Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate Programs

The University of West Florida's online Applied Behavior Analysis graduate certificate prepares students for BCBA, QBA, or IBA certification through three specialized tracks. This flexible program includes 18-22 credit hours of coursework, with each course lasting 12-16 weeks, and can typically be completed in two years. Students learn applied behavior analysis from faculty actively practicing in the field, with a curriculum focused on ethical application, data-driven decision-making, and systematic evaluation. The certificate can be pursued independently or applied toward an M.A. in Exceptional Student Education with an ABA specialization. No GRE is required for admission. The next start date is August 17, and the online format allows working professionals to advance their careers in clinical and educational settings.

• 3 concentration options
• 2-Year program
• Prepares for BCBA, IBA and QBA certification exams
• Next start date: August 17
• Course length: 12-16 weeks
• Faculty active in the field
• Standalone or part of M.A. program
• Streamlined curriculum for exam eligibility

Designed for those seeking Qualified Behavior Analyst (QBA) credentials, the University of West Florida's online Graduate QBA Certificate is accredited by the QABA board and meets its education requirements. This streamlined program consists of 18-22 credit hours, with courses running 12-16 weeks, making it possible to finish in about two years. The curriculum emphasizes ethical application, systematic evaluation, and data-driven decision-making, taught by faculty with real-world field experience. Students may take this certificate standalone or integrate it into a master's degree in Exceptional Student Education with an ABA specialization. No entrance exam such as the GRE is required. With a next start date of August 17, this fully online certificate offers a direct pathway to QBA certification.

• Qualified Applied Behavior Analysis Credentialing Board (QABA) accredited
• 2-Year program
• Prepares for QBA
• Online graduate certificate
• Streamlined curriculum for exam eligibility
• Faculty with field experience
• Can be standalone or part of master's
• Next start date: August 17
• Meets QBA certification requirements
• Course length 12-16 weeks

The University of West Florida's online Graduate IBA Certificate is tailored for those pursuing international behavior analyst certification. As one of three ABA-focused certificates at UWF, this program covers the essential skills of ethical application, data-driven decision-making, and effective communication in behavioral intervention. Students learn from practicing faculty and have access to the Behavior Lab, a leading resource for behavior analysis. The certificate comprises 18-22 credit hours, with courses lasting 12-16 weeks and a typical two-year completion timeline. It can be taken independently or applied to a Master's in Exceptional Student Education with an ABA specialization. No GRE is required for admission. The next start date is August 17, offering flexibility for professionals worldwide.

• 2-Year program
• Prepares for IBA
• Behavior Lab resource available
• Faculty actively working in field
• Streamlined curriculum for exam eligibility
• Standalone or part of master's program
• Online program format
• Next start date: August 17
• Credit hours: 18-22
• Course length: 12-16 weeks

University of Virginia's Main Campus offers an online Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis tailored for educators and school professionals aiming to support students with behavioral challenges. The curriculum emphasizes practical skill-building in behavioral assessment and intervention strategy design, grounded in the science of applied behavior analysis. Coursework follows a sequence approved by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, satisfying the academic eligibility requirement to sit for the BCBA or BCaBA certification exam upon completion. Delivered through UVA Online, this fully online certificate provides flexibility for working teachers, paraeducators, and other school personnel to advance their expertise while balancing professional commitments. Earning this certificate from a prestigious institution like UVA adds a respected credential to a resume while equipping graduates to make a meaningful impact on learners' lives.

• Prepares for BCBA or BCaBA
• Approved by Behavior Analyst Certification Board
• Addresses behavioral needs of students
• Online Education at University of Virginia

Purdue University's online Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate is a 21-credit ABAI-approved sequence for master's degree holders pursuing Board Certified Behavior Analyst credentials. The synchronous, cohort-based program covers advanced behavioral assessment, personalized intervention planning, and ethical practice across schools, clinics, and community settings. Coursework demands about 15 hours weekly; tuition ranges from $10,374 to $14,805 (in-state $494/credit). Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA; no entrance exam is mentioned. Fall start only, with CBA modules embedded.

• 21-credit online graduate certificate
• Master's degree prerequisite
• ABAI approved course sequence
• Cohort learning model
• Synchronous online classes
• In-state tuition $494/credit
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required
• Fall semester admission only
• 15 hours weekly coursework
• CBA modules included

Mississippi State University offers an online Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) designed to lead to Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification. Aligned with the BACB 5th edition task list, the 21-credit, 7-course curriculum covers ABA principles, behavioral assessment, advanced ABA, ethics, single-subject design, and consultation/supervision. Delivered in a cohort format with a dedicated advisor, the program can be completed in two years with a fall start. Fully online, it provides in-state tuition for all students. Career paths include behavior analyst roles in private practices, hospitals, clinics, and schools. Applicants must hold a master's degree in education or psychology and submit a statement of purpose, three recommendation letters, and a resume. No entrance exam is listed.

