Best ABA Programs in Texas (2026)
The top accredited Applied Behavior Analysis programs in Texas — bachelor's through master's — with tuition, ABAI accreditation status, BCBA certification paths, LBA licensure requirements, and behavior analyst salary data for 2026.
Key Takeaways
- Texas has 20+ ABA master's programs, the most of any state — with the University of North Texas hosting the nation's first stand-alone department of behavior analysis and offering both bachelor's and master's degrees.
- Public university ABA master's programs in Texas start at approximately $541/credit hour at Sam Houston State (~$19,476 total) and $570/credit at UNT (~$13,900/year in-state), making Texas one of the most affordable states for ABA graduate education.
- Texas requires Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA) status through the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) — you need BCBA certification plus a TDLR license to practice. As of December 2024, Texas also accepts QABA certification as a second pathway.
- Behavior analysts in Texas earn a BLS median of $58,570, slightly below the national median — but Texas has no state income tax, giving behavior analysts significantly higher take-home pay than the headline number suggests.
- UNT and Texas A&M University-San Antonio are among the few schools nationally offering a dedicated Bachelor of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis, preparing graduates for BCaBA certification at the undergraduate level.
- There is a bachelor's-level rung on this ladder. If a full master's is not the right move yet, the BCaBA certifies you to practice under BCBA supervision, and Texas programs frequently articulate into it. Compare the BCaBA route against the master's track.
Texas is one of the strongest ABA job markets in the country, driven by a large and growing population, expanding autism diagnosis rates, and robust insurance coverage for ABA therapy. The state has more ABA master's programs than almost any other state, ranging from flagship public universities like the University of North Texas — which launched the nation's first stand-alone behavior analysis department — to affordable options at Sam Houston State, Texas Tech, and the Texas A&M system.
For students pursuing ABA bachelor's programs in Texas, UNT and Texas A&M University-San Antonio both offer dedicated B.S. degrees in Applied Behavior Analysis, providing a direct path to BCaBA certification. These undergraduate programs are among the few in the country that offer a full ABAI-verified course sequence at the bachelor's level.
Texas requires state licensure through the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). You'll need BCBA or BCaBA certification plus a TDLR license. While salaries are slightly below the national median, Texas's lack of state income tax means take-home pay is effectively higher than most states with similar BLS figures.
Looking for a specific metro?
City guides with local employers and metro salary data: Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, Austin. Or see all ABA programs by city.
Best ABA Programs in Texas — Accredited Master's & Bachelor's Degrees
All 10 programs ranked in this guide, with tuition, format, and accreditation at a glance.
University of North Texas — M.A. in Applied Behavior Analysis
In-State
$570/credit (~$13,900/year in-state)
Out-of-State
~$21,300/year out-of-state
Length
2 years (42 credits)
Field Hours
1,500 supervised experience hours
Concentrations
- Home to the nation's first stand-alone department of behavior analysis — founded 1966
- ABAI-accredited program — the gold standard for ABA education
- Fully online and asynchronous — designed for working professionals across Texas and nationwide
- 69% first-time BCBA exam pass rate (2024 MA degree) — above the 54% national average
- Faculty includes internationally recognized behavior analysis researchers
- Both M.A. and Graduate Academic Certificate (GAC) options available
University of North Texas — B.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis
In-State
$347/credit (~$11,309/year in-state)
Out-of-State
~$20,000/year out-of-state
Length
4 years (120 credits)
Field Hours
Practicum included
Concentrations
- First undergraduate ABA degree program in the nation — pioneering program since the 1960s
- ABAI-verified course sequence preparing graduates for BCaBA certification
- Direct pipeline to UNT's top-ranked master's program for students seeking BCBA
- Extensive undergraduate research opportunities in behavior analysis labs
- Affordable public university tuition — ~$11,309/year for Texas residents
Texas Tech University — M.Ed. in Applied Behavior Analysis
In-State
$609/credit (~$21,924 total in-state)
Out-of-State
$998/credit (~$35,928 total)
Length
2 years (36 credits)
Field Hours
1,500 supervised experience hours
Concentrations
- ABAI-verified course sequence with fully online delivery — study from anywhere
- 36-credit program — fewer credits than many competitors, reducing total cost and time
