Arizona has more than 1,000 BCBA certified therapists. In the state, the Arizona Autism Mandate, also known as Steven’s Law, was enacted in 2008. Steven’s Law requires insurance companies to cover treatment for autism, including ABA therapy. Coverage does have limitations and is typically only provided until age 17 with a cap on coverage. However, Arizona has also extended Medicaid to cover ABA therapy. All of these are progressive steps in supporting young people with autism and their families, and highlights the growing demand for BCBA certified professionals.
Demand for BCBAs in Arizona
There has been a steady increase in demand for ABA therapists in Arizona. The demand for BCBAs increased 14.2% between 2022 and 2023, from 1.510 in 2022 to 1,725 in 2023. According to Zip Recruiter, the average salary for a BCBA in Arizona is $75,035 ($36 per hour). The salary does vary from market to market. The average salary in Mesa is $91,360 and the average salary in Yuma is $91,122.
Master’s Programs in Arizona To Become a BCBA
The BCBA credential is an important part of qualifying ABA therapists for practice in Arizona. BCBA certification is overseen by the Arizona Board of Psychologist Examiners.
To earn a BCBA credential after January 1, 2015, students must have:
- Completed the ABA verified course sequence,
- A passing score on the BCBA examination, and
- A minimum of 1,500 hours of supervised fieldwork or experience.
It is important to note that the state of Arizona requires that all fieldwork hours are supervised by a licensed behavior analyst. Remote supervision is acceptable as long as the supervisor meets the Arizona requirements to be a supervisor.
There are four programs to complete the BCBA Verified Course Sequence and work towards the BCBA credential in Arizona. These options include two online master’s options through either Arizona State University or the University of Arizona. Northern Arizona University offers a graduate certificate. And, Arizona State University offers an on campus master’s. Most programs in Arizona are provided through the Special Education departments and all have a practical focus with some research work incorporated into the student experience.
Online ABA Master’s Program in Arizona
Online ABA Master’s programs provide flexibility and the ability to learn the content necessary to become a BCBA while managing a job and family. In Arizona, Arizona State University and the University of Arizona offer online options. Both programs provide a full Master’s degree in special education in addition to the ABA coursework.
Arizona State University
- Phoenix, AZ
- 30 hours
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: Online
Length: 30 credit hours
GRE Required: No
Tuition: $8,439 per year, not including fees
Accreditation: Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI)
Program Overview:
The MA in Special Education with ABC concentration includes the course sequence to take the BCBA exam. The master’s coursework teaches students the process of ABA alongside evidence-based practices and ethical considerations. ASU offers an additional practicum for students who would like to gain supervised field experience as well. The MA does not provide graduates with a teacher certification. Students who want to enroll in the MA in Special Education, ABA program must meet the requirements for the graduate college and the Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College.
University of Arizona
- Tucson, AZ
- 24 months, 6 semesters
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: Online
Length: 24 months, 6 semesters
GRE Required: No
Tuition: $653 per credit hour, not including fees
Accreditation: Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI)
Program Overview:
The MA in Special Education and ABA includes the verified course sequence, and an original applied research project. Each student is provided with a faculty member who provides mentorship and support.
Hybrid Master’s ABA Program in Arizona
There are no hybrid master’s programs offered in Arizona.
Graduate Certificate ABA Program in Arizona
A graduate certificate is provided for students who already hold a master’s degree in Psychology, Special Education, or a related field, and want to earn the BCBA licensure. In Arizona, Northern Arizona University provides a graduate certificate option.
Northern Arizona University
- Flagstaff, AZ
- 21 hours
- Online
Program:
Positive Behavior Support Graduate Certificate
Modality: Online
Length: 21 credit hours
GRE Required: No
Tuition: $11,430 tuition, not including fees
Accreditation: Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI)
Program Overview:
The Positive Behavior Support graduate certificate prepares students to complete the BCBA exam. The program is designed to support students to earn licensure in Arizona.
On Campus Master’s in ABA Programs in Arizona
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. 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 Arizona, Arizona State University Tempe campus providea on on campus Master’s of Science in ABA.
Arizona State University
- Tempe, AZ
- 2 years, 45 credit hours
- Campus
Program:
Master’s of Science, Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: On campus
Length: 2 years, 45 credit hours
GRE Required: No
Tuition: $12,562 tuition for residents, $26,496 tuition for non-residents, not including fees
Accreditation: Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI)
Program Overview:
The MS in ABA is a full-time program that aligns with the BCBA coursework and is provided through the Department of Psychology. It includes the BCBA course sequence and 2,000 hours of supervised fieldwork. Additional courses include research and a culminating fieldwork project. The program focuses on three areas: behavior-analytic skills, client-centered responsibilities, and essential knowledge. Students who want to apply must meet the requirements for both the graduate college and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Applicants should also have a bachelor’s degree in psychology, human development, or a related field.
No GRE Required ABA Programs in Arizona
None of the programs in Arizona 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 Arizona
All of the programs in Arizona are ABAI accredited and include the coursework required to prepare students to pass the BCBA exam.
Affordable ABA Programs in Arizona
An affordable option in Arizona is the online Master’s degree through Arizona State University. The cost per year is $8,439 and the fully online program limits fees and expenses. The total cost of any ABA graduate program will depend on the total coursework, expenses and fees.
Accelerated ABA Programs in Arizona
The best option for an accelerated path to a BCBA is the Positive Behavior Support Graduate Certificate at Northern Arizona University as it provides the coursework to complete the BCBA exam without additional coursework or clinical work.