• Applied Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) accredited
• 2-Year program
• 21 total credit hours
• 7 total courses
• 1 start dates per year
• Starts fall
• Cohort-based structure
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• $60 application fee
• Prepares for Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)

Vanderbilt University’s Peabody College offers an online Post-Master’s Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis designed for those with a master’s degree seeking BCBA certification. Delivered through both synchronous and asynchronous instruction, this 21-credit, 15-month program provides a verified course sequence covering management procedures, experimental analysis, ethics, supervision, and single-case research design. Emphasizing compassionate, client-centered practices, the curriculum draws on evidence-based research from a top-ranked special education department. No entrance exam is required; applicants submit two letters of recommendation and a purpose statement. At $1,000 per credit, tuition is reduced 50% below regular rates, with rolling admissions for fall 2025. Graduates pursue roles as board certified behavior analysts, meeting rising demand (190% job posting growth from 2018-2021).

• $1,000 per credit
• 15-Month program
• 21 total credit hours
• 7 total courses
• Rolling admissions
• Starts fall
• Synchronous and asynchronous options
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Prepares for BCBA
• Employer reimbursement supported

Johns Hopkins University's Post-Master's Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is tailored for educational professionals aiming to master evidence-based behavioral interventions. The seven-course curriculum, delivered via synchronous online sessions, covers ABA science and methodology, focusing on designing and evaluating effective teaching strategies for students with academic and behavioral challenges. Students may pursue optional practicum placements in the Baltimore–Washington D.C. area to fulfill supervised fieldwork for BCBA certification. As Maryland's sole ABA certificate program, Johns Hopkins reports first-time BCBA exam pass rates well above the national average. This flexible, part-time program, completed in 2–3 years, equips graduates for roles as behavior analysts in schools, clinics, or administrative positions.

• 7 total courses
• Apply by 2026-07-15
• Part-time available
• Starts fall
• Synchronous online classes
• Prepares for Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA) Examination
• Only Maryland university offering ABA certificate
• BCBA exam pass rate exceeds national average
• Optional practicum in Baltimore–D.C. area
• Designed for educational professionals

Texas A&M University-College Station offers an online Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) designed for professionals seeking to support individuals with autism, developmental disabilities, and behavioral challenges. This 21-credit program covers single-case design, assessment, ethics, and advanced intervention strategies, with a strong emphasis on educational settings. Approved as a verified course sequence by the Association for Behavior Analysis International, it meets BACB coursework requirements and prepares graduates for the Board-Certified Behavior Analyst exam. The program features both synchronous and asynchronous online instruction, providing flexibility for working professionals such as school-based staff, direct service providers, and job coaches. Applicants must already hold a master's degree; no GRE or other entrance exam is required. Graduates are ready for leadership roles in schools, clinics, and community organizations.

• Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI), Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) accredited
• 21 total credit hours
• Synchronous and asynchronous options
• Prepares for Board-Certified Behavior Analyst
• Focus on autism and developmental disabilities
• Requires prior master's degree
• Emphasizes application in education
• Designed for school-based professionals
• Available via distance education

The University of North Texas offers a fully online Graduate Academic Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis, designed for individuals who hold or are pursuing a master’s degree. This 24-credit, 8-course certificate grounds students in behavioral principles, assessment, and intervention, with specialized emphasis on autism spectrum disorders, culturally responsive ethics, and evidence-based staff training. The curriculum supports compassionate, data-driven practice across schools, clinics, and community settings. Flexible pacing allows one to three courses per semester, with three annual start dates (fall, spring, summer). The program satisfies the coursework requirements for the BACB exam, preparing graduates for BCBA certification. No entrance exam is listed among admission requirements. Total tuition is $11,100, with the next start on August 17, 2026.

• $11,100 total program tuition
• 24 total credit hours
• 8 total courses
• 3 start dates per year
• Starts fall/spring/summer
• Prepares for BACB exam
• All courses completely online
• Flexible pace: 1-3 classes per semester
• Prepares for BCBA certification
• Focus on autism spectrum disorders

UMSL's online Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate equips post-master's professionals for BCBA certification through a 34-credit, Association for Behavior Analysis International-approved curriculum. Coursework delves into behavioral assessment, data analysis, and evidence-based interventions for individuals with autism and other challenges in educational, clinical, and organizational settings. While courses are 100% online, fieldwork experiences are completed in-person, ensuring practical competency. Admission requires a master's degree, 3.0 GPA, and one reference—no GRE or standardized entrance exam is necessary. Graduates are primed for the national BCBA exam and benefit from a booming job market, with roughly 20,000 new behavior analyst roles projected regionally over the next decade. Financial aid and scholarships help make this flexible path accessible.

