Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate Programs
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a great career option for those interested in a niche area that weaves together psychology, behavior, and education. With it, you can work in schools or private organizations, helping children with educational and developmental issues or special behavioral needs. While this certificate is typically geared toward those who wish to work with autistic children and their families, it is not the only population that ABA graduates can help. You may also work with adults in a range of areas.
2026 Best Online Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate Programs
University of West Florida
Pensacola, FL - Public 4-Year - uwf.edu
Graduate Certificate - Applied Behavior Analysis Online Graduate Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of West Florida's online Graduate Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate delivers comprehensive preparation for BCBA, QBA, and IBA certifications through 18-22 credit hours of flexible coursework. This program emphasizes systematic assessment, data-driven decision-making, and ethical practices across clinical, educational, and organizational settings. With tuition ranging from $6,922 to $8,461 and financial aid options, it provides rigorous training in intervention strategies without requiring entrance exams. Faculty actively working in the field and ABAI-verified courses ensure relevance and quality for professionals advancing their careers.
- Online graduate certificate program
- Meets BCBA/QBA/IBA certification requirements
- 18-22 credit hours total
- $384.60 per credit hour
- Coursework verified by ABAI
- Faculty actively work in field
- Non-degree student options available
- Multiple certificate tracks
- Potential career avg $70,875
Graduate Certificate - Graduate QBA Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Focusing on Qualified Behavior Analysis, the University of West Florida's online Graduate QBA Certificate requires 22 credit hours and prepares students for autism intervention and related disabilities. This program builds skills in behavioral assessments and ethical strategies, meeting certification standards with a total cost around $8,461. No entrance exams are needed, and the structured, sequential courses support non-degree seekers. Emphasizing practical application, it leads to roles in clinical and educational environments, with an average salary potential of $70,875, backed by ABAI verification and accessible tuition.
- Online graduate-level certificate
- 22 credit hours total
- Meets QBA certification requirements
- $384.60 per credit hour
- Supports autism intervention specialization
- Non-degree seeking option available
- Courses sequential and structured
- ABAI verified course sequence
Graduate Certificate - Graduate IBA Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of West Florida's online Graduate IBA Certificate offers an 18-credit hour pathway to international behavior analysis certification, covering advanced behavioral assessment and intervention techniques. Designed for flexibility, it allows professionals to balance studies with work commitments and does not require a master's degree or entrance exams. With coursework aligning with BCBA and QBA standards, graduates can pursue diverse careers in clinical, educational, and organizational fields, earning around $70,875 annually. Faculty with active field experience and competitive tuition at $384.60 per credit hour enhance its appeal.
- 18-22 credit hour program
- Online graduate certificate
- Meets international certification requirements
- $384.60 per credit hour
- No master's degree required
- Coursework meets BCBA, QBA standards
- Faculty actively working in field
Touro University
New York, NY - Private 4-year - touro.edu
Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Advanced Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Touro University's online Post-Master's Advanced Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis offers specialized training for professionals aiming to support individuals with autism spectrum disorders. This hybrid program combines flexible online learning with on-campus components, preparing graduates for BCBA and LBA licensure. The curriculum, developed by experienced clinicians, emphasizes practical skills in positive reinforcement techniques across various developmental stages. No entrance exam is required for this advanced certificate program. Key features include a Manhattan campus location and a strong focus on autism intervention strategies.
- Hybrid learning format
- BCBA and LBA licensure eligible
- Specialized autism spectrum focus
- Manhattan campus location
- Experienced clinician faculty
Purdue University
West Lafayette, IN - Public 4-Year - purdue.edu
Graduate Certificate - Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Purdue University's online Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate is a 21-credit program designed for master's degree holders seeking Board Certified Behavior Analyst certification. This ABAI-approved course sequence emphasizes advanced behavioral research and evidence-based intervention techniques, applicable in schools, clinics, and community settings. The program features synchronous online classes within a cohort model, requiring 15 hours of weekly coursework and a minimum 3.0 GPA for fall admission. No entrance exam is required. With in-state tuition at $494 per credit and total costs ranging from $10,374 to $14,805, graduates develop specialized skills in assessment, therapy planning, and ethical practice for impactful behavioral science careers.
