Compare Top-Rated Graduate Certificate in Psychology Programs Near Allentown, Pennsylvania
Allentown, Pennsylvania, is one of the fastest growing cities in the state and an increasingly important hub for education, healthcare, and social services. Its rapid growth has created both opportunities and challenges for the local community. As healthcare systems and schools expand, the need for qualified professionals with advanced mental health training has become especially pressing. Graduate certificates in psychology provide a way for practitioners to respond to these shifts by building specialized knowledge in a shorter timeframe than full degrees.
As the demand for mental health professionals expands nationwide, short-term graduate certificate programs are becoming a practical option for counselors, educators, and allied health practitioners seeking advanced training. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of psychologists and related professionals is projected to grow faster than average, creating a need for specialized expertise in regions like the Lehigh Valley. Graduate certificate programs in psychology offer focused opportunities to enhance skills and meet these evolving needs without the extended commitment of a doctoral degree.
2026 Explore Top-Rated Graduate Certificate in Psychology Programs Near Allentown, PA
Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA - Private 4-year - drexel.edu
Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Online Learning - Visit Website
Drexel University's online Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis is an ABAI-verified program preparing students for the BACB exam. It requires a master's degree for admission, with no entrance exam specified, and focuses on behavioral processes, assessments, and ethics through a 31.5-credit curriculum. Flexible scheduling supports professionals aiming for roles like Behavior Analysts, emphasizing contributions to autism and other communities.
- Online program flexibility
- ABAI-verified coursework
- 31.5 credits required
- Prepares for BACB exam
- Master's degree prerequisite
- Focus on behavioral processes
- Ethical standards covered
- Full or part-time options
- Letters of recommendation needed
- Personal essay requirement
Graduate Certificate - Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders
Online Learning - Visit Website
Drexel University's Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders is an online program designed for professionals to enhance ASD intervention skills, with no entrance exam required. Admission necessitates a bachelor's degree, and it can be completed in one year. Pennsylvania-certified teachers may earn an endorsement, making it ideal for educators seeking to support students with autism effectively.
- Online program format.
- Completion in one year.
- No teaching certification required.
- Bachelor's degree needed for admission.
- PA teachers eligible for endorsement.
West Chester University of Pennsylvania
West Chester, PA - Public 4-Year - wcupa.edu
Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
Online Learning - Visit Website
West Chester University of Pennsylvania offers a Graduate Certificate in Industrial/Organizational Psychology, delivered entirely online. This 12-credit program focuses on applying psychological principles to enhance workplace dynamics, covering topics like employee motivation, selection processes, and organizational change. It requires a bachelor's degree for admission, with no specific field prerequisite or entrance exam needed. Designed for professionals in management or HR, it provides a pathway to the MS program and emphasizes leadership development and ethical practices, making it ideal for career advancement.
- 100% online format
- 12 credits required
- No psychology degree needed
- Focus on workplace psychology
- Pathway to MS program
- Taught by experienced faculty
- Covers leadership and HR skills
- Flexible for working professionals
- Enhances organizational change skills
- Improves work life quality
Graduate Certificate - Certificate in Autism (Online)
Online Learning - Visit Website
West Chester University of Pennsylvania's Certificate in Autism is an online 18-credit program tailored for practitioners and parents, focusing on autism spectrum disorders through an interdisciplinary approach. Admission requires a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA, and no entrance exam is specified. The curriculum includes courses in communicative disorders, special education, and behavioral treatments, equipping students with skills for effective intervention and support in diverse settings.
- Online program format
- 18 credits required
- Interdisciplinary approach
- Bachelor's degree needed
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- Focus on autism spectrum
- Courses in multiple disciplines
- For practitioners and parents
- Skills for effective treatment
- Empirically based methods
Saint Joseph's University
Philadelphia, PA - Private 4-year - sju.edu
Graduate Certificate - Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Saint Joseph's University's online graduate certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis is designed for professionals in fields like education and mental health, preparing them for the BCBA exam. The 100% online program, taught by practicing BCBAs, offers flexibility with rolling admissions and multiple start terms. It features an ABAI-approved curriculum, affordable tuition, and financial aid options. Admission requires transcripts, a personal statement, resume, and two letters of recommendation; no entrance exam is specified, but it is a graduate-level program.
