In Oregon, pursuing a master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) means accessing programs that integrate scientific theory with supervised practice. Although the number of options is not as broad as in other states, the available programs in Oregon feature Verified Course Sequences (VCS) and are aligned with BACB standards. These master’s degrees prepare students to work in behavioral health, education, and community settings, with an emphasis on professional ethics and cultural competence.
Quick Facts
● ABAI/VCS-Aligned Programs in Oregon: 2
● Fully Online ABA Master’s Programs: 1
● Average Program Length: 2 years
● Tuition Range (per unit): $337 – $1,055
ABA Masters Programs Accepting Oregon Applicants
Masters Programs in Oregon to Become a BCBA
The Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA®) is an internationally recognized credential that validates the academic and practical preparation of professionals in behavior analysis. Earning it is essential for working in clinical, educational, and community settings that require evidence-based interventions.
In Oregon, the path toward this certification involves:
- Completing a graduate degree with a Verified Course Sequence (VCS).
- Accumulating the required supervised practice hours under the guidance of a BCBA.
- Passing the national exam administered by Pearson VUE.
Admission typically requires a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field. Depending on the pace chosen, programs last between 1 and 3 years. Graduates develop competencies to address autism, developmental disabilities, and other behavioral challenges, always within an ethical and science-based framework.
Online ABA Masters Programs in Oregon
These programs combine the flexibility of distance learning with the same level of academic rigor and faculty support typically found in in-person formats. Through interactive virtual platforms, students participate in synchronous and asynchronous classes while completing supervised field placements, either locally or remotely. In this way, they not only meet the academic requirements for the BCBA exam but also gain the practical experience necessary to thrive in the professional field.
University of Oregon
- Eugene, Oregon
- 47 hours
- Online
Modality: Online
GRE Required: not specified
Program: Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
Length: 47 credit hours
Tuition: $518 per credit hour (estimated). Total tuition for the one-year program is $25,878
Program Overview
Offered by the College of Education, this master’s program develops a clinician-researcher profile with a Capstone Research Project and access to an ecosystem of 16 research and outreach units (e.g., HEDCO Clinic and Early Childhood CARES), facilitating the transfer of results into real-world contexts. In addition to traditional areas (schools and clinics), the program explores contemporary applications of ABA in public health, sports performance, and sustainability, broadening professional opportunities.
education.uoregon.edu
Key Highlights
- Partnership with BHCOE: sites with BHCOE accreditation receive automatic approval as practicum centers, expanding access to high-quality supervised experiences.
education.uoregon.edu - “Inter-teaching” instructional structure and cohort-based model with weekly synchronous and asynchronous activities to maintain interaction with faculty and peers.
education.uoregon.edu
Additional Considerations
- DEI/neurodiversity programmatic requirements integrated into the curriculum and professional online colloquia.
education.uoregon.edu - Core faculty with BCBA-D credentials (e.g., Kimberly Marshall, David Cosottile, Wendy Machalicek) and affiliated mentors for research supervision.
education.uoregon.edu
Accreditation
- Institutional: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
- Program-Specific: Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by ABAI; the program plans to apply for ABAI accreditation eligibility in Spring 2025.
Portland State University
- Portland, Oregon
- 45 hour
- Online
Modality: Online
GRE Required: not specified
Program: Master in Special Education with ABA Concentration
Length: 45 credit hours
Tuition: $526 per credit hour for residents and the estimated tuition for the total program is $23,670.
Program Overview
Portland State University offers a master’s degree in Special Education with a concentration in ABA, distinguished by more than 25 years of experience training specialists in behavior analysis and positive behavior support. The curriculum includes applied experiences in key areas such as early intervention and support for students with intensive needs, making it an attractive option for those seeking to apply ABA in the educational system. In addition, the program is delivered through the Graduate School of Education, recognized for its focus on equity and diversity, which integrates an inclusive perspective into professional practice.
