Explore Leading Applied Behavior Analysis Programs Near Denver, Colorado
Denver's sunlit skyline and the Rocky Mountains aren't the only reasons students flock to the Mile High City. Colorado faces a projected shortfall of over 4,400 behavioral health professionals by 2024, driving an urgent need for investment in training and education pipelines (Denver7 – Colorado launches new behavioral health specialist pipeline). For those drawn to the science of behavior, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) programs in Denver combine rigorous academics with hands-on clinical placements at leading providers, such as Children's Hospital Colorado and Firefly Autism.
Whether you're beginning your journey as a Registered Behavior Technician or aiming for Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) licensure, Denver's ABA offerings span graduate certificates, master's, and doctoral tracks—many of which integrate online and hybrid formats to fit working professionals' schedules. Community initiatives, such as Denver's STAR crisis response teams, underscore the growing demand for evidence-based interventions, making now the ideal time to enroll (AP News – Denver's STAR mental health crisis teams). Read on for an in-depth look at program options, admissions, career pathways, and salary expectations before diving into our curated list of top ABA programs near Denver.
2025 Leading Applied Behavior Analysis Programs near Denver, Colorado
Looking for the top applied behavior analysis programs near Denver, Colorado in 2025? CounselingPsychology.org has done the research to help you find the best options. Our rankings highlight programs that stand out for their quality, affordability, and how well they prepare students for careers in applied behavior analysis. Whether you're starting your education or looking to advance your skills, these programs offer the training you need. We've carefully evaluated each one to ensure our list meets high standards. Want to know how we picked these programs? Check out our rankings methodology for all the details.
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus
Denver, CO - Public 4-Year - ucdenver.edu
Master's - Special Education
Concentration: Applied Behavior Analysis - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus offers a Master of Arts in Special Education with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) entirely online. This program is tailored for professionals aiming to deepen their expertise in ABA within educational contexts, emphasizing ethical practices and evidence-based strategies for children with special needs. It includes a practicum component and prepares students for the BCBA exam. Designed for working professionals, the program features flexible online coursework with mandatory weekly Zoom meetings. Admission prerequisites include a bachelor's degree, alongside submission of a resume/CV, two recommendation letters, a written statement, and a $50 application fee.
- Fully online program.
- Prepares for BCBA exam.
- Focus on Applied Behavior Analysis.
- Combines coursework and practicum.
- Weekly Zoom meetings required.
- 30 credits for completion.
- 21 months recommended completion.
- Ethical practices in ABA.
- Evidence-based strategies focus.
- Bachelor's degree required.
Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Online Learning - Visit Website
At the University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus, the Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis is an online program aimed at professionals with a graduate degree looking to specialize in behavioral intervention and analysis. This certificate program, verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International, equips students with core ABA principles, ethical considerations, and intervention strategies, preparing them for the BCBA exam. The curriculum consists of seven sequential courses, requiring a minimum GPA of 3.0 and grades of B- or better. It's ideal for educators, psychologists, and healthcare professionals seeking to advance their skills in behavioral science.
- Fully online graduate certificate
- 7 sequential 3-credit courses
- Prepares for BCBA exam
- Requires graduate degree
- Weekly online meetings
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Grade of B- or better
Why Pursue ABA in Denver?
Before committing to a program, it's essential to understand why Denver stands out as an ABA education hub. From city-wide policy initiatives to strong partnerships between universities and clinics, the Mile High City has created a supportive ecosystem for behavior-analytic training. These factors not only enrich your learning experience but also open doors to diverse career opportunities in the region.
Denver stands out for ABA education because of its:
- High regional demand. Colorado's early-intervention and Medicaid expansions have increased the utilization of ABA services.
- Flexible delivery. Many programs offer evening, weekend, online, and hybrid formats ideal for working adults.
- Strong practicum sites. Partnerships with Firefly Autism, Denver Public Schools, and private clinics provide supervised fieldwork.
- Clear career pipelines. Graduates feed directly into roles as RBTs, BCaBAs, and BCBAs, supporting schools, hospitals, and community agencies.
For an overview of industry trends, see Rising Demand for ABA Professionals.
ABA Program Levels & Curriculum
Choosing a program level sets the foundation for your qualifications and professional trajectory. Whether you're aiming for a certificate that leads directly into the BCBA exam or a doctorate that prepares you for research and teaching, Denver's options align with BACB standards and local workforce needs. Below, explore the distinct levels of ABA education available.
Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
- Credits: 18–21
- Format: Fully online or hybrid
- Core courses: Functional Behavior Assessment; Single-Subject Design; Ethics in ABA
- Outcome: Qualifies students for BCBA exam eligibility when paired with supervised hours
- See the full details at Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate.
Master's in Applied Behavior Analysis
- Credits: 30–36
- Format: Online, hybrid, and on-campus options
- Includes: Advanced coursework in behavior theory, research methods, and 1,500+ practicum hours
- Tracks: Often housed within special education or psychology departments
- Learn more in the Applied Behavior Analysis Master's program guide.
