Best Ph.D. and PsyD in Applied Behavior Analysis Degree Programs
There are several higher-level occupations that require a doctorate degree in applied behavior analysis. An applied behavior analyst (ABA) needs to have this advanced degree to be employable.
To become a board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA), you need to earn a doctorate degree in applied behavior analysis. This is a career that puts you in line with teachers, social workers, therapists, and administrative positions.
As you prepare for a job as an ABA or BCBA, there are certain steps you need to follow. Here is what you will learn and how to be admitted into an applicable online program.
2026 Best PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis
Tennessee Tech
Cookeville, TN - Public 4-Year - tntech.edu
Doctorate - Exceptional Learning
Concentration: Applied Behavior Analysis - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Tennessee Technological University's Ph.D. in Exceptional Learning with Applied Behavior Analysis concentration offers a transformative hybrid program targeting professionals seeking advanced behavioral intervention expertise. Students explore specialized tracks focusing on Young Children & Families or School-Aged & Adults, developing comprehensive leadership and research skills. The rigorous curriculum prepares graduates for impactful careers in diverse educational environments. Admission requires a competitive 3.0 GPA, GRE scores, scholarly writing samples, and a faculty interview. The program's nationally accredited ABAS strand ensures high-quality training in designing and implementing sophisticated behavioral strategies across multiple population segments.
- 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
Concentration: Young Children and Families - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Tennessee Technological University's Ph.D. program in Exceptional Learning specializes in Young Children and Families through Applied Behavior Analysis. This innovative hybrid program equips professionals to design targeted interventions for at-risk children and their families. Emphasizing relationship building and advocacy, the curriculum prepares students for leadership roles in public school systems, higher education, and non-traditional educational settings. Comprehensive admission requirements include a 3.0 GPA, GRE scores, scholarly writing samples, recommendation letters, and a professional CV. Graduates emerge as skilled practitioners committed to positive developmental outcomes and collaborative research approaches.
- 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
Concentration: School-Aged Children and Adult Populations - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Tennessee Technological University's Ph.D. in Exceptional Learning offers a specialized Applied Behavior Analysis concentration targeting School-Aged Children and Adult Populations. This hybrid program combines rigorous academic coursework with practical experience, preparing students for board certification as behavior analysts. Designed for professionals seeking advanced career trajectories, the curriculum emphasizes comprehensive intervention strategies across diverse settings. Admission requirements include a 3.0 GPA, GRE scores, scholarly writing samples, recommendation letters, and a statement of intent. Graduates gain extensive skills to drive meaningful behavioral interventions in educational and community environments.
- 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.
Endicott College
Beverly, MA - Private 4-year - endicott.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Philosophy in Applied Behavior Analysis
Online Learning - Visit Website
Endicott College's PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis stands out as a comprehensive online doctoral program targeting aspiring academic researchers and scientist-practitioners. Spanning 60 credit hours across three years, the program uniquely blends rigorous research methodology with practical application. Students are required to possess a Master's degree in Applied Behavior Analysis, ensuring a strong foundational knowledge. The curriculum emphasizes designing socially significant research projects, developing advanced behavioral intervention strategies, and preparing graduates for impactful careers in academic, clinical, and research settings. With a synchronous online format, the program offers flexibility while maintaining high academic standards, including core courses, clinical immersion experiences, and a substantive dissertation requirement.
- 60 credit hours.
- Minimum three years.
- Online synchronous format.
- Master's degree required.
- Focus on research.
- Scientist-practitioner model.
- Core and elective courses.
- Clinical and research immersion.
- Dissertation required.
- Qualifying examinations.
Simmons University
Boston, MA - Private 4-year - simmons.edu
Doctorate - PhD in Behavior Analysis
Online Learning - Visit Website
Simmons University's innovative online PhD in Behavior Analysis delivers a comprehensive 48-credit program tailored for advanced professionals seeking cutting-edge research opportunities. The fully remote curriculum emphasizes experimental research methodologies, enabling students to collaborate directly with faculty on groundbreaking projects in stimulus equivalence and behavioral medicine. Designed for working professionals, the program requires candidates to hold a master's degree in Behavior Analysis or a related discipline, along with relevant licensure and practical experience. Graduates are strategically positioned to pursue the prestigious BCBA-D® credential, opening pathways into research, educational leadership, and specialized clinical interventions. The flexible online format accommodates practitioners seeking advanced academic and professional development.
