Since 2009, the practice of Applied Behavior has become more regulated. However, as of now, Maine has not formalized its requirements for behavior therapists. Maine has passed legislation that makes ABA more available for children with disabilities; Title 24-A of the health insurance code mandates that health insurance policies must provide coverage for ABA therapy for children with autism spectrum disorders.
Demand for BCBAs in Maine
The demand for ABA therapists in Maine has increased. Between 2022 and 2023, the demand for BCBA certification in Maine increased from 97 to 158. This is in line with the national trend. Since 2010, the demand for BCBA certification has increased year over year; between 2022 adn 2023, demand increased 14%.
According to Zip Recruiter, the average salary for a BCBA certified therapist in Maine is $86,243 per year ($41 per hour). This salary differs from city to city; for example, in Auburn the average annual salary is $95,945 and in Portland it is $91,134.
Master’s Programs in Maine To Become a BCBA
In Maine, the Association for Maine Behavior Analysis (AMeBA) oversees BCBA certification and serves as a professional organization for ABA therapists in the state. Licensed behavior therapists in Maine 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 can earn a master’s or graduate certificate at the University of Southern Maine.
Online ABA Master’s Program in Maine
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 Maine, the University of Southern Maine offers a Master’s in Science in Educational Psychology with an ABA concentration.
University of Southern Maine
- Portland, ME
- Online
Program:
Master of Science in Educational Psychology, Applied Behavior Analysis concentration
Modality: Online
Length: 36 credit hours
GRE Required: No
Tuition: $509 per credit hour, not including fees
Accreditation: None listed
Program Overview:
In the M.S. in Educational Psychology, ABA concentration, students complete the Verified Course Sequence, and learn how to apply ABA to improve academic, social-emotional, and behavioral outcomes for individuals with diverse learning needs. The program is fully online and students complete the coursework within two to three years.
Hybrid Master’s ABA Program in Maine
There are no hybrid master’s programs for ABA licensure in Maine.
Graduate Certificate ABA Program in Maine
A graduate certificate provides students who have already earned a master’s in a related field with the Verified Course Sequence. The University of Southern Maine offers an online graduate certificate.
University of Southern Maine
- Portland, ME
- Online
Program:
Graduate Certificate
Modality: Online
Length: 24 credit hours, 15 months
GRE Required: No
Tuition: $504 per credit hour, not including fees
Accreditation: None listed
Program Overview:
The online coursework provides flexibility for students as they complete the Verified Course Sequence. Students can apply course credits from the certificate to a USM master’s or doctoral degree.
On Campus Master’s in ABA Programs in Maine
There are no on campus master’s in ABA programs in Maine.
No GRE Required ABA Programs in Maine
The University of Southern Maine does not require a GRE score for admission.
ABAI Accredited ABA Programs in Maine
The University of Southern Maine programs provide the Verified Course Sequence that is approved by ABAI; the programs are not ABAI accredited.
Affordable ABA Programs in Maine
The University of Southern Maine programs provide online tuition for residents and non-residents of $509 per credit hour, not including fees. Total cost of an ABA program will depend on factors like residency, prior credit hours, and other factors.
Accelerated ABA Programs in Maine
The best option for an accelerated path to a BCBA in Maine is the graduate certificate through the University of Southern Maine.