- Prepares for BCBA exam.
- 100% online coursework.
- Taught by practicing BCBAs.
- Affordable tuition rates.
- Financial aid available.
- Rolling admissions.
- Flexible start terms.
- Industry-relevant curriculum.
- Approved by ABAI.
- For working professionals.
Lehigh University
Bethlehem, PA - Private 4-year - lehigh.edu
Graduate Certificate - Certificate in Behavior Analysis
Online Learning - Visit Website
Lehigh University offers an online Certificate in Behavior Analysis, a six-course program tailored for professionals seeking to advance their skills in evidence-based behavioral support. It meets Pennsylvania licensure requirements and prepares students for the BCBA exam, with coursework covering applied behavior analysis, autism spectrum disorders, ethics, positive behavior support, and single-subject research design. Delivered in a flexible online format, this program is ideal for working practitioners and does not require an entrance exam. For more information, contact Dr. Sara Kangas or Cindi Deutsch.
- Online program format
- Six-course certificate
- Meets PA licensure requirements
- BCBA exam eligibility
- Focus on evidence-based practices
- Autism spectrum disorders course
- Ethics and professional conduct
- Positive behavior support
- Single-subject research design
- Flexible for working professionals
Arcadia University
Glenside, PA - Private 4-year - arcadia.edu
Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Online Learning - Visit Website
Arcadia University offers a 21-credit online Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis, tailored for professionals like educators and therapists seeking BCBA exam preparation. This program, verified by ABAI, emphasizes evidence-based behavioral interventions, functional assessments, and ethical practices without requiring a teaching license. With a flexible part-time format and small classes led by BCBA-certified instructors, students can complete it in 12 months at $765 per credit. A 3.0 GPA minimum is required, and no entrance exam is needed for this graduate-level certificate.
- Online graduate certificate program
- 21 credit hours total
- BCBA exam preparation
- Verified Course Sequence by ABAI
- Flexible part-time study options
- Small class sizes
- BCBA-certified instructors
- Can complete in 12 months
- 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
- No teaching license required
Temple University
Philadelphia, PA - Public 4-Year - temple.edu
Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate: Applied Behavior Analysis
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Temple University's Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis offers a hybrid, ABAI-approved program with 21 credits, focusing on behavior modification techniques for diverse settings. It requires a bachelor's degree, 3.0 GPA, and two recommendation letters, but no entrance exam is specified. Designed for part-time students, it can lead to licensure as a Behavior Specialist, emphasizing ethical practices and societal impact.
- Hybrid learning format
- ABAI-approved 7-course sequence
- 21 total credit hours
- 3.0 minimum GPA requirement
- Potential Behavior Specialist licensure
- Two-year completion time limit
- Recommended for part-time students
- Requires two recommendation letters
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- Bachelor's degree prerequisite
Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate: Autism Endorsement
Campus Based - Visit Website
Temple University's Graduate Certificate in Autism Endorsement is a 12-credit campus-based program for certified teachers, specializing in Autism Spectrum Disorders. It integrates applied behavior analysis with research-based strategies, requiring a bachelor's degree, 3.0 GPA, and teaching certification, with no entrance exam mentioned. Flexible practicum and part-time options help graduates earn Pennsylvania's ASD Endorsement, enhancing career opportunities in inclusive education.
- 12-credit program
- Campus-based with night classes
- Flexible practicum options
- Requires bachelor's degree
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Valid teaching certification needed
- Part-time study available
- ACT 48 credits applicable
- Pennsylvania ASD Endorsement
- Renowned faculty
East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania
East Stroudsburg, PA - Public 4-Year - esu.edu
Graduate Certificate - Applied Behavior Analysis Certification
Online Learning - Visit Website
East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania provides an online Applied Behavior Analysis Certification program verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International. It prepares students for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® exam, emphasizing ethical behavior interventions and covering areas like assessment and strategies. Designed for professionals in psychology or education, the program offers flexibility for working individuals. Admission does not require an entrance exam, making it accessible. This certification leads to supervisory roles, enhancing career opportunities in behavior analysis.
- ABAI verified program.
- Prepares for BCBA exam.
- Focuses on ethical interventions.
- Online program flexibility.
- Competitive admission costs.
- Supervising roles preparation.
