Online Master of Arts in Exceptional Student Education
Specialize in Applied Behavior Analysis or Special Education.
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Request InfoExceptional Student Education, M.A. Overview
The University of West Florida’s master’s in exceptional student education produces teachers, behavior analysts, administrators, related professionals and specialists in many areas of exceptional student education. Because our cohorts begin each semester, you can earn your degree quickly and pursue advancement in your field.
This program can lead to careers in instructional and leadership roles in special education or applied behavior analysis, both demanding yet highly rewarding fields. You could work in the industries of education, healthcare, business and more. Our mission is to cultivate decision-makers, problem solvers, critical thinkers, lifelong learners, counselors/mentors and, above all, ethical moral professionals.
One-on-one advising, comprehensive curriculum and our certified quality education provide you with the experience you need to succeed. From the beginning, a faculty mentor will provide you with career advice and advisement concerning professional issues. Coursework is offered in both synchronous (real-time) and asynchronous formats depending upon the selected specialization and courses.
Our specialization in applied behavior analysis provides courses meeting curriculum requirements for students seeking Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification, Qualified Behavior Analyst (QBA) certification, and International Behavior Analyst (IBA) for BCBA certification.
This program is not intended to lead to teacher certification. Teachers are advised to contact their individual school districts as to whether this program may qualify for salary advancement. (Washington Student Achievement Council Degree Authorization, Feb. 26, 2013)
Note: This online degree may not be available in all states. If you are an out-of-state student, please review our State Authorization Status to confirm that the program is available in your state.
Candidates for This Program Include:
- Educators seeking career advancement in the field
- Those who will later pursue Board Certified Behavior Analyst certification
You Will Be Able To:
- Explain and analyze evidence-based instructional strategies designed to reduce learning barriers and increase engagement and learning for students with diverse learning needs.
- Systematically evaluate research-based approaches and strategies and apply reflective practices to demonstrate commitment to learning from experience.
- Develop logical, well-reasoned arguments to guide future curriculum, instructional, and assessment practices.
- Develop advocacy for improving the educational experiences and outcomes of individuals with diverse learning needs.
Courses and Requirements
UWF’s online Master of Arts in Exceptional Student Education includes a total of 30-33 credit hours with specializations in Applied Behavior Analysis or Special Education.
Required Courses (30-33 credit hours)
- EDF 6225 - Foundations of Applied Behavior Analysis
3.0 Credit Hours
Foundations of Applied Behavior Analysis
This course serves as a basic introduction to behavior analytic principles, definitions, characteristics, processes, and concepts. The content is based on the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) Fifth Edition Task List and the Qualified Applied Behavior Analysis Credentialing Board (QABA) Qualified Behavior Analyst (QBA) Competency Standards. This course serves as the first in a series of courses that prepares students to apply for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) exam or the Board Certified Associate Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) exam or the Qualified Behavior Analyst (QBA).
- EDF 6226 - Behavioral Assessments
3.0 Credit Hours
Behavioral Assessments
This course serves to introduce assessment methodology of applied behavior analysis, including appropriate ethical considerations. Selecting and defining target behavior, as well as appropriate measurement systems are examined. The content is based on the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) 5th edition Task List and the Qualified Applied Behavior Analysis Credentialing Board (QABA) Qualified Behavior Analyst (QBA) Competency Standards. This course serves as only one in a series of courses that prepares students to apply for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) exam or the Board Certified Associate Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) exam or the Qualified Behavior Analyst (QBA) exam. Prerequisite: EDF 6225
- EDF 6223 - Applied Behavior Analysis and System Support
3.0 Credit Hours
Applied Behavior Analysis and System Support
This course provides information on the fundamental elements of behavior change and specific behavior change procedures. The content is based on specific topics via the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) Fifth Edition Task List. Prerequisite: EDF 6225 AND EDF 6226