• ABAI, BACB accredited
• 34 total credit hours
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 1 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Prepares for BCBA
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Fulfills BCBA coursework and fieldwork requirements
• 100% online courses
• Internships completed in-person

Drexel University’s online Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis is tailored for master’s-degree holders aiming to become Board Certified Behavior Analysts. Delivered entirely online, the program blends weekly live video-conferencing with flexible asynchronous coursework, ideal for working professionals. The curriculum, verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International, covers behavioral assessment, intervention strategies, ethics, and organizational behavior management. Students complete 31.5 quarter credits over roughly one to two years, with 10-week terms and both full- and part-time options. Graduates are prepared for the BCBA exam and careers in education, mental health, and behavioral health settings. No fixed class hours or commuting are required.

• Association for Behavior Analysis International accredited
• Complete in approximately 1-2 years
• Full-time and part-time options
• Synchronous and asynchronous options
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Online with no commuting or fixed class hours
• Meets BCBA coursework requirements
• 31.5 quarter credits
• Quarter system: 10-week terms
• Requires master's degree for admission

The University of Central Florida’s online Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis delivers 18 credits of specialized training for professionals in education, psychology, and communication disorders. The curriculum explores ABA concepts, advanced analysis, single-case research, radical behaviorism, supervision, and ethics, meeting BACB coursework requirements for the BCBA exam. While the certificate does not confer certification, it builds the academic foundation needed for the credential. Students gain evidence-based skills for assessing and modifying behavior across school, clinical, and community settings. Housed within the School of Teacher Education, the program starts in summer or fall and requires prerequisites, including a methods of behavioral management course. Graduates are prepared for careers as behavior analysts, special education teachers, and behavioral consultants.

• 18 total credit hours
• Starts summer/fall
• Prerequisite courses required
• Prepares for national board certification exam
• Designed for Education, Psychology, Communication Disorders
• Fulfills BACB coursework requirements
• Housed within Special Education program
• Prerequisite: Methods of Behavioral Management

Florida International University offers a Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis designed for post-graduate professionals seeking BCBA certification coursework. This hybrid program delivers live online classes via Zoom in the evenings, accommodating working students. The 21-credit, 12-month curriculum covers concepts and principles of ABA, behavior assessment, single-case research methods, ethics, and verbal behavior. It is a Verified Course Sequence, yet supervised fieldwork is not included and must be arranged separately. Admission requires a prior graduate degree and a 3.0 GPA. Total tuition is $12,453, with spring-only start and evening sessions after 5 p.m.

• $12,453 total program tuition
• 12-Month program
• 21 total credit hours
• 7 total courses
• Starts spring
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• Meets BCBA coursework requirements
• Online live sessions via Zoom
• 7-course Verified Course Sequence
• Evening classes after 5 p.m.

CUNY Hunter College's hybrid Advanced Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) prepares graduate students for BCBA certification and New York State licensure. The 27-credit curriculum covers behaviorism, single-subject research design, ethics, functional behavior assessment, and autism intervention. A supervised practicum offers hands-on experience, and faculty advisors guide course sequencing. Approved by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board for Task List 5, the program offers two- and five-year tracks, with up to 12 transfer credits accepted. The hybrid format blends online coursework with campus-based sessions for working professionals. Graduates pursue careers in schools, clinics, and community settings.

• 27 total credit hours
• Prepares for BCBA
• Supervised practicum included
• Approved by BACB Task List 5
• Eligible for NYS licensure
• Two-year course sequence available
• Faculty advisor assigned
• Up to 12 transfer credits accepted

The University of Iowa offers a hybrid Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis designed for professionals in education, psychology, and related fields seeking Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) credentials. The curriculum emphasizes person-centered, ethical intervention techniques, intensive instruction, and prosocial skill development, with coursework verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI). Students may pursue clinical field experiences in specialized areas such as biobehavioral clinics, feeding disorders, and habit reversal. Graduates are eligible for national BCBA certification and work in schools, universities, and clinics. The program features small cohorts, dedicated faculty advising, and does not require the GRE. International applicants may need TOEFL scores. The hybrid structure allows online learning alongside in-person clinical training.

