Behavior analysts focus on observing behavior and how it affects the interaction between individuals and their environments. They look to help individuals by discovering small changes that will make big improvements in these people’s lives. This field is often applied to help people with autism, though other patients can benefit as well.

The type of treatment provided by these professionals is known as applied behavior analysis, or ABA therapy. Its intent is to get patients to act more “typical” through the use of cues and rewards. Currently, it is the most common type of therapy used with autistic children, though it is very likely that the present methods will be further refined as time goes on. Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) can make a big difference in the lives of those with behavioral disorders.

2026 Best Online Applied Behavior Analysis Programs

If you're looking for the best online applied behavior analysis programs, you've come to the right place. At counselingpsychology.org, we carefully rank these programs to help you find one that fits your needs. Online programs make it easy to study from home, which is great for busy people who want to advance their careers in this important field. Distance learning and remote options let you balance work and life while gaining valuable skills. Our rankings highlight top choices based on key factors. https://www.counselingpsychology.org/rankings-methodology/
#1

University of West Florida

Pensacola, FL - Public 4-Year - uwf.edu

Bachelor's - Health Sciences, B.S. - Behavior Analysis

Online Learning - Visit Website

University of West Florida's online Health Sciences B.S. in Behavior Analysis prepares students for BCaBA and QASP-S certification through a 120-credit hour curriculum completed in about 48 months. This bachelor's program requires an ACT or SAT entrance exam and focuses on scientific behavioral interventions for careers in hospitals and private practices, with a median salary of $56,576. Flexible online learning and in-state tuition of $218.98 per credit make it accessible, while ABA International verification ensures quality.

  • 120 total credit hours
  • Online flexible format
  • BCaBA exam preparation
  • 48-month estimated completion
  • In-state tuition $218.98/credit
  • Verified by ABA International
  • 15 elective credit hours
  • Prerequisite GPA requirements
  • Multiple career pathway options

Master's - Master of Science in Behavior Analysis

Online Learning - Visit Website

The online Master of Science in Behavior Analysis at University of West Florida prepares students for BCBA certification with a 39-45 credit hour curriculum emphasizing research and ethical practices. This master's program requires an entrance exam and admission includes a 3.25 undergraduate GPA minimum, personal statement, and letters of reference. Cohort-based online learning focuses on healthcare and organizational settings, with opportunities for funded research and a thesis/capstone project to enhance practical skills.

  • Online program
  • 39-45 credit hours
  • Prepares for BCBA certification
  • Research-focused curriculum
  • Cohort learning experience
  • Ethical practice emphasis
  • 3.0 GPA required to graduate
  • Thesis/capstone project
  • Admission interview required
  • Personal statement submission

Master's - Master of Arts in Exceptional Student Education (Applied Behavior Analysis)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Focused on the Applied Behavior Analysis concentration, University of West Florida's online Master of Arts in Exceptional Student Education prepares students for BCBA, QBA, and IBA certification through a 30-33 credit hour program completed in 18-24 months. This master's program requires an entrance exam and emphasizes evidence-based techniques for individuals with diverse learning needs, with a 3.0 GPA admission requirement. Competitive tuition of $384.60 per credit hour and verification by Behavior Analysis International ensure quality training for educational and clinical roles.

  • 30-33 credit hour program
  • Online format
  • BCBA certification track
  • 18-24 months completion
  • 3.0 GPA admission requirement
  • Verified by Behavior Analysis International
  • Multiple certification pathways
  • Average behavior analyst salary $70,875

Graduate Certificate - Applied Behavior Analysis Online Graduate Certificate

Online Learning - Visit Website

University of West Florida's online Graduate Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate offers an 18-22 credit hour pathway to BCBA, QBA, and IBA certification, with tuition from $6,922 to $8,461. This graduate certificate requires an entrance exam and provides rigorous training in assessment and intervention strategies for clinical and educational settings. Faculty actively work in the field, and the program is verified by ABAI, supporting non-degree students with potential career earnings averaging $70,875.

  • Online graduate certificate program
  • Meets BCBA/QBA/IBA certification requirements
  • 18-22 credit hours total
  • $384.60 per credit hour
  • Coursework verified by ABAI
  • Faculty actively work in field
  • Non-degree student options available
  • Multiple certificate tracks
  • Potential career avg $70,875

Graduate Certificate - Graduate QBA Certificate

Online Learning - Visit Website

University of West Florida's online Graduate QBA Certificate specializes in Qualified Behavior Analysis for autism intervention, requiring 22 credit hours and an entrance exam. With tuition at $384.60 per credit hour and total cost around $8,461, this graduate certificate meets rigorous certification standards and focuses on behavioral assessments and ethical practice. ABAI-verified coursework supports roles in clinical and educational settings, offering a structured, sequential path for professionals seeking an average salary of $70,875.

