Arcadia University Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate
Autism Education Certificate
Capella University Play Therapy Certificate
Addiction Counseling MS
Child & Adolescent Development MS
Clinical Psychology MS
Counseling Psychology MS
School Psychology MS
Studies in Human Behavior MS
An Applied Behavior Analyst is a professional who has in-depth knowledge of the field and methods of the study of the science of behavior. They help people learn new behaviors, increase or reduce existing behaviors, and teach individuals when to use specific behaviors in specific instances. Although Behavior Analysts have become synonymous with Autism Specialist/Therapists, Applied Behavior Analysts can help modify behaviors in healthcare, substance abuse, industry, psychology and much more.
Note on National and State Certifications:
BACB accredited programs prepare professionals for the nationally and internationally recognized BCBA or BCaBA certifications. Every State recognizes these certifications for ABA professionals.
Featured Applied Behavior Analyst Online Schools
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
The nation's oldest and largest graduate school focused exclusively on psychology and related behavioral sciences.
Named to the President's Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll in 2009 (for the third consecutive year) and the only school of professional psychology to receive this award with distinction.
BACB Approved
Behavior Analysis Graduate Coursework
Includes Supervised Field Experience Options
Complete in Under a Year as a P/T Student*
Ideal For Autism, Behavior, & Education Professionals
This BACB approved program is designed for experienced behavior professionals who want to advance their careers and pursue BCBA certification and educators wishing to improve instruction and behavior management in their classrooms.
BACB approved sequence of coursework for BCBA certification eligibility
Includes optional supervised practicum
For behavior analysis and related professionals who want to update their licensure and/or develop mastery of behavior analytic theories and procedures
For educators who want to improve instruction and behavior management in the classroom, especially special education and early childhood education professionals
Can complete in one year as a part-time student*
Applicants must hold a Master's degree from an accredited institution, that was conferred in behavior analysis or other natural science, education, human services, engineering, medicine, or related behavior analysis field approved by the BCBA
* Completion time is dependent on availability of field supervision. Students are not required to complete supervised field work with CSPP although the BACB requires supervised field work to be completed prior to sitting for the certification exam. CSPP offers options for for supervised fieldwork.
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology also offers:
The BACB approved program will focus on the processes that underlie the individual human experience and behavior, as well as core knowledge, theories, and research in the field. Students of the Applied Behavioral Analysis specialization will focus on the developmentally disabled, the autistic, and individuals with traumatic brain injuries. Students will utilize behavioral concepts and theories, and develop assessment and intervention skills.
This program is approved by BACB and fulfills BACB's graduate level degree and coursework requirements for BCBA candidates. Graduates of this program do not have to complete additional graduate level coursework to be eligible for BCBA certification.
The BACB approved Applied Behavioral Analysis specialization will explore behavioral development from birth to adolescence. Students will extensively examine design, analysis, and application of learning theories and behavioral principles to understand what motivates human behavior. They will learn the skills required for a myriad of jobs, including working with autistic children and adults with special needs and assisting certified behavioral analysts who conduct research or create behavior modification programs.
The BS in Psychology program offers an Advanced Start option. If you earned an associate's or bachelor's degree from a regionally or nationally accredited college, and you are interested in a career that focuses on human behavior and development, the Advanced Start Bachelor of Science in Psychology is for you. The degree is also designed to prepare you to pursue graduate studies in psychology. Full-time students can complete this program in as little as 2 years.
Arcadia is a top-ranked private university offering bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees. More than 4,000 students choose from among 80 fields of study. U.S. News & World Report ranks Arcadia University among the top tier of regional universities in the North.
BACB Approved
Behavior Analysis Graduate Coursework*
Supervised Field Experience Option Available
BCBA and BCaBA Candidates
Ideal For Autism, Behavior, & Education Professionals
The BACB approved Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis is a 15-credit program that includes courses in behavior principles, data analysis, applications with children and youth with behavior problems and consultation skills necessary to work with other professionals and important adults in schools, homes and communities. This program is available to applicants with atleast a Bachelor's degree.