- Strong special education and developmental disabilities focus through College of Education
- Burkhart Center for Autism Education & Research provides clinical training opportunities
- Up to 6 transfer credits accepted — can reduce program length for students with prior ABA coursework
Baylor University — M.S.Ed. in Educational Psychology (ABA Concentration)
In-State
Up to 95% tuition discount for competitive applicants
Out-of-State
Up to 95% tuition discount for competitive applicants
Length
15 months
Field Hours
1,500 supervised experience hours
Concentrations
- Competitive applicants receive up to 95% tuition discount — making this private university remarkably affordable
- Fastest ABA master's in Texas at just 15 months to completion
- ABAI-verified course sequence with strong clinical emphasis
- Small cohort model with individualized mentorship from doctoral-level faculty
- No GRE requirement — accessible admission process
- Waco location with supervised practicum at local ABA agencies and school districts
Sam Houston State University — M.A. in Applied Behavior Analysis
In-State
$541/credit (~$19,476 total in-state)
Out-of-State
~$16,749/semester out-of-state
Length
2 years (36 credits)
Field Hours
1,500 supervised experience hours
Concentrations
- ABAI-accredited program — one of only a handful in Texas with full ABAI accreditation
- Both thesis and non-thesis tracks available — research or clinical emphasis
- One of the most affordable ABAI-accredited ABA master's programs in the country
- Combined ABA and special education curriculum provides broad skill set
- Located between Houston and Dallas — access to two of Texas's largest ABA job markets
Texas A&M University-San Antonio — M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis
In-State
$317/credit (~$10,461 total in-state)
Out-of-State
$701/credit (~$23,133 total)
Length
2 years (33 credits)
Field Hours
1,500 supervised experience hours
Concentrations
- Most affordable ABA master's in Texas for in-state students — ~$10,461 total tuition
- Fully online with two concentration options (Autism Spectrum Disorder or Special Education)
- 33-credit program — one of the shortest credit requirements in Texas
- Admits once per year for Fall start — plan applications accordingly
- Also offers a dedicated B.S. in ABA at the undergraduate level for BCaBA preparation
Texas A&M University-San Antonio — B.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis
In-State
$247/credit (~$9,654/year in-state)
Out-of-State
$641/credit (~$23,255/year)
Length
4 years (120 credits)
Field Hours
Practicum included
Concentrations
- One of the few dedicated ABA bachelor's degrees in the country — launched Fall 2022
- First graduates earned their degrees in December 2024 — a new and growing program
- Meets BACB Pathway 2 coursework requirements for BCaBA certification
- Affordable public university tuition in the San Antonio metro area
- Direct pipeline to TAMUSA's M.S. in ABA for students pursuing BCBA certification
University of Houston — M.Ed. in Special Populations (ABA)
In-State
~$5,500/semester in-state
Out-of-State
~$10,200/semester out-of-state
Length
4 semesters (~2 years)
Field Hours
1,500 supervised experience hours
Concentrations
- Houston location provides access to the 4th largest city's massive ABA employer network
- 100% online or hybrid delivery through UH's Katy Campus — flexible options for working professionals
- Also offers a 1-year online certificate for professionals who need BCBA coursework only
- University of Houston-Clear Lake's sister program reports a remarkable 100% BCBA pass rate
- Designed for educators, RBTs, and related professionals advancing to BCBA
St. Edward's University — M.Ed. in Applied Behavior Analysis
In-State
$37,260 total (flat rate)
Out-of-State
$37,260 total (flat rate)
Length
21 months (30 credits)
Field Hours
1,500 supervised experience hours
Concentrations
- Austin-based private university with fully online delivery — flat tuition regardless of residency
- 30-credit program completable in 21 months — designed for working professionals
- All course fees included in the $37,260 total tuition — transparent pricing
- $500 non-refundable deposit required upon acceptance
- BACB-aligned curriculum preparing graduates for the BCBA certification exam
Texas State University — M.A. in Special Education (ABA Concentration)
In-State
~$500/credit in-state
Out-of-State
~$1,000/credit out-of-state
Length
2 years
Field Hours
1,500 supervised experience hours
Concentrations
- Hybrid format with evening in-person classes — ideal for working professionals in the Austin/San Marcos corridor
- Located between Austin and San Antonio — access to both metro job markets
- BACB-aligned curriculum through the Department of Curriculum and Instruction
- Strong special education foundation with ABA specialization
- Affordable public university tuition in one of Texas's fastest-growing regions
Texas Behavior Analyst Licensure Requirements (LBA)
The licensing board, exam pathway, and supervised hours you'll need to practice independently.