  • Online graduate-level certificate
  • 22 credit hours total
  • Meets QBA certification requirements
  • $384.60 per credit hour
  • Supports autism intervention specialization
  • Non-degree seeking option available
  • Courses sequential and structured
  • ABAI verified course sequence

Graduate Certificate - Graduate IBA Certificate

Online Learning - Visit Website

  • 18-22 credit hour program
  • Online graduate certificate
  • Meets international certification requirements
  • $384.60 per credit hour
  • No master's degree required
  • Coursework meets BCBA, QBA standards
  • Faculty actively working in field
Show 5 More Programs ˅
#2

University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA - Public 4-Year - virginia.edu

Master's - Master of Education in Special Education (Applied Behavior Analysis)

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Virginia's online Master of Education in Special Education with an Applied Behavior Analysis concentration prepares students for BCBA certification through a flexible, synchronous format. This program requires a bachelor's degree, recommendations, a goal statement, and resume for admission, with no entrance exam specified. It emphasizes leadership in special education settings, blending core ABA and special education courses to enhance skills for educators and professionals.

  • Fully online program
  • Synchronous courses
  • Concentration in ABA
  • Prepares for BCBA exam
  • Flexible for working professionals
  • Core special education courses
  • Leadership roles preparation
  • Bachelor's degree required
  • Two recommendations needed
  • Goal statement submission

Master's - Master of Education in Special Education (Special Education General Curriculum)

Online Learning - Visit Website

This online Master of Education in Special Education at the University of Virginia, with a Special Education General Curriculum concentration, provides synchronous learning and no GRE requirement. Ranked #7 nationally, it prepares educators for roles like special education leaders or BCBAs through research-based strategies, with full-time or part-time options in 1-2 years. Admission requires a bachelor's degree, offering flexible pathways for professional growth.

  • Fully online synchronous program
  • 1-2 year completion time
  • Multiple emphasis areas available
  • No GRE scores required
  • Bachelor's degree prerequisite
  • Optional BCBA exam preparation
  • State endorsement options
  • Experienced faculty instruction

Master's - Master of Education in Special Education (Special Education Leadership)

Online Learning - Visit Website

UVA's online Master of Education in Special Education with a Special Education Leadership concentration features no GRE requirement and a #7 national ranking. This synchronous program allows part-time or full-time study over 1-2 years, taught by experienced faculty, and includes pathways for leadership or BCBA certification. It is ideal for educators adding credentials without disrupting careers, with guaranteed admission for UVA undergraduates.

  • Fully online synchronous program
  • Three concentration options
  • No GRE required for admission
  • 1-2 years program length
  • Leadership and BCBA pathways available
  • Guaranteed admission for UVA undergrads

Graduate Certificate - Certificate in Applied Behavioral Analysis

Online Learning - Visit Website

UVA's fully online Certificate in Applied Behavioral Analysis offers a BACB-approved course sequence for aspiring BCBAs or BCaBAs, with no GRE required. Designed for bachelor's or master's degree holders, it focuses on practical skills like behavioral assessments and treatment plans, featuring part-time options over 1-7 semesters. Admission involves transcripts, recommendations, and a goals statement, making it accessible for career advancement in behavioral analysis.

  • Fully online program.
  • Part-time study option.
  • 1-7 semesters length.
  • No GRE required.
  • Approved by BACB.
  • Focus on practical skills.
  • For bachelor's or master’s holders.
  • Prepares for BCBA or BCaBA exams.
  • Includes ethics and supervision.
  • Flexible admission requirements.
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#3

Purdue University

West Lafayette, IN - Public 4-Year - purdue.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Educational Studies: Applied Behavior Analysis

Online Learning - Visit Website

Purdue University's online Master of Science in Educational Studies: Applied Behavior Analysis is a 33-credit program that prepares graduates for the BCBA exam through rigorous coursework in behavioral research, intervention planning, and ethical practices. This online program offers flexible synchronous and asynchronous learning options, making it ideal for working professionals. The ABAI-approved curriculum emphasizes data-driven analysis and evidence-based strategies across diverse settings. No entrance exam is required for admission. Total costs range from $14,820 to $21,150, depending on residency status.