- 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
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, VA - Public 4-Year - virginia.edu
Graduate Certificate - Certificate in Applied Behavioral Analysis
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Virginia's online Applied Behavior Analysis certificate program prepares educators to address behavioral needs with compassion through BACB-approved coursework. This fully digital program is designed for bachelor's or master's degree holders seeking BCBA or BCaBA certification, focusing on practical skills like behavioral assessments and treatment planning. No GRE is required for admission, which relies on transcripts, recommendation letters, and a goals statement. With part-time flexibility over 1-7 semesters, it includes ethics and supervision training, making it ideal for professionals advancing their careers in behavioral analysis without on-campus commitments.
- Fully online program.
- Part-time study option.
- 1-7 semesters length.
- No GRE required.
- Approved by BACB.
- Focus on practical skills.
- For bachelor's or master’s holders.
- Prepares for BCBA or BCaBA exams.
- Includes ethics and supervision.
- Flexible admission requirements.
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, MD - Private 4-year - jhu.edu
Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Johns Hopkins University's online Post-Master's Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis delivers advanced training for educators working with special needs students through a hybrid format combining online coursework with optional practicum experiences. This part-time program spans 2-3 years and includes seven synchronous online courses verified by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, focusing on evidence-based behavioral strategies for diverse educational settings. It requires a prior graduate degree for admission but does not mandate an entrance exam. The program emphasizes practical application and cultural competency through Project EnRICH, boasting exceptional BCBA exam pass rates that exceed national averages.
- Part-time, hybrid program format
- 2-3 years completion time
- 21 optional practicum credits
- Seven ABA synchronous online courses
- Maryland's top ABA certificate
- Exceeds national BCBA exam rate
- Project EnRICH cultural training
- Requires prior graduate degree
Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA - Private 4-year - drexel.edu
Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Online Learning - Visit Website
Drexel University's online Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis delivers a flexible, ABAI-verified curriculum tailored for master's degree holders aiming to advance in ABA therapy. This 31.5-credit program emphasizes behavioral processes, ethical standards, and assessment techniques, preparing students for the BACB exam without requiring an entrance exam. Through video-conferencing classes and adaptable full or part-time schedules, it supports diverse career paths like Behavior Analyst or Clinical Director. Admissions involve official transcripts, recommendation letters, and a personal essay, fostering significant contributions to the autism community and beyond through rigorous, accessible online education.
- Online program flexibility
- ABAI-verified coursework
- 31.5 credits required
- Prepares for BACB exam
- Master's degree prerequisite
- Focus on behavioral processes
- Ethical standards covered
- Full or part-time options
- Letters of recommendation needed
- Personal essay requirement
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN - Private 4-year - vanderbilt.edu
Graduate Certificate - Online Post-Master’s Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Online Learning - Visit Website
Vanderbilt University's Online Post-Master's Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis delivers advanced training for professionals with a master's degree in a related field. This fully online program emphasizes practical ABA skills, ethical practices, and research-based intervention strategies to prepare graduates for leadership roles. No entrance exam is required for admission. The flexible format suits working adults, with financial aid available to support students. Graduates enhance career prospects in education, healthcare, and behavioral services through this focused, accessible certificate.
- Online format for flexibility.
- Advanced ABA training.
- Requires related master's degree.
- Focuses on practical ABA skills.
- Financial aid available.
- Prepares for leadership roles.
- Covers ethical ABA practices.
- Enhances career opportunities.
Texas A & M University-College Station
College Station, TX - Public 4-Year - tamu.edu
Graduate Certificate - Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Texas A&M University's online Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate is a 21-credit graduate program tailored for professionals supporting individuals with autism and developmental disabilities. It prepares students for the BCBA exam with an ABAI-verified course sequence, delivered through flexible online asynchronous/synchronous formats. Admission requires a master's degree; no entrance exam is specified. This program is ideal for school professionals and service providers seeking specialized behavioral intervention skills in a fully online environment.
