Online Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis

Arizona State University’s graduate certificate in applied behavior analysis online explores the science behind learning techniques and behavioral patterns. In this program, you’ll focus on the foundations of applied behavior analysis and how to use it to help people reach their full potential. This certificate also helps prepare you for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)® exam.

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Quick facts

Next start date:

Next start date: 01/13/2025


Total classes:

Total classes: 7

Weeks per class:

Weeks per class: 7.5

Total credit hours:

Total credit hours: 21

Degree questions, answered

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Develop essential ABA skills for a variety of career paths

Coursework in this applied behavior analysis certificate emphasizes behavior analytic frameworks and applications. You'll explore the systematic and scientific processes behind ABA and gain hands-on skills to create meaningful change. This includes learning empathetic strategies to address behavior in children, adults, families and communities.

Additionally, you’ll gain essential client-centered skills such as empathy and active listening, to ensure you deliver services with integrity. You’ll develop expertise in creating and applying behavior intervention plans, all while considering ethical and professional best practices. Upon graduation, you’ll have the tools to assess, treat and manage behavior effectively in clinics, schools and other settings.

A pathway to BCBA certification

The courses included in this certificate meet the coursework requirements for the BCBA exam and cover many of the topics you will be tested on. However, you’ll still need to meet the other requirements to qualify for the test. You are also 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.

The time to earn BCBA certification will vary based on your circumstances. You may be able to complete this online ABA certificate in five semesters, which equates to about a year and a half. You’ll 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.

Who’s a good candidate for this ABA certificate program?

This program is ideal for individuals passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of others. It’s a great fit if you enjoy working with and helping people, especially those with special learning or behavioral needs. Whether your interests lie in organizational behavior, psychology or pursuing a career as a BCBA, this program equips you with the skills you’ll need to succeed.

You’ll learn how to assess the behavior of individuals in various environments such as students in classrooms, patients in clinics or employees in workplaces. If you’re driven to understand the function of behavior and apply that knowledge to create meaningful change, this program is the perfect match for you. Note that earning your applied behavior analysis certificate online from ASU means completing a nondegree graduate program. If you’re interested in earning a graduate degree, our Master of Arts in special education – applied behavior analysis can be earned alongside this program or in place of it.

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.

Will my diploma 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.

Online ABA certificate courses

Earning your ABA certificate online prepares you to apply ABA principles in clinical, professional and personal settings. You'll practice assessing behavior and creating personalized intervention plans while learning evidence-based strategies for behavior change. Some courses also include a live discussion component where you’ll collaborate with peers in small online teams. Additionally, this program covers ethical case studies, all taught by BCBA-certified faculty who can provide expert feedback.


What you can do with an ABA graduate certificate

This ABA certificate program equips you with the skills you need to pursue careers in a variety of fields including education, business, health care, therapy and more. Keep in mind that many careers in ABA require BCBA certification, but not all. Potential careers include, but aren’t limited to:

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.

How to apply

Applicants to the applied behavior analysis certificate program must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College.

A leading academic institution for educators and other professionals

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.

#2


best online master’s in educational administration programs.

#3


best online master’s in curriculum and instruction programs.

Top 5


best online master’s in educational/instructional media programs.

Top 10


best online master's in education programs.

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.

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