• Association of Behavior Analysis International accredited
• Entrance exam required
• Exams: TOEFL
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• $40 application fee
• Prepares for BCBA
• Eligible for BCBA certification
• Person-centered ethical approach
• Clinical practicum opportunities

California State University San Marcos offers an online Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate of Advanced Study designed for BCBA and BCaBA certification seekers. With two tracks—a 21-unit BCBA track for those holding a graduate degree and an 18-unit BCaBA track for bachelor's degree holders—the program is fully BACB-approved and follows the 5th Edition Task List. Students complete sequential 8-week courses in behavior assessment, ethics, research methods, and complex behavior change. Upon completion, graduates are prepared to support individuals with autism and developmental disabilities in schools, clinics, hospitals, and private practice. The 100% online format allows working professionals to balance coursework with career demands.

• 2 concentration options
• 100% online certificate
• BACB-approved curriculum
• Two track options: BCBA and BCaBA
• 8-week intensive courses
• Sequential course progression
• Prepares for national certification
• Serves autism and developmental disabilities
• Graduate degree required for BCBA track

The University of North Florida's Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis offers a 21-credit, 7-course hybrid curriculum for professionals seeking specialized expertise in ABA. Coursework spans ABA concepts, behaviorism, ethics, research methods, and applications in developmental disabilities and autism. Designed for flexibility, the certificate can be pursued independently or alongside a graduate degree, serving both degree-seeking and non-degree students. Emphasis on practical skills and ethical practice prepares graduates for roles in clinical, educational, and community settings, with applications in special education and performance management. The hybrid format blends online learning with on-campus components, providing a supportive pathway for working professionals.

• 21 total credit hours
• 7 total courses
• Can be earned alongside a graduate degree
• Focus on autism and developmental disabilities
• Covers ethics in ABA and special education
• Includes research in special education
• Available as a standalone certificate

The University of Missouri-Columbia delivers a Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis that can be completed entirely online, offering working professionals and graduate students a flexible path to BCBA eligibility. The 24-credit curriculum is an ABAI-verified course sequence, covering foundational concepts, behavioral assessment, intervention strategies, and ethical standards. Students apply principles to improve quality of life for individuals with developmental and behavioral needs, preparing for careers in clinics, schools, and community agencies. Alongside online coursework, the program accepts a limited number of in-person learners. Applicants submit a 500-word statement of purpose and one recommendation letter. This certificate complements existing graduate degrees or serves as a standalone specialization for experienced practitioners seeking advanced ABA training.

• Association for Behavior Analysis International accredited
• 24 total credit hours
• 1 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• ABAI verified course sequence
• Prepares for BCBA exam
• In-person and online options
• Can be completed while pursuing degree
• Complements existing graduate degrees
• Statement of purpose required

Online at Hofstra University, the Advanced Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis offers 18 graduate credits for educators and counselors. Coursework covers classroom management, autism spectrum disorders, ethics, and research methodology, aligning with BCBA requirements. Required classes include Creating Effective Learning Communities, Education of Students With Autism Spectrum Disorders, and Ethical Considerations in Applied Behavior Analysis. Graduates may work as BCBAs, behavioral specialists, or counselors in schools and clinics. Admission requires a master’s degree in special education, psychology, or related field, a 3.0 GPA, two letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and an interview. Most students complete the program in one academic year with faculty advising.

• 1-Year program
• Complete in one academic year
• 18 total credit hours
• 6 total courses
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Prepares for Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
• Fulfills BCBA certification requirement
• Prepares for behavioral disorder counseling
• Master's degree required for admission

Eastern Kentucky University's online Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis is tailored for professionals who already hold a master's or doctoral degree and seek BCBA certification. The 30-credit curriculum covers behavior analysis principles, ethics, research methods, and interventions for problem behaviors, culminating in a capstone and supervised practicum. No GRE or other entrance exam is required; admission requires a 2.8 GPA, prerequisite coursework, and a personal statement. Students gain practical skills for working with autism and developmental disabilities, preparing them for the BCBA certification exam and careers in clinical, educational, or organizational settings. This flexible online format serves working professionals.

• 30 total credit hours
• 2.8 GPA minimum
• Prerequisite courses required
• Capstone required
• Prepares for BCBA Certification Exam
• Online only program
• Requires master's or doctoral degree
• Supervised practicum included
• Capstone course required
• Personal statement required

Southern Connecticut State University’s Post-Master’s Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a hybrid online program for working professionals in education, psychology, social work, and healthcare. The curriculum focuses on behavior assessment, intervention design, and ethical practice, grounded in learning theory and applied research. Students gain skills to support individuals with autism and developmental disabilities across schools, clinics, and community settings. The certificate aligns with national certification standards and can be applied toward advanced graduate study. Career paths include School Behavior Specialist, Autism Program Specialist, and Mental Health Counselor. With behavioral health counseling jobs projected to grow 19% through 2033, this flexible online format offers a practical pathway for career advancement. Entrance exam requirements are not specified.

