Behavioral health in Oregon is a central priority, guided by agencies such as the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and its Behavioral Health Division. Key initiatives from these organizations include expanding access to therapeutic care, addressing the behavioral health needs of individuals with developmental disabilities, and supporting crisis intervention services. Oregon’s focus on trauma-informed care, community-based treatment, and culturally responsive practices reflects its commitment to creating a robust support system for residents facing mental health challenges.
Master’s programs in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) in Oregon play a significant role in the broader behavioral health landscape. These programs are designed to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals capable of providing evidence-based interventions for individuals with autism spectrum disorders, developmental, and behavioral challenges. ABA programs in Oregon emphasize ethical practice, culturally competent care, and collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, aligning with state initiatives to improve the quality and accessibility of care. Graduates are prepared to work in schools, clinics, and community settings, contributing to the state’s ongoing efforts to enhance outcomes for the well-being of its residents.
ABA Masters Programs Accepting Oregon Applicants
Masters Programs in Oregon to Become a BCBA
Master’s programs in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) in Oregon prepare students to become Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA), addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals in the field of behavioral health. These programs adhere to the standards set by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) and provide comprehensive coursework along with practical training, ensuring that students are equipped to tackle diverse behavioral challenges as they enter the workforce.
Typically, a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field is required for admission, along with a commitment to completing the supervised fieldwork necessary to obtain BCBA certification. Program durations range from 1 to 3 years, depending on the format and pace chosen by the student.
Graduates are prepared to work with individuals facing various behavioral challenges, such as autism spectrum disorders, developmental difficulties, and other behavioral needs. With a focus on ethical standards, cultural competence, and practical skills, these programs train professionals to make a meaningful impact in behavioral analysis and intervention.
Online ABA Masters Programs in Oregon
Online master’s programs in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) are designed to offer flexibility and accessibility for students balancing academic, professional, and personal commitments. These programs typically include interactive virtual platforms, live sessions, and asynchronous courses, allowing students to engage with the material on their own schedule while benefiting from university support and peer interaction. Practical training is integrated through remote supervision or local placements, ensuring students gain the hands-on experience needed for certification.
In Oregon, there are two prominent online ABA programs that provide these benefits while preparing students to become Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs). Accredited by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), these programs are designed to train clinical researchers in the science of behavior and human learning. Combining rigorous coursework with supervised fieldwork makes them an ideal choice for advancing in the field of behavior analysis.
University of Oregon
- Eugene, Oregon
- 47 hours
- Online
Program:
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
Modality: Online
Length: 47 credit hours
Tuition: $518 per credit hour (estimated). Total tuition for the one-year program is $25,878
Program Overview:
The University of Oregon’s Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program is designed to train compassionate clinician-researchers in the science of human behavior and learning. The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) has verified the program’s core courses, providing a solid foundation in ABA principles and conceptual underpinnings.
This online program combines synchronous and asynchronous weekly learning activities, utilizing an interdisciplinary teaching framework responsive to student needs. It offers both part-time and full-time study options to accommodate various schedules and commitments.
Students have the opportunity to gain supervised practical experience in behavior analysis, guided by faculty and professionals with years of field practice. The program partners with the Behavioral Health Center of Excellence (BHCOE) to ensure high-quality field experiences.
Upon completion, graduates are prepared to work as behavior analysts in schools, clinics, and other settings, supporting individuals with autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and contributing to areas such as public health, sports performance, and the improvement of sustainability practices.
Portland State University
- Portland, Oregon
- 45 hour
- Online
Program:
Master in Special Education with ABA Concentration
Modality: Online
Length: 45 credit hour
Tuition: $526 per credit hour for residents and the estimated tuition for the total program is $23,670.
Program Overview:
Portland State University’s Master of Special Education with a Concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a flexible, fully online program designed for working professionals. It integrates a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) aligned with the BACB® Fifth Edition Task List, ensuring comprehensive preparation for the BCBA® exam. The program emphasizes evidence-based strategies, positive behavior support, and early childhood interventions. Accredited by the ABAI, it provides tuition benefits for out-of-state students and offers scholarship opportunities. The part-time format allows students to gain the required supervised field experience. This degree prepares graduates for diverse roles in education, healthcare, and community services, effectively addressing behavioral support needs.