Doctorate in Applied Behavior Analysis
- Focus: Research, teaching, and clinical leadership
- Dissertation: Original research in behavior analysis
- Preparation: Positions graduates for university faculty and senior clinical roles
- Explore doctoral pathways at Applied Behavior Analysis Doctorate.
Admission Requirements
Before you apply, you'll need to gather documentation and meet baseline academic standards. Admission processes vary, but most Denver programs have streamlined requirements to accommodate both professionals and recent graduates. Below is a typical snapshot of what schools expect from applicants.
| Component | Expectation |
| Bachelor's Degree | Psychology, education, or ra elated field |
| Minimum GPA | 3.0 |
| Letters of Recommendation | 2–3 academic/professional references |
| Statement of Purpose | Articulating ABA interests and career goals |
| Resume/CV | Highlighting relevant experience |
| GRE | Often waived for certificate programs |
Some programs may also request an interview or an academic writing sample.
Career Paths & Specializations
Understanding the roles available after graduation helps you align your education with your long-term goals. Denver's diverse agencies and school districts offer placements in various specialties, allowing you to tailor your practicum and coursework to the setting you find most fulfilling.
Graduates from Denver's ABA programs qualify for:
- Registered Behavior Technician (RBT). Implements behavior plans under supervision.
- Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA). Assists BCBAs in assessments and interventions.
- Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Develops and oversees behavior-analytic services.
- Clinical Supervisor (BCBA-D). Leads teams in hospitals or large agencies.
Explore how to plan your BCBA pathway in Should I Become a BCBA? Analyzing Education Requirements & Career Benefits.
Employment Outlook & Top Employers
Denver's behavioral-health sector continues to grow, with job openings emerging in both public and private settings. Familiarizing yourself with major local employers and projected hiring trends can give you a competitive edge when seeking positions post-graduation.
ABA professionals in Denver find roles in:
- Firefly Autism: Intensive home- and clinic-based services.
- Children's Hospital Colorado: Pediatric ABA programs.
- Denver Public Schools: District BCBA positions supporting IEP goals.
- Centura Health: Integrating ABA into broader behavioral-health services.
For broader counseling opportunities across the state, consult Psychology Schools in Colorado.
Salary Expectations in Denver
Salary data helps set realistic expectations and informs negotiations. Denver's ABA roles command competitive pay, reflecting the region's workforce needs and cost of living. Below is a typical salary breakdown for various certifications and roles.
| Role | Entry-Level | Median | Experienced |
| RBT | $35,000 | $42,000 | $50,000 |
| BCaBA | $45,000 | $55,000 | $65,000 |
| BCBA | $65,000 | $78,000 | $95,000 |
| Clinical Supervisor (BCBA-D) | $85,000 | $100,000 | $115,000 |
Financial Aid & Cost Considerations
Financing your graduate education can feel daunting, but Denver institutions and state programs offer multiple funding avenues. From federal aid to employer tuition benefits, prospective students can often piece together support that significantly reduces out-of-pocket costs.
Denver students can tap into:
- Federal aid (FAFSA) and Grad PLUS loans
- University scholarships and assistantships
- Employer tuition reimbursement for paraprofessionals
- State incentive programs for high-need behavioral-health roles
Balancing Work, Study & Life
Maintaining career and personal commitments while earning your ABA qualification requires flexibility and planning. Denver programs understand these challenges and structure courses and field placements to fit varied schedules.
Programs accommodate busy schedules with:
- Evening/weekend classes
- Part-time enrollment
- Online/hybrid delivery
- Practicum coordination at current workplaces
Those exploring counseling degrees in Denver may also review Best Master's Degree in Counseling Programs in Denver for additional pathways.
How to Choose the Right Program
With multiple options available, selecting the best fit involves assessing accreditation, format, support services, and alignment with your career aspirations. Keep these five factors in mind when comparing programs.
- BACB Verification: Ensure the program is VCS-approved.
- Format Fit: Match your online, hybrid, or on-campus learning style to your lifestyle.
- Practicum Support: Look for programs that help secure supervision sites.
- Cost vs. Aid: Compare tuition alongside scholarships and reimbursement.
- Career Alignment: Select curricula emphasizing your target setting (schools vs. clinics).
Take the Next Step
Denver's ABA landscape is primed for growth—are you ready to join the movement? With rigorous programs, local clinical partnerships, and clear BCBA pathways, the Mile High City offers everything you need to become a behavior-analytic professional.
Start your application today and help Colorado families thrive.
Sources
- Denver7 – Colorado launches new behavioral-health specialist pipeline
- AP News – Denver's STAR mental-health crisis teams
- Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB)
- Children's Hospital Colorado – ABA services overview
- Firefly Autism – Clinical training programs