- EDF 6222 - Concepts of Applied Behavior Analysis
3.0 Credit Hours
Concepts of Applied Behavior Analysis
This course examines the philosophical underpinnings of applied behavior analysis, via BF Skinner’s writings, as well as other historical contributors to the field. Underlying assumptions of science are stressed, including determinism, selectionism, empiricism, parsimony, and pragmatism. These concepts are then related to applied activities, both clinically and in the real-world. The content is based on the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) 5th edition Task List. This course serves as the first in a series of courses that prepares students to apply for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) exam or the Board Certified Associate Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) exam. Prerequisite: EDF 6223 AND EDF 6225 AND EDF 6226 AND EDF 6437
- EDF 6224 - Supervision and Management Fluency
3.0 Credit Hours
Supervision and Management Fluency
This course provides students with the applied knowledge for personnel supervision and management when implementing Applied Behavior Analysis. Students will establish clear procedures and approaches to personnel management and improved client outcomes via precise data collection. The content is based on the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) 5th edition Task List and the Qualified Applied Behavior Analysis Credentialing Board (QABA) Qualified Behavior Analyst (QBA) Competency Standards. This course serves as only one in a series of courses that prepares students to apply for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) exam or the Board Certified Associate Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) exam or the Qualified Behavior Analyst (QBA) exam. Prerequisite: EDF 6225
- EDF 6437 - Measurement and Single Case Design
3.0 Credit Hours
Measurement and Single Case Design
This course provides students with concepts in measurement and design of single case methodology to establish reliable intervention procedures, positive behavior change, systems support, while adhering to management, supervision, and ethical and professional issues relevant to the practice of behavioral intervention and research design. The content is based on the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) 5th edition Task List and the Qualified Applied Behavior Analysis Credentialing Board (QABA) Qualified Behavior Analyst (QBA) Competency Standards. This course serves as only one in a series of courses that prepares students to apply for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) exam or the Board Certified Associate Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) exam or the Qualified Behavior Analyst (QBA) exam. Prerequisite: EDF 6223 AND EDF 6225 AND EDF 6226
- EDF 6557 - Ethics in Applied Behavior Analysis
3.0 Credit Hours
Ethics in Applied Behavior Analysis
This course serves as a basic introduction to ethical codes related to persons practicing in the field of behavior analysis and related disciplines. The content is based on the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) 5th edition Task List and the Qualified Applied Behavior Analysis Credentialing Board (QABA) Qualified Behavior Analyst (QBA) Competency Standards. This course serves as only one in a series of courses that prepares students to apply for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) exam or the Board Certified Associate Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) exam or the Qualified Behavior Analyst (QBA) exam. Prerequisite: EDF 6225
- EEX 6051 - Exceptionalities
3.0 Credit Hours
Exceptionalities
This course provides an introduction to special education including legislation, professional practices, trends, and research. Students will learn about characteristics and educational needs of individuals with disabilities and explore evidence-based practices that support student success.
Choose 3 (6 credit hours) of the following:
- EDF 6325 - Autism and the Law
2.0 Credit Hours
Autism and the Law
This course focuses on legal and ethical concerns related to behavior analytic service delivery. The content is partially based on specific topics in the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) 5th Edition Task List, the Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts and covers the Qualified Applied Behavior Analysis Credentialing Board (QABA) Qualified Behavior Analyst (QBA) Competency Standards for Legal, Ethical, and Professional Considerations and QABA Code of Ethics. In addition to these specific organizations, legal codes, mandates, and case law relevant to Applied Behavior Analysis are also covered. This course serves as only one in a series of courses that prepares students to apply for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) exam or the Board Certified Associate Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) exam or the Qualified Behavior Analyst (QBA) exam.