  • 33-credit online master's program
  • BCBA exam preparation
  • Synchronous and asynchronous classes
  • Cohort learning model
  • ABAI approved course sequence

Graduate Certificate - Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate

Online Learning - Visit Website

Purdue's online Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis provides a 21-credit pathway to BCBA certification for master's degree holders. This program focuses on advanced behavioral techniques, assessment methods, and personalized therapy planning through synchronous online classes and a cohort model. No entrance exam is required, though applicants need a minimum 3.0 GPA and fall semester admission. The curriculum includes CBA modules and requires approximately 15 hours of weekly coursework, with costs between $10,374 and $14,805 based on residency.

  • 21-credit online graduate certificate
  • Master's degree prerequisite
  • ABAI approved course sequence
  • Cohort learning model
  • Synchronous online classes
  • In-state tuition $494/credit
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • Fall semester admission only
  • 15 hours weekly coursework
  • CBA modules included
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#4

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN - Private 4-year - vanderbilt.edu

Graduate Certificate - Online Post-Master’s Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis

Online Learning - Visit Website

Vanderbilt University's Online Post-Master's Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis provides advanced, flexible training for professionals with a related master's degree, delivered entirely online. This program emphasizes practical ABA skills, ethical practices, and research-based intervention strategies to prepare graduates for leadership roles in education, healthcare, and behavioral services. No entrance exam is required for admission, making it accessible for working adults seeking career enhancement. Financial aid is available, and the curriculum covers key principles that support diverse applications in the field.

  • Online format for flexibility.
  • Advanced ABA training.
  • Requires related master's degree.
  • Focuses on practical ABA skills.
  • Financial aid available.
  • Prepares for leadership roles.
  • Covers ethical ABA practices.
  • Enhances career opportunities.
#5

Mississippi State University

Mississippi State, MS - Public 4-Year - msstate.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Mississippi State University's Bachelor of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis is a comprehensive 120-credit hybrid program that prepares students for careers in this growing field. The curriculum emphasizes scientific principles and includes two semesters of supervised experiential training, making graduates eligible for RBT and BCaBA certifications. As a bachelor's level program, it requires ACT or SAT entrance exams. This hybrid format combines online learning with in-person components, following a scientist-practitioner model to ensure real-world application of behavior analysis principles.

  • 120-credit undergraduate degree
  • RBT certification pathway
  • BCaBA exam eligible coursework
  • Two semesters supervised learning
  • Scientist-practitioner training model
  • Verified Course Sequence (ABAI)
  • Career-focused curriculum

Master's - Applied Behavior Analysis

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Mississippi State University's Master of Science in Educational Psychology with an Applied Behavior Analysis concentration is a hybrid program recognized as a Verified Course Sequence by ABAI. This 2-year program prepares students for BCBA credentialing through a curriculum covering principles, applications, and ethical issues, supplemented by practicum opportunities. As a master's level program, it requires entrance exams. The hybrid format blends online coursework with face-to-face learning, offering financial aid and graduate assistantships to eligible students admitted each fall.

  • Hybrid program format
  • Verified Course Sequence
  • Prepares for BCBA credential
  • 2-year completion time
  • Practicum opportunities available
  • Financial aid options
  • Graduate assistantships offered
  • Admission in Fall only
  • Statement of purpose required
  • Resume and references needed

Graduate Certificate - Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate

Online Learning - Visit Website

Mississippi State University's Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate is a fully online 21-credit graduate program designed for master's degree holders seeking BCBA certification. The curriculum covers behavior analysis principles, social-emotional assessment, legal/ethical issues, and consultation techniques, aligned with BACB requirements. This program requires entrance exams and offers affordable in-state tuition for all students. The online format allows completion within two years, preparing graduates for diverse careers in clinical, educational, and healthcare settings through specialized coursework.

  • Fully online graduate certificate
  • 21 credit hours total
  • In-state tuition for all
  • BACB task list aligned
  • Lead to BCBA certification
  • Master's degree prerequisite
  • 7 specialized courses
  • Verified Course Sequence
  • Completion within 2 years
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#6

University of South Florida

Tampa, FL - Public 4-Year - usf.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of South Florida's online Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis trains students as ethical scientist-practitioners through a fully digital curriculum completed in five semesters. This program requires no GRE exam and provides 1,500 hours of supervised fieldwork that fulfill BACB certification standards. All students, including out-of-state enrollees, pay in-state tuition rates, with scholarship options available. Doctoral-level behavior analysts deliver instruction focused on board certification preparation, offering flexibility for working professionals seeking leadership roles in ABA practice and research.

