The field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is rapidly growing, with an increasing demand for Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs). Obtaining BCBA certification requires meeting specific coursework and experience requirements set by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). ABA certification programs provide an efficient pathway for individuals to fulfill these requirements by offering specialized training tailored to the needs of aspiring behavior analysts.
A Certificate Program in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a specialized academic program that provides the necessary knowledge to obtain BCBA certification. These programs are designed to teach the principles, methods, and practical applications of ABA in a shorter time frame compared to a full master’s degree, typically ranging from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the student’s pace and chosen study format.
The primary goal of these programs is to equip students with a solid theoretical and practical foundation to apply ABA principles in various settings, such as education, organizations, and the care of individuals with neurodevelopmental challenges, among others.
BCBA/ABA Online Certificate Programs
ABA certification programs are available in various formats, including in-person and hybrid classes held on college campuses. However, online programs have emerged as a convenient option for individuals seeking flexibility while pursuing BCBA certification. These programs offer required courses through virtual platforms, allowing students to study from anywhere in the world.
Many online programs offer self-paced learning through asynchronous courses, allowing professionals to progress according to their own schedules. Additionally, interactive features such as video conferencing, discussion forums, and virtual simulations enhance engagement and facilitate a deeper understanding of the material. Some programs also provide support for gaining supervised field experience, a critical requirement for BCBA eligibility.
University of Massachusetts Global
- Aliso Viejo, California
- Online
Program:
Certificate in Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA)
Modality: Online
Length: 21 credit hours
Tuition: $900 per credit hour, totaling approximately $6,300 (excluding additional fees and materials)
Program Overview:
The UMass Global online Certificate in Applied Behavioral Analysis equips students with the knowledge needed to pursue BCBA certification. The program covers essential topics in behavior assessment, intervention, and ethics, delivered in a flexible, fully online format. Designed for working professionals, it offers an accelerated structure with 8-week courses. Students benefit from an ABAI-verified curriculum that aligns with the 5th task list requirements. No GRE is required for admission, making it an accessible and affordable option for individuals seeking career advancement in applied behavior analysis.
Walden University
- Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Online
Program:
Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: Online
Length: 35 credit hours
Tuition: $570 per credit hour, totaling approximately $19,950 (excluding additional fees and materials)
Program Overview:
Walden University’s Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis offers a flexible, online curriculum designed to meet ABAI requirements for the BCBA exam. Covering behavior assessment, intervention strategies, and ethical considerations, the program provides practical skills applicable to various settings. No GRE is required for admission, and students can complete the coursework at their own pace.
Drexel University
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Online
Program:
Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: Online
Length: 31 credit hours
Tuition: $1,342 per credit hour for all students. With a total of 31.5 credit hours required, the total program cost is around $42,303. Does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Overview:
Drexel University’s Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis is an online program designed for professionals seeking BCBA certification. The program provides a rigorous curriculum covering behavioral processes, ethical standards, and intervention strategies. Delivered online with flexible scheduling, it includes weekly video conferencing for enhanced engagement. No GRE is required for admission, making it accessible to working professionals.
Pennsylvania State University (Penn State)
- State College, Pennsylvania
- Online
Program:
Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: Online
Length: 21 credit hours
Tuition: $1,027 per credit hour. With a total of 21 credit hours required, the total program cost is around $21,567. Does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Overview:
The Penn State World Campus ABA certificate program prepares students for the BCBA exam with a flexible online curriculum. It covers behavioral assessment, intervention strategies, and research-based methodologies to support individuals with behavioral challenges. The program does not require the GRE and offers affordability and accessibility for working professionals.
Texas A&M University
- College Station, Texas
- Online
Program:
Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: Online
Length: 21 credit hours
Tuition: $927 per credit hour. The total tuition is estimated to be around $19,467.
Program Overview:
The Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) at Texas A&M is offered fully online, with both asynchronous and synchronous options. The program is verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) and prepares students for the BCBA exam. No GRE is required. Students complete coursework in ethics, research, and intervention strategies. This certificate is ideal for professionals working with individuals with developmental disabilities or autism and meets the educational requirements for BCBA certification, though supervised fieldwork must be completed separately.