- Fully remote online program.
- 48 credit hours required.
- Focus on experimental research skills.
- Collaboration with faculty on research.
- Flexible for working professionals.
- Leads to BCBA-D® credential.
- Master's in related field required.
- Licensure or certification needed.
- Experience in practice areas required.
- Graduates in research, education, clinical roles.
Bay Path University
Longmeadow, MA - Private 4-year - baypath.edu
Doctorate - Health Science Doctorate
Concentration: Behavior Analysis - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Bay Path University's Health Science Doctorate in Behavior Analysis offers a transformative hybrid learning experience targeting healthcare professionals. Students navigate an innovative curriculum emphasizing leadership strategies, advanced research methodologies, and specialized behavior analysis applications within complex healthcare environments. The comprehensive 48-credit program uniquely prepares practitioners to drive meaningful interventions and systemic improvements. Designed for master's degree holders, the program blends online flexibility with targeted on-campus intensives, enabling working professionals to advance their expertise without disrupting current career trajectories. Healthcare leadership and evidence-based behavior analysis techniques form the program's core educational framework.
- Hybrid learning format.
- 48 credits required.
- Focus on Behavior Analysis.
- Leadership in healthcare.
- Research methods included.
- Electives in behavior analysis.
- Relevant master's degree needed.
Cambridge College
Boston, MA - Private 4-year - cambridgecollege.edu
Doctorate - PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis
Concentration: Autism Intervention - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Cambridge College's PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis offers a pioneering doctoral program targeting professionals passionate about autism intervention. The unique three-year hybrid program eliminates traditional GRE admission barriers, providing flexible online coursework complemented by intensive summer residencies. Students gain advanced research skills and clinical leadership training specifically tailored to addressing complex autism intervention challenges. Designed for working professionals, the program positions graduates for high-demand career paths, with potential BCBA-D certification and annual salary prospects around $110,371. The curriculum emphasizes empirically supported intervention strategies, preparing scholars to make significant contributions in behavioral science and autism research.
- 3-year doctoral program
- No GRE required
- Hybrid learning model
- $51,648 total tuition
- Week-long summer residencies
- Designed for working professionals
- BCBA-D certification potential
What Will I Learn in an Online Applied Behavior Analysis Doctorate Program?
To earn an applied behavior analysis and doctorate degree takes approximately three years, following the requirement of a master’s degree. The program is typically 60 credits with fully or partially online curriculum options available.
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology is one example of an online PhD in applied behavioral analysis program. Some of the courses available are:
- Critical analysis of research using verbal behavior
- Experimental analysis of behavior
- Supervision in ABA
- Private consulting
- Teaching and academics
- Behaviorism and the philosophy of science
- Research and social statistics
Other courses that are taught across the board for this subject include professionalism and ethics. In addition, if a student wants to pursue an ABA certificate for applied behavior analysis, they need to earn a master’s degree in this subject area while earning a doctorate degree.
Internships are another important part of the applied behavior analysis program. This is in relation to the application of behavior analysis tools and information. In order to be able to apply behavior analysis in the field, students are trained to use this information applicably.
This may also be referred to as an immersion program rather than an internship. Also, students in a doctoral program for applied behavioral analysis will have to complete a doctoral dissertation.
When considering online doctorate programs, it’s important to consider what options are available for internships and immersion programs. Usually, accommodations are made in the form of local internships for each individual student participating in the program.
What To Look For in an Online Applied Behavior Analysis Doctorate Program?