  • Fully online program
  • 5 semesters to complete
  • No GRE required
  • In-state tuition for all
  • 1,500 fieldwork hours
  • Scholarship opportunities
  • Doctoral-level instructors
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Board certification prep
#7

Tennessee Tech

Cookeville, TN - Public 4-Year - tntech.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Curriculum & Instruction with ABA Concentration

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Tennessee Technological University's Master of Arts in Curriculum & Instruction with an Applied Behavior Analysis concentration is a hybrid program combining online and in-person learning. It focuses on data-driven strategies for educational settings, particularly autism spectrum disorders and positive behavior interventions, preparing graduates for Board Certified Behavior Analyst® certification. This program requires a 2.75 undergraduate GPA for admission and does not mandate an entrance exam, offering a flexible path for career advancement in behavior analysis.

  • Hybrid or online delivery
  • Focus on ABA
  • 2.75 GPA requirement
  • BCBA® exam eligible
  • Data-driven approach
  • Autism spectrum focus
  • Positive behavior interventions
  • Innovative curriculum
  • Supportive learning environment
  • Career advancement opportunities

Doctorate - Exceptional Learning (Applied Behavior Analysis)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Ph.D. in Exceptional Learning with an Applied Behavior Analysis concentration at Tennessee Technological University is a hybrid program designed for leadership roles in educational and community settings. It emphasizes developing behavioral interventions for diverse populations, with options in Young Children & Families or School-Aged & Adults. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, GRE scores, scholarly writing samples, and an interview. This online-inclusive program fosters research and practical skills for impactful careers, aligning with board certification standards.

  • Ph.D. in Exceptional Learning
  • Concentration in ABA
  • Hybrid delivery style
  • Focus on Young Children & Families
  • Focus on School-Aged & Adults
  • 3.0 GPA requirement
  • GRE scores needed
  • Scholarly writing sample
  • Interview part of admissions
  • Prepares for board certification

Doctorate - Exceptional Learning (Young Children and Families)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Tennessee Technological University offers a Ph.D. in Exceptional Learning with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis, specifically focusing on Young Children and Families. This hybrid program trains students to create positive interventions for at-risk young children and their families, highlighting relationship building and advocacy. Admission necessitates a 3.0 GPA, GRE scores, scholarly writing samples, letters of recommendation, a statement of intent, and a professional CV. The online components support professionals aiming for roles in public schools, higher education, and non-traditional settings, promoting leadership through research.

  • Ph.D. in Exceptional Learning
  • Concentration: Young Children and Families
  • Hybrid program delivery
  • Requires GPA of 3.0 or above
  • GRE scores needed
  • Scholarly writing sample required
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Statement of intent
  • Professional CV/resume
  • Interview with faculty

Doctorate - Exceptional Learning (School-Aged Children and Adult Populations)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

At Tennessee Technological University, the Ph.D. in Exceptional Learning with an Applied Behavior Analysis concentration centers on School-Aged Children and Adult Populations. This hybrid program equips students to design and implement behavioral interventions in various environments, preparing them for board certification. It requires a 3.0 GPA, GRE scores, scholarly writing samples, letters of recommendation, and a statement of intent for admission. The online aspects provide rigorous academic and practical experience, ideal for advancing careers in educational and community contexts.

  • Ph.D. in Exceptional Learning.
  • Concentration in ABA.
  • Focus on School-Aged and Adults.
  • Hybrid delivery style.
  • Prepares for board certification.
  • 3.0 GPA requirement.
  • GRE scores needed.
  • Scholarly writing sample.
  • Letters of recommendation.
  • Statement of intent required.
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#8

Southern Connecticut State University

New Haven, CT - Public 4-Year - southernct.edu

Master's - Applied Behavior Analysis, M.S.

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Southern Connecticut State University's M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis is a 30-credit hybrid program that blends online and campus-based education. It prepares students for ABA careers with a curriculum covering ethical practices, organizational behavior management, intervention strategies, and core courses like Principles of ABA and Single Subject Research Methods. Electives allow for specialized fieldwork, and a 3.0 cumulative GPA is required for graduation. The program includes a comprehensive exam capstone and is ideal for working professionals, with financial aid and transfer credit options available. As a master's level program, it may require an entrance exam, though none is explicitly stated as not required.

