Alaska faces particular challenges in behavioral health due to its remote geography, the limited availability of professionals, and the need for culturally appropriate care—especially within Alaska Native communities. The state has prioritized strengthening its mental health system by focusing on prevention, early intervention, and increasing access to evidence-based services in underserved areas. These efforts are supported by initiatives from the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS), aimed at expanding the mental health workforce and improving long-term outcomes through training, service integration, and community engagement.
The master’s programs in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) available in Alaska are designed to align with these state-level goals. They prepare future behavior analysts to work in a variety of settings—clinical, educational, and community-based—using data-driven and person-centered approaches. These programs emphasize hands-on experience through supervised fieldwork and, in many cases, include a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI)
Masters Programs in Alaska to Become a BCBA
Alaska offers graduate programs in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) designed to prepare students for certification as Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA), a nationally recognized credential for professionals working in clinical, educational, and community-based settings. These programs follow the standards established by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), which include completing a graduate degree with an approved Verified Course Sequence (VCS), gaining supervised fieldwork experience, and passing the BCBA certification exam.
In Alaska, master’s programs aimed at BCBA certification emphasize both academic rigor and practical training. Students learn how to assess behavior, design individualized intervention plans, and use data to monitor progress—essential skills for working with individuals with autism spectrum disorders, developmental disabilities, and other behavioral challenges.
ABAI Accredited Masters Programs in Alaska
In the vast territory of Alaska, the need for well-trained behavior analysts is significant, especially in communities with limited access to behavioral health services. Master’s programs in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) offer a gold standard in education for those aspiring to become Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs). In Alaska, students seeking rigorous training can pursue ABAI-accredited studies within a graduate program that prioritizes both academic excellence and practical application.
ABAI accreditation indicates that a program has been carefully evaluated for the quality of its curriculum, faculty, student outcomes, and ethical and professional preparation. These programs include a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) aligned with BCBA certification requirements, covering key topics such as behavior assessment, intervention strategies, ethical conduct, and research methods. They also include extensive supervised fieldwork, preparing students to work in their area of interest.
While the number of programs available in Alaska may be more limited compared to other states, the quality of ABAI-accredited education ensures that graduates are fully equipped to face real-world behavioral challenges.
University of Alaska Anchorage
- Anchorage, Alaska
- 48 hours
- Campus
Program:
M.S. in Clinical Psychology, Behavior Analysis Track
Modality: On Campus
Length: 48 credit hours
Tuition: $513 per credit hour for in-state residents and $1,180 per credit hour for out-of-state residents. With a total of 48 credit hours required, the total program cost is around $24,624 for in-state students and $56,640 for out-of-state students. Does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Overview:
The University of Alaska Anchorage offers a Behavior Analysis program within its Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology program, designed for students seeking Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification and state licensure. The program follows a face-to-face modality and includes a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI), ensuring that it meets the educational requirements for certification.
The program provides a solid foundation in applied behavior analysis within a culturally informed, community-centered environment. It also emphasizes clinical training and research by preparing students to work with diverse populations, including Alaska Native communities.
ABA Certificate Programs in Alaska
ABA certificate programs in Alaska are designed for professionals who already hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree in psychology, education, or a related field—or for those seeking high-quality undergraduate-level training in behavior analysis. These programs typically fulfill the coursework requirements to become a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) or a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), depending on the applicant’s educational background. Certificate programs are grounded in the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis and, in many cases, include a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), ensuring they meet national standards.
In Alaska, these programs are particularly relevant due to the state’s unique behavioral health needs. Certificate programs usually consist of 15 to 21 academic credits and may include elective courses focused on autism interventions, ethics, and challenging behaviors. While supervised fieldwork is not typically built into the certificate itself, many institutions offer resources or partnerships to help students find qualified practicum opportunities. These certificate programs play a key role in expanding the behavioral health workforce across Alaska.
University of Alaska Anchorage
- Anchorage, Alaska
- 18 hours
- Campus + Hybrid
Program:
Occupational Endorsement Certificate (OEC) in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: On-campus (some courses may be available in hybrid format)
Length: 18 credit hours
Tuition: $513 per credit hour for in-state residents and $1,180 per credit hour for out-of-state residents. With a total of 18 credit hours required, the total program cost is around $9,234 for in-state students and $21,240 for out-of-state students. Does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Overview:
The University of Alaska Anchorage offers an Occupational Endorsement Certificate (OEC) in Applied Behavior Analysis, a graduate-level program designed for individuals seeking Board Certified Behavior Analyst Assistant (BCaBA) certification. This program is primarily taught on campus, with some courses potentially available in a hybrid format. It includes core courses such as Behavior Change Strategies and Behavioral Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder. The program has a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI), ensuring that it meets the academic requirements for BCaB certification.
University of Alaska Anchorage
- Anchorage, Alaska
- 18 hours
- Campus
Program:
Minor in Behavior Analysis
Modality: On-campus
Length: 18 credit hours
Tuition: $513 per credit hour for in-state residents and $1,180 per credit hour for out-of-state residents. With a total of 18 credit hours required, the total program cost is around $9,234 for in-state students and $21,240 for out-of-state students. Does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Overview:
The Minor in Behavior Analysis at the University of Alaska Anchorage is designed for undergraduate students seeking basic knowledge of the principles and application of behavior analysis. This program complements a variety of majors, particularly those in psychology, education, and health sciences. Students take courses such as Introduction to Behavior Analysis, Behavior Change Strategies, and a practicum in behavior analysis.
The program provides a solid foundation for students interested in pursuing graduate studies or certification in the future. The program emphasizes hands-on experience through field internships and focuses on culturally sensitive practices, especially relevant to Alaska Native communities. It provides an accessible entry point into the ABA field for undergraduate students interested in applied work or further study.
