Learn More About Drake’s Master’s in ABA Program at Open House; Grants Available to Those Attending School to Become BCBAs

To help meet the growing need for behavior analysts across Iowa, Drake University launched a Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program in 2017. The program is now in its fifth year and is currently recruiting students to join its Fall 2022 cohort. 

Degree Options

The Master of Science in ABA at Drake is a comprehensive program that offers the coursework and the supervised practicum requirements for students to be eligible to take the exam to become Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs®). Completion of the ABA program requires a total of 45 credit hours completed over five semesters. Students accepted into the program register for nine credit hours each semester (includes two content courses and a practicum course). Part-time options are available. Drake also offers a certification in ABA to students who already have a master’s degree. In addition to offering coursework, Drake University also coordinates and provides supervision for practicum experiences. The pass rate data from the BACB indicates Drake has a pass rate of 90% (compared with 60% as the average). 

The ABA program prepares students for careers working with children and adults, including individuals with autism spectrum disorder and other intellectual and developmental disabilities. Drake’s coursework and supervised practicum experiences include opportunities for students to assess and treat severe problem behavior, develop and implement programming to teach communication, social, academic, independent living and vocational skills, supervise and train school personnel and caregivers and collaborate with colleagues and other professionals. Individuals who are employed with ABA providers can complete their practicum hours at their places of employment with Drake support. 

Grants Available

The Iowa Department of Public Health currently has funds available to help support students who are attending school to become BCBAs. Interested individuals can obtain more information regarding grant opportunities by going to the Iowa Grants website. 

Open House on Oct. 20

Additionally, Drake’s ABA program will be hosting a Virtual Open House on Oct. 20, 2021, at 6:00 p.m. This will be a great time to connect with faculty and current Drake students and to ask questions about the opportunities Drake’s ABA program has to offer. 

Open House Registration 

More information about the program can also be found in this document.