Key Highlights
- Program with more than two decades of experience in ABA training within the educational field
- Emphasis on early intervention and positive behavior support in school settings
Additional Considerations
- Part-time format allows working professionals to advance toward certification while maintaining employment
- Access to scholarships and tuition benefits that reduce costs for out-of-state students
Accreditation
- Institutional: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Program-Specific: Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by ABAI
ABA Masters Programs Accepting Oregon Applicants
ABAI Accredited Masters Programs in Oregon
Accreditation from the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) ensures that a program meets the highest standards in professional training. In Oregon, there are ABAI-accredited programs that offer a comprehensive curriculum grounded in behavioral principles and applied research. This distinction guarantees that students not only fulfill the academic requirements for BCBA® certification but also receive high-quality practical training in diverse settings.
Oregon Institute of Technology
- Klamath Falls, Oregon
- 60 hours
- Hybrid
Modality: Hybrid
GRE Required: not specified
Program: Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis
Length: 60 credit hours.
Tuition: $427 per credit hour for residents and $717 for nonresidents. Estimated total tuition is $25,620 for residents and $43,020 for non-resident students.
Program Overview
Oregon Tech offers a master’s degree in ABA recognized as the first in Oregon designed as a standalone program. The curriculum combines advanced seminars with applied projects and culminates in a professional research capstone, providing strong preparation both for BCBA® certification and for leadership positions in the field. Students benefit from proximity to two campuses—Klamath Falls and Portland-Metro—and from a hybrid format that allows real-time participation from anywhere in the state.
Key Highlights
- Paid internships during the second year in university clinics and partner agencies
- Access to Oregon Tech’s BIG ABA Clinic as a practical training site
Additional Considerations
- Small cohorts ensure close interaction with faculty
- Opportunities to participate in community projects in behavioral health and educational support across Oregon
Accreditation
- Institutional: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Program-Specific: Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by ABAI
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.
Souther Oregon University
- Ashland, Oregon
- 45 hours
- Hybrid
Modality: Hybrid
GRE Required: no
Program: Master of Science in Education with emphases in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Length: 45 credit hours
Tuition: $566 per credit hour for residents. Estimated total tuition is $25,470 for the entire program (estimated)
Program Overview
Southern Oregon University offers a master’s program distinguished by its collaborative nature with Oregon Tech, combining advanced preparation in autism with academic training in ABA. The curricular model provides students with a graduate degree in Education from SOU along with a graduate certificate in ABA issued by OIT, broadening both academic scope and specialization opportunities.
Key Highlights
- Dual academic recognition: MS in Education from SOU and Graduate Certificate in ABA from OIT
- Unique curriculum in Oregon linking two high-demand professional areas: ABA and autism
Additional Considerations
- Hybrid format combining online classes with in-person meetings in Ashland
- Official program status: temporarily suspended, with future updates to be confirmed with the School of Education
Accreditation
- Institutional: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Program-Specific: Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by ABAI (through Oregon Tech)
Oregon’s Most Affordable ABA Masters Programs
While the number of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) programs offered by Oregon universities is not large enough to fully assess affordability and cost characteristics by format, the Oregon Institute of Technology program stands out for offering the lowest per-credit tuition for residents across the state.
In Oregon, affordable options such as hybrid and online programs offer flexible solutions for students to achieve their career aspirations in behavior analysis without excessive debt. Additionally, these programs allow students to customize 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
ABA Certificate Programs in Oregon
In Oregon, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) certification programs provide a direct pathway for those who already hold a bachelor’s degree and wish to specialize in the field. Generally offered by universities, they are designed to meet the academic requirements needed to sit for the BCBA® or BCaBA® certification exams.
With an approximate duration of one year, they represent a more affordable alternative to a full master’s degree and allow students to develop practical skills applicable in clinical and educational settings. Although a graduate certificate does not carry the same academic weight as a master’s degree nor open as many doors in research, it is recognized for the precision and depth it provides in applied behavior analysis, making it an effective option for professional advancement.
Online ABA Certificate Programs in Oregon
The online certificate programs available in Oregon combine rigorous academic training with technological tools that enrich the learning experience. Classes are typically organized in small cohorts with clearly defined schedules, which facilitates ongoing interaction with faculty and peers. In addition, the use of virtual platforms provides access to digital libraries, specialized forums, and live sessions for case analysis. In this way, even at a distance, students benefit from a dynamic and collaborative environment that effectively prepares them to meet certification requirements.
