Online Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
The applied behavior analysis certificate explores the science of learning and behavior. It teaches the foundations of applied behavior analysis and how it can be used to improve behavior and help people reach their full potential. This certificate also helps you prepare for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)® exam.
Quick facts
Next start date: 01/13/2025
Total classes: 7
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 21
What is an applied behavior analysis certificate?
Coursework in an applied behavior analysis certificate teaches behavior analytic frameworks and applications. You’ll learn the systematic and scientific process of applied behavior analysis, also known as ABA. This includes learning empathetic strategies for how to assess and change behavior in children, adults, families and communities. This certificate teaches essential ABA skills and prepares you to effectively implement ABA in educational settings, the workplace and clinics as well as at home and in the community.
This certificate program prepares you for the BCBA certification exam, but the program itself does not give professional licensure or lead to teacher certification. Earning your ABA certificate online from Arizona State University means completing a nondegree graduate program. This graduate certificate can be completed while also pursuing an online graduate degree or as a stand-alone certificate. A Master of Arts in special education – applied behavior analysis is also available.
Will this certificate help me get a BCBA certification?
This program can prepare you to sit for the BCBA exam. The courses included in this certificate meet the coursework requirements for the exam and cover many of the topics you will be tested on. Still, you will have to meet other requirements to qualify for the test. You are not required to earn BCBA certification to complete this certificate program. There are many jobs in education, counseling and social work where ABA skills are useful, but BCBA certification is not required. These jobs may require different credentials or certifications.
How long does it take to get BCBA certification?
The time it takes to earn BCBA certification will vary based on your circumstances. You may be able to complete ASU’s ABA certificate online in five semesters, which equates to about a year and a half. You will need to fulfill further requirements before sitting for the BCBA exam, which means earning BCBA certification may take longer than the time it takes to complete this graduate certificate.
Professional licensure and certification
Arizona State University’s ABA programs include coursework that meets the Association for Behavior Analysis International verified course sequence requirements to qualify to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA) exam. Applicants will need to meet additional requirements before they can be deemed eligible to take the exam. We offer an optional practicum for students seeking to accrue BCBA supervised field experience.
The authority to practice applied behavior analysis, or use the title of behavior analyst, is granted on a state-by-state basis. Many states require BCBA certification for licensure. However, not all states have enacted legislation to create a regulatory body for ABA licensure and not all states that have licensure require BCBA certification. No Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College ABA program leads to teacher certification. Learn more about professional licensure.
Does my applied behavior analysis graduate certificate say 'online'?
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.” That’s because ASU Online students learn from the same faculty and receive the same course content as in-person students receive.
Featured ABA certificate courses
Classwork for earning your ABA certificate online will connect ABA to situations you might encounter in a clinical, professional or personal setting. Much of the coursework includes detailed exercises for practicing applied behavior analysis. You will gain experience assessing behavior and developing personalized intervention plans. Courses will also explore ethical case studies and teach evidence-based best practices for how to change behavior. All courses in this certificate are taught by faculty who are BCBA certified, allowing you to gain feedback from professionals with experience in the field. Courses in this certificate include:
What can I do with this applied behavior analysis certificate?
After completing your ABA certificate online, you can pursue ABA careers in a variety of fields including education, business, health care and therapy. Many careers in ABA will require BCBA certification, but not all. Different opportunities, such as teaching, may require further licensure. Some potential careers include:
Earn your applied behavior analysis certificate from experienced faculty
The Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College faculty draws from a range of academic disciplines including cognitive science, psychology and economics. They seek to answer questions about the process of learning, teaching practices and effects of education policy. Our faculty is also committed to connecting research to schools and other learning environments. They ensure teacher and leadership preparation programs combine scholarly rigor with practical application.
Earn your applied behavior analysis certificate from experienced faculty
The Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College faculty draws from a range of academic disciplines including cognitive science, psychology and economics. They seek to answer questions about the process of learning, teaching practices and effects of education policy. Our faculty is also committed to connecting research to schools and other learning environments. They ensure teacher and leadership preparation programs combine scholarly rigor with practical application.
Admission requirements for earning your ABA certificate online
Applicants to the applied behavior analysis certificate program must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College.
One of the best colleges of education in the nation
Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College brings people and ideas together to increase the capabilities of educators and the performance of education systems. According to U.S. News & World Report, Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College is the only U.S. college of education to rank in the top 15 for both on-campus and online graduate education degrees.
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Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