For BCBA candidates who don't yet hold a Master's degree, the 18 credits earned in the ABA certificate program may be applied to a Master of Education degree program with departmental approval and advising or to the ABA concentration in the Counseling Psychology master’s program, with adviser approval. Both degrees are listed as BACB approved relevant degrees.
* Note: Graduates who have completed this full sequence can apply the credits toward either BCaBA or BCBA certification eligibility. BACB requires BCBA candidates to hold a Master's degree and BCaBA candidates to hold a Bachelor's degree in a related field. The credits from this graduate certificate can apply toward a Master's degree in Applied Behavior Analysis.
Just 4 Courses
Ideal for Educators and Professionals Working with ASD
PDE Approved for PA Educators Pursuing Autism Endorsement /
PA Behavior Specialist Licensure
The PDE approved Graduate Certificate in Autism is designed to develop and enhance effective educational practices to support K-12 educators, school districts, and community-based organizations in using best practices in working with individuals who have been identified as having Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Students will learn the characteristics of ASD, teaching methods when working with students with ASD, applied behavior analysis, and more. All courses include a 20-hour practicum. The12 credits earned in this certificate program may be applied to a Master of Education degree program with departmental approval and advising.
This program offers the coursework and practicum required by the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) for certified professionals to work effectively with children and youth diagnosed with an ASD. In addition, students who complete the Autism Endorsement Certificate will be able to document the required coursework hours toward the PA Behavior Specialist License.
Saint Joseph's University Online
The "America's Best Colleges" 2012 edition of U.S. News & World Report has ranked Saint Joseph's University among the top 15 master's universities in the north and #8 in top regional universities in the north.
Designed for Professionals
In Justice System, Community Services, & Education
Coursework in Behavior Analysis is offered as a concentration in the M.S. in Criminal Justice or as a Post Master's. The application of behavior analysis is very broad, serving those who provide a variety of behavior management services, including individuals trained as behavior specialists, mobile therapists, educational consultants, speech-language pathologists, school counselors, social workers, criminal justice professionals, and human services professionals. Behavior Analysis is recognized as a "best practice" in the field of autism, behavioral health, addiction, and corrections. Throughout this program students will develop the skills to transfer basic principles of behavior analysis into effective comprehensive functional behavioral assessments, behavioral interventions, and program evaluation. This program allows students the flexibility to concentrate on the theoretical and methodological knowledge needed to focus on the management skills necessary to succeed as upper-level decision makers.
Focus on Autism Spectrum Disorders
BACB Approved Supervised Practicum Available
Featuring a real-world education with classes in leadership, negotiation and more, the core PLS program will help prepare you to put your new college degree to work quickly and effectively.
The autism studies concentration consists of six courses that focus on an introductory knowledge of autism and the practical application skills necessary to properly care for and support children and adults who have been diagnosed. Becoming a BCaBA requires an undergraduate degree, approved courses related to behavior analysis, less than a year of supervised practice, and passing an international exam.
Just 15 Credits
Understand ASD and Learn Strategies to Improve Success
This online certificate program is appropriate for parents, administrators, specialists, psychologists, social workers, early intervention professionals, special educators, and general educators. Focus on strategies to improve success with students with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), derived from current research in the field.
The program, implemented entirely online, is appropriate for parents, administrators, specialists, psychologists, social workers, early intervention professionals, special educators, and general educators. The program will focus on strategies to improve success in a range of settings, including educational, home, and community. Participants will complete short field assignments in conjunction with coursework.
This certificate program may be used as a specialization to fulfill some of the coursework requirements of the M.Ed. Individually Designed Program for Educators.
CTC Approved for California Educators
Pursuing ASD Added Authorization
Ideal for Educators, Behavior Professionals and Parents
Option 1: CA Autism Added Authorization
Option 2: Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders
Option 3: Individual Courses
The 4 course, 12 unit ASD program is designed for special educators, general education teachers, paraprofessionals, and school administrators. The courses may also be valuable for teachers without the credentials required for the authorization and others who work with children on the autism spectrum. It is also designed for social workers, psychologists, parents, and others working with or interested in children and young adults with autism spectrum disorders. This group is welcome to take these courses individually or to successfully complete the entire program and receive a certificate of completion representing professional development.
