Utah has been strengthening its behavioral health framework to better support individuals with mental health and developmental needs. The state prioritizes integrated care models, crisis response, and early intervention, ensuring timely and effective treatment. The Utah Behavioral Health Commission coordinates efforts among state agencies, health systems, and community organizations to enhance access and quality of care.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a key part of Utah’s behavioral health strategy, particularly in supporting individuals with autism, developmental disabilities, and behavioral challenges. ABA interventions are widely recognized for promoting coping skills, reducing problematic behaviors, and improving quality of life.
ABA master’s programs focus on behavioral assessment, skill acquisition, and ethical considerations, preparing graduates to advance Utah’s behavioral health goals. By fostering a well-trained workforce, the state continues to expand services and improve outcomes for individuals and families affected by behavioral and developmental challenges.
Masters Programs in Utah to Become a BCBA
The master’s programs in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) in Utah are designed to prepare students for certification as Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA), following the standards established by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). These programs combine coursework with supervised fieldwork, equipping students with the skills necessary to evaluate behavior, develop interventions and evaluate outcomes in a variety of settings.
The master’s programs in Utah play a fundamental role in preparing professionals to work in schools, health centers, mental health clinics and community programs. By completing a master’s program in ABA, students acquire the knowledge necessary to make significant contributions in this field and improve the lives of people – fundamentally children and families – through evidence-based behavior analysis.
Online ABA Masters Programs in Utah
Utah offers online and hybrid master’s degrees in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) designed for students and professionals seeking BCBA certification with the opportunity to obtain comprehensive distance learning. These programs provide a variety of options, including a curriculum that covers behavior assessment, intervention planning, and data-based decision making, among others.
Hybrid course options offer courses in an asynchronous format, allowing students to progress at their own pace, while some programs incorporate live virtual sessions to improve engagement and interaction with faculty and peers.
These programs provide a flexible path to certification without compromising the depth of education and practical experience necessary to succeed in the field. Highlighted below is an in-state program that is delivered entirely online.
University of Utah
- Salt Lake City, Utah
- Online
Program:
Master of Education in Special Education – Applied Behavior Analysis Emphasis
Modality: Online
Length: 32 credit hours
Tuition: $600 per credit hour. With a total of 32 credit hours required, the total program cost is approximately $19,200. This estimate does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Overview:
The University of Utah’s online M.Ed. in Special Education – Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Emphasis is a two-year, full-time program designed to prepare students for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA) exam and is accredited by ABAI. The curriculum integrates asynchronous coursework, supervised practicum experience, and a thesis-equivalent project, ensuring both theoretical and practical proficiency in ABA.
The program does not specify a GRE requirement. However, it does require a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA (lower GPAs considered case-by-case) and recommends prior human service experience.
The flexible online modality allows students to engage with faculty and peers through group assignments, discussion forums, and virtual office hours. Weekly touchpoints with the program director ensure individualized guidance.
ABAI Accredited Masters Programs in Utah
The International Behavior Analysis Association (ABAI) accredits master’s programs in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to ensure that they meet rigorous academic and professional standards.
Utah offers master’s programs with ABAI-verified course sequences (VCS) that meet the course requirements for board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA) certification. An example of this is Utah State University
Although these programs may not be fully accredited by ABAI, their verified course sequences demonstrate compliance with the fundamental course standards required for BCBA certification. Prospective students should consider these options when looking for a quality ABA education in Utah. Below is another of the programs that stand out for this section.
Utah Valley University
- Orem, Utah
- Hybrid
Program:
Master of Education in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: Hybrid
Length: 37 credit hours.
Tuition: $359 per credit hour. With a total of 37 credit hours required, the total program cost is approximately $13,283. This estimate does not include additional supervisory fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Overview:
The Master of Education in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) at Utah Valley University (UVU) is a structured six-semester program designed for those passionate about making a difference in the lives of individuals with autism spectrum disorder and other neurodevelopmental disabilities. This program follows an ABAI Verified Course Sequence (VCS), ensuring that students meet the coursework requirements for the BCBA certification.
Unlike fully online programs, UVU’s ABA program emphasizes in-person learning, offering a hybrid modality where most courses are held on campus, with limited online options. Students engage in hands-on training at the Melisa Nellesen Center for Autism, where they apply their knowledge in real-world settings. The program also requires 1,500 supervised practicum hours, completed over six semesters with structured weekly supervision.
Admission is accessible, as no GRE is required, and students can expect affordable tuition. Designed for deep engagement and professional preparation, UVU’s ABA program provides a comprehensive, practice-oriented pathway to BCBA certification.
No GRE Required ABA Masters Programs in Utah
Master’s programs in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) in Utah that do not require the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) for admission offer greater accessibility to a wider range of applicants. Instead of standardized test scores, these programs assess candidates based on academic performance, relevant experience, and personal qualifications.
Admissions committees typically consider factors such as undergraduate GPA, work experience in behavior analysis or related fields, letters of recommendation, and personal statements. This approach allows prospective students to demonstrate their potential for success without the barrier of a standardized test.
By broadening access to ABA education, these programs help expand the pool of qualified behavior analysts in Utah, ultimately enhancing the availability of high-quality behavioral health services.