- 21-credit graduate certificate
- Online asynchronous/synchronous delivery
- BCBA exam preparation
- Master's degree required
- Verified course sequence by ABAI
CUNY Hunter College
New York, NY - Public 4-Year - hunter.cuny.edu
Graduate Certificate - Advanced Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Hunter College's Advanced Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis offers a hybrid online format, blending remote coursework with in-person components. This 27-credit program delivers a nationally recognized curriculum approved by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, preparing students for BCBA certification and New York State licensure. It includes supervised practicum experiences to develop advanced skills in behavior intervention strategies across diverse settings. No entrance exam is required for this graduate-level certificate, focusing on practical training for professionals seeking specialized expertise in applied behavior analysis.
- 27 credit advanced certificate program
- BCBA certification preparation
- Supervised practicum experiences
- Nationally recognized curriculum
- Pathway to NY State licensure
Mississippi State University
Mississippi State, MS - Public 4-Year - msstate.edu
Graduate Certificate - Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Mississippi State University's online Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate program prepares master's degree holders for BCBA certification through a 21-credit curriculum focused on behavior principles, social-emotional assessment, and ethical practices. This fully online program requires no entrance exam and features affordable in-state tuition at $558.50 per credit hour. Students complete seven specialized courses aligned with BACB standards, gaining skills applicable in clinical, educational, and healthcare settings within two years.
- Fully online graduate certificate
- 21 credit hours total
- In-state tuition for all
- BACB task list aligned
- Lead to BCBA certification
- Master's degree prerequisite
- 7 specialized courses
- Verified Course Sequence
- Completion within 2 years
University of Missouri-St Louis
Saint Louis, MO - Public 4-Year - umsl.edu
Graduate Certificate - Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Missouri-St Louis delivers an online Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate tailored for professionals seeking to advance in behavioral health careers. This fully digital program emphasizes evidence-based interventions for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders and other behavioral needs, aligning with BCBA certification requirements. The 34-credit curriculum covers practical strategies for educators, counselors, and human services providers, with no entrance exam mandated. Admission requires a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA, a letter of intent, and one reference, offering flexibility for working students through its online format.
- 34-credit-hour program.
- Fully online format.
- Prepares for BCBA certification.
- Focuses on Autism Spectrum Disorders.
- Requires bachelor's degree.
- 3.0 GPA for admission.
- Letter of intent required.
- One reference needed.
- Ideal for educators, counselors.
- Evidence-based practices focus.
Southern Connecticut State University
New Haven, CT - Public 4-Year - southernct.edu
Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Southern Connecticut State University offers a hybrid Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis, blending online coursework with in-person components. This 30-credit program is designed for master's degree holders and emphasizes cohort-based learning. It focuses on developing advanced skills in ethical conduct, organizational behavior management, and intervention techniques. Students gain expertise in single-subject research methods, assessment, and practical application of ABA principles, with fieldwork supervision options available. No entrance exam is required for this graduate-level program, making it accessible for professionals seeking to enhance their special education capabilities through collaborative strategies and individualized instruction.
- 30-credit graduate certificate
- Cohort-based learning model
- Master's degree prerequisite
- Specialized ABA coursework
- Fieldwork supervision options
- Advanced collaborative strategies
- Research methods training
- Ethical professional conduct focus
California State University-San Marcos
San Marcos, CA - Public 4-Year - csusm.edu
Graduate Certificate - Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate of Advanced Study
Online Learning - Visit Website
California State University-San Marcos delivers a fully online Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate of Advanced Study, structured to meet BACB standards for BCBA and BCaBA certification. This program offers two distinct tracks: a 21-unit graduate sequence for BCBA candidates and an 18-unit sequence for BCaBA candidates, requiring a prior graduate or bachelor's degree. Courses are delivered in 8-week online formats with a sequential progression, focusing on behavioral analysis, ethical practices, and intervention strategies for populations such as those with autism and developmental disabilities. No entrance exam is required for this graduate-level certificate program.