Brandman's ASD Added Authorization program is approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. Candidates who successfully complete the requirements will have earned the authorization to serve students with ASD.
Although individual courses will cover topic separately, the program as a whole covers the following topics:
Characteristics and causes of autism
Cognitive and neurobiological challenges for the autistic individual and how to assess and plan for service delivery
Behavioral, developmental, and blended approaches in understanding and modifying the behaviors of autistic students
Evaluation of learning needs for the student with autism spectrum disorder, with an emphasis on resources and best practices for addressing academic issues at all functional levels
This program is very flexible and offers everyone an opportunity to learn more about ASD.
CA Autism Added Authorization: California educators can earn their Autism Added Authorization
ASD Certificate: A Certificate of Completion will be awarded to students who do not need to obtain the added authorization but who wish to better understand students with autism and learn effective teaching strategies. Admission is not required for those completing the certificate.
Individual Courses: Students who wish to learn just specific ASD topics, can choose which courses to take individually.
The Master of Science in Special Education program equips teaching professionals with the fundamental skills, knowledge and competencies needed to meet the needs of students with disabilities in multiple settings. The program is a flexible and convenient part-time graduate program that gives current teachers a comprehensive understanding of developing the potential of students with disabilities.
The Autism concentration is designed for those who seek additional expertise in this critical need area. It will provide knowledge and skills for working with both students with Autism and Asperger's Syndrome as well as effective teaching methods, interventions, and supports. The concentration’s curriculum provides knowledge and skills for working with these students.
In the Autism concentration, students will learn about:
Characteristics of autism and current theories to best serve needs of students with Autism
High-functioning Autism and Asperger's Syndrome
Communication and language skills, deficits, needs, and interventions for students with ASD
Providing behavior and sensory support for students with ASD
Ideal candidates for this program are not limited to teachers. Drexel welcomes all applicants interested in obtaining a Master of Science in Special Education, whether you are a teacher in pursuit of special education certification, a special education practitioner interested in enhancing your expertise in a specific area of practice, a special education advocate looking to advance your knowledge and understanding of the field or parent of a child with a disability looking to gain more knowledge to support your child.
Western Governors University
WGU is the only exclusively online university to receive NCATE accreditation for its online teaching degree programs. Chosen as an NEA Academy Partner for it's quality and value. Top quality education that is among the lowest in cost online.
NCATE Accredited
For Mild/Moderate Disabilities
Leads to Teacher Licensure
The B.A. in Special Education (PK-12) teaches the content knowledge and effective teaching skills to become a special education instructor for students with mild to moderate disabilities. This degree is a cross-categorical model for initial certification. You'll become a highly qualified educator prepared to make a difference with those who need it most. In some states, the program will lead to dual licensure in Elementary Education and Special Education.
NCATE Accredited
For Mild/Moderate Disabilities
Benefit from NEA Academy Partnership
The M.S. in Special Education (PK-12) will enhance your teaching talents and enable you to teach students with mild to moderate cross-categorical disabilities. You will become an endorsed special education teacher with the instructional design skills to make a difference.
Walden University
Chosen as an NEA Academy Partner for it's quality and value. Walden University offers the No. 1 Largest Online Graduate Program in Education By Enrollment (U.S. News & World Report). WU's School of Education is currently a candidate for accreditation by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE).
Nation's Largest Graduate Program in Education
Benefit from NEA Academy Partnership
If you are an experienced special educator with the desire to enhance your skills by incorporating the latest developments in the field into your program, this specialization offers a path to continuing professional achievement. Walden's M.S. in Education with a Special Education specialization synthesizes the most current research in the arenas of neuroscience, assessment, and scientifically based interventions so that you can determine best practices for student learning. (This program does not lead to teacher licensure.)
The program emphasizes the following strategies:
Design and implement curricula to facilitate standards-based learning of individuals with disabilities.
