Since 2016, in response to the increase in demand for Applied Behavior Analysis therapy, in Indiana, ABA therapy is paid for by public programs, including the Family and Social Services Administration and the Office of Medicaid. In 2022, Medicaid provided funding for ABA services to about 6,200 individuals each month.
Demand for BCBAs in Indiana
The demand for ABA therapists in Indiana has increased in line with the increase nationally. There were 1,386 postings for ABA therapists in 2022, and 1,896 postings in 2023, a 36.8% increase.
According to Zip Recruiter, the average salary for an ABA therapist in Indiana is $42,441 ($20/hour). The salary varies from market to market. For example, the average salary in South Bend is $43,712 while the average salary in Lafayette is $42,913.
Featured ABA Programs Accepting Indiana Applicants
Master’s Programs in Indiana To Become a BCBA
In Indiana, the Behavior Analyst Licensing Board oversees ABA therapy licensure. Licensed behavior therapists in Indiana 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 have two online options within Indiana: Ball State University and Purdue University.
Online ABA Master’s Program in Indiana
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 Indiana, Ball State University and Purdue University offer online options.
Ball State University
- Muncie, IN
- Online
Program:
Master’s of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis with a focus on Autism
Modality: Online
Length: 30 credit hours, less than 2 years
GRE Required: No
Tuition: $2,784 per semester, not including fees
Accreditation: QABA Accreditation
Program Overview:
The M.A. in ABA with a focus in Autism is designed to be completed in less than two years. The ABA program is housed within the Ball State University Teachers’ College. Students take the ABA Verified Course Sequence and three additional courses on autism. Course sizes are small allowing for additional focus from faculty.
Purdue University
- West Lafayette, IN
- Online
Program:
Master of Science in Educational Studies: Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: Online
Length: 30 credit hours
GRE Required: No
Tuition: $4,859 per semester, not including fees
Accreditation: None listed
Program Overview:
The M.Ed in ABA is a rigorous academic program with flexible course schedules. Students take synchronous modules that allow students to build relationships within the flexible coursework. Students who want to pursue a doctorate in special education can transfer master’s credits into the doctoral program of study. Students work in cohorts as well to develop community. They also have the opportunity to participate in ABA research.
Hybrid Master’s ABA Program in Indiana
There are not hybrid master’s ABA programs in Indiana.
Graduate Certificate ABA Program in Indiana
There are two graduate certificate ABA programs in Indiana: Ball State University and Purdue University.
Ball State University
- Muncie, IN
- Online
Program:
Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: Online
Length: 15 credit hours
GRE Required: No
Tuition: $2,784 per semester, not including fees
Accreditation: None listed
Program Overview:
To earn the graduate certificate in ABA, students complete the Verified Course Sequence. The graduate certificate can be incorporated into a master’s program or earned independently.
Purdue University
- West Lafayette, IN
- Online
Program:
Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: Online
Length: 21 credit hours
GRE Required: No
Tuition: 4,859 per semester, not including fees
Accreditation: None listed
Program Overview:
Students complete the Verified Course Sequence in a flexible class environment. The Purdue graduate certificate program enrolls students in cohorts designed to encourage professional learning communities. Classes are taught in a synchronous modality. Students who have a master’s degree in a related field of study and a 3.0 GPA are eligible for admission. Also, students who are enrolled in a master’s or doctoral program in Psychological sciences or Education can enroll in the certificate program.
On Campus Master’s in ABA Programs in Indiana
There are no on campus master’s programs in ABA in Indiana.
No GRE Required ABA Programs in Indiana
None of the programs in Indiana 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 Indiana
Neither of the programs in Indiana are ABAI accredited. They both provide the ABA Verified Course Sequence to prepare students for the BCBA exam.
Affordable ABA Programs in Indiana
The least expensive option is Ball State University, with tuition of $2,784 per semester. However, the total cost of an ABA program will depend on factors like residency, prior credit hours, and other factors.
Accelerated ABA Programs in Indiana
The best option for an accelerated path to a BCBA in Indiana is the graduate certificate through either Ball State University of Purdue University.
ABA and BCBA Programs in Indiana
| Degree Title | University Name | Program Length | Program Cost | ABAI Recognition | GRE Required | City | State |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| B.A. in Psychology (ABA Track) | Ball State University | 8 (4 years) | ~$335 per credit (in-state) | VCS Approved | No | Muncie | IN |
| M.A. in Applied Behavior Analysis | Ball State University | 5-6 | ~$437 per credit (in-state) | ABAI Accredited & VCS Approved | No | Muncie | IN |
| Graduate Certificate in ABA | Ball State University | 2-3 | ~$437 per credit (in-state) | VCS Approved | No | Muncie | IN |
| M.S. in Psychology (ABA Specialization) | Purdue University Global | 5-6 | ~$420 per credit | VCS Approved | No | Online (Based in West Lafayette) | IN |
| Graduate Certificate in ABA | Purdue University Global | 2-3 | ~$420 per credit | VCS Approved | No | Online (Based in West Lafayette) | IN |
