Discover Low-Cost Applied Behavior Analysis Programs Near Columbus, Ohio

Columbus, Ohio, home to The Ohio State University and a thriving healthcare ecosystem, is confronting a critical behavioral health staffing shortage. Between 2013 and 2019, Ohio's demand for behavioral health services surged 353%, while workforce growth lagged at only 174%, creating gaps in care availability for children and adults alike. Meanwhile, nationwide employment for behavioral disorder and mental health counselors is projected to rise 18% from 2022 to 2032, well above the 3% average for all occupations.

For those drawn to evidence-based interventions, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) provides a clear path to meaningful, in-demand careers. Fortunately, Columbus‐area institutions have designed low‐cost ABA pathways graduate certificates, master's degrees, and doctorates that satisfy Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) requirements without saddling students with excessive debt. Local partnerships with Nationwide Children's Hospital, Ohio State's Wexner Medical Center, and community mental health agencies further enrich these programs with high-quality practicum sites. Read on to compare Columbus's most affordable ABA offerings, admissions criteria, career outcomes, and financing options before jumping to our curated list of low‐cost ABA programs near Columbus.

2026 Low-cost Applied Behavior Analysis Programs near Columbus, Ohio

Families seeking affordable Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services near Columbus, Ohio now have targeted resources thanks to comprehensive research by counselingpsychology.org. Our expert team has carefully evaluated local programs that provide high-quality, budget-friendly behavioral interventions for children and adolescents with autism and developmental challenges. These low-cost ABA programs offer critical support to families who might otherwise struggle to access essential therapeutic services. By analyzing program costs, therapist credentials, treatment approaches, and community accessibility, we've identified several standout options that balance affordability with exceptional care. Our rankings aim to help parents make informed decisions about their child's behavioral health treatment. Learn more about our ranking methodology.

#1

Ohio State University

Columbus, OH - Public 4-Year - osu.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Special Education/ABA Specialization

Campus Based - Visit Website

Ohio State University's Master of Arts in Special Education with ABA Specialization offers a comprehensive program designed for aspiring behavior analysts and special education professionals. Students benefit from a hybrid learning format combining online and campus-based instruction, ensuring flexibility for working professionals. The curriculum meets rigorous BCBA certification requirements, providing a robust pathway for career advancement. By strategically leveraging university resources like scholarships and assistantships, the program remains financially accessible. With a military-friendly designation and on-campus hospital facilities, OSU provides additional support structures for students. The program's distinctive approach emphasizes evidence-based practices in supporting individuals with disabilities, preparing graduates for impactful roles in special education and applied behavior analysis.

• ABA Specialization available.
• Hybrid learning format.
• Prepares for BCBA certification.
• Flexible full-time or part-time.
• Scholarships and assistantships offered.

*Credit: NCES, Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System, 2023.

Why Choose Low-Cost ABA Programs in Columbus?

Choosing an affordable ABA program in Columbus doesn't mean sacrificing quality. Local schools tap into state funding streams, strong alumni networks, and streamlined online formats to lower tuition by 30–50% through in-state rates, cohort scholarships, and assistantships. Evening, weekend, hybrid, and fully online delivery options allow working professionals to maintain their income while progressing through the Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate, Applied Behavior Analysis Master's, or Applied Behavior Analysis Doctorate pathways. Each level includes robust practicum partnerships such as those with Nationwide Children's Hospital and OSU's Wexner Medical Center to ensure hands-on training under BCBA supervision. Graduates emerge with strong professional connections and clear routes to BCBA licensure.

Program Levels & Curriculum

Columbus offers three primary ABA credential levels, each following the BACB Verified Course Sequence (VCS) standards:

Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate

A cost-effective entry point, the certificate spans 18–21 credits focused on foundational behavior-analytic skills. Core courses include Functional Behavior Assessment, Single-Subject Design, and Ethics in ABA. Delivered fully online or in a hybrid format, the Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate fulfills the BACB coursework requirements for exam eligibility while minimizing tuition costs.