- Fully online program
- BACB-approved coursework
- Two certification tracks
- 7 courses for BCBA
- 6 courses for BCaBA
- 21 total units BCBA track
- 18 total units BCaBA track
- 8-week online courses
- Sequential course progression
- Graduate/bachelor's degree required
University of Missouri
Columbia, MO - Public 4-Year - missouri.edu
Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Missouri-Columbia's online Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis delivers comprehensive training in behavioral principles for professionals working with developmental challenges. This 24-credit program features an ABAI-verified course sequence that prepares graduates for BCBA certification. The flexible online format accommodates working professionals and graduate students, combining rigorous academic content with practical application. No entrance exam is required for admission. The program is recognized for its military-friendly policies and campus hospital resources, making it accessible to diverse learners seeking specialized ABA expertise.
- ABAI verified course sequence
- 24 semester credit hours
- Online and in-person options
- Prepares for BCBA exam
- Suitable for students/professionals
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL - Public 4-Year - ucf.edu
Graduate Certificate - Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Central Florida's online Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate delivers 18 credit hours of specialized coursework tailored for Education and Psychology professionals. This program fully satisfies Behavior Analyst Certification Board® requirements, equipping students for National Board Certification. The curriculum emphasizes advanced behavior analysis, ethical practices, and supervision techniques, providing comprehensive training for effective behavioral management. No entrance exam is required for this graduate-level program, which is conducted entirely online to accommodate working professionals seeking to enhance their credentials in applied behavior analysis.
- Online program format
- 18 credit hours required
- Meets BACB® coursework requirements
- Focus on advanced behavior analysis
- Ethics and legal issues covered
- Supervision and personnel management
- Prepares for National Board Certification
- For Education, Psychology students
- No direct certification provided
- Part of Special Education program
University of California-Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, CA - Public 4-Year - ucsb.edu
Graduate Certificate - Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of California-Santa Barbara's online Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate provides graduate degree holders with advanced training in behavioral intervention techniques. This ABAI-verified program meets 5th Edition BACB requirements through seven comprehensive courses covering functional behavior assessments, evidence-based intervention design, and ethical practices. As an entirely online program, it offers flexibility for working professionals while preparing students for board certification. No entrance exam is required for this graduate-level certificate program.
- Graduate degree required
- 7 total required courses
- ABAI verified course sequence
- Online program format
- Meets 5th Edition BACB requirements
University of North Texas
Denton, TX - Public 4-Year - unt.edu
Graduate Certificate - Graduate Academic Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of North Texas offers a fully online Graduate Academic Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis, requiring 24 credit hours with courses available every semester for flexible scheduling. This program prepares students for Behavior Analysis Certification Board standards, emphasizing evidence-based interventions and ethical practices with specialized training for Autism Spectrum Disorders. No entrance exam is required for admission, though applicants must hold a master's degree. Texas residents pay approximately $11.1K in tuition, focusing on compassionate and culturally responsive behavior analysis practice.
- 24 credit hours
- Fully online program
- Courses offered every semester
- Flexible study schedule
- Focus on Autism Spectrum Disorders
- Meets BACB coursework standards
- Ethical and cultural responsiveness training
- Evidence-based intervention strategies
- Requires master's degree for admission
- Texas resident tuition ~$11.1K
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ - Public 4-Year - arizona.edu
Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Arizona's fully online Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis prepares master's degree holders for BCBA certification through a 21-credit, seven-course sequence. This program covers behavior principles, ethical standards, and personnel supervision while emphasizing practical skills development. At $650 per credit with financial aid options, it meets all BCBA exam coursework requirements without requiring an entrance exam. Designed for behavioral health professionals, the curriculum focuses on real-world application and ethical practice in diverse settings.
- 21 credits required
- $650 per credit
- Fully online program
- Meets BCBA exam requirements
- Seven-course sequence
- Focus on ethical standards
- Practical skills emphasized
- For master's degree holders
- Prepares for professional practice
- Financial aid available
University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus
Norman, OK - Public 4-Year - ou.edu
Graduate Certificate - Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus offers an online Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate that prepares students for Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification. This 100% synchronous distance learning program features a BACB-verified course sequence of seven classes covering ABA principles, ethics, and applications, with a focus on autism and developmental disabilities. Admission requires earning an A or B in the first two ABA courses. No entrance exam is required for this graduate-level certificate. Designed for working professionals, the program provides flexibility but does not offer financial aid for certificate-only students.