- EDF 6221 - Intensive Intervention in Autism and Related Disabilities
2.0 Credit Hours
Intensive Intervention in Autism and Related Disabilities
This course serves as a basic introduction to autism and related disorders and the assessment and behavior change procedures used for skill acquisition. The content is related to concepts outlined by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) 5th edition Task List and covers the Qualified Applied Behavior Analysis Credentialing Board (QABA) Qualified Behavior Analyst (QBA) Competency Standards for Autism Core Knowledge. This course serves as only one in a series of courses that prepares students to apply for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) exam or the Board Certified Associate Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) exam or the Qualified Behavior Analyst (QBA). Prerequisite: EDF 6225
- EDF 6229 - Curriculum Design for Behavior Analysis
2.0 Credit Hours
Curriculum Design for Behavior Analysis
Prepares students to create behavioral programming appropriate to meet the individual needs presented by a client when practicing as a Board Certified Behavior Analysis across medical, community, and educational settings. The content is related to concepts outlined by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) 5th edition Task. This course serves as only one in a series of courses that prepares students to apply for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) exam or the Board Certified Associate Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) exam. Prerequisite: EDF 6223 AND EDF 6225 AND EDF 6226
- EDF 6944 - Advanced Single Case Design
2 Credit Hours
Advanced Single Case Design
This course provides students with an applied environment to practice measurement and design of single case methodology using reliable intervention procedures, positive behavior change, systems support, while adhering to management, supervision, and ethical and professional issues relevant to the practice of behavioral intervention and research design. The content is based on the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) 5th edition Task. This course serves as one in a series of courses that prepares students to develop a foundation in research centered endeavors in behavior analysis. Prerequisite: EDF 6223 AND EDF 6225 AND EDF 6226 AND EDF 6437
- EDF 6647 - Behavior Systems Analysis
2 Credit Hours
Behavior Systems Analysis
This course focuses on an approach to organizational design and management based on the idea that organizations are complex systems where different levels are interdependent of each other. Students will discover how to assess and analyze the entire system in order to improve the overall functioning of the organization. The content is based on behavior analytic principles and serves as only one in a series of courses that prepares students for a foundation in Organizational Behavior Management.
- EDF 6220 - Behavior Analysis of Performance
2 Credit Hours
Behavior Analysis of Performance
This course utilizes behavior analytic principles and applies them to the field of Performance Management. Completion of this course will enable students to evaluate existing organizations based on their environmental arrangements and apply these assessment tools and intervention strategies for sustainable behavior change across industries. The content is based on behavior analytic principles and serves as only one in a series of courses that prepares students for a foundation in Organizational Behavior Management. Prerequisites: EDF 6223 AND EDF 6225 AND EDF 6226.
- EDF 6939 - Behavior Analysis in Organizations
2 Credit Hours
Behavior Analysis in Organizations
This course further develops the student’s repertoire in Organizational Behavior Management. Special Topics include: Behavior Based Safety, Performance Pay, Leadership and Culture, and Organizational Ethics. The content is based on behavior analytic principles and serves as only one in a series of courses that prepares students for a foundation in Organizational Behavior Management. Prerequisites: EDF 6223 AND EDF 6225 AND EDF 6226.
- EDF 6943 - Applied Single Case Design
1-6 Credit Hours
Applied Single Case Design
This course provides students with an applied environment to practice measurement and design of single case methodology using reliable intervention procedures, positive behavior change, systems support, while adhering to management, supervision, and ethical and professional issues relevant to the practice of behavioral intervention and research design. This course serves as an elective for non-degree seeking students or as part of a degree plan cognate. The content is based on the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) 5th edition Task. This course serves as one in a series of courses that prepares students to develop a foundation in research centered endeavors in behavior analysis. If the student’s research aligns with the BACB supervision guidelines (including a signed contract with the supervised BCBA supervisor), some or all of hours spent in this experience could count towards supervision hours (under the full discretion of active supervisor). Prerequisites: EDF 6223 AND EDF 6225 AND EDF 6226 AND EDF 6437 AND EDF 6944.
Required for students pursuing the International Behavior Analyst Credential:
- EDF 6227 - Experimental Analysis of Behavior
2 Credit Hours
Experimental Analysis of Behavior
In this course, participants learn foundational knowledge and concepts of experimental analysis of behavior to include demonstrating the operations of principles of behavior in the context of basic research in multiple areas of investigation such as schedules of reinforcement, stimulus control, conditioned reinforcement choice, and establishing/motivational operations. These basic concepts are then synthesized into applied research relevant in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis. This course serves as an elective for non-degree seeking students or as part of a degree plan cognate. The content is based on the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) 5th edition Task. This course serves as one in a series of courses that prepares students to develop a foundation in research centered endeavors in behavior analysis. Prerequisite: EDF 6223 AND EDF 6225 AND EDF 6226 AND EDF 7437 AND EDF 7944
- EDF 6225 - Foundations of Applied Behavior Analysis
Students wishing to complete the intensive cognate will choose 18 units from the electives listed above.
