Demand Report, annual job postings for BCBA and BCBA-D roles surged by 58% from 2023 to 2024 — confirming widespread demand for qualified professionals

To become a BCBA, you must earn a graduate degree from an Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI)-accredited program, complete BCBA-supervised fieldwork and pass the national certification exam. Programs like The Ohio State University’s online Master of Educational Studies, Applied Behavior Analysis include built-in fieldwork and exam support, preparing students for certification and success in the field. Learn more about how to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst.

7 career paths with an Applied Behavior Analysis master’s degree

One degree. Many directions. Some careers open immediately after graduation. Others might require additional experience and certification. What connects them all is a strong and sustained application of the learning, tools, and experiences developed in graduate study. Whether or not you pursue BCBA certification, the knowledge and skills developed in graduate-level ABA study can help you succeed in a range of roles across education, healthcare and behavioral services.

Which path feels right for you?

1. Special education teacher or intervention specialist

If you’re drawn to day-to-day teaching and advocacy for students with disabilities, this path might be your calling. Special education teachers and intervention specialists work closely with students with learning, emotional, behavioral or physical challenges.

You’ll work with a team to develop Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), deliver targeted instruction, manage behavior and help students build life skills for success in and beyond school.

Compared to school psychologists, who often serve as evaluators or consultants, special educators are in the classroom every day, guiding instruction and creating inclusive, supportive learning environments. They may focus more on academics and curriculum than BCBAs, but behavioral training remains essential to their work.

Most work in public school systems and must meet state licensure requirements. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics states the median salary is $64,270, with steady job growth projected through 2033.

2. Behavior specialist

Behavior specialists apply the principles of applied behavior analysis to assess, support, and improve behavioral outcomes, particularly for individuals with autism or other developmental disabilities. In school settings, they often collaborate with educators and support teams to implement behavior intervention plans and positive behavioral supports. Unlike special education teachers, behavior specialists do not typically hold a teaching license and focus specifically on behavioral rather than academic needs.

Some employers, especially school districts or clinical providers, may require or prefer the BCBA credential for this role. While salaries for behavior specialists vary by employer and region, comparable positions in behavioral and mental health services report a median salary of $59,190, with strong projected job growth in mental health-related fields (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).

3. Mental health or substance use counselor

As a counselor, you’ll work with individuals facing emotional, behavioral or substance use challenges. Training in ABA provides a strong foundation in behavior change, data-driven treatment planning and reinforcement strategies that support long-term progress.

You might work in outpatient or residential treatment centers, hospitals, schools or private practice. In many states, licensure is required, often with additional clinical hours. The median salary is $59,190, and demand for mental health and substance use services is trending upward (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). 

4. Clinical supervisor or director of ABA services

Supervisory roles allow you to combine your clinical expertise with skills in management, training and program oversight. As a director or supervisor, you could oversee treatment teams, mentor new professionals, manage operations and ensure ethical, high-quality care.

These roles are typically found in outpatient clinics, schools, residential facilities or hospital systems.

While salaries vary by setting and region, directors and senior administrators earn a median $117,960 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). BCBA certification and field experience are often key — and Ohio State’s online ABA master’s program includes both, with built-in supervised training that puts leadership roles within reach.

5. Organizational Behavior Management (OBM) consultant

ABA can make a huge impact in business settings. As an OBM consultant, you’ll use scientific approaches to improve workplace performance, streamline processes and shape organizational culture. You might design systems for better training, safety, productivity or employee satisfaction.

Whether you work for a consulting firm or within a large organization, this field offers strong growth potential and a median salary of $101,190 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). While certification isn’t always required, having the BCBA credential can give you a competitive edge in the job market.

6. Private practice behavior analyst

If autonomy and entrepreneurship appeal to you, consider starting a private practice. As a certified behavior analyst, you can build a caseload that aligns with your interests, whether that’s early intervention, family coaching, mental health or education.

You’ll set your own hours, determine your service model and manage your own business operations. Earnings vary widely based on your location, specialization and business structure, but experience and certification give you a strong foundation for long-term success. Keep in mind that this path may require some business acumen in addition to state licensure.

7. ABA researcher or academic faculty

If you’re passionate about advancing the science of behavior, a career in research or higher education may be the right fit. ABA researchers explore topics like intervention effectiveness, ethics, systems-level support and more, contributing to the field’s growth through scholarship and teaching.

Many faculty and research roles are based at universities, research centers or nonprofit institutions. While salaries depend on role and institution, these careers typically require additional graduate study, but they offer the opportunity to guide the next generation of practitioners.

Why choose Ohio State for your master’s in ABA?

With a legacy in special education and behavior analysis that dates back to the 1970s, Ohio State offers a career-focused education backed by experience and research excellence. Our fully online Master of Educational Studies, Applied Behavior Analysis offers the flexibility working adults need, with 100% online instruction and a curriculum grounded in both research and real-world application.

Accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI), the program meets the BCBA certification coursework and degree requirements, including built-in BCBA-supervised field experience. You’ll learn from experienced faculty and benefit from a dedicated support team committed to helping you thrive academically, professionally and personally.

Whether you’re looking to make an impact in schools, clinics or the community, Ohio State’s online ABA master’s program helps you move forward and opens the door to a wide range of rewarding roles.

Ready to start your Applied Behavior Analysis career?

With so many ways to apply your passion and skills, Ohio State’s online Applied Behavior analysis master’s degree brings fulfilling, future-focused career opportunities within reach, preparing you to pursue any of these paths with confidence.

Reach out to request more information — or apply today to start closing the distance between you and your future. We’re here to help open doors and support your success, wherever your path leads.