ABA Masters Programs Accepting Oregon Applicants
ABAI Accredited Masters Programs in Oregon
The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) is a globally recognized accrediting body for master’s programs in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), ensuring excellence in education and adherence to high academic standards. In Oregon, ABAI-accredited programs provide students with a comprehensive curriculum grounded in behavioral science, preparing them for Behavior Analyst certification. These master’s programs meet rigorous criteria based on behavioral principles and scientific research. Graduates are equipped with the skills needed to address complex behavioral challenges while meeting the inherent needs of the communities where they practice.
Oregon Institute of Technology
- Klamath Falls, Oregon
- 60 hours
- Hybrid
Program:
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: Hybrid
Length: 60 credit hours.
Tuition: $427 per credit hour for residents and $717 for nonresidents. Estimated total tuition is $25,620 for first-time and $43,020 for non-resident students.
Program Overview:
The Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis (MS-ABA) program at Oregon Tech is the first standalone master’s program of its kind in the state, designed to meet the growing demand for highly qualified behavior analysts. Spanning two years, this program provides rigorous training, including a course sequence verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI), preparing students to meet BCBA® certification requirements and obtain licensure in Oregon.
The program integrates theory and practice, emphasizing supervised internships during the second year. These paid internships take place at approved agencies, local schools, and Oregon Tech’s BIG ABA Clinic. These experiences enable students to apply behavior analysis principles in diverse settings, such as education, public health, and autism treatment.
With options for both in-person and remote learning through Zoom, the program is accessible to students from anywhere in the state. The highly qualified faculty provide a personalized approach at the Klamath Falls and Portland-Metro campuses, offering a real-time educational experience that ensures both academic and professional development.
No GRE Required ABA Masters Programs in Oregon
In Oregon, some master’s programs in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) have removed the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) requirement for admission, opting for a more inclusive approach to evaluating applicants. Rather than standardized test scores, these programs prioritize factors like academic performance, relevant work experience, and personal recommendations. This holistic admissions process broadens access to advanced education in ABA, making it more attainable for individuals with diverse backgrounds and strengths. By focusing on practical skills, ethical practice, and applied knowledge, these programs equip students to excel in the field of behavior analysis and meet the growing demand for qualified professionals.
Souther Oregon University
- Ashland, Oregon
- 45 hours
- Hybrid
Program:
Master of Science in Education with emphases in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Modality: Hybrid
Length: 45 credit hour
Tuition: $566 per credit hour for residents. Estimated total tuition is $25,470 for the entire program (estimated)
Program Overview:
The Master of Science in Education with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) at Southern Oregon University (SOU) is a collaborative program between SOU and the Oregon Institute of Technology (OIT). This program is designed to meet the growing demand for professionals trained to provide services to individuals with ASD and related conditions requiring intensive behavioral interventions.
The curriculum comprises 27 credits from OIT’s BCBA® course sequence and 18 credits from SOU’s ASD courses. Upon completion, graduates receive a Master of Science in Education from SOU and a Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis from OIT. With this certificate and the required supervised practicum, graduates meet the eligibility requirements to sit for the national exam to become certified behavior analysts.
Courses are offered in a hybrid format, combining in-person and online instruction to accommodate various learning preferences. The program does not require the GRE for admission; however, applicants are expected to have a bachelor’s degree and meet other criteria as outlined in the university’s admission policies.
Please note that this program is currently suspended. Prospective students are advised to contact the SOU School of Education for the most current information regarding program availability.
Oregon’s Most Affordable ABA Masters Programs
Although the number of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) programs offered by Oregon universities is not extensive enough to fully assess affordability and cost characteristics based on format, the program at the Oregon Institute of Technology stands out for offering the lowest per-credit tuition rate for residents across the state.
Similarly, many other programs in the state provide advanced education in behavioral sciences while remaining accessible, helping to reduce the financial burden on students. Lower tuition rates, combined with financial aid and scholarship opportunities, help minimize economic barriers to earning an ABA degree.
