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Program Overview

Program Overview

 

You already know that behavior doesn’t have to be a barrier to success. Equip yourself with the degree that allows you to let the world know it, too. With the increasing demand for certified professionals who can deliver effective behavior solutions, there’s never been a better time to pursue your Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis.

Our College of Education's experiential program encourages you to apply what you’re learning right here, right now. The knowledge you gain through your studies and internship experiences will support the work you’re already doing, all while gaining the supervision hours required to sit for the national certification exam. Information about the coursework and current certification pass rate is available in the “Course Sequence & Pass Rate” section below.

Our behavior analysis approach intersects scientific methodology with an emphasis on personal investment. After graduation, you’ll know how to go beyond the data to build an emotional rapport with clients, clients’ families and the school systems in which you work to implement a holistic strategy to behavior modification.

The M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis is offered through in-person classes available in Nashville, Tennessee. 

Admissions Requirements

Admissions Requirements

  • Completed Online application
  • $50 application fee
  • Official transcripts for all degrees conferred and any other coursework post bachelors.
  • Personal statement:
    Explain your goals and your purpose for pursuing a graduate education degree in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis and elaborate on how this degree would help you to make an impact in society in a concise, clear essay. (500 words)
  • Three Recommendations
    • Recommender #1 – Current Administrator/Supervisor (non-family member)
      If no direct supervisor, provide another academic reference (see Rec. #2)
    • Recommender #2 – Academic or Professional Colleague (non-family member)
    • Recommender #3 – Personal reference of integrity and/or faith (non-family member)
  • Résumé
  • Official GRE or MAT exam score (only required for MS level)

View the College of Education's graduate programs application timeline.


 

Tuition & Aid

Tuition & Aid

  • $953* per credit hour
  • $715 per credit hour with the 25% in-service discount

*Note: The graduate tuition rates may increase annually, effective each summer semester.

Scholarship Information

As you give back to the community, Lipscomb University wants to give back to you. The College of Education offers significant scholarships to current educators and administrators. Those pursuing career as a teacher, you're not left out either! Check out the following information to see if you qualify for scholarships.

All completed applications should be mailed to:

Lipscomb University
College of Education

One University Park Drive
Nashville, TN 37204

Types of Aid

15:1

Student to faculty ratio in research courses

Small Class Sizes

You’ll have opportunities to engage in meaningful discussion, receive one-on-one faculty mentorship and ask difficult questions in our small class sizes. Plus, you’ll feel supported in a tight-knit learning community.

Networking

Both our deeply connected faculty and our experiential learning opportunities offer myriad ways for you to form relationships with leaders in the industry. These connections will serve and support you throughout your career.

Nashville, TN

A big city. An even bigger opportunity. We consider Nashville, Tennessee, an extension of our classroom, and as a leading city in many industries, that means you’ll gain experience and insight you won’t find anywhere else.

5:1

Student to faculty ratio in supervision courses

Our Faculty

  • Annette Little headshot

    Annette Little

    Professor

    Dr. Annette Little taught special education classes in residential treatment centers, public schools, and alternative schools for 8 years before moving into higher education. She then spent 4 years directing...

    Meet Annette Little
  • Pam Scretchen headshot

    Pamela Scretchen

    Instructor

    Pamela Scretchen is a licensed and Board-Certified Behavior Analyst who has worked in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis since 2004. She has worked with children and adults diagnosed with...

    Meet Pamela Scretchen

Career Paths

Special Education Teachers

Special education teachers work with students who have a wide range of learning, mental, emotional, and physical disabilities. They adapt general education lessons and teach various subjects, such as reading, writing, and math, to students with mild and moderate disabilities. They also teach basic skills, such as literacy and communication techniques, to students with severe disabilities.

Psychologists

Psychologists study cognitive, emotional, and social processes and behavior by observing, interpreting, and recording how individuals relate to one another and to their environments. They use their findings to help improve processes and behaviors.

Behavior Analysts

Behavior analysts specialize in counseling individuals, with an emphasis on prevention and behavior modification. They help individuals with a wide range of mental and emotional health problems, addictions, family or parenting problems, stress management and self-esteem concerns, and issues associated with aging.