Utah State University
- Logan, Utah
- Hybrid
Program:
Master of Science in Special Education with Applied Behavior Analysis Coursework
Modality: Hybrid
Length: 36 credit hours
Tuition: $488 per credit hour for online graduate courses. With a total of 36 credit hours required, the total program cost is approximately $17,568. This estimate does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Overview:
The M.S. in Special Education with Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) coursework at Utah State University (USU) is a three-year program designed to prepare students for careers in behavior analysis. The curriculum includes an Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) Verified Course Sequence (VCS), ensuring that students meet the coursework requirements for BCBA certification. However, students must fulfill additional eligibility criteria to sit for the BCBA exam.
This research-focused program provides a balance of clinical and academic training, equipping students with the skills to work with individuals with disabilities or pursue further graduate study. A thesis is required, emphasizing the program’s commitment to research and evidence-based practice.
With a structured fall semester start and competitive admission process, USU’s M.S. in ABA is ideal for students looking to develop strong analytical and practical skills in behavioral science through a traditional academic pathway.
Utah’s Most Affordable ABA Masters Programs
Although no master’s program in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) in Utah is explicitly marketed as affordable, tuition information indicates that Utah Valley University offers the most cost-effective option in the state.
Prospective students are encouraged to explore financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and assistantships, to further offset tuition costs. Utah programs are committed to training competent behavior analysts, equipped to make significant contributions in this field.
Accelerated Utah ABA Masters Programs
Although no master’s program in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) in Utah is explicitly classified as accelerated, some offer pathways for students to complete their degrees in a shorter time frame. These programs usually allow students to complete their coursework in two years or less, enabling them to meet the requirements for Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification more efficiently than traditional three-year programs.
Among the options available, the Master of Special Education at the University of Utah with an emphasis on ABA stands out as the most accelerated program in the state.
ABA Certificate Programs in Utah
Utah offers several Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) certification programs designed for people looking to expand their knowledge of behavior analysis. These programs are ideal for professionals who already have a bachelor’s or master’s degree and need to meet the course requirements for Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) or Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) certification.
The certificate programs focus on key areas such as behavior assessment, intervention planning, ethical considerations, and data analysis. Unlike full master’s programs, these certificates provide a more agile and cost-effective way to acquire specialized knowledge in ABA. They are especially beneficial for professionals working in autism intervention, special education, and behavioral therapy, as they allow them to improve their credentials without committing to a full graduate program.
Online ABA Certificate Programs in Utah
For those who need a flexible learning option, Utah offers online ABA certificate programs that allow students to complete courses remotely. These programs offer asynchronous courses and live virtual sessions that accommodate different schedules.
One of the main advantages of online ABA certificate programs is their accessibility. They eliminate the need for relocation or long commutes, making high-quality ABA education available to students throughout Utah, including those in rural areas. In addition, online learning often reduces the costs associated with travel and accommodation, making these programs a more affordable option.
Utah Valley University
- Orem, Utah
- Hybrid
Program:
Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate
Modality: Hybrid
Length: 28 credit hours. Designed to be completed over three semesters.
Tuition: $359 per credit hour. With a total of 28 credit hours required, the total program cost is approximately $10,052. This estimate does not include additional supervisory fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Overview:
The University of Utah Valley (UVU) Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a program designed for professionals seeking to advance their expertise in behavior analysis. This certificate follows a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) from the International Association of Behavior Analysis (ABAI), ensuring that students complete the coursework requirements for the BCBA exam. However, applicants must meet additional eligibility criteria established by the Board of Behavior Analyst Certification (BACB).
The program follows a hybrid modality, with courses offered primarily in person and limited online options. It is structured to be completed in six semesters, providing a comprehensive foundation in ABA principles, ethics, and practical applications.
Utah Tech University
- St. George, Utah
- Campus
Program:
Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate
Modality: On Campus
Length: 16 credit hours, typically completed over multiple semesters
Tuition: $255 per credit hour. With a total of 16 credit hours required, the total program cost is approximately $4,080. These estimates do not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Overview:
The Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) from Utah Tech follows a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) from the International Association for Behavior Analysis (ABAI), which allows for eligibility for the BCBA exam. However, additional eligibility criteria must be met to obtain certification.
The program offers a flexible learning format, with courses available in online mode. Coursework emphasizes evidence-based practices, ethical considerations, and applied interventions.
ABA and BCBA Programs in Utah
| Degree Title | University Name | Program Length | Program Cost | ABAI Recognition | GRE Required | City | State |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M.Ed. in Applied Behavior Analysis | University of Utah | 5-6 | ~$435 per credit (in-state) | ABAI Accredited & VCS Approved | No | Salt Lake City | UT |
| Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis | University of Utah | 2-3 | ~$435 per credit (in-state) | VCS Approved | No | Salt Lake City | UT |
| M.S. in Psychology (ABA Specialization) | Utah State University | 5-6 | ~$400 per credit (in-state) | ABAI Accredited & VCS Approved | No | Logan | UT |
| Ph.D. in Behavior Analysis | Utah State University | Varies | ~$400 per credit (in-state) | ABAI Accredited | Yes | Logan | UT |