- Covers foundational and application areas.
- Accessible for working professionals.
- Enhances career opportunities.
- Focus on behavior analysis.
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA - Private 4-year - upenn.edu
Graduate Certificate - Integrated Nursing Care of Autism Spectrum Disorder, Certificate
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Pennsylvania's Graduate Certificate in Integrated Nursing Care of Autism Spectrum Disorder is a three-semester program designed for registered and advanced practice nurses specializing in pediatrics, mental health, or family care. It includes three graduate-level courses and clinical fieldwork, focusing on screening for ASD and managing co-occurring conditions. With flexible schedules and collaboration with leading faculty, this campus-based program enhances nursing expertise without requiring an entrance exam, making it ideal for those aiming to impact ASD care significantly.
- Three-semester program.
- For registered and advanced nurses.
- Focus on pediatrics, mental health.
- Includes clinical fieldwork.
- Flexible schedules available.
- Three graduate-level courses.
- Collaboration with leading faculty.
- Skills to screen for ASD.
- Manage co-occurring conditions.
- Innovative nursing care approaches.
Chestnut Hill College
Philadelphia, PA - Private 4-year - chc.edu
Graduate Certificate - Clinical and Counseling Psychology - Child and Adolescent Therapy with Specialization in Autism Spectrum Disorders
Concentration: Child and Adolescent Therapy with Specialization in Autism Spectrum Disorders - Campus Based - Visit Website
Chestnut Hill College offers a Clinical and Counseling Psychology Graduate Certificate focusing on Child and Adolescent Therapy with a specialization in Autism Spectrum Disorders. This MPCAC-accredited program includes 60 credits, evening and weekend classes, and hands-on field placements in the Philadelphia area. It prepares students for LPC licensure in Pennsylvania through evidence-based practices, play therapy, and family systems interventions, emphasizing cultural competence and ethical practice. An entrance exam is not mentioned as required for this graduate-level program.
- MPCAC Accredited Program
- Top 3 program in PA
- 60 credits to complete
- Evening and weekend classes
- Field placement opportunities
- Prepares for LPC licensure
- Focus on Autism Spectrum Disorders
- Cultural competence training
- Hands-on play therapy
- Family systems approach
Expanding Opportunities Through Graduate Certificate Programs
Graduate certificates in psychology are designed for individuals who already hold degrees in psychology, counseling, or related disciplines. These programs typically consist of 12 to 24 credits and can be completed in less than two years. Unlike longer programs, certificates are concentrated and practice oriented, providing targeted training in specialized areas. For professionals in Allentown, this format offers the ability to remain active in the workforce while pursuing advanced learning opportunities that directly address regional mental health challenges.
Mental Health Context in Allentown and the Lehigh Valley
The Lehigh Valley has seen a marked increase in mental health service utilization over the past several years. Reports from the Pennsylvania Department of Health show higher rates of anxiety, depression, and substance use compared to previous decades, reflecting both heightened awareness and genuine growth in mental health needs. These trends place pressure on community providers, schools, and hospitals to ensure that adequate resources are available to support individuals and families across the region.
Allentown, with its growing immigrant population and economic diversity, presents specific challenges and opportunities for mental health practitioners. Professionals must adapt to cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic differences while delivering effective care. Graduate certificates allow practitioners to gain the specialized training necessary to implement evidence-based interventions that address these diverse needs and strengthen the city's overall capacity for mental health services.
Common Certificate Pathways and Specializations
Graduate certificate programs are available across a variety of subfields in psychology, each offering distinct benefits. In Allentown, the following focus areas align closely with community needs:
- Clinical Mental Health Counseling – Advanced courses in diagnosis, assessment, and treatment for a wide range of mental health conditions.
- School Psychology – Training in behavioral assessment, intervention strategies, and educational collaboration for student populations.
- Applied Behavior Analysis – Preparation for roles supporting individuals with developmental or behavioral conditions using evidence-based methods.
- Health Psychology – Exploring the intersection of mental and physical health, stress management, and chronic illness support.
- Research and Evaluation – Training in program evaluation, data interpretation, and applied research to strengthen evidence-based practice.
These options provide the flexibility to specialize in areas that are most relevant to current practice settings in the Lehigh Valley.
