In Washington, D.C., the landscape of ABA services has been shaped by key policies and regulations aimed at increasing access to care for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). A crucial law in D.C. is the Autism Insurance Reform, passed in 2012, which mandates that insurance providers cover medically necessary ABA therapy for people diagnosed with ASD. This law has expanded the availability of ABA services and allows children and adults with autism to receive the behavioral support they need.
Another important development is the Behavior Analyst Licensure Act of 2017, which established licensure requirements for behavior analysts practicing in Washington, D.C. Under this law, the District of Columbia Board of Allied Mental Health and Social Work sets the criteria for licensure, requiring professionals to hold a master’s degree in ABA or a related field, complete supervised experience, and pass the BCBA exam. This licensure process ensures that ABA professionals meet high standards of competence and ethical practice, protecting the welfare of clients and enhancing the quality of care provided.
These laws, along with D.C.’s Medicaid coverage for ABA services under the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) program, have shaped the demand for ABA practitioners. As a result, there is a growing need for qualified professionals, making Washington, D.C. an excellent location for aspiring Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) to start their careers.
Masters Programs in Washington, D.C. To Become a BCBA
For those who are interested, seeking graduate programs related to ABA in Washington, D.C. can be a challenge. Currently, there are no degree programs that meet the requirements for becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). To become a BCBA, the board requires specific coursework, fieldwork, and a certification exam, none of which are currently offered by universities in the District. However, students interested in autism spectrum disorders (ASD), applied psychology, and related fields can still pursue a range of academic options in D.C. that provide valuable skills applicable to behavioral health.
Graduate Programs Related to Behavioral Health in Washington, D.C.
While there are no ABA degree or certificate programs that meet the requirements for becoming a BCBA, there are still alternatives for those who are interested in pursuing a career in behavioral health.
The George Washington University
- G Street NW, Washington, DC
Program: Master of Science in Applied Psychology
This is a new degree program that GWU is offering in 2025. This degree is designed for students seeking to apply psychological principles in practical settings, including educational, clinical, and organizational environments. While this program does not meet BCBA requirements, it offers a strong foundation in psychological methods and applied research, which can be beneficial for students pursuing careers in behavior management and mental health services.
This program focuses on real-world psychological applications, research, and intervention strategies. It is ideal for students interested in mental health, psychological assessment, and intervention work with various populations, including individuals with developmental disabilities.
The George Washington University
- G Street NW, Washington, DC
Program: Graduate Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)
GWU’s Graduate Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders offers specialized training in understanding and working with individuals on the autism spectrum. This program is geared toward educators, clinicians, and other professionals who work with individuals with ASD, providing practical skills and knowledge to support this population. Although it doesn’t qualify students for BCBA certification, it enhances their capacity to work in autism-focused roles, a key component of ABA therapy.
This program focuses on evidence-based practices and interventions for individuals with ASD. It is also ideal for professionals in education, social work, or psychology seeking to deepen their expertise in autism.
Recommendations for Students Interested in Becoming BCBAs
For those who want to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), it is recommended to look beyond the Washington, D.C. area to find programs that meet BCBA requirements. While not in the District, there are several accredited universities nearby and online options that have ABA master’s programs and graduate certificates that prepare students to achieve the BCBA certification.
George Mason University (Virginia): Graduate Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders or Applied Behavior Analysis
George Mason University offers a Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) designed for professionals seeking to enhance their skills or meet the requirements for the BCBA certification exam. The program provides in-depth knowledge of behavioral assessment and intervention techniques grounded in evidence-based practices. It prepares students to work with individuals with autism, developmental disabilities, and other behavior-related issues in various settings such as schools, private clinics, and community organizations. The program does not lead to a full master’s degree, but it equips students with the necessary coursework and practical experience for certification.
University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC): M.A. in Human Services Psychology – Applied Behavior Analysis
UMBC’s program emphasizes the scientific study of human behavior and offers specialized training in ABA. Students receive a strong foundation in both the theoretical and applied aspects of behavior analysis, focusing on assessment, intervention, and research. The program is designed to prepare students for certification as Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and includes practical fieldwork opportunities. The curriculum aligns with ABA certification standards and focuses on autism treatment, developmental disabilities, and behavior intervention.
For more information on ABA Master’s Programs and Graduate Certificate Programs near Washington, D.C. you can check out our article for Maryland and Virginia.