Required Core Courses (12 credit hours)
- EDF 6691 - Issues of Diversity in Education: A Bio-Psycho-Social-Cultural Perspective
3 Credit Hours
Issues of Diversity in Education: A Bio-Psycho-Social-Cultural Perspective
This course presents a holistic approach to understanding various theories of learning and development. The biological, psychological and social factors that affect human development and learning will be emphasized. Students will explore various issues in education and best practices in the classroom with an emphasis on diversity.
- EEX 6051 - Exceptionalities
3 Credit Hours
Exceptionalities
This course provides an introduction to special education including legislation, professional practices, trends and research. Students will learn about characteristics and educational needs of individuals with disabilities and explore evidence-based practices that support student success.
- EDG 6415 - Issues in Classroom Management
3 Credit Hours
Issues in Classroom Management
This course is designed for educators with existing capacity regarding classroom management and is intended to advance their understanding and develop a knowledge of systematic models of classroom management. The content will focus on shaping teacher behaviors and structuring the classroom for success. Additionally, focus will be placed on recognizing the various and competing philosophies of classroom management and the benefits of using a systematic model within a classroom or school.
- EDG 6288 - Educational Assessment
3 Credit Hours
Educational Assessment
The focus of this course is assessment concepts that are critical for good teaching. Topics include measurement issues to determine assessment quality; teacher constructed assessments such as paper and pencil assessments, informal assessments and performance and product assessments; and interpreting standardized assessments commonly used in public schools. Required course for students participating in the Professional Educator Preparation Program.
Educational Investigative Sequence (6 credit hours)
- EDG 6918 - Introduction to Research
3 Credit Hours
Introduction to Research
This course is designed to provide foundational knowledge about qualitative and quantitative methods for conducting meaningful inquiry and research in the social sciences. Students will gain an understanding of research intent and design, methodology and technique, data management and analysis, and format and presentation. The purpose of the course is to explore selected types of research and related techniques to provide students with the basic skills and knowledge to develop a research plan.
- EDG 6916 - Applied Research
3.0 Credit Hours
Applied Research
This investigative experience is designed for students to synthesize research related to a specific area of inquiry and examine the strengths and weaknesses of the research and the implication related to educational practices. Prerequisite: RED 6747 OR EDG 6918
Special Education Courses (15 credit hours)
- EEX 6035 - Best Practices in Teaching Challenging Students
3.0 Credit Hours
Best Practices in Teaching Challenging Students
A comprehensive overview of the exceptional student to include the knowledge, skills, and dispositions needed to be an effective teacher in the ESE classroom or inclusive education environment. Covers a broad range of topics to prepare the professional for the Florida Teacher Certification Examination for K-12 ESE. Discusses best practices as reflected in the professional literature related to effective program development and delivery for students who are at-risk or identified as needing special educational services.
- EEX 6612 - Behavior Management
3.0 Credit Hours
Behavior Management
Provides a comprehensive knowledge base concerning behavior management including structuring the classroom for success, assessing and managing individuals and group behavior, and motivating and managing exceptional and at-risk students.
- EDG 6662 - Principles of Curriculum and Instruction
3.0 Credit Hours
Principles of Curriculum and Instruction
This is an advanced curriculum course for graduate-level education students. This course is designed to give educators a comprehensive overview of the field of curriculum and instruction, including the influence of educational philosophies, curriculum theories, significant social forces, and learning theories about how knowledge, skills, and dispositions are constructed and transferred. It is a practical guide for curriculum development, instructional applications, and curriculum evaluation.
Advisor-approved electives (6 credit hours)
- EDF 6691 - Issues of Diversity in Education: A Bio-Psycho-Social-Cultural Perspective
Admission Requirements
To be considered for provisional admission into the University of West Florida’s online master’s in exceptional student education program, you must have an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution. Teacher certification is not required for applicants to the specialization in applied behavior analysis. Other criteria for successful admission include:
- An institutional undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale on the last 60 hours of coursework in the baccalaureate degree. Applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA requirements may be granted conditional admission with a corresponding high rubric score on their letter of intent.