In Oregon, affordable options such as hybrid and online programs offer flexible solutions for students to achieve their professional aspirations in behavior analysis without taking on excessive debt. Additionally, these programs allow students to tailor their semester schedules and limit credit hours, giving them greater control over their course load.
Accelerated Oregon ABA Masters Programs
Accelerated master’s programs in ABA offer an efficient pathway for students interested in the field of behavioral sciences. Most programs in this category are designed to be completed in less time than traditional formats, typically allowing graduation within 18 to 24 months.
Although the state of Oregon does not have a wide range of programs formally classified as accelerated, the University of Oregon stands out with a program designed to be completed in just one year.
Additionally, other institutions provide flexible options that enable students to fast-track their studies. These options include intensive course scheduling, summer terms, and the ability to transfer relevant credits, thereby reducing the program’s overall duration. Online and hybrid learning formats further enhance accessibility, making it easier for working professionals to balance their education with other responsibilities.
ABA Certificate Programs in Oregon
Certificate programs in Oregon, particularly those in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), provide a streamlined pathway for individuals with a bachelor’s degree to gain specialized training in the field. Typically offered by universities, these programs are designed to meet the coursework requirements necessary to qualify for the BCBA® or BCaBA® certification exams. Unlike a full master’s degree, ABA certificate programs are more affordable, flexible, and can often be completed in just one year, making them an efficient and cost-effective option for career advancement. While a graduate certificate may not carry the same academic weight as a master’s degree or qualify for advanced roles in fields like research, it is highly respected for the precision and depth it provides in applied behavior analysis.
Online ABA Certificate Programs in Oregon
Online ABA certification programs in Oregon provide a flexible and accessible pathway to specialized training in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Unlike a master’s degree, which offers a broader academic foundation, these programs are typically shorter and focus on fundamental ABA skills, equipping students with a solid starting point while preparing them to pursue the BCBA® exam in the future.
Oregon’s online programs blend theoretical and practical training, covering essential topics such as ABA principles, behavioral assessment, data analysis, and ethical responsibilities. The online format is particularly advantageous for working professionals or those just beginning their journey in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis, offering the convenience and adaptability needed to balance education with other commitments.
Below are two of the most relevant programs within the state of Oregon:
Portland State University
- Portland, Oregon
- 33 hours
- Online
Program:
Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
Modality: Online
Length: 33 credit hour
Tuition: The academic year is $18,348 for residents (estimated)
Program Overview:
The Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) from Portland State University is delivered entirely online and is designed to prepare students for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®) exam. The program also provides a specialized concentration in behavior analysis, ideal for individuals pursuing careers as behavior specialists in schools, day treatment centers, applied behavior analysis provider agencies, community organizations, or working directly in homes and communities.
The curriculum, verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI), ensures alignment with the latest evidence-based practices, offering a comprehensive and up-to-date educational experience.
Oregon Institute of Technology
- Klamath Falls, Oregon
- 33 hours
- Online
Program:
Graduate certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: Online
Length: 33 credit hours
Tuition: $560 per credit for residents and $940 per credit for non-residents, with additional mandatory fees.
Program Overview:
Oregon Tech’s Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a program designed to equip students with the skills necessary to become board-certified behavior analysts (BCBAs). The curriculum aligns with the standards of the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI), ensuring comprehensive exam preparation. Notably, the program does not require GRE scores for admission and is ideal for individuals seeking to progressively deepen their training in behavior analysis and its principles of learning.
ABA and BCBA Programs in Oregon
| Degree Title | University Name | Program Length | Program Cost | ABAI Recognition | GRE Required | City | State |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis | University of Oregon | 1–2 years | Not specified | VCS Approved | No | Eugene | OR |
| M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis | Portland State University | 2 years | Approximately $16,632/year (in-state); $24,009/year (out-of-state) | VCS Approved | No | Portland | OR |
| M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis | Oregon Institute of Technology | 2 years | Approximately $13,209/year (in-state); $22,174/year (out-of-state) | VCS Approved | No | Klamath Falls | OR |
| M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis | Southern Oregon University | 2 years | Not specified | VCS Approved | No | Ashland | OR |