• Designed for education, psychology, and social work professionals
• Focus on behavior assessment and intervention planning
• Aligned with national certification standards
• Flexible online format for working professionals
• Career: School Behavior Specialist
• Career: Autism Program Specialist
• 19% growth in behavioral health careers
• Can apply toward advanced graduate study

George Mason University's flexible online Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis offers foundational training for professionals working with individuals with autism and behavioral challenges. The program prepares graduates for clinical, educational, and community settings, covering core behavior-analytic concepts and practical applications. As a military-friendly institution, George Mason provides support for service members and families. The certificate is eligible for federal financial aid, making it an accessible advancement option. While no concentration is specified, students gain broad, versatile skills applicable across diverse environments, providing a strong foundation for further professional growth in behavior analysis.

• Federal aid eligible

University of Arizona’s online Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) delivers 21 credits across seven courses, aligning with the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) exam coursework requirements. The curriculum explores behavior principles, positive behavioral support, ethics, personnel supervision, single-subject research design, functional analysis, verbal behavior, and self-management strategies. Offered through the College of Education, this fully online program offers flexibility, allowing completion in as few as six semesters. Designed for professionals with a master’s degree pursuing BCBA certification, it emphasizes evidence-based practices and ethical decision-making. Graduates can support individuals with disabilities in schools, clinics, and community settings. Tuition is $650 per credit, making this certificate an accessible pathway to behavior analyst careers.

• $650 per credit
• Complete in as quickly as 6 semesters
• 21 total credit hours
• 7 total courses
• Meets BCBA exam coursework requirements
• Fully online program
• Offered by College of Education
• Requires master's degree for BCBA exam

The University of Cincinnati's online Graduate Certificate in Behavior Analysis, featuring a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis, prepares professionals to support individuals with behavioral and learning difficulties in schools and clinics. Rooted in Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) ethical guidelines, the curriculum covers behavioral assessment, functional behavior analysis, intervention strategies, data-driven decision-making, and single-case research design. Special emphasis is placed on prevention, early intervention, and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Enrolled students receive personalized support from enrollment advisors and program managers from application through graduation. Importantly, the program does not require the GRE or any other entrance exam, and it is offered entirely online, providing flexibility for working professionals.

• No entrance exam required
• Test optional
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• Grounded in BACB ethical practices
• Covers behavioral assessment and FBA
• Emphasis on prevention and early intervention
• Applies operant and respondent learning
• Prepares for education and clinic careers
• Curriculum includes IDEA and intervention
• Support from enrollment advisor

The University of Oklahoma’s Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate is delivered as a 100% synchronous online program, designed for professionals working with autism and developmental disabilities. This BACB-verified seven-course sequence covers philosophical assumptions, principles, ethics, supervision, behavior change, assessment, and single-case design. Students must earn an A or B in the first two courses to continue; prerequisite coursework includes introductory special education. No standardized entrance exam is listed among admission requirements. The stand-alone certificate prepares graduates for the BCBA exam and careers in schools, clinics, or private practice. Certificate-only students are not eligible for financial aid.

• Synchronous online classes
• Prerequisite courses required
• Prepares for Board Certified Behavior Analyst Examination
• BACB verified course sequence
• Stand alone certification program
• Requires A or B in first two courses
• Prerequisite: introductory special education
• Focus on autism and developmental disabilities

The University of Massachusetts-Lowell delivers this online Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis without requiring GRE scores, making it an accessible pathway for working professionals. Spanning seven courses and 21 credit hours, the program emphasizes behavior principles, ethics, intervention procedures, and real-world application across schools, rehabilitation centers, and human services. Designed for flexibility, it can be completed in as little as 12 months with rolling admissions and three annual start dates. Notably, the certificate stacks into UMass Lowell's MS in ABA and Autism Studies, allowing earned credits to transfer. The program boasts top-third BCBA exam pass rates, affordable per-credit tuition, and recognition for online teaching excellence.

• No entrance exam required
• Test optional
• $610 per credit
• 12-Month program
• 21 total credit hours
• 7 total courses
• Rolling admissions
• 3 start dates per year
• Starts fall/spring/summer
• $50 application fee