  • Hybrid learning format
  • 30 credits required
  • 3.0 GPA for graduation
  • Core ABA courses
  • Elective fieldwork options
  • Financial aid available
  • Transfer credits accepted
  • Comprehensive exam capstone
  • Ethics and professional conduct
  • Organizational behavior management

Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Southern Connecticut State University's Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis is a 30-credit hybrid program designed for master's degree holders. It focuses on advanced collaborative strategies in special education, providing training in ethical conduct, organizational behavior management, intervention techniques, single-subject research methods, and practical application of behavioral analysis principles. The cohort-based model includes fieldwork supervision and emphasizes individualized instruction and supporting students with exceptional needs. As a graduate-level program, it may require an entrance exam, but no exam is explicitly promoted as not required.

  • 30-credit graduate certificate
  • Cohort-based learning model
  • Master's degree prerequisite
  • Specialized ABA coursework
  • Fieldwork supervision options
  • Advanced collaborative strategies
  • Research methods training
  • Ethical professional conduct focus
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#9

Florida International University

Miami, FL - Public 4-Year - fiu.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (Applied Behavior Analysis Track)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Florida International University's online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with an Applied Behavior Analysis Track prepares students for BCaBA certification through a 120-credit curriculum focused on autism spectrum disorder and developmental challenges. This fully online program teaches objective measurement and intervention implementation for behavioral change, with tuition ranging from $235.57 to $648.87 per credit. Multiple start dates and success coach support enhance flexibility, and no ACT or SAT entrance exam is required for admission.

  • Fully online psychology degree
  • BCaBA certificate pathway
  • 120 total credits required
  • Multiple start dates annually
  • Success coach support
  • Flexible learning format
  • Research-based curriculum

Master's - Master of Science in Psychology with a major in Behavior Analysis

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Florida International University's hybrid Master of Science in Psychology with a major in Behavior Analysis combines online and campus learning over 18 months and 45 credits to prepare students for BCBA credentialing. The program includes a Verified Course Sequence, practical experience, and BCBA exam preparation, with faculty who are BCBAs. Admission requires meeting specific criteria, but no entrance exam like the GRE is mentioned as required. Fall and spring cohorts are available, focusing on ethics and professional development.

  • 45 credit hours
  • 18 months duration
  • Hybrid program
  • BCBA credential prep
  • Fall and spring admission
  • Practical experience included
  • Ethics course required
  • Professional development focus
  • Diverse learning environment
  • Faculty are BCBAs

Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Florida International University's hybrid Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis is a 12-month program blending online and campus learning for those with a graduate degree aiming for BCBA certification. It covers seven courses on ABA concepts, ethical codes, and behavior technologies at a total cost of $12,453 for 21 credits. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA minimum, a resume, and current or completed graduate enrollment, with no entrance exam specified. Spring-only admission emphasizes board certification preparation.

  • 12-month program
  • Hybrid learning format
  • Seven courses
  • $12,453 total cost
  • Requires graduate degree
  • 3.0 GPA minimum
  • Spring admission only
  • Board Certified preparation
  • Ethical codes covered
  • Behavior technologies included
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#10

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY - Public 4-Year - hunter.cuny.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

CUNY Hunter College's Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis is a hybrid program that combines online coursework with campus learning, offering flexibility for students. It prepares graduates for careers in behavior analysis with a strong emphasis on practical skills, assessment techniques, intervention strategies, and ethical practices. Admission requires a bachelor's degree, and no entrance exam is specified. Financial aid is available, making it accessible for those aiming to advance in psychology or education fields.

  • Hybrid learning format.
  • Focuses on practical skills.
  • Covers ethical practices.
  • Financial aid available.
  • Bachelor's degree required.

Graduate Certificate - Advanced Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

CUNY Hunter College's Advanced Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis is a hybrid program delivering 27 credits of rigorous, online-accessible coursework approved by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. It focuses on preparing students for Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification and New York State licensure, featuring supervised practicum experiences and a nationally recognized curriculum. No entrance exam is mentioned, and it is designed for professionals seeking specialized training in behavior intervention strategies across diverse settings.

  • 27 credit advanced certificate program
  • BCBA certification preparation
  • Supervised practicum experiences
  • Nationally recognized curriculum
  • Pathway to NY State licensure
Show 1 More Programs ˅
*National Center for Education Statistics. (2024). IPEDS data system. Retrieved from https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Choosing the Right Online Applied Behavior Analysis Degree Program

As with most psychological specialties, education typically is set up in the traditional style. A bachelor’s degree starts you off, and upgrades include master’s and doctorate degrees. Typically, a bachelor’s opens the door to assistant positions, while higher degrees make it possible to get positions with more responsibilities. While many students will choose the traditional on-campus program route, an online program can prove to be more flexible for those students with busier lives and schedules.

