Applied Behavior Analysis uses psychological principles to address complex behavior, promote socially acceptable behavior, and improve relationships. Applied Behavior Analysis is commonly used when working with adults and children with developmental disabilities or autism. Professionally trained ABA practitioners can:
- conduct comprehensive assessments
- collect and analyze data
- write effective behavior plans
- implement those plans
Students can become certified ABA practitioners by completing a verified course sequence as part of a bachelor’s degree program or separately for students who have already earned their degree. ABA practitioners at the bachelor’s degree level are considered Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analysts once they complete the coursework, experience certification requirements and pass an examination.
Related:
We created a list of the top BCaBA online programs offering the coursework and/or practical experience required to earn the BCaBA certification. These BCaBA programs online offer the course sequence verified by The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI). We considered accredited programs offering their courses primarily online. We developed a ranking system and included the top 15 online bachelor’s degree or BCaBA certificate programs for future applied behavior analysts.
Featured Programs
Ranking is as follows:
Student/Faculty ratio:
- 15:1 or less- 3 points
- 16:1 to 19:1- 2 points
- 20:1 and above- 1 point
Tuition rate:
- Less than $13,000- 3 points
- $13,000 to $20,000- 2 points
- Greater than $20,000- 1 point
BCaBA Exam Pass Rate:
- Over 50%- 2 points
Programs with fewer than six students or programs created in the last four years do not have a published exam pass rate. Where there are ties, schools are ranked according to their net price per College Navigator.
#1 -Ball State University – Muncie, Indiana
Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis (Autism)
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Net Price: $12,986
Pass Rate: 81.82%
Total Points: 8
Our top choice for an online BCaBA program is the bachelor’s degree in ABA (Autism) from Ball State University. This affordable BCaBA online has both full and part-time program options. Online courses are delivered in a flexible asynchronous format so students can work on their assignments and projects when it is most convenient. Courses include:
- Advanced Interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Behavior Analysis Principles, Processes, and Philosophy
- Exceptional Children and Adults
Full-time students can complete their degree in four years. Graduates are prepared for graduate school or to work in areas like organizational behavior management and education.
#2 -Troy University – Troy, Alabama
Online Bachelor’s in Psychology with a Minor in Applied Behavior Analysis
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Net Price: $12,486
Pass Rate: 57.14%
Total Points: 7
Troy University offers an online bachelor’s in psychology with a minor in applied behavior analysis. This minor prepares students to work with individuals with developmental disabilities including autism. The program meets the course requirements needed to sit for the BCaBA exam. Students can complete two optional practicum courses, gaining valuable hands-on training. Courses are taught by highly skilled faculty who deliver a rigorous curriculum.
#3 -University of West Florida – Pensacola, Florida
Online B.S. in Health Sciences-BCaBA Course Sequence Option
Student to Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Net Price: $10,344
Pass Rate: 64.29%
Total Points: 6
The University of West Florida offers the BCaBA course sequence online. The program can be completed as a stand-alone program or as part of the BS in Health Sciences. Course offerings include:
- Methodology in Behavior Analysis in Health Science
- Functional Applications of Behavior Analysis in Health Science
- Problem Identification and Functional Assessment in Health Science
Students take one course at a time and each course is eight weeks long. Online weekly course meetings allow students to interact with each other and their professors.
#4 -University of Colorado – Denver, Colorado
Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate Online-BCaBA
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Net Price: $14,630
Pass Rate: 83.33%
Total Points: 6
The University of Colorado School of Education and Human Development features an online BCaBA program for educators and direct care workers. The program is offered in a fully online format. Students complete seven courses taught by highly experienced instructors. Courses include:
- ABA Practical Applications
- ABA Data
- Introduction to ABA and Terminology
Courses are taken in order and new cohorts begin in January and July of each year.