BCBA/ABA Graduate Certificates
To be eligible for BCBA certification, candidates must fulfill specific requirements set by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), including completing an acceptable graduate degree, coursework in behavior-analytic content areas, and supervised fieldwork.
Graduate certificate programs in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) are designed to meet these coursework requirements, providing specialized instruction that prepares students for the BCBA certification exam.
University of Massachusetts Lowell
- Lowell, Massachusetts
- Online
Program:
Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: Online
Length: 21 credit hours.
Tuition: $600 for all students (in-state and out-of-state). With a total of 21 credit hours required, the total program cost is around $12,600. This cost does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Overview:
The UMass Lowell Online Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis equips students with essential ABA principles, preparing them for the BCBA certification exam. The program offers a flexible, fully online curriculum covering behavior assessment, intervention strategies, and ethical considerations. Designed for working professionals, it provides expert instruction and an ABAI-verified course sequence aligned with BACB requirements.
George Mason University
- Fairfax, Virginia
- Online
Program:
Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: Online
Length: 21 credit hours.
Tuition: $690 per credit hour for in-state residents and $890 for out-of-state residents. With a total of 21 credit hours required, the total program cost is around $14,490 for in-state students and $18,690 for out-of-state students. Does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Overview:
The George Mason University Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Graduate Certificate is an ABAI-verified program designed to meet the coursework requirements for BCBA certification. The curriculum covers key ABA concepts such as behavior assessment and intervention planning, ensuring comprehensive preparation for the BCBA exam. No GRE is required for admission, making it accessible to a wider range of students.
Ohio State University
- Columbus, Ohio
- Online
Program:
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) certificate program
Modality: Online
Length: 21 credit hours
Tuition: $812 per credit hour. The estimated total tuition cost for the 21-credit program is approximately $17,052 for residents. Students should consider additional costs such as books, supplies, and potential fees.
Program Overview:
Ohio State University offers an online Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) certificate program through its College of Education and Human Ecology. This ABAI-verified program is designed for individuals with a master’s degree in education or psychology, as well as graduate students seeking to deepen their expertise in behavior analysis. Courses are asynchronous, allowing participants to engage with the material at their convenience. The program does not require GRE scores for admission and can be completed within one year of full-time study. Part-time options are also available, providing flexibility in program completion.
Michigan State University
- East Lansing, Michigan
- Online
Program:
Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
Modality: Online
Length: 18 credit hours
Tuition: $893 for in-state students and $1,137 for out-of-state residents.
Program Overview:
The graduate certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) at Michigan State University is an online program designed to provide students with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary to become Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs).
The program’s curriculum emphasizes key areas of behavior analysis, including behavioral assessment, intervention strategies, and ethical considerations. It is particularly suited for individuals seeking to work with children and youth within the autism spectrum and other neurodivergent conditions. Graduates will be prepared to administer interventions, develop programs, and evaluate their effectiveness in educational and behavioral contexts.
Northern Michigan University
- Marquette, Michigan
- Campus
Program:
Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
Modality: On Campus
Length: 21 credit hours
Tuition: $703 for in-state students and $919 for out-of-state residents.
Program Overview:
This graduate certificate provides the coursework necessary for Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification. The curriculum covers key areas such as behavior principles and theory, assessment and treatment procedures, research methods, and staff training. Students gain practical experience through the Behavior Education Assessment and Research (BEAR) Center, NMU’s on-campus clinic and research facility. Graduates will have completed the coursework requirements to qualify for the BCBA exam; however, additional requirements include field experience hours and a master’s degree.
BCBA/ABA Post-Bacc Certificates
BCBA/ABA post-baccalaureate certificates are designed for individuals who have completed a bachelor’s degree and are seeking to obtain the necessary courses to achieve BCBA certification. These programs provide the required coursework and supervised fieldwork experience, aligning with the standards set by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). It’s essential to ensure that the chosen program includes a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) recognized by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI), as this verification confirms that the coursework meets BACB’s current requirements. Additionally, staying informed about upcoming changes to BACB certification requirements is crucial, as these can impact eligibility and examination processes.