How to Apply
The Exceptional Student Education – Applied Behavior Analysis specialization has start dates in Fall (August/September), Spring (January/February) and Summer (May). Please consult the application deadlines for this program specialization.
To apply for admission to this program, you first need to submit an application for graduate admission (plus a $30 application fee) and be accepted for admission into the University of West Florida. Review application deadlines. In addition, you must:
- Submit official transcripts confirming a bachelor’s degree from an institution whose accrediting agency is included on the list of UWF approved accrediting agencies
- Applicants to the Special Education specialization must submit a letter of intent that includes the following information: your educational and career background, short- and long-term goals, contributions you would like to make to your field of study, and any strengths you feel you can bring to the program
- Applicants to the Applied Behavior Analysis specialization must submit a letter of intent following the instructions and rubric.
Have questions about this program or the admissions process? Contact our graduate admissions team at gradadmissions@uwf.edu.
Costs & Financial Aid
| Component | Cost | Total* |
|---|---|---|
| In-State Tuition | $384.60 per credit hour (based on 30 credit hours) | $11,538.00 |
| In-State Tuition with Maximum Transfer Credits (Up to 6) | $384.60 per credit hour | $9,230.40 |
| Full Out-of-State Tuition | $1,044.24 per credit hour | $31,327.20 |
| 90% Out-of-State Tuition Waiver | $478.83 per credit hour | $14,364.90 |
Applied Behavior Analysis courses within this program are priced at a flat market rate of $384.60 per credit hour.
Tuition waivers cover up to 90% of the non-resident portion of your tuition and are available to non-Florida residents (including international students) admitted to online campus programs and registered for online courses in active pursuit of that degree or certificate. You must pay all other assessed tuition and fees. Review Tuition Waiver Information to learn more.
Time to completion varies by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. Fees are charged per semester unless otherwise noted. This program takes up to 36 months to complete, depending on transfer credits.
Refer to UWF Cost of Attendance Estimates and Financial Literacy for more information on UWF costs and financial aid.
* Tuition and fees are subject to change.
Alabama Differential Out-of-State Tuition
Residents of Alabama are eligible for Alabama Differential Tuition, a reduced out-of-state tuition rate. For more information and to verify residency status for tuition purposes, new undergraduate students should contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions and new graduate students should contact the Graduate School. Current enrolled students should contact the Office of the Registrar.
Active Duty Military
All active-duty members of the U.S. military who are residing or are stationed outside the state of Florida shall have all (100%) out-of-state fees waived by the university. Contact the Military & Veterans Resource Center to apply for the Active Duty Military Out-of-State Waiver.
UWF Short-Term Financial Assistance
The University of West Florida provides eligible students with an alternative to paying the full amount of tuition at the beginning of each term in the form of an installment payment plan or a short-term loan.
Military Students
UWF is a Military FriendlyⓇ School proudly serving active-duty U.S. military members and veterans. As UWF has been a participant in the Yellow Ribbon Program since 2011, you could be eligible to receive free tuition with your military benefits.
See How We Can Serve YouFinancial Aid
Funding your college education should not empty your wallet. We offer various financial aid options for our online students, including loans, scholarships and grants for degree-seeking students.
Learn More About Financial AidCareer Outcomes
After receiving your Master of Arts in Exceptional Student Education, you can pursue many careers, including the following.
* Salary and job outlook information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and PayScale.
Behavior Analyst
A professional who provides treatment for individuals with behavioral and intellectual disabilities, creating plans to address their behaviors. They work in various settings and require patience, compassion, and organization. According to Payscale.com, the median salary is $68,000 in 2023.
Special Education Teachers
Special education teachers work with students who have learning, mental, emotional or physical disabilities. They adapt general education lessons and teach various subjects to students with mild to moderate disabilities. They also teach basic skills to students with severe disabilities. In 2021, special education teachers made a median annual salary of $61,820, and jobs are expected to grow 4 percent through 2031.