When exploring online doctorate programs in applied behavior analysis (ABA), it is important to consider certain key factors. Accreditation should be a top priority, as it ensures that the program meets rigorous standards of quality and legitimacy. Look for programs accredited by recognized accrediting bodies in the field of psychology or ABA. The curriculum should be comprehensive and aligned with the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) requirements, covering core areas of ABA, such as behavior assessment, intervention strategies, research methodology, ethics, and supervision. It is essential to evaluate the qualifications and expertise of the faculty members, ensuring they possess extensive experience and knowledge in applied behavior analysis.
Research opportunities and resources, including access to ABA journals, databases, and research labs, are invaluable for doctoral students to stay abreast of the latest developments in the field. Flexibility in scheduling and interactive online platforms that foster collaborative discussions and provide support services are important considerations. Lastly, practical training experiences, such as supervised internships or practicum placements, can greatly enhance the application of ABA principles in real-world settings. By carefully considering these factors, prospective students can make an informed decision when selecting an online doctorate program in applied behavior analysis (Ph.D. or PsyD).
Admissions Requirements for a Doctorate in Applied Behavior Analysis
In order to earn a doctorate in behavior analysis online, you must first be accepted into a program or school. The general process for admissions requirements involves submitting transcripts and work history, as well as proof of relative experience to behavioral analysis.
- Have a master’s degree in a related subject, like special education or psychology or in applied behavior analysis
- Be ready to publish scientific research articles in journals
- Have some internship experience in applicable work history
- Writing sample
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Interview with advisors
- GRE score
- 3.5 GPA or higher
The typical doctorate program for applied behavior analysis is difficult to get into. This is due to the specialization of the field and the fact that there are a limited number of slots for students at each school every year. Therefore, you want to exceed expectations when providing all possible forms of information regarding your application when you submit it to the school.
In addition, if you are planning on working with medical patients or neurological clients, such as autistic people, which is the job of an ABA, you will be required to have a health screening. You will also be required to obtain medical insurance before you can work with individuals in an internship setting.
2026 Affordable Doctorate in Applied Behavior Analysis Program Options
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| West Virginia University |
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| Saint Cloud State University |
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| Utah State University |
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2026 Shortest Applied Behavior Analysis Doctorate Program Options
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
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| University of Florida |
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| Endicott College |
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| Columbia University in the City of New York |
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List of Applied Behavior Analysis Doctorate Degree Programs
Looking for an online or campus-based applied behavior analysis Ph.D. or PsyD degree program near you? Browse our state-by-state school listings below.
Massachusetts
Beverly, MA
Endicott College
- Doctorate - Doctor of Philosophy in Applied Behavior Analysis
Online Learning - Website
- 60 credit hours.
- Minimum three years.
- Online synchronous format.
- Master's degree required.
- Focus on research.
- Scientist-practitioner model.
- Core and elective courses.
- Clinical and research immersion.
Boston, MA
Cambridge College
- Doctorate - PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis
Concentration: Autism Intervention - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 3-year doctoral program
- No GRE required
- Hybrid learning model
- $51,648 total tuition
- Week-long summer residencies
- Designed for working professionals
- BCBA-D certification potential
- Ranked #2 ABA PhD program
Simmons University
- Doctorate - PhD in Behavior Analysis
Online Learning - Website
- Fully remote online program.
- 48 credit hours required.
- Focus on experimental research skills.
- Collaboration with faculty on research.
- Flexible for working professionals.
- Leads to BCBA-D® credential.
- Master's in related field required.
- Licensure or certification needed.
Longmeadow, MA
Bay Path University
- Doctorate - Health Science Doctorate
Concentration: Behavior Analysis - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning format.
- 48 credits required.
- Focus on Behavior Analysis.
- Leadership in healthcare.
- Research methods included.
- Electives in behavior analysis.
- Relevant master's degree needed.
Tennessee
Cookeville, TN
Tennessee Tech
- Doctorate - Exceptional Learning
Concentration: Applied Behavior Analysis - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 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
- Doctorate - Exceptional Learning
Concentration: School-Aged Children and Adult Populations - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 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.
- Doctorate - Exceptional Learning
Concentration: Young Children and Families - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 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
