State of behavioral therapy in the state
Behavioral health in California is robust and constantly evolving to meet the diverse needs of its residents. The California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) provides extensive support through various initiatives aimed at improving access and quality of care. One of its key resources is the MentalHealth.CA.gov portal, which serves as a comprehensive hub for mental health information and support services. This portal offers help for those seeking local assistance, treatment options, and educational materials, making it easier for residents to find the support they need.
Furthermore, the California Behavioral Health Services Act (BHSA) remains a cornerstone for prevention, early detection, and reducing stigma and social isolation related to mental health issues. Since its implementation, the (BHSA) has significantly funded programs that enhance mental health services across the state. The Behavioral Health Workforce Development Initiative (BHWD) is also pivotal in diversifying the workforce, ensuring providers reflect the state’s rich cultural and demographic diversity. This initiative supports the recruitment, mentorship, and retention of professionals, emphasizing representation across various identities and backgrounds.
In addition to these efforts, California has introduced new initiatives like the Behavioral Health Bridge Housing (BHBH), Project Homekey, and the Community Assistance, Recovery, and Empowerment (CARE) Act. These programs aim to transform the behavioral health landscape by promoting preventive care and innovation in treatment. Through these comprehensive efforts, California continues to enhance its behavioral health system, ensuring residents receive the quality care they deserve.
Masters Programs in California To Become a BCBA
Brief overview of the educational offerings in the state
California offers a wide range of masters programs in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) across several of its universities. These programs generally focus on evidence-based practices and include courses in behavior assessment, intervention strategies, and ethics. This prepares students to work in the field as Behavior Analysts certified by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BCBA).
The programs typically require a bachelor’s degree in psychology, behavioral sciences, or a related field, and may require professional experience and supervision. The curriculum can span 1 to 3 years, including coursework, practicums, and a research project, leading to an MS or MA in ABA. Doctoral-level continuing education is also available beyond the masters degree. Most programs are accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) and approved by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). Students can choose between online, hybrid, or in-person formats, ensuring flexibility and comprehensive training in behavior assessment, intervention strategies, and ethics.
Online ABA Masters Programs in California
Brief overview of online programs
Online Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) programs provide an effective response in changing contexts. The dynamic and flexible teaching style, facilitates student engagement and adherence to the learning process. These programs are more accessible than in-person ones, as they are designed through virtual classrooms, synchronous classes, university platform monitoring, and dynamic communication to prepare future behavior analysts to work in various therapeutic settings, offering consistent, high-quality education. An online ABA degree program is an excellent option for students or professionals who wish to advance their careers without sacrificing personal or work responsibilities.
There are around ten ABA programs that offer online teaching and learning options. However, the focus here will be on presenting three of those programs that provide fully online training within the state of California.
UMass Global
- Aliso Viejo, California
- 21 units (minimum)
- Online
Program:
MA in Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
Modality: Online
Length: 21 units (minimum)
Tuition: $730 per unit $15,330 for the entire program, excluding additional fees students may incur
Program Overview:
The UMass Global Master of Special Education with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis offers training of excellence and professionalism. The program allows you to identify and address socially significant behaviors, implement behavior change procedures, and assess progress in the field of disability and neurodivergence. Accredited by ABAI, the program aligns with the Council’s Advanced Content Standards for Exceptional Children and meets the requirements of the fifth task list for the BCBA exam. Categorized as affordable, the program offers a high-quality education that balances cost with value. With its online format, it offers flexibility and an engaging community compared to in-person schools. Practical experience and evidence-based practices ensure that this academic path has a significant impact in educational settings.
Pepperdine University
- Malibu, California
- 30 units
- Online
Program:
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: Online
Length: 30 units
Tuition: $1,945/unit (Online) for 30 units is approximately $58,350 for the entire program, excluding additional fees students may incur.
Program Overview:
Pepperdine University’s online Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) offers a flexible and rigorous 18-month program ideally designed for professionals with multiple active commitments. The curriculum, recognized by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) for its high standards, combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, preparing students for BCBA® certification. Notably, the program does not require the GRE for admission. This makes it more accessible to prospective students. With virtual evening courses, they can conduct field hours at their current workplace and take advantage of practicum opportunities at approved clinical sites.. The program covers essential topics such as experimental design, organizational behavior management, and working with diverse disabilities, offering a comprehensive ABA education.
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
- Los Angeles, California
- 39 units
- Online
Program:
Master of Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: Online
Length: 39 units
Tuition: $1,368 per unit hour is approximately $53,352 for the entire program, excluding additional fees students may incur
Program Overview:
The Chicago School’s ABAI-accredited Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program ensures high educational standards with comprehensive training delivered entirely online. This format provides flexibility and accessibility, allowing students to balance their studies with other commitments while still receiving a rigorous education. The program covers the four core domains of behavior analysis: theory and philosophy, experimental behavior analysis, applied behavior analysis, and service delivery. Students learn to design interventions, assess the impact of diversity, resolve ethical dilemmas, and conduct behavior analytic research. Graduates are prepared to become board-certified behavior analysts (BCBAs), serving diverse populations in a variety of settings.