Applied Behavior Analysis Master's

For deeper expertise, the 30–36-credit master's integrates advanced theory, research methods, and at least 1,500 practicum hours. The Coursework for the Applied Behavior Analysis Master's Degree covers Behavior-Change Procedures, Research Methods, and Supervisory Practice, with fieldwork arranged at local ABA sites under BCBA supervisors. Part-time evening, weekend, and hybrid schedules accommodate full-time professionals.

Doctorate in Applied Behavior Analysis

The Ph.D. and PsyD in Applied Behavior Analysis Degree prepares you for leadership in research, teaching, or high-level clinical practice. In addition to dissertation research, you'll complete advanced ethical and methodological training and 1,200 supervised hours. Many candidates secure teaching or research assistantships to offset tuition and emerge ready to direct university programs, clinical teams, or large-scale interventions.

Admission Requirements

Columbus ABA programs streamline admissions for busy applicants. You'll typically need:

• A bachelor's degree in psychology, education, or a related field (minimum GPA 3.0; some accept 2.75 with conditions)
  
• Letters of recommendation (2–3) from academic or professional supervisors
  
• A statement of purpose aligning your ABA interests with career objectives
  
• A resume/CV highlighting relevant work or volunteer experience
  
• GRE scores, often waived for certificate and master's tracks
  
• Additional requirements may include an interview or writing sample
  

Career Paths & Specializations

Columbus's behavioral-health employers seek ABA practitioners at every level:

• Registered Behavior Technician (RBT): Entry-level role implementing behavior plans under BCBA supervision
  
• Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA): Supports assessments and interventions under a BCBA
  
• Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA): Develops treatment plans, supervises staff, and leads programs
  
• Clinical Supervisor (BCBA-D): Oversees clinical teams in hospitals or large agencies
  

As detailed in Rising Demand for ABA Professionals, nationwide growth is strong making now the ideal time to enter the field.

Local Practicum Partnerships & Employers

Hands-on training is integral to ABA mastery. Columbus-area programs partner with:

• Nationwide Children's Hospital: Pediatric clinics offering intensive ABA services
  
• OSU Wexner Medical Center: Research rotations and hospital-based practicum
  
• Community Mental Health Agencies: Home and community-based ABA placements
  
• Columbus City Schools: School-based ABA support for students with behavioral needs
  

Salary Expectations in Columbus

Columbus's competitive salaries reflect the specialty and experience level of ABA practitioners:

Financing Your Degree

Even low-cost programs benefit from additional aid:

• FAFSA opens federal grants and loans
  
• State workforce grants support behavioral-health training
  
• University scholarships & assistantships reduce tuition by up to 50%
  
• Employer tuition reimbursement helps school and clinic staff
  

Balancing Cost, Quality & Convenience

When comparing ABA programs, consider:

1. BACB Verified Course Sequence accreditation to qualify for the BCBA exam
   
2. Delivery format—online, hybrid, or in-person—aligned with your schedule
   
3. Practicum support to secure supervised fieldwork
   
4. Program length and tuition versus your career timeline
   
5. Local networks to enhance post-graduation job prospects
   

By weighing these factors alongside your budget, you can select the most cost-effective and impactful ABA pathway in Columbus.

Sources

• Ohio Department of Mental Health – Behavioral Health Workforce Supply and Demand Report
  
• Bureau of Labor Statistics – Mental Health Counselors and Marriage and Family Therapists Outlook
  
• Ohio State Wexner Medical Center – Education and Training in Behavioral Health
  
• Nationwide Children's Hospital – Pediatric Behavioral Health Services
  
• Charlie Health – How States Compare by the Shortage of Mental Health Professionals

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Peyton Fisher, MSW

Peyton Fisher is a writer and social worker. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in psychology from UCLA and her Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from USC. Much of Peyton’s work has focused on the impact of chronic illness on psychological well-being. She has experience in a variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient programs with particular focus on older adult mental health and hospice. Currently, she’s interested in expanding her understanding of somatic therapies and the influence of physiology on one’s psychological state. In her spare time, you’ll likely find Peyton out in her garden or at the beach with her two young children in tow.