Online MEd in Special Education – Behavior Analysis
Program Summary
100% Online
Duration: 24 months
Credits: 36 total
Cost Per Credit: $805
Degree: MEd
Accreditation: SACSCOC
College/School: College of Education and Human Development
Next Start Date: 01/26/2026
Find Your Calling
Program Description
George Mason’s online Master of Education in Special Education – Behavior Analysis equips students to support individuals with complex learning disabilities and behavior disorders across the lifespan. Learning in flexible online courses taught by faculty who are practitioner-scholars, students gain research skills, complete a thesis, and are trained to work in diverse settings with populations ranging from children with developmental disabilities to adults with behavioral health goals. This 36-credit program aligns with the 2027 Behavior Analyst Certification Board® (BACB) coursework requirements and prepares graduates to sit for the BACB exam.*
Ranked No. 5 of U.S. News & World Report’s Best Online Special Education Programs (2025)
Application Details
Who should apply?
This program is designed to prepare educators and other professionals to support the needs of individuals with disabilities and behavioral disorders. The Master of Education in Special Education – Behavior Analysis will augment the professional training of those who design, implement, and monitor behavioral treatment programs in schools, private practices, agencies, and other settings. Please note that this program does not lead to teacher licensure.
What are the requirements for admission?
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited U.S. institution or equivalent and a GPA of 3.0 or higher is required for admission. No testing is required for admission, but test score equivalencies from SAT, ACT, Praxis, etc. may be used to compensate for a slightly lower GPA. All prospective students must adhere to university standards for English proficiency and degree equivalency. You must submit a goals state (750-1000 words), official transcripts, and three letters of recommendation with your completed application.
How do I apply?
Submit an online application to begin the admissions process for the online special education degree program. You can apply for the MEd in Special Education – Behavior Analysis at any time. If you have other questions, please see the FAQs below.
Career Opportunities
Career Opportunities
George Mason’s online master’s in Special Education – Behavior Analysis degree program prepares graduates to facilitate improvements in human behavior and quality of life, particularly for people with autism, intellectual disabilities, and psychiatric disorders. Graduates of this program often occupy positions as teachers, behavior analysts, and behavior specialists in schools, day programs for older adults, and fitness facilities.
Key employers of program graduates include:
- Public schools in Fairfax, Prince William, Arlington, Alexandria, and Washington, D.C.
- Private schools such as Aurora in Leesburg, Sarah Dooley in Richmond, and Ivymount in Rockville, Maryland
- Numerous private practices
Career Highlight: Behavior Analyst
Behavior analysts use their understanding of human learning and development to assist individuals in eliminating harmful behaviors and adopting healthier strategies to improve their overall quality of life. These professionals work in a range of settings, including schools, hospitals, nursing homes, mental health clinics, and research centers. In many cases, behavior analysts collaborate with teachers, doctors, nurses, and family members as they implement treatment plans and monitor impact.
Demand is increasing for experts in behavioral disorders, according to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Jobs for behavior counselors are projected to grow by 17 percent through 2034, which is much faster than the national average for all jobs.
Courses
Program requirements are subject to change; please refer to the University Catalog for the most up-to-date requirements.
Core Courses:
EDSE 501 Introduction to Special Education
EDSE 517 Computer Applications for Special Populations
Thesis:
BEHV 798 Thesis I
BEHV 799 Thesis II
Behavior Analysis Track Courses
- EDSE 625 Applied Behavior Analysis: Verbal Behavior
- EDSE 664 Ethical and Professional Conduct for Behavior Analysis
- BEHV 602 Principles of Behavior Analysis
- BEHV 603 Conceptual Analysis of Behavior
- BEHV 604 Research Methods for Behavior Analysis
- BEHV 605 Experimental Analysis of Behavior
- BEHV 606 Assessment of Behavior
- BEHV 607 Organizational Behavior Management
New to online learning? Visit our Online Learning Tips and Strategies page to learn more about what to expect and how to succeed in an online course at George Mason.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Tuition & Fees (2025-2026)
Tuition is $805 per credit hour. An additional charge of $35 per credit hour applies for a Distance Learning fee.
Financial Aid
For information on loans and scholarships, visit the Office of Student Financial Aid. For information regarding grants, tuition waivers and other merit aid, please inquire with your graduate department.
- George Mason University’s online MSPED program is offered in a part-time format, allowing students to balance their studies with busy professional and family schedules.
- An experienced faculty of distinguished scholar-practitioners delivers an education informed by extensive academic and professional experience.
- George Mason is committed to providing a high-quality, immersive experience for online students.
- This program’s unique, innovative approach to inclusive education is designed to benefit learners with disabilities throughout their entire lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the workload like?
The MEd in Special Education – Behavior Analysis involves lectures, video-based case studies, guest speakers, discussion boards, and interactive educational activities (e.g., Popplet, Padlet, collaborative case studies). Extension resources are available and clarifying lectures help to answer questions from students.
How long does it take to complete the program?
The online MEd in Special Education – Behavior Analysis includes 36 credit hours and can be completed in 24 months.
Can I transfer credits from another university?
Transfer of similar courses from an accredited U.S. college or university may be possible on a case-by-case basis. Only behavior analysis credits earned from an ABAI accredited/tiered program will be considered for transfer. Credits earned from verified course sequences will not be considered. Transfer credit policies are included in the University Catalog.
When are classes offered?
Classes for the MEd in Special Education – Behavior Analysis will be offered online on a rolling basis.
Where can I find course descriptions?
Course descriptions for the MEd in Special Education are available in the University Catalog.
What tuition assistance is available?
George Mason’s Office of Student Financial Aid provides information on potential scholarships and aid packages for the online MEd in Special Education program.
How do I receive additional Information?
Prospective students can complete an online request for information form.
How much does it cost to apply?
While there is a $75 application fee, there are multiple times throughout the year that the fee may be waived.
What are the credit requirements?
Requirements: 36 total credit hours
Most courses for George Mason’s online MEd in Special Education – Behavior Analysis are offered in convenient, online, asynchronous and synchronous (i.e. real time virtual participation) formats. Students complete foundational classes in conjunction with courses in a selected area of focus and a master’s thesis.
Virtual Open House
Throughout the year, the George Mason University faculty dedicates time to holding interactive sessions online for those who would like to learn more about the programs we offer. If you would like to find out more about what you can expect from an online Master of Education in Special Education, visit our pre-recorded Virtual Open House and watch at your convenience. For information on upcoming sessions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Learn More
Accreditation
George Mason University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees.
Contact
If you are unable to find the answers to your questions, submit a Request Information form or contact our admissions representative via the contact information below.
Phone: 844-851-0923
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