- Online program format.
- Verified course sequence by BACB.
- Seven-course ABA sequence.
- 100% synchronous distance learning.
- Admission requires A or B in first two courses.
- No financial aid for certificate-only students.
- Prepares for BCBA examination.
- Focus on autism and developmental disabilities.
- Includes ethics and principles of ABA.
- Flexible for working professionals.
University of North Florida
Jacksonville, FL - Public 4-Year - unf.edu
Graduate Certificate - Applied Behavior Analysis
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of North Florida's hybrid Applied Behavior Analysis graduate certificate program provides specialized training in developmental disabilities and autism through a 21-credit curriculum. This program combines online coursework with practical application, covering essential ABA concepts, principles, and ethical practices. Designed for both degree-seeking and non-degree students, it offers flexibility while preparing graduates for careers in special education and behavioral health. No entrance exam is required for admission, which only necessitates a bachelor's degree. The program's focus on making meaningful impacts in developmental disability care makes it ideal for professionals seeking advanced behavioral intervention skills.
- 21-credit program
- Focus on developmental disabilities
- Hybrid program type
- Covers ethics in ABA
- Flexible for all students
Florida International University
Miami, FL - Public 4-Year - fiu.edu
Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida International University's Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis is a 12-month hybrid program that combines online coursework with campus learning to prepare students for Board Certified Behavior Analyst certification. This program requires applicants to have a graduate degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA in their last two years of undergraduate work. The curriculum includes seven courses covering essential ABA concepts, ethical codes, and behavior technologies, with a total cost of $12,453 for 21 credits. No entrance exam is required for admission. The program focuses on supervised fieldwork preparation and examination readiness, with spring admission only.
- 12-month program
- Hybrid learning format
- Seven courses
- $12,453 total cost
- Requires graduate degree
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Spring admission only
- Board Certified preparation
- Ethical codes covered
- Behavior technologies included
University of Kentucky
Lexington, KY - Public 4-Year - uky.edu
Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Kentucky's online Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis provides a focused pathway for professionals seeking BCBA certification. This 21-credit program emphasizes evidence-based techniques for supporting neurodivergent individuals and those with learning disabilities. Students explore human behavior principles, social skill development, and intervention strategies through flexible online coursework. The program requires a bachelor's degree with a 2.75 GPA but no master's degree or entrance exam. Designed for psychology and education professionals, it enhances career opportunities in clinical and educational settings at $753 per credit.
- Fully online graduate certificate
- 21 total credits required
- Cost per credit: $753
- Bachelor's degree prerequisite
- No master's degree required
- GPA requirement: 2.75 undergrad
- Prepare for BCBA certification
- Designed for education/psychology professionals
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA - Public 4-Year - gmu.edu
Graduate Certificate - Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
George Mason University's online Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate is a 21-credit, BACB-verified program that prepares students for the BCBA exam without requiring field experience. Designed for working professionals, it offers flexible, asynchronous coursework at $805 per credit, with financial aid available. Admission requires a bachelor's degree and a recommended 3.0 GPA, and no entrance exam is needed. This program focuses on enhancing behavioral interventions across various settings, making it ideal for busy schedules.
- 21-credit program.
- 100% online.
- BACB verified.
- No field experience required.
- Flexible, asynchronous coursework.
- $805 per credit tuition.
- Financial aid available.
- Bachelor's degree required.
- 3.0 GPA recommended.
- Prepares for BCBA exam.
University of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, OH - Public 4-Year - uc.edu
Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Behavior Analysis
Online Learning - Visit Website
University of Cincinnati's online Graduate Certificate in Behavior Analysis equips students with the ABAI-verified coursework essential for BCBA certification. This program emphasizes practical applications of behavior principles to support individuals with autism and learning disabilities. Delivered entirely online, it offers flexible scheduling to accommodate working professionals. No entrance exam is required for admission. Graduates gain the skills needed to excel in educational and clinical roles, with financial aid options enhancing accessibility for diverse learners.