ABAI Accredited Masters Programs in California
Brief overview of online programs
The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) is a professional organization dedicated to advancing the science and practice of behavior analysis. ABAI plays a crucial role in the field by accrediting educational programs in behavior analysis, including those leading to certification as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). ABAI accreditation ensures that programs such as the Master of Arts in ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) or ABA Special Education, among others, meet standards in areas such as curriculum, faculty qualifications, and student outcomes, thereby promoting high-quality education and competent professional practice in behavior analysis.
Currently, the state of California offers more than ten ABAI-accredited masters programs, some of which are online such as the one mentioned above (The Chicago School). Of the rest, two more ABAI-accredited programs will be mentioned that have hybrid and in-person modalities within the state of California.
California State University Northridge (CSUN)
- Northridge, California
- 37 units
- Online + Hybrid + Campus
Program:
Science Applied Behavior Analysis, M.A.
Modality: On-Campus/Online (Hybrid)
Length: 37 units
Tuition: $779/unit for 37 units is approximately $28,823 for the entire program, excluding additional fees students may incur.
Program Overview:
The Master’s in ABA at California State University, Northridge, is a two-year program that combines theory and practice in behavior analysis. Students receive practical training in clinical settings, guided by doctoral-level faculty. The curriculum, approved by ABAI, covers neurodevelopment, neurodivergence (including autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and others), and behaviorism. Upon graduation, students are eligible for the BCBA exam and have paid internship opportunities. With a 90% employment rate upon graduation, the program also prepares students for prestigious doctoral programs in ABA.
Sacramento State University
- Sacramento, California
- 48 units (estimated)
- Campus
Program:
Applied Behaviour Analysis, MS.
Modality: On-Campus
Length: 48 units (estimated)
Tuition: $3,175 per semester including mandatory campus fees. Approximately $34.944 for the entire program, excluding additional fees students may incur.
Program Overview:
Sacramento State University’s Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is offered by the College of Social Sciences and Interdisciplinary Studies. This high-quality, ABAI-accredited program focuses on clinical training and offers numerous research opportunities. Courses meet the requirements for the national certification exam in ABA (BCBA), and graduates are prepared to work in a variety of professional settings. There are numerous funded internships and job opportunities, such as at BEST Consulting and HOPE Consulting, which offer clinical experience under the supervision of certified analysts. This program is also suitable for those planning to pursue doctoral programs in Applied Behavior Analysis, Experimental Behavior Analysis, or Special Education.
No GRE Required ABA Masters Programs in California
Brief overview of online programs
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a key element in graduate admissions for many universities, as it tests applicants’ verbal reasoning, quantitative skills, and analytical writing ability. High scores on the GRE can enhance a candidate’s profile, affecting acceptance, scholarships, and assistantships. Programs that do not require a GRE prioritize professional experience, academic background, and personal achievements, making advanced ABA education more accessible and tailored to individual strengths. For those looking to pursue a masters degree in Applied Behavior Analysis in California, several universities, including San Diego State University and Pepperdine University, offer programs without the GRE requirement.
Below are two more master’s programs that are ABAI-certified and exempt from the GRE requirement.
Fresno Pacific University
- Fresno, California
- 32 units
- Online + Hybrid + Campus
Program:
Applied Behavior Analysis, M.A.
Modality: On-line/On Campus (Hybrid)
Length: 32 units
Tuition: $700/unit for 32 units is approximately $22,400 for the entire program, excluding additional fees students may incur.
Program Overview:
The Masters in ABA includes the courses and training necessary to graduate students as dedicated Behavior Analysts, with no GRE scores required for admission. The program’s courses are verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) and board certified (BCBA). The program prepares future ABA professionals to help individuals learn new behavior repertoires, expand or reduce existing behaviors, and teach them when to use new behaviors. The scope of these services ranges from individual intervention with clients/consultants on a 1:1 basis to changing behavior patterns within organizations.
University of Southern California (USC)
- Los Angeles, California
- 42 units
- Campus
Program:
Master of Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: On-Campus
Length: 42 units
Tuition: $1,941/unit (estimate). 15-18 units approximately $34,952 for the tuition of the semester and $68,128 (estimate) for the entire year, excluding additional fees students may incur.
Program Overview:
The Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles prepares students for careers in ABA, focusing on improving the quality of life for individuals with autism and other populations. Without requiring GRE scores for admission, the program is accredited by the ABAI and meets the requirements for BCBA certification, including 315 hours of instruction and up to 2,000 hours of supervised experience. A distinctive component is the integration of courses in developmental psychology, which provide an up-to-date study of the social and emotional development of children and adolescents.