Arizona State University
- Tempe, Arizona
- Online
Program:
Applied Behavior Analysis Post-Baccalaureate Certificate
Modality: Online
Length: 21 credit hours
Tuition: $543 per credit hour for in-state residents and $543 for out-of-state residents. With a total of 21 credit hours required, the total program cost is around $11,403. Does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Overview:
The Arizona State University online post-baccalaureate certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis prepares students with the essential skills to address behavioral challenges across various settings. This ABAI-verified program is structured to provide the core coursework required for BCBA certification, covering behavior assessment, intervention, and ethical considerations. The program offers flexible online learning and does not require the GRE for admission, making it accessible for professionals seeking career advancement.
Florida Institute of Technology
- Melbourne, Florida
- Online
Program:
Applied Behavior Analysis Post-Baccalaureate Certificate
Modality: Online
Length: 24 credit hours
Tuition: $795 per credit hour for all students. With a total of 24 credit hours required, the total program cost is around $19,080. Does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Overview:
Florida Institute of Technology offers an ABAI-verified online post-baccalaureate certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis, designed to provide students with the foundational knowledge needed to pursue BCBA certification. The curriculum emphasizes behavior change techniques, assessment methodologies, and ethical practices. The fully online format offers flexibility for working professionals, and no GRE is required for admission.
University of Colorado Denver
- Denver, Colorado
- Online
Program:
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: Online
Length: 21 credit hours
Tuition: $557 per credit hour. With a total of 21 credit hours required, the total program cost is around $11,697. Does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Overview:
The University of Colorado Denver’s Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis prepares professionals to follow best practices for ABA in various settings. The program focuses on enhancing the ability to work with individuals with special learning and behavior needs. The curriculum includes courses on behavior assessment, intervention strategies, and ethical considerations, aligning with BACB standards. The online modality provides flexibility for students balancing work and study commitments.
University of Houston
- Houston, Texas
- Online
Program:
Post-baccalaureate certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
Modality: Fully Online
Length: 18 credit hours
Tuition: $489 per credit hour (estimated) for residents. Totaling approximately $8,809 for the entire program. This tuition cost does not include financial aid, grants, or scholarships.
Program Overview:
The Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is designed for individuals with an undergraduate degree. It provides 18 credit hours of ABAI-verified coursework, preparing students for the BCaBA® exam. Students must independently complete 1,300 hours of supervised clinical experience. No GRE is required for admission, and a 3.0 cumulative GPA is necessary to complete the certificate. The program is ideal for those pursuing roles in human services, clinics, or educational settings, focusing on behavioral interventions for individuals with autism and developmental disabilities.
Purdue University Global
- West Lafayette, Indiana
- Online
Program:
Applied Behavior Analysis Postbaccalaureate Certificate
Modality: Online
Length: 30 credit hours
Tuition: $371 per quarter credit hour for all students. With a total of 30 quarter credit hours required, the total program cost is approximately $11,130. This estimate does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Overview:
Purdue University Global offers an online Applied Behavior Analysis Postbaccalaureate Certificate designed for individuals aiming to meet the coursework requirements for the Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst® (BCaBA®) examination. The program encompasses essential topics such as behavior assessment, intervention strategies, and ethical considerations. The curriculum is verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI), ensuring alignment with industry standards. This flexible online program caters to working professionals seeking to advance their expertise in behavior analysis.
Best BCBA Certification Programs
Selecting the best BCBA certification program is crucial for ensuring comprehensive training and a successful career in applied behavior analysis. One of the key indicators of a high-quality program is the exam pass rate of its graduates. According to the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), first-time pass rates can vary significantly between institutions, with some universities achieving 100% success rates while others fall behind.