Assemble and evaluate data about individuals with disabilities in order to make effective decisions related to special education programs.
Employ assistive technology to promote higher levels of student engagement and learning.
Establish and foster a culturally responsive classroom that supports learning at all levels.
University of Phoenix is proud to be a candidate for accreditation by NCATE. UoP offers an extensive selection of 100% online CEUs for educators pursuing certifications and professional development.
This graduate level course provides foundational information about Autism Spectrum Disorders. Participants identify general characteristics associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder including learning preferences, behaviors, and patterns. Participants also learn interventions, accommodations, and supports, with emphasis on recent technology. This course is completed in just 6 weeks.
This graduate level course explores the causation, characteristics, and diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Participants learn how to collect data in a classroom for diagnosis referral. Participants also learn how assessment tools relate to Individualized Education Programs and program development for students with Autism Spectrum Disorders. This course is completed in just 6 weeks.
This graduate level course explores the causation, characteristics, and diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Participants learn how to collect data in a classroom for diagnosis referral. Participants also learn how assessment tools relate to Individualized Education Programs and program development for students with Autism Spectrum Disorders. This course is completed in just 6 weeks.
This graduate level course explores the causation, characteristics, and diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Participants learn how to collect data in a classroom for diagnosis referral. Participants also learn how assessment tools relate to Individualized Education Programs and program development for students with Autism Spectrum Disorders. This course is completed in just 6 weeks.
Applicants for the above courses must be licensed educators pursuing CEU credits or professional development.
Applied Behavior Analyst
Applied Behavior Analyst
Applied Behavior Analyst Overview
An Applied Behavior Analyst is a professional who has in-depth knowledge of the field and methods of the study of the science of behavior. They help people learn new behaviors, increase or reduce existing behaviors, and teach individuals when to use specific behaviors in specific instances. The scope of these services is broad, from addressing challenging behaviors of an individual person to changing the behavior of an entire organization or community.
Behavior analysts provide services to individuals, families, group homes, schools, mental health agencies, hospitals, industrial and business settings, and other agencies working with individuals who require intensive behavioral training and / or consultation. Training and consultation are performed in the areas of educational and adaptive living strategies, challenging behaviors, and staff management. Special populations such as individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities have been shown to benefit greatly from ABA services. In fact, over the past 60 years, applied behavior analysis has become recognized as the treatment of choice for behavior problems associated with mental retardation, autism spectrum disorders, brain injury, and other disorders. ABA is also frequently used in the field of education from typical students to students with disabilities.
Applied Behavior Analyst Education and Skills
Postsecondary education (Master's or PhD) and training are required to become a Behavior Analyst. Degrees should be in applied behavior analysis, or related fields such as psychology, special education, rehabilitation, social work, or human services. A behavior analyst must be comfortable with people who have behavior disorders. The following skills are also very important: good observation, detail-oriented, excellent communication skills, analytical skills, math, compassion, and patience.
Individuals who are not interested in pursuing graduate work, can become Associates or Assistants. They typically work under the supervision of a Behavior Analyst. To be an assistant requires a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field as well as supervised fieldwork experience. An assistant must also be comfortable around people with behavior disorders and should possess the same skills as the behavior analyst.
Applied Behavior Analyst Certification
Most states require behavior analysts to be board certified. The Behavior Analysis Certification Board (BACB) offers two internationally recognized certifications: the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and the Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA). Requirements for BCBA certification include a Master's degree in Applied Behavior Analysis or a relevant field, approved ABA coursework, supervised fieldwork, and passing the examination. Requirements for BCaBA certification include a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, approved ABA coursework, supervised fieldwork, and passing the examination.
Applied Behavior Analyst Career Outlook
Jobs are abundant at this time and demand far outstrips the supply of trained and certified behavior analysts due to the broad range of applications. The demand for BCBAs specializing in Autism is particularly high and continues to grow, as diagnoses of ASD have increased significantly in recent years and there is still a lack of trained ASD-specific professionals. In early 2012, the Centers for Disease Control reported that 1 in 88 children are diagnosed with Autism, a 23% increase from 1 in 110 just 2 years prior. According to the Florida Association of Behavior Analysts, there are 4 job openings for every BCBA.