- Online program
- ABAI verified course sequence
- Prepares for BCBA exam
- Flexible scheduling
- Financial aid available
- Focus on autism and learning disabilities
- Supportive learning environment
- Enhances career opportunities
Eastern Kentucky University
Richmond, KY - Public 4-Year - eku.edu
Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Psychology — Applied Behavior Analysis
Online Learning - Visit Website
Eastern Kentucky University's online Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis prepares professionals for BCBA certification through 30 credit hours of specialized coursework. This program focuses on developing advanced skills in behavior analysis, including research methods, ethics, and intervention strategies. Designed for individuals with master's or doctoral degrees, it requires a minimum 2.75 graduate GPA, research and statistics coursework, and a comprehensive personal statement. No entrance exam is required for admission. The program includes a practicum component and fully prepares students for the BCBA Certification Exam through its online delivery format.
- Online Graduate Certificate Program
- 30 Total Credit Hours
- BCBA Exam Preparation
- Master's/Doctoral Prerequisite
- Minimum 2.75 Graduate GPA
- Research and Statistics Required
- Comprehensive Practicum Component
2026 Affordable Online ABA Graduate Certificate Programs
| University of West Florida |
|
|
| Florida International University |
|
|
| University of North Texas |
|
|
| Mississippi State University |
|
|
| Purdue University |
|
|
| University of Wisconsin-Whitewater |
|
|
| University of Arizona |
|
|
| University of Massachusetts-Lowell |
|
|
| University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus |
|
|
| University of Arkansas |
|
|
To work in this field, you’ll need an Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate if you’ve already completed a master’s degree in a relevant subject, such as education or psychology.
What Are the Online Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate Requirements?
Schools that offer online Applied Behavior Analysis graduate certificate programs will have prerequisites that you must fulfill before admission is granted. Some vary, but you will usually find the following minimum requirements:
- A bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline, such as special education or psychology, from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0
- A master's degree in a relevant subject (minimum GPA may also be required)
- Submit transcripts proving the above
- International students from non-English speaking countries must submit IELTS, PTEA, or TOEFL scores. Alternatively, some accept evidence of ELS 112
- Letters of recommendation
- The application fee is usually required (varies by school)
- Resume and personal statement
What Types of Classes Are Included in the Online Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate Curriculum?
A typical online ABA Graduate Certificate program will typically cover topics such as these from Arizona State University’s Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate:
- Introduction to Applied Behavior Analysis
- Principles and Applications of Applied Behavior Analysis
- Philosophy of Applied Behavior Analysis in Education
- Ethics of Applied Behavior Analysis
- Advanced Applied Behavior Analysis
- Data Analytics and Interpretation
- Experiment and Project Design
- Professional Issues of Applied Behavior Analysis
- Research Methods for Applied Behavior Analysis
- People Management and Human Resources
- Behavior Change Implementation & Analysis
- Organizational Behavior Management for Education
- An individual research project, such as a dissertation
What Type of Careers Can I Pursue with an Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate?
Here are some of the exciting career options you can expect to be open to you when you finish your graduate certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (please note that some niche career pathways may require additional training and/or certification):
- Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA): This is the most common job role for individuals who graduate with a degree or certificate in ABA, enabling careers working with autistic individuals, businesses, schools, and other organizations. BCBAs must also fulfill supervised practice hours and pass the BCBA examination once they complete their certificate program.
- Special Education Teacher: Ideally suited to teachers wishing to specialize in helping autistic children, in specialty units, or as private tutors. Such graduate certificates are also beneficial in working with children who have behavioral issues.
- Registered Behavioral Technician (RBT): This is a private therapist who provides behavior analytic services as a form of treatment. You will need to earn a professional certification requiring 40 hours of approved training. Many students become RBTs and then progress to the BCBA.
- Counselor: Although you might not be required to hold ABA certification, it will undoubtedly put you in a good position to work in many areas of counseling. Addiction therapy, marriage and family counseling, and psychotherapy are all good career choices, but may require additional specialized certifications.
List of Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate Programs
Interested in an applied behavior analysis graduate certificate program? Check out our listings below to find a traditional, online, or hybrid program near you.Do we need to add to or update any of the information listed? Please contact us so we can keep our site updated.