Mary Baldwin University is launching a new Master of Arts in Autism Studies — a fully online, flexible graduate program designed for educators and professionals seeking a deeper, more inclusive understanding of autism and neurodiversity beyond licensure.
Mary Baldwin University is expanding its graduate offerings with a new Master of Arts in Autism Studies, designed for professionals, primarily educators, who work with autistic individuals and want a deeper understanding of neurodiversity, inclusive practices, and real-world application.
The program builds on the university’s strengths in Special Education and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and replaces the previous MEd concentration in ABA & Autism Studies. The change reflects what faculty have heard from the field: professionals want a program that goes beyond licensure prep and engages more fully with the lived experiences of autistic people — particularly for application in the classroom.
As an alternative to MBU’s certification-driven programs that lead to becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA) or Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst® (BCaBA), this master’s is meant for educators and practitioners who aren’t seeking that credential — but still want a graduate-level foundation in supporting diverse learners alongside a richer exploration of autism studies.
While the degree is designed primarily for K–12 educators, it’s also an excellent fit for people working in recreation, rehabilitation, group homes, and other settings where understanding autism is essential.
Key program features include:
- A 30-credit hour curriculum that can be completed in as little as 18 months, with most students finishing in five consecutive semesters (including summers).
- Fully online coursework, accessible from anywhere and delivered asynchronously, this program is a flexible option for full-time educators and working professionals.
- Rolling admissions with six start points each year, meaning students don’t need to wait for the traditional fall or spring semester to begin. You can start the program when the time is right for you.
- Two newly developed graduate-level courses that reflect current conversations in the field:
- Global Perspectives on Autism, which looks at how autism is understood and supported around the world.
- Gender and Neurodiversity, examining the intersection of identity, inclusion, and support strategies.
- Global Perspectives on Autism, which looks at how autism is understood and supported around the world.
- Completion of MBU’s Comprehensive Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorder, a credential endorsed by the Virginia Autism Council and included as part of the program.
The MA provides introductory behavior analytic coursework — Principles of Behavior — as well as additional ABA elective options for students who want a grounding in ABA without pursuing board certification. Faculty say this balance allows students to explore behavior analysis in a way that’s reflective, inclusive, and responsive to the evolving needs of the autism community.
“The students we’re receiving interest from are people who are already working as teachers in a special education program, and now are finding an opportunity to advance their knowledge and their careers in that area,” said Dr. Rachel Potter, director of Applied Behavior Analysis & Autism Studies and Professor of Behavior Analysis & Education.
Potter continues: “As a program intended to support K-12 educators who are finding a desire or need to enhance their own professional development in the area of autism, this program provides an opportunity to do that in the context of a master’s degree.”
Students who enroll will learn from faculty with deep expertise in both academic and clinical settings. Many of the professors are credentialed behavior analysts, licensed educators, and leaders in the field of inclusive education. The online format also creates space for diverse perspectives: current students include practicing special educators, paraprofessionals, career-changers, and people working in allied health.
The inaugural cohort of the MA in Autism Studies begins in Fall 2025, with early enrollment already underway.For professionals who are already in the field — and ready to level up their understanding of autism and neurodiversity — this new degree offers a high quality, flexible path forward.
Interested in leveling-up your career with an advanced degree from MBU? Whether you need further education in your field or are considering a change of careers, MBU has more than 25 flexible, affordable graduate programs made for your success!