Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a therapy that applies the science of learning and behavior. It is based on behaviorist principles, or the idea that behaviors are strengthened, reduced, or changed based on whether they are reinforced or not. Behavior analysts work in many real-world settings as the goal is to understand how behavior works in actual situations and to increase functional or helpful behaviors and reduce harmful or negative behaviors. To that end, ABA therapists work to improve clients’ language and communication, social skills, learning, and to decrease problem behaviors.
ABA therapy is most associated with autism, but it can also support children and adults in a variety of settings, including schools and businesses.
What are the criteria for becoming an ABA therapist?
Typically, ABA therapists require a BCBA certification to practice ABA therapy. And, part of the BCBA certification process requires earning a master’s degree in ABA, education, or a related field.
To become a BCBA, you need the following:
- A master’s degree,
- To complete supervised fieldwork,
- To pass the BCBA exam,
- To obtain a state licensure.
The demand for Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) has increased dramatically since 2010. Nationwide, the number of posted jobs that require a BCBA certification has increased from 789 in 2010 to 65,366 in 2023. This increase was driven by an increase in states that covered ABA therapy under insurance, the professionalization of ABA therapists, and a recognition of the impact that behavior therapy can have in various settings.
Jobs that you can do with a Masters in ABA
The typical ABA therapist job is working with children who have autism and other developmental disabilities in a school or clinic setting, and those are rewarding jobs. But, they are not the only job that people who have a master’s in ABA can do.
The average salary for each job represents the average salary across the United States. The salaries for each metro region or market will differ.
Jobs in education
Special education teacher
Average salary: $62,371 ($40,292-$96,549)
Special education teachers work with students who have disabilities in their own classrooms or in general education classrooms. Teachers use ABA principles to support student academics and behavior. In order to become a special education teacher, additional training, for example a BA or Masters in education may be required to obtain a state teaching certification. The demand for special education teachers is consistent, with 35,900 job openings predicted each year.
ABA therapist
Average salary: $44,605 ($29,500-$58,000)
An ABA therapist works in the clinic or school setting to provide ABA therapy. Therapy is focused around a client’s goals, and a client will often work with a therapist for a long time.
School counselor
Average salary: $60,409 ($22,500-$96,000)
School counselors work in public and private schools, supporting students and teachers with emotional and behavioral wellness. This job is expected to grow at an average rate; 29,100 school counselors are expected to be hired each year.
School Psychologist
Average salary: $92,813
School psychologists apply assessments to diagnose and provide information about students who have learning and behavior difficulties. They also implement individual and schoolwide interventions for academic or behavior issues. The job outlook for school psychologists is average; 53,050 elementary and secondary school psychologists are expected to be hired each year.
Professor
Average salary: $96,058 ($44,198-$208,767)
Professors work in universities to teach undergraduate and graduate coursework, they also conduct and publish research to expand the understanding of ABA. The expected growth for professors in general is higher than average.
Jobs in clinic settings
Autism specialist
Average salary: $51,501 ($27,000-$79,000)
An autism specialist consults with families and schools about how to support children and adults with autism. They may also conduct ABA therapy, but only with people with autism.
Behavior consultant
Average salary: $66,831 ($38,500-$101,500)
Behavior consultants provide support and advice to schools, families, and organizations around how to address behavior concerns.
Substance Abuse, Behavior, or Mental Health Counselor
Average salary for a substance abuse counselor: $52,978 ($29,500-$74,000)
Substance abuse, behavior, or mental health counselors support people through behavior change related to supporting mental health and overcoming addictive behaviors. They may work in health care, clinics, or private practice. The job outlook for substance abuse or mental health counselors is expected to grow faster than average. About 48,900 job openings were predicted on average for the next decade.
Jobs in other settings
Human resources specialists, management consultants, recruiters
Average salary: $59,057 ($34,894-$99,951)
Behavior analysts can work in human resources to provide insight into verbal and nonverbal communication, or solve problems related to employee behavior in the workplace. The job outlook for human resource managers is higher than average.
Market research analyst
Average salary: $78,816 ($24,000-$175,000)
Market research analysts study trends, preferences, and other factors to assess the potential sales of a product or service. The demand for market research analysts is expected to grow faster than average, with 88,500 openings each year.
FBI profiler
Average salary: $68,989 ($20,000-$168,500)
FBI agents have experience in analyzing behavior of criminals and suspects. Agents work with psychologists, psychiatrists, and police to analyze and solve crimes.
Occupational safety analyst
Average salary: $81,517 ($43,000-$110,000)
An occupational safety analyst supports businesses in analyzing and preventing accidents and injuries at work. Analysts observe workplaces and identify potential hazards, then create plans to address them through behavior-based safety programs. The demand for occupational safety analysts is increasing at a rate faster than average; 18,200 occupational safety analyst jobs are posted on average each year.