In recent years, West Virginia has made significant strides in strengthening its behavioral health infrastructure, responding to the needs of communities facing high rates of mental health problems, developmental disabilities and substance use disorders. Through initiatives led by the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) Office of Behavioral Health, the state is prioritizing integrated care models, early intervention and evidence-based treatment approaches. The Office supports a wide range of services, including prevention, crisis stabilization and community-based mental health programs, particularly in rural and underserved regions of the state.
The ABA master’s degree programs offered in West Virginia reflect this statewide commitment, preparing professionals to effectively respond to the needs of diverse populations through skill development, behavioral assessment, and data-driven treatment planning. These programs are aligned with the state’s goals of building a well-trained behavioral health workforce capable of delivering compassionate, person-centered care and improving long-term outcomes for individuals and families throughout West Virginia.
Masters Programs in West Virginia to Become a BCBA
West Virginia offers specialized master’s programs in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) that prepare students for certification as Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), a credential recognized in educational, clinical, and community settings. These programs follow the requirements set by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), combining rigorous academic training with supervised practical experience.
In fact, to become certified as a BCBA, candidates must meet several key requirements: complete a graduate program that includes a Verified Course Sequence (VCS), gain supervised fieldwork experience, and pass the official certification exam.
ABAI Accredited Masters Programs in West Virginia
Master’s programs in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) represent the highest standards in behavior analysis education. In West Virginia, students have access to fully ABAI-accredited master’s programs, reflecting the state’s efforts to prepare qualified professionals in this field.
ABAI accreditation ensures that a program has undergone a thorough evaluation process and meets the organization’s criteria for curriculum quality, faculty expertise, ethical training, and student support. These programs include a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) that covers essential competencies such as behavioral assessment, intervention design, ethical practice, and applied research. In addition, students complete supervised fieldwork and often engage in research or thesis projects, gaining both practical experience and academic depth.
Graduates of ABAI-accredited master’s programs in West Virginia are well-prepared to pursue certification as Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and to deliver high-quality services in educational, clinical, and community settings. These programs are designed not only to meet certification requirements but also to promote a deep understanding of the principles and applications of behavior analysis in real-world contexts.
West Virginia University
- Morgantown, West Virginia
- 36 hours
- Campus
Program:
Master of Science in Psychology: Behavior Analysis
Modality: On Campus
Length: 36 credit hours
Tuition: $682 per credit hour for in-state residents and $1,725 for out-of-state residents. With a total of 36 credit hours required, the total program cost is approximately $24,552 for in-state students and $62,100 for out-of-state students. This estimate does not include additional fees, materials, or personal.
Program Overview:
The Master of Science in Behavior Analysis program at West Virginia University is a full-time graduate degree designed to provide in-depth training in behavioral science. The program emphasizes experimental and applied behavior analysis, providing a solid foundation in research, theory, and practical application. Students complete coursework, internships and a thesis over approximately two years. The program is accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI), ensuring that it meets the high standards of behavior analysis education. It requires applicants to submit GRE scores as part of the admissions process in addition to other requirements.
No GRE Required ABA Masters Programs in West Virginia
West Virginia is joining the trend of making graduate education more accessible by offering Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) master’s programs that do not require the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) as part of the admission process. Instead of focusing on standardized test scores, these programs assess applicants based on their academic background, professional experience, and potential in the field.
This approach creates new opportunities for individuals with diverse profiles, especially those already working in education, behavioral health, or developmental support services who want to advance their careers without the barriers posed by the GRE.
One of the programs in the state explicitly states that the GRE is not required, making it an attractive option for those seeking a more inclusive and streamlined admission process. Even without the GRE requirement, these programs maintain the high standards set by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), meeting all coursework and practicum requirements needed for BCBA certification.
Marshall University
- Huntington, West Virginia
- 33 hours
- Campus
Program:
Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis
Modality: On Campus
Length: 33 credit hours
Tuition: $497 per credit hour for in-state residents and $1,117 per credit hour for out-of-state residents. With a total of 33 credit hours required, the total program cost is approximately $16,401 for in-state students and $36,861 for out-of-state students. This estimate does not include additional fees, materials, or personal expenses.
Program Overview:
The Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis at Marshall University emphasizes the practical application of behavior analytic principles in both educational and clinical settings. Designed to prepare students for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification exam, the program also supports licensure where applicable. GRE scores are not required for admission, making the application process more accessible. Delivered through a structured, in-person format, the program offers a strong foundation in ABA and is ideal for those seeking professional certification alongside hands-on, real-world training.
ABA Certificate Programs in West Virginia
West Virginia also offers certificate programs in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), designed for professionals who already hold a graduate degree in psychology, education, counseling, or related fields and wish to specialize in ABA without completing a full master’s degree.
These certificate programs are structured to meet the academic requirements set by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), providing a clear path toward BCBA certification. Many of them include a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI), ensuring that the curriculum aligns with established professional standards.
West Virginia University
- Morgantown, West Virginia
- 15 hours
- Campus
Program:
Undergraduate Certificate in Behavior Analysis
Modality: On Campus
Length: 15 credit hours
Tuition: $461 per credit hour for in-state residents and $1,255 per credit hour for out-of-state residents. With a total of 15 credit hours required, the total program cost is approximately $6,915 for in-state students and $18,825 for out-of-state students. This estimate does not include additional fees, materials.
Program Overview:
The Undergraduate Certificate in Behavior Analysis at West Virginia University provides basic training in applied behavior analysis. The program combines coursework with supervised experiential learning to prepare students for future graduate study or entry-level positions in behavior analysis settings. The program is accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) through 2030, ensuring that it meets the high educational standards in the field. This certificate is ideal for students who wish to explore behavior analysis before committing to a master’s or other full graduate program, or who are seeking early hands-on experience in ABA within a face-to-face academic setting.