#5 -University of Virginia – Charlottesville, Virginia
Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate Online
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Net Price: $20,401
Pass Rate: 100%
Total Points: 6
The University of Virginia’s applied behavior analysis certificate online program is for students with either a bachelor’s or master’s degree and want to better understand and address the behavioral needs of their students. Students will learn how to provide services to improve organizational functioning, skill deficits, and problem behavior. Courses include:
- Ethics and Professional Conduct of Behavior Analysis
- Behavior Observation, Measurement and Analysis
- Behavioral Intervention
New students are admitted to the program during the fall semester and part-time students can complete their certificate in about 18 months.
#6 -Saint Joseph’s University – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
General Studies Bachelor’s: Autism Studies Concentration Online
Student to Faculty Ratio: 10:1
Net Price: $33,438
Pass Rate: 62.5%
Total Points: 6
Saint Joseph’s University offers an innovative Bachelor’s in Autism Studies that includes the verified course sequence for the BCaBA exam. As an autism specialist, students will learn how to help individuals in their classroom and at work. The program also meets the fieldwork requirement for the BCaBA exam. Through these hands-on courses, students will learn to select appropriate learning objectives and collect data in the field of autism treatment. Online students have access to a full team of counselors and advisors who provide one-on-one support.
#7 -University of Hawaii at Manoa – Honolulu, Hawaii
Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst Program
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Net Price: $14,825
Pass Rate: N/A
Total Points: 5
The College of Education at the University of Hawaii at Manoa offers an online BCaBA program that aligns with the BACB 5th Edition Task List requirements. Most students can complete the program online in about 18 months. This 15-credit hour program includes courses in:
Featured Programs
- Assessment, Planning, and Instruction-Severe/Autism
- Language/Communication Intervention-Communication Disorders/Autism
- Positive Behavioral Support-Severe Disabilities/Autism
Students complete their fieldwork separate from the university in their own communities or by enrolling in an additional specialized fieldwork course. Courses are red in a convenient online format with synchronous sessions taking place in the early evenings.
#8 -Mary Baldwin University – Staunton, Virginia
Bachelor’s in Autism Studies and ABA Online
Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Net Price: $17,525
Pass Rate: N/A
Total Points: 5
Mary Baldwin University’s online ABA program features a BA in Autism Studies and ABA, the verified course sequence for BCaBA, and a Comprehensive Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Students receive personal attention from expert professors in a convenient online platform. Students coming from other universities may be able to transfer up to 84 credits of coursework, saving time and money. MBU has offered ABA coursework since 1993 and has continuously revised and updated their curriculum to reflect current best practices and industry trends.
#9 -Florida Institute of Technology – Melbourne, Florida
ABA Online Program-BCaBA
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Net Price: $24,297
Pass Rate: 74.82%
Total Points: 5
The top ABA online program from Florida Tech is a 12-month program that meets the Fourth Edition Task List BACB coursework requirements. New students are admitted to the program four times each year. Students engage with co-instructors weekly through online meetings. Courses include:
- Introduction to Ethical and Professional Conduct of Behavior Analysts
- Developing, Strengthening and Maintaining Behavior
- Basic Elements of Applied Behavior Analysis
Interested in earning a master’s from Florida Tech? Students can apply their courses to the Master’s in Professional Behavior Analysis programs.
#10 -Purdue University Global – Indianapolis, Indiana
Online Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology—Applied Behavior Analysis
Student to Faculty Ratio: 27:1
Net Price: $3,802
Pass Rate: 42.91%
Total Points: 4
The online bachelor’s in psychology in ABA from Purdue Global is a comprehensive program for students who want to others reach their full potential. Students develop a specialized degree plan to help align their education with their career goals. Courses include:
- Program Design and Evaluation
- Personality Development
- Autism Spectrum Disorders in Young Children
Courses are delivered in 10-week terms and students can expect to spend between 15 and 18 hours a week on their coursework. Purdue Global offers monthly start dates so students can begin the program when it is most convenient.