Program Length and Structure
Certificate programs vary in length and delivery format. Many require between four and six courses, with options for evening or weekend study to accommodate working professionals. Increasingly, hybrid and online models make participation easier for those balancing career and family obligations. In Allentown, these flexible options ensure accessibility for a workforce that spans hospitals, schools, and community organizations.
Sample Program Structure
| Program Component | Typical Requirement |
| Admission Requirement | Bachelor's or Master's degree in psychology or related field |
| Credit Hours | 12–24 credits |
| Completion Time | 9–18 months |
| Format | Evening, weekend, online, or hybrid |
| Capstone or Project | Applied project or practicum experience |
This structure enables participants to tailor their learning to professional schedules while gaining applied experience relevant to their career path.
Admission Requirements and Eligibility
Applicants to graduate certificate programs must typically demonstrate prior academic preparation in a psychology degree program or in counseling. Some certificates may require professional experience, letters of recommendation, or an interview. These requirements ensure that students entering the program are prepared to engage with advanced coursework and apply training effectively in real world contexts.
For Allentown professionals already serving in clinical, educational, or social service roles, admission criteria often align with existing credentials. This alignment makes certificate programs accessible to experienced practitioners while also supporting the region's growing demand for specialized training.
Professional Advantages of Certificate Completion
Completing a graduate certificate can significantly enhance a professional profile. Employers in Allentown, including healthcare providers, nonprofit organizations, and school districts, often view certificate completion as evidence of commitment to ongoing professional development. Certificates may also fulfill continuing education requirements needed for state licensure renewal, positioning graduates as competitive candidates for advancement or leadership positions. The National Board for Certified Counselors emphasizes the importance of ongoing education to maintain professional standards and ethical practice.
Case Applications in Allentown
Graduate certificates provide real world value when applied directly to community needs. For example, a counselor completing a certificate in multicultural counseling may be better prepared to support Allentown's diverse immigrant populations by offering services in multiple languages and culturally responsive frameworks.
Similarly, a professional with a certificate in health psychology could collaborate with local hospitals to improve patient outcomes by integrating behavioral health strategies into chronic disease management. Guidance from the American Psychological Association highlights the effectiveness of integrated care models, showing how psychological expertise can enhance physical health treatment outcomes.
Licensure and Certification Pathways
While a graduate certificate does not independently confer licensure, it may contribute toward professional certifications or prepare students for licensure related exams. For example, a certificate in applied behavior analysis may help prepare candidates for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) exam. In Pennsylvania, professionals are also required to complete continuing education hours to maintain licensure, and graduate certificates provide structured opportunities to meet these standards. Resources from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration further reinforce the importance of accredited continuing education for professionals working with vulnerable populations.
Flexible Learning for Busy Professionals
Flexibility is a defining feature of graduate certificate programs. Many Allentown professionals balance employment with advanced study, making evening, weekend, and hybrid formats essential.
Online coursework expands access to those unable to commute regularly, while in person sessions provide opportunities for networking and skill development. These models ensure that advanced training is accessible without disrupting ongoing professional responsibilities.
Career Impact and Advancement
The career benefits of completing a certificate are significant. Graduates may qualify for advanced roles in school systems, healthcare organizations, or community agencies. These credentials demonstrate advanced expertise and a commitment to professional growth, qualities that are highly valued in competitive job markets.
In Allentown, the demand for professionals specializing in child and adolescent care, substance abuse treatment, and multicultural counseling continues to grow. Certificates provide the targeted training that aligns directly with these opportunities, equipping professionals to advance their careers and meet pressing community needs.
Preparing for the Next Step in Allentown's Counseling Community
Graduate certificates in psychology offer more than academic advancement; they represent a commitment to the future of mental health in Allentown. These programs signal dedication to professional growth and to addressing the pressing needs of a diverse community where mental health services are increasingly important.
By completing a certificate at a psychology school in Pennsylvania, professionals contribute to a stronger network of support for individuals and families across the Lehigh Valley. With specialized knowledge and applied training, graduates are positioned to innovate, lead, and respond effectively to the evolving challenges of the field, strengthening the city's overall capacity for care.
Sources
- Bureau of Labor Statistics
- Pennsylvania Department of Health
- National Board for Certified Counselors
- American Psychological Association
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