Applied Behavior Analyst Salary
According to Payscale.com, an Applied Behavior Analyst holding a BCBA credential has a median salary of $57,777. The salary for most master's level graduates who possess a BCBA certification ranges from $40,000 to $60,000. However, salaries can differ greatly based on numerous factors. According to Payscale.com, the median hourly rate for a BCaBA certified Applied Behavior Analyst is $25.47/hour.
Note on National and State Certifications:
BACB accredited programs prepare professionals for the nationally and internationally recognized BCBA or BCaBA certifications. Every State recognizes these certifications for ABA professionals.
Since its first studies in 2000, the CDC has seen a steady and strong rise in the prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). In 2012, the CDC reported that (based on 2008 findings) 1 in 88 children have been diagnosed with Autism. That is a 23% increase from the previous 2006 data.
In the same report, the CDC noted that:
ASDs are reported to occur in all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups.
ASDs are almost 5 times more common among boys (1 in 54) than among girls (1 in 252).
About 1 in 6 children in the U.S. had a developmental disability in 2006-2008, ranging from mild disabilities such as speech and language impairments to serious developmental disabilities, such as intellectual disabilities, cerebral palsy, and autism.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
Post-Graduate Program for
Behavior & Education Professionals
Online BCBA
Post-Graduate Certificate
Ideal for Autism, Behavior, and Education Professionals
Applied Behavior Analysis
A Growing Treatment of Choice
Over the past 60 years, applied behavior analysis has become recognized as the treatment of choice for behavior problems associated with mental retardation, autism spectrum disorders, brain injury, and other disorders. Many people also recognize that applied behavior analysis is capable of producing remarkable results in classroom learning. Behavior Analysis is also recognized as "best practices" in the field of autism, behavioral health, addiction, and corrections.
Autism Specialization
Special Education Master's Degree
BACB Accepted
Degrees & Coursework
for BCBA and BCaBA Candidates
Aside from Applied Behavior Analysis degree holders, candidates with other degrees are also eligible for certification.
Effective January 2011, the following degrees were deemed acceptable by the BACB for BCBA and BCaBA candidates who wish to pursue certification.
Education
Clinical, counseling, or school psychology
Clinical social work
Occupational therapy
Speech/language therapy
Engineering
Medicine
Candidates with degrees in other fields must contact BACB to request consideration for eligibility.
BCBA Candidates: If you hold a BACB approved master's degree in applied behavior analysis, your degree fulfills the coursework requirement toward BCBA certification eligibility. However, if you hold a master's degree in a BACB approved related field, you will need to complete BACB approved graduate level ABA coursework.
BCaBA Candidates: If you hold a BACB approved bachelor's degree in applied behavior analysis, your degree fulfills the coursework requirement toward BCaBA certification eligibility. However, you intend to advance to BCBA certification, you must earn (1) a BACB approved ABA master's degree or (2) a degree in an approved related field plus BACB approved graduate level ABA coursework.
Global Health
Graduate Certificate
CEPH Accredited
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
Most states require behavior analysts to be board certified. The Behavior Analysis Certification Board (BACB) offers two internationally recognized certifications: the 
Video: Webinar on Applied Behavior Analysis
Arcadia is a top-ranked private university offering bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees. More than 4,000 students choose from among 80 fields of study. U.S. News & World Report ranks Arcadia University among the top tier of regional universities in the North.
PDE Approved for PA Educators Pursuing Autism Endorsement / 
The "America's Best Colleges" 2012 edition of U.S. News & World Report has ranked Saint Joseph's University among the top 15 master's universities in the north and #8 in top regional universities in the north. 
Drexel’s School of Education was ranked as one of "America's Best Graduate Schools 2010" by U.S. News & World Report.
WGU is the only exclusively online university to receive NCATE accreditation for its online teaching degree programs. Chosen as an NEA Academy Partner for it's quality and value. Top quality education that is among the lowest in cost online.