#11 –California State University Monterey Bay – Seaside, California
Certificate Program in Behavior Analysis Online
Student to Faculty Ratio: 23:1
Net Price: $6,085
Pass Rate: N/A
Total Points: 4
The Behavior Analysis Program at California State University Monterey Bay is an online and hybrid program offering the verified course sequence for students who want to earn their BCaBA certification. Courses include:
- Advanced Behavior Supports
- Behavior Intervention and Support
- Teaching and Assessing Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Class size is intentionally kept small to allow for individualized attention.
#12 -Penn Western Global Online
ABA Certificate Online
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Net Price: $13,840
Pass Rate: N/A
Total Points: 4
One of the top online BCaBA programs is offered by Penn Western Global Online. This unique program includes certification as a Competent Learner Model Implementer. This five-course program focuses on areas like curriculum design and applied behavior analysis. Courses include:
- ABA/CLM Program Curricula Design and Monitoring
- Contingencies to Engineer Learning
- ABA/CLM Instructional Methods Procedures and Tools
Students will learn effective practices for children and adult learners with special needs. Students will need to complete their field experience independently from the program.
#13 -University of California Santa Barbara – Santa Barbara, California
Assistant Behavior Analyst Professional Certificate
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Net Price: $17,333
Pass Rate: N/A
Total Points: 4
The University of California Santa Barbara PaCE offers a BCaBA online professional certificate program. Students will develop a strong foundation of concepts and principles related to ABA. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in any field of study from an accredited university. Courses include:
- Behavior Assessment and Intervention
- Ethics and Supervision
- Behavior-Change Procedures
Courses are offered during all four academic quarters in an online asynchronous format. Most students can earn their certificate in about 18 months.
#14 -Central Methodist University – Fayette, Missouri
BS in Applied Behavior Analysis Online
Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Net Price: $25,083
Pass Rate: N/A
Total Points: 4
Central Methodist University offers an online bachelor’s degree in applied behavior analysis as well as the verified course sequence for students who have already obtained their bachelor’s degree. Courses include:
- Behavior Assessment
- Behavior Change Procedures
- Leadership and Management in ABA
Applied behavior analysis bachelor’s degree students will learn to conduct behavioral assessments and evaluate behavior analytic interventions. Once students have completed their supervision hours (not obtained at CMU) they will be eligible to sit for the BCaBA exam.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a BCaBA degree?
To become a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA), you typically need to follow these steps:
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in behavior analysis or a related field from an accredited institution.
- Coursework: Completed coursework in behavior analysis as outlined by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB).
- Supervised Experience: Gain supervised experience by working under the supervision of a qualified professional.
- Pass the Exam: Pass the BCaBA certification exam administered by the BACB.
- Maintain Certification: Keep your certification active by fulfilling continuing education requirements and adhering to the BACB’s ethical standards.
Can you start a career in applied behavior analysis with a bachelors degree?
You can start a career in applied behavior analysis (ABA) with a bachelor’s degree. To become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) you typically need a master’s degree. However, a bachelor’s degree may qualify you for positions such as behavior technician or assistant behavior analyst under the supervision of a BCBA.
How long does it take to get a bachelors in ABA?
A bachelor’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) typically takes around four years to complete, similar to other bachelor’s degrees. However, some programs may offer accelerated options or allow students to transfer credits, potentially shortening the time to graduation.
What is the highest salary for a BCABA?
According to ZipRecruiter, the highest earning salary for BCABA is $111,000. The highest salary for a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) varies depending on factors like experience, location, and employer.
What is the difference between a BCBA and a BCaBA?
A BCBA, or Board Certified Behavior Analyst, is a higher-level certification than a BCaBA, which stands for Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst. BCaBAs work under the supervision of BCBA professionals, assisting with behavior analysis assessments and interventions, while BCBAs have more comprehensive training and can work independently to design and implement behavior intervention plans.