Licensing Board
Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) — Behavior Analysts Program
(512) 463-6599
Texas requires behavior analysts to hold a state license through the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) in addition to national certification. You need both BACB certification and a TDLR license to practice legally in Texas. There is no separate state exam — TDLR accepts the BACB exam (or QABA exam as of December 2024) as meeting the examination requirement.
A significant 2024 update: the Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation approved the Qualified Applied Behavior Analysis Credentialing Board (QABA) as a second certifying entity in December 2024. This means Texas now accepts both the BCBA/BCaBA (from BACB) and the QBA/QASP-S (from QABA) as qualifying credentials for state licensure — making Texas one of the first states to offer dual certification pathways.
All applicants must pass a criminal history background check as a condition of licensure. There is no Texas-specific exam beyond the national certification exam. License renewal is required every two years.
Licensed Behavior Analyst
Independent practice of applied behavior analysis — assessment, treatment design, supervision
Hours
1,500
Duration
Associate
Exam: BCBA Exam (BACB) or QBA Exam (QABA) — no separate Texas exam
Licensed Assistant Behavior Analyst
Practice of ABA under LBA supervision — implement and monitor treatment plans
Hours
1,000
Duration
Associate
Exam: BCaBA Exam (BACB) or QASP-S Exam (QABA) — no separate Texas exam
Texas does not have a formal reciprocity agreement with other states. However, because TDLR's licensure requirements are tied directly to BACB or QABA certification, the process for out-of-state behavior analysts is straightforward: if you hold current BCBA or QBA certification in good standing, you can apply for a Texas LBA license by submitting your application, proof of certification, and passing the background check. There is no additional Texas exam, residency requirement, or supervised practice period for certified behavior analysts relocating to Texas.
Behavior Analyst Salary in Texas
BLS state median wages by counseling specialty, with national comparison and top-paying metros.
Texas behavior analyst salaries are slightly below the national median in BLS data, but the state's lack of income tax is a significant advantage that makes take-home pay effectively higher than states with similar or even somewhat higher nominal salaries. The BLS May 2024 data below covers the broader behavioral health counselor category. BCBA-specific salaries reported by employers and job boards in Texas average $82,000–$93,000, with Fort Worth, Austin, and Houston metro areas at the top.
Behavioral Disorder & Mental Health Counselors (incl. Behavior Analysts)
National median: $59,190
Top metro: $62,400 (Dallas-Fort Worth)
BCBA-Certified Professionals (employer-reported)
National median: $78,000
Top metro: $93,362 (Fort Worth)
RBT / Behavior Technicians (employer-reported)
National median: $37,800
Texas ABA Job Market and Workforce Demand
Major employers, mental health shortage context, and loan repayment programs that erase debt for service.
Texas is one of the largest and fastest-growing ABA markets in the country. The state's large and growing population — now over 30 million — combined with expanding autism diagnosis rates and strong insurance coverage creates sustained demand for credentialed behavior analysts across all major metros.