No matter what degree level you’re going for, it’s essential that the program be accredited. This ensures that the degree will be honored by employers, future degree programs, and your state’s licensing board. At the master’s level, which is the one required for certification, look for accreditation by the Association for Behavior Analysis International. This organization also administers one of the major certification tests for this profession.

Bachelor’s Degree

There are online options abound for the Bachelor of Science in applied behavior analysis. The curriculum is heavy on psychology and developmental courses, though it is typical for schools to also insist that you take subjects like math, history, and English along with them.

Master’s Degree

Unlike in most psychological professions, you can become an independent practitioner with a master’s degree in applied behavior analysis. Coursework is focused on psychology, child development, and related topics. There is also a requirement for in-person experience hours, during which you interact directly with patients as well as certified practitioners, so it’s important to consider this when searching for online programs.

Graduate Certificate

A graduate certificate in applied behavior analysis can be a good option for a student who already holds a related psychology degree and wants to enter this niche specialty. A graduate certificate is a shorter program (usually taking around a year to complete) that does not result in a degree, but the credits can generally be applied to a higher degree if the student wishes to continue their education. This is an excellent choice for those who don’t want the time commitment or expense of a full degree program but still want to explore the specialty. You can find many applied behavior analysis graduate programs available through a search online.

Doctorate Degree

A doctorate in applied behavior analysis is not required to become certified, but you may want to get one in order to further expand your eligibility for high-salary positions (or your ability to get higher rates as an independent practitioner). It requires even more psychology courses, but much of your grade will come from your dissertation. Some schools may require even more practice hours as well, so it’s important to make sure you’re able to complete these hours locally as an online student.

Board Certification

This profession requires certification rather than licensure. You’ll need to pass the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) exam or an equivalent in order to get the required credential. More information on this, and several lower certifications, can be found here.

Which Applied Behavior Analysis Degree is Right for You?

Bachelor’s DegreeMaster’s DegreeGraduate CertificatePh.D. or PsyD
I am interested in gaining entry-level experience in applied behavior analysisx
I want to get started in my applied behavior analysis career before I pursue more educationx
I want to pursue a non-patient-facing role in the fieldxx
I want to switch to an applied behavior analysis specialtyxx
I already have an applied behavior analysis degree and want to gain specialized knowledgexx
I want to conduct research in applied behavior analysisxx
I want to become a licensed psychologist and treat patientsx
I want to work in academiax

Applied Behavior Analysis Degree Program Curriculum

Since most behavior analysts work with children, subjects studied for these degrees are heavy in child development as well as psychology. The latest methods and research in applied behavior analysis should be included. For the bachelor’s, you’ll also have to take a number of courses in basic subjects like math, English, and history. A full list of online classes can usually be found in the program’s curriculum section on the school’s website.

  • Bachelor’s Degree – A standard bachelor’s degree program is 120 hours, and is set up with the expectation that you’ll take 30 credits worth of classes every year. This makes it fit the “four-year degree” paradigm. However, you can take more or fewer credit hours each year, with the timeframe adjusted accordingly.
  • Master’s Degree – It can take as few as 30 credit hours to get a master’s, but the requirements of the degree don’t stop there. You’ll also need to get a minimum number of practicum hours. The specific number varies by school.
  • Doctorate Degree – Eighty-five to 95 credit hours are involved, but as with the master’s, you’ll also need to do a dissertation. You may also have to complete more practicum hours.

Applied Behavior Analysis Degree Program Clinical Requirements

In the ABA field, the practicum hour requirement kicks in early – at the master’s level – so that you can apply for board certification upon receiving the degree. Practicum hours vary depending on the school, with some providing 1,500 or more, others giving half that, and some not including any at all.

Make sure to check your state’s current legal requirements prior to enrolling so that you can be sure that your prospective master’s degree program offers enough. Otherwise, you may have to enroll in another school or program in order to get the practice time that certification requires. Those enrolled in online programs will still need to complete any clinical requirements in-person.

List of Online ABA Degree Programs

Looking for an online ABA degree program near you? Browse our state-by-state school listings below.

Other Psychology Degree Program Profiles

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