The role of a board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA) is best suited for those with a passion for psychology and working to support mental health. Applied behavior analysts study mental disorders and identify patient symptoms.
This career path requires hands-on treatment of individuals with a range of ailments, from autism spectrum disorders to behavioral changes.
In order to become a board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA), students must obtain their master’s degree and complete a certificate program for their state. In this article, we’ll discuss the cheapest BCBA online degree programs.
Featured Online Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Degree Programs
1. Florida Tech
Florida Tech offers one of the country’s best graduate-level BCBA programs. The school offers courses including assessment, intervention, ethics and behavior analysis, and advanced personnel supervision.
All courses are approved by the the Association of Behavioral Analysis International (ABAI). While Florida Tech consists of online courses, their live classes, make it easy to connect one-on-one with professors.
2. University of Cincinnati
The University of Cincinnati offers a Master of Education in the foundation of behavior analysis. This program lays the groundwork at the graduate school level for behavioral analysis. The cost of tuition is lower than the average at the University of Cincinnati and Ohio residents are offered an in-state discount.
3. Central Methodist University
Central Methodist University has a top-tier applied behavior analysis program offered on campus. While online courses may be limited, students will complete coursework requirements that prepare them completely for the field of identifying behavior change.
4. University of Massachusetts Global
The University of Massachusetts global campus offers a certificate of applied behavior analysis. ABA certificates focus on evidence-based practice and diagnosis. This is a great option for students who want to further develop their skills before beginning professionally in behavioral analysis or moving into a doctoral program.
5. Western Connecticut State University
Western Connecticut State University offers a Master of Science in applied behavior analysis that is an ABAI-verified course sequence for this professional track. While many of the BCBA courses are offered online, the college requires students to complete at least 1,500 hours of fieldwork before graduation.
6. Troy University
Troy University offers a bachelor’s degree in psychology with an emphasis on ABA studies. Though Troy offers online ABA programs to its students, they will still have to complete necessary fieldwork at an offsite location and report their hours to the school. The cost of tuition at Troy University is relatively low, considering the positive reputation it has within the BCBA community, making it an appealing option for out-of-state students.
7. Ball State University
Ball State University is popular among residents of Indiana and offers the specific credentials necessary to pass the board exam. The graduate degree consists of courses that last between eight and 16 weeks, making it easy to complete in smaller chunks of time. In this BCBA graduate program, students will learn about developmental disabilities and complete additional requirements before their exam.
8. Arizona State University
Students can complete the ABA certificate at Arizona State University (ASU) in as little as 18 months. Arizona State University is known as a pioneer in remote learning and offers a number of asynchronous online master’s programs. This certificate is ideal for online students who want to complete their final certificate on a part-time schedule before their exams.
9. Simmons University
Located in Boston, Massachusetts, Simmons University is one of the best-known programs in the field of behavioral analysis. Online rankings state that Simmons University prepares its students for the BACB exam in a timely and concise manner. The master of science and behavioral studies has an appealing financial aid package and a high pass rate for students.
10. University of Washington
The applied behavioral analysis program offered through the University of Washington received an ABAI approval that ensures students are qualified to take the board exam after completion. Students learn about ABA assessments and methods and can complete 33 credits out of the majority of their courses alone.
FAQs About Becoming a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst Online
While researching your career path toward becoming a board-certified behavior analyst, you may have some questions about this type of profession.
Continue reading for more information on the degree program, certificate program, and licensure required for this field.
Can You Become a BCBA Online?
Yes, it’s possible to find online programs related to BCBA and affordable bachelor’s and master’s ABA degrees. However, professionals preparing to take the BCBA exam may need to complete supervised practicum hours while working at an in-person facility.
How Can I Become a BCBA Fast?
Becoming a BCBA will likely require you to obtain a Master of Science and a post-graduate certificate before beginning to work full time. While it isn’t possible to bypass these requirements, students can shorten the time it takes to obtain their degree.
Students can enroll in online programs or take summer courses to graduate early.
What Is the Best Bachelor’s Degree for a BCBA?
Typically, students who start in the BCBA profession earn traditional or online undergraduate degrees in:
- psychology
- special education,
- behavior therapy
- behavioral science
After graduating with a related degree students will be required to take an exam through the behavior analyst certification board. This final step allows students to get the necessary field experience before starting full time.
Can You Become a BCBA without an ABA Degree?
Students may start working as a BCBA with a degree in a related field, such as psychology. If students wish to gain more information about the field of behavioral science, they can check out the resources available through the Association of Behavioral Analysis International (ABAI). The ABAI is a non-profit society that teaches professionals in the field and keeps their relevant skills sharp.
Is a Master’s Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis Worth It?
Yes, a master’s degree in applied behavior analysis is worth it for professionals who have a passion for understanding behavioral challenges and improving the quality of life in those with autism.
For those who would prefer a less hands-on roll, students can choose an assistant behavior analyst position.
What Is a BCBA Certificate Program?
A BCBA certification is the final step students must complete before they can begin working full time as a behavioral analyst. This certificate is offered through the behavior analyst certification board and can be completed online and in person. After submitting the application fee, students can choose their test date, and supply the necessary information to the board, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and completed fieldwork and credit hours. Once their eligibility is verified, the student can complete the exam and become a behavioral analyst.