Kansas has mandated regulation requirements for Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapists since 2014. This follows national trends as ABA therapy has increased in demand and, subsequently, come under increased regulation from state governments.
Demand for BCBAs in Kansas
Recently, there was a decrease in demand for ABA therapists in Kansas. The demand for BCBAs increased from 2022 to 2023; from 304 job postings in 2022 to 999 job postings in the state in 2023. This increase is aligned with the national trend; the nationwide demand for BCBA certified therapists has increased every year since 2010, with a 14% increase between 2022 and 2023.
According to Indeed, the average salary for an ABA therapist in Kansas is $53,795 per year ($23.10 per hour). This salary does vary from market to market. The average salary in Prairie Village is $62,491 while the average salary in Topeka is $58,134.
Featured ABA Programs Accepting Kansas Applicants
Master’s Programs in Kansas To Become a BCBA
The regulations are overseen by the Kansas Behavior Science Regulatory Board which manages applications to become a board certified ABA therapist. Licensed behavior therapists in Kansas must:
- earn a master’s level credential and complete the verified course sequence that includes mandatory BCBA coursework,
- pass the BCBA examination,
- complete 1,000 practicum hours and 750 intensive practicum hours or gain 1,500 hours of independent fieldwork.
The verified course sequence is the set of courses, typically seven courses of 21 credit hours, that are verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International that prepares students to take the BCBA certification exam. The coursework ensures that all BCBA certified therapists have the same knowledge and skills. Universities may offer the set of courses in isolation, or part of a broader degree.
Students seeking to earn their BCBA credential have three options in Kansas: an online master’s degree from the University of Kansas, a graduate certificate through Wichita State, and an in-person master’s degree from the University of Kansas.
Online ABA Master’s Program in Kansas
An online ABA Master’s program provides flexibility and the ability to learn the content necessary to become a BCBA while managing a job and family. In Kansas, the University of Kansas provides an online Masters of Arts in Applied Behavior Science.
University of Kansas
- Lawrence, KS
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Science
Modality: Online
Length: 30 credit hours
GRE Required: No
Tuition: $365.60 per credit hour for residents; $976.60 per credit hour for residents, not including fees
Accreditation: None listed
Program Overview:
The online Master of Arts provides all online coursework. The courses include the Verified Course Sequence that prepares students to sit for the BCBA exam. Courses are provided in both synchronous and asynchronous formats. Students also complete a thesis prior to graduation.
Hybrid Master’s ABA Program in Kansas
There are no hybrid master’s programs offered in Kansas.
Featured ABA Programs Accepting Kansas Applicants
Graduate Certificate ABA Program in Kansas
Wichita State University provides the Verified Course Sequence coursework necessary to earn a graduate certificate in ABA.
Wichita State University
- Wichita, KS
- Campus
Program:
Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: On campus
Length: 21 credit hours
GRE Required: No
Tuition: $338.87 per credit hour for residents; $832.25 per credit hour for non-residents, not including fees
Accreditation: None listed
Program Overview:
To complete the graduate certificate in ABA, students complete the Verified Course Sequence. The goal of the program is to prepare behavior analysts who can positively impact individuals with behavior needs.
On Campus Master’s in ABA Programs in Kansas
On campus master’s programs provide more direct experiences with professors and peers. These programs also provide options to be involved in research projects and work in applied settings. They may also provide supervised fieldwork. These programs are good options for students who want to interact directly with faculty, and who want access to campus learning activities including research opportunities. In Kansas, the University of Kansas provides an ABAI accredited master’s program.
University of Kansas
- Lawrence, KS
- Campus
Program:
Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Science
Modality: On campus
Length: 30 credit hours
GRE Required: No
Tuition: $365.60 per credit hour for residents; $976.60 per credit hour for non-residents, not including fees
Accreditation: ABAI
Program Overview:
The master’s in applied behavior science trains scientist-practitioners in the empirical and conceptual foundations of ABA and research. Students complete 30 credit hours, 18 credit hours in required coursework and additional research and elective courses.
No GRE Required ABA Programs in Kansas
None of the programs in Kansas have a GRE requirement for admission. The admission requirements vary from program to program, with some requiring a minimum GPA for admission, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.
ABAI Accredited ABA Programs in Kansas
The University of Kansas Masters in Applied Behavior Science is an ABAI accredited master’s program.
Affordable ABA Programs in Kansas
In-state tuition for the University of Kansas programs is an affordable master’s option in Kansas. The total cost of an ABA program will depend on factors like residency, prior credit hours, and other factors.
Accelerated ABA Programs in Kansas
The best option for an accelerated path to a BCBA in Kansas is the Wichita State graduate certificate program.
ABA and BCBA Programs in Kansas
| Degree Title | University Name | Program Length | Program Cost | ABAI Recognition | GRE Required | City | State |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M.A. in Applied Behavioral Science | University of Kansas | 5-6 | ~$425 per credit (in-state) | ABAI Accredited & VCS Approved | No | Lawrence | KS |
| Ph.D. in Behavioral Psychology | University of Kansas | Varies | ~$425 per credit (in-state) | ABAI Accredited | Yes | Lawrence | KS |
| Graduate Certificate in ABA | University of Kansas | 2-3 | ~$425 per credit (in-state) | VCS Approved | No | Lawrence | KS |
| M.S. in Psychology (ABA Specialization) | Kansas State University | 5-6 | ~$400 per credit (in-state) | VCS Approved | No | Manhattan | KS |