California’s Most Affordable ABA Masters Programs
Brief overview of online programs
California offers several affordable ABA masters degree programs that combine quality education with cost-effectiveness. These programs provide a solid foundation in applied behavior analysis, preparing students for certification and effective practice in the field. Exploring these options and their differences in tuition costs, fees, and program length can help students achieve their career goals without excessive debt and become competent as ABA professionals.
Some of the programs include UMass Global and National University, both known for their competitive tuition rates, strong accreditation, and online access. Here we will reference two more programs that fall within the most affordable categories:
California State University Stanislaus (CSU Stan State)
- Turlock, California
- 40 units
- Campus
Program:
Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: On-Campus
Length: 40 units
Tuition: $368/unit. Approximately $14,720 for the entire program, excluding additional fees students may incur.
Program Overview:
This ABAI-accredited program prepares students to become Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA®). Students develop skills in solving ethical and legal problems, conducting original research, and collaborating with other professions in traditional psychological settings. It includes a verified sequence of courses and emphasizes the application of behavior analysis in diverse social contexts. Additionally, they receive close mentoring from expert faculty representing the full spectrum of behavior analysis. The program features competitive tuition rates, financial aid options, and scholarships specifically for students seeking careers in behavior analysis, making it one of the most affordable programs in the category.
San Diego State University
- San Diego, California
- 22 units / 315 hours
- Campus
Program:
M.A. in Special Education with Behavior Analysis and Autism Concentration
Modality: On-Campus
Length: 22 units / 315 hours per semester
Tuition: $547/unit is approximately $12,034 for the entire program, excluding additional fees students may incur.
Program Overview:
San Diego State University offers an affordable masters degree in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) with an emphasis on autism. This comprehensive program includes BCBA exam-approved courses and California Early Childhood and Extensive Support Needs credentials. Courses cover topics such as Ethics and Law, Issues in Autism, and Behavioral Strategies. Designed to be completed in two years, the program is available to full-time students only and requires a significant time commitment. Notably, the program does not require the GRE for admission, making it more accessible to a wider range of applicants. Students progress in cohorts and specialize based on the target age group. The program is made more accessible through competitive tuition rates, various financial aid opportunities, and scholarships designed for students seeking careers in special education and behavior analysis. Additionally, the university offers work-study programs and graduate scholarships, allowing stu.
Accelerated California ABA Masters Programs
Brief overview of online programs
Accelerated ABA masters programs in California offer a swift entry into the field of applied behavior analysis, with completion timelines ranging from 18 to 24 months, whereas other programs typically require 2 to 3 years and often demand full-time commitment from students. However, these programs provide not only a dual access pathway that allows for more flexible and condensed timelines but are also meticulously designed to combine a rigorous academic curriculum with essential practical fieldwork. This ensures that students not only meet but exceed the coursework and experience requirements necessary for Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification. Accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI), these programs emphasize ethical practice, research methodology, and supervised practical work. They are particularly well-suited for individuals seeking to advance their careers rapidly while balancing other professional or personal commitments. This flexible combination of training and accelerated learning makes them ideal for those eager to contribute to the field of behavior analysis with the highest level of preparation. Here are some of the most notable options.
National University
- San Diego, California
- 45 quarter units
- Online
Program:
Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: Online
Length: 45 quarter units
Tuition: $442 per quarter unit is approximately $19,890 for the entire program, excluding additional fees students may incur
Program Overview:
This program is designed to offer a fast and flexible route, particularly for working professionals. With ABAI certification, this fully online program can be completed in as little as 12 months, making it one of the fastest pathways to earning a master’s degree in ABA in California. Categorized as affordable, it provides an excellent value for students seeking a cost-effective education. The program prepares students to work with individuals on the autism spectrum and other neurodevelopmental disorders, combining a rigorous curriculum with practical experience. It includes a verified course sequence required for the BACB exam, which emphasizes essential aspects such as practitioner self-care, social and emotional learning, and cultural competence. Along with theoretical coursework, students participate in internships and a research-based capstone project, gaining practical experience that enhances their professional competencies. Additionally, those new to ABA receive crucial supervision hours and clinical training, ensuring they are well prepared for certification and practice in the field.
California State University, Los Angeles (CAL STATE LA)
- Los Angeles, California
- 52-56 units
- Campus
Program:
Master of Science in Counseling (Applied Behavior Analysis Option)
Modality: On-Campus
Length: 52-56 units
Tuition: $588/unit. Approximately $8,246 for the entire year, excluding additional fees students may incur. Projected Tuition cost of three-year program $24,738
Program Overview:
The Master of Science in Counseling with an Option in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) at California State University, Los Angeles offers a specialized program designed for students seeking to integrate ABA principles within a counseling framework. This program can be completed on an accelerated timeline, typically within 18 to 24 months, making it an efficient option for those looking to enter the field quickly. The format is designed to offer flexibility to working professionals, allowing them to balance their studies with other commitments while focusing on both the theoretical knowledge and practical application essential to BCBA certification.
With ABAI accreditation, graduates are equipped and prepared to work with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a variety of settings in a holistic manner.