The BACB publishes annual reports detailing pass rates by institution, offering valuable insights into program effectiveness. Reviewing these statistics can help prospective students identify programs that provide strong academic preparation and practical experience. Additionally, the best programs are those verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI), ensuring they meet BACB coursework requirements. They should also offer robust fieldwork supervision, experienced faculty, and flexible learning options.
Arizona State University
- Tempe, Arizona
- Online
Program:
Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: Online
Length: 21 credit hours
Tuition: $543 per credit hour for all students. With a total of 21 credit hours required, the total program cost is approximately $11,403. This estimate does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Overview:
Arizona State University’s online Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis equips students with the skills to improve behaviors of individuals with diverse needs. The program includes a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI), meeting the coursework requirements to sit for the BCBA exam. Courses cover behavior assessment, intervention strategies, and ethical considerations, providing a solid foundation in ABA principles. The online format offers flexibility for working professionals seeking career advancement.
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
- Charlotte, North Carolina
- Online
Program:
Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: Online
Length: 21 credit hours
Tuition: $1,194.75 per credit hour for in-state residents and $4,337.25 for out-of-state residents. With a total of 21 credit hours required, the total program cost is approximately $21,505.50 for in-state students and $78,070.50 for out-of-state students. This estimate does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Overview:
The University of North Carolina at Charlotte offers an online Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis designed to prepare students for BCBA certification. The program provides a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) and emphasizes evidence-based practices in behavior analysis. Students engage in coursework covering behavior assessment, intervention, and ethical considerations. The asynchronous online format offers flexibility, making it suitable for working professionals aiming to enhance their expertise in ABA.
Ball State University
- Muncie, Indiana
- Online
Program:
Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: Online
Length: 18 credit hours
Tuition: $446 per credit hour for in-state residents and $661 per credit hour for out-of-state residents. With a total of 18 credit hours required, the total program cost is approximately $8,028 for in-state students and $11,898 for out-of-state students. This estimate does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Overview:
Earning a certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) at Ball State University enhances understanding of core concepts and strategies used to treat various behavioral issues. This completely online program can be earned independently or incorporated into a master’s degree in special education. The program includes a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI), ensuring graduates meet the coursework requirements for BCBA exam eligibility. Students also gain flexibility with 8-week or 16-week course options, making it suitable for working professionals. In addition to completing the 15-credit certificate, students interested in taking the BCBA exam must complete two additional courses are required to reach the 21-credit threshold.
University of Cincinnati
- Cincinnati, Ohio
- Online
Program:
Graduate Certificate in Behavior Analysis
Modality: Online
Length: 21 credit hours
Tuition: $661 per credit hour for all students. With a total of 21 credit hours required, the total program cost is approximately $13,881. This estimate does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Overview:
The University of Cincinnati offers an online Graduate Certificate in Behavior Analysis designed to meet BACB course requirements through an ABAI-approved Verified Course Sequence (VCS). A premier higher education and research institution, the University of Cincinnati is recognized among the top 10 institutions for students who passed the BCBA exam on their first attempt.
The program is based on ethical best practices recommended by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board and is designed to expand students’ skills in the core competencies of applied behavior analysis. Students will learn to address a broad range of behaviors associated with various disability categories in educational and clinical settings. Emphasizing prevention and early intervention, the program incorporates the principles of operant and respondent learning, aligning with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and best practices for delivering assessment and intervention services.
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
- Chicago, Illinois
- Online
Program:
Post-Master’s Certificate Program in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: Online
Length: 21 credit hours
Tuition: $1,198 per credit hour. With a total of 21 credit hours required, the total program cost is approximately $25,158. This estimate does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Overview:
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology offers a Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis designed to prepare students for BCBA certification. The program includes a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) and emphasizes a practitioner-scholar model. The curriculum covers key areas such as behavior assessment, intervention strategies, and ethical considerations, equipping students to address behavioral challenges across diverse populations. The flexible online format allows working professionals to complete the program while balancing their careers. Students can also benefit from the school’s emphasis on research and applied experiences.
While not a required part of the ABA Post-Master’s Certificate program, students have the opportunity to complete their BACB®-compliant practicum through The Chicago School.