Texas's autism insurance mandate (SB 1484) requires commercial health plans to cover ABA therapy for individuals with autism spectrum disorder, creating a strong employer base of ABA therapy providers statewide. The Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, Austin, and San Antonio metro areas all have robust ABA employer networks, including national chains like BlueSprig, Trumpet Behavioral Health, Verbal Beginnings, Centria Autism, and Action Behavior Centers (headquartered in Austin), as well as hundreds of local and regional ABA practices.
The dual certification pathway through BACB and QABA (approved December 2024) may further expand the workforce pipeline by giving aspiring behavior analysts an alternative credentialing path. Texas's combination of job availability, no income tax, relatively affordable cost of living (compared to coastal states), and a deep pool of accredited programs makes it one of the most attractive states for behavior analysts at every career stage.
Loan Repayment & Scholarship Programs
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) — Behavior analysts working at public school districts, state agencies, or nonprofit ABA providers in Texas qualify for federal PSLF after 10 years of qualifying payments.
No State Income Tax — Texas's lack of state income tax means more of your salary goes toward loan payments, effectively accelerating repayment compared to high-tax states.
Texas A&M-San Antonio Affordability — At ~$10,461 total for in-state students, TAMUSA's M.S. in ABA is one of the most affordable in the country, minimizing the need for loans entirely.
Baylor Tuition Discounts — Competitive applicants to Baylor's ABA program receive up to 95% tuition discounts, making this private university comparable to or cheaper than many public options.
How to Choose the Best ABA Program in Texas
Decision factors that actually matter, not generic checklist filler.
With 20+ ABA programs across Texas, the decision comes down to cost, format, accreditation level, and which metro area you want to work in after graduation.
If you want the best-accredited ABA program in Texas: UNT and Sam Houston State both hold full ABAI accreditation — the gold standard. UNT is fully online; SHSU is on-campus with both thesis and non-thesis tracks.
If you want the cheapest ABA master's in Texas: Texas A&M-San Antonio is the clear winner at ~$10,461 total for in-state students. Sam Houston State (~$19,476) and UNT (~$13,900/year) are also highly affordable.
If you want an online ABA master's in Texas: UNT (ABAI-accredited, asynchronous), Texas Tech (ABAI-verified, 36 credits), TAMUSA (fully online, 33 credits), UH (100% online or hybrid), and St. Edward's (21 months, $37,260 flat) all offer online delivery.
If you want the fastest ABA master's in Texas: Baylor can be completed in 15 months with up to 95% tuition discount for strong applicants. St. Edward's takes 21 months online.
If you want to earn a bachelor's in ABA in Texas: UNT and Texas A&M-San Antonio both offer dedicated B.S. in ABA programs — among the few in the country. UNT's program is the original, TAMUSA's launched in 2022.
If you're in the Houston area: University of Houston offers online/hybrid M.Ed. with ABA concentration, and UH-Clear Lake has a sister program with a reported 100% BCBA pass rate.
If you're in the Dallas-Fort Worth area: UNT in Denton is the premier choice with ABAI accreditation and fully online delivery. Texas State in San Marcos also serves the Austin/DFW corridor.
Related Pages
Best Online ABA Programs
National ranking of the top online ABA master's programs
BCBA Career Guide
What BCBAs actually do day-to-day
BCBA Salary Data
Salary data by state, experience, and employer type
ABA Programs in California
ABA programs in California
ABA Programs in Florida
ABA programs in Florida
ABA Programs by State
Browse ABA programs in all 50 states
Sources
- ABAI — Verified Course Sequence Directory
- BACB — Verified Course Sequences
- BACB — Certificant Data and Exam Pass Rates
- Bureau of Labor Statistics — Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2024
- BACB — U.S. Licensure of Behavior Analysts by State
- Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation — Behavior Analysts
- Texas Behavior Analysis Laws and Rules
- NCES College Navigator — U.S. Department of Education