Below are two of the most relevant programs within the state of Oregon:
Portland State University
- Portland, Oregon
- 33 hours
- Online
Modality: Online
GRE Required: no
Program: Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
Length: 33 credit hour
Tuition: The academic year is $18,348 for residents (estimated)
Program Overview
With more than two decades of experience in ABA training, PSU maintains active ties with school districts and service providers across Oregon, ensuring that learning remains closely connected to the real demands of practice. The certificate focuses on developing applied competencies for intervention in educational and community settings, preparing specialists capable of working in schools, day treatment agencies, and behavioral support programs at the local level. The online structure allows students in different regions to access preparation aligned with the most current standards of the discipline.
Key Highlights
- Sequence of 7 courses aligned with the BACB 5th Edition Task List, providing a didactic progression that strengthens applied skills at each stage.
PSU | Portland State University - Explicit emphasis on Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and early childhood applications, which are less common in certificates oriented toward the educational sector.
Additional Considerations
- 100% online, part-time format that facilitates accumulation of the required independent supervised experience hours for credentialing, compatible with current employment.
- Tuition benefit: certificate students residing outside Oregon are charged in-state tuition rates (specific PSU policy for the GC).
Accreditation
- Institutional: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Program-Specific: Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by ABAI
Oregon Institute of Technology
- Klamath Falls, Oregon
- 33 hours
- Online
Modality: Online
GRE Required: no
Program: Graduate certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Length: 33 credit hours
Tuition: $560 per credit for residents and $940 per credit for non-residents, with additional mandatory fees.
Program Overview
Distinguished by its connection to the university’s BIG ABA Clinic, where faculty develop applied projects in autism and behavioral health, this certificate provides a strong foundation for both academic and practical learning. In addition, the online format allows students from different regions to progress without needing to travel to Klamath Falls.
Key Highlights
- Supervision & Management course that includes the BACB Supervisor 8-Hour Training (Supervisor Training Curriculum 2.0) integrated into the plan.
- Training in assessment tools commonly used in practice (e.g., VB-MAPP, ABLLS, PEAK, EFL, AFLS, Vineland).
Additional Considerations
- Quarter system (10 weeks) that facilitates planning progress through modules.
- Upon completing the certificate and obtaining BCBA®, Oregon residents may apply for state licensure (LBA).
Accreditation
- Program-Specific: Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by ABAI
- Institutional: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
BCBA Legislation in Oregon
Oregon currently does not have a specific state license to practice as a behavior analyst. Professional practice is regulated through national certification from the BACB®, which is an essential requirement to work as a BCBA or BCaBA in the state.
The behavioral health system in Oregon is led by the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and its Behavioral Health Division, which promotes policies for access to therapeutic care, crisis intervention services, and support for individuals with developmental disabilities. These initiatives are framed within a trauma-informed and culturally sensitive approach that fosters evidence-based practices in schools, clinics, and community programs.
As a result, although a specific state licensure system for behavior analysts has not been established, Oregon’s behavioral health structure recognizes and supports the use of ABA interventions as part of its efforts to improve quality of care and inclusion for individuals with behavioral and developmental needs.
BCBA Demand in Oregon
The demand for certified ABA professionals continues to grow in Oregon, driven by the increase in autism diagnoses and the expansion of behavioral health services across the state. BCBAs find employment in school districts, private clinics, early intervention programs, and Medicaid-funded services.
According to Indeed and ZipRecruiter, average salaries for BCBAs in Oregon range from $80,000 to $90,000 annually, with variations depending on region, level of experience, and type of employer. In urban areas such as Portland and Eugene, earnings are typically higher due to the greater concentration of clinics and specialized centers.
Beyond clinical and educational opportunities, BCBAs in Oregon also participate in interdisciplinary teams working in prevention, treatment, and community support, which broadens career options beyond the school context. With a state system that prioritizes behavioral health and encourages evidence-based practices, the job market for behavior analysts remains active and expanding.
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 |
