online phd programs applied behavior analysis

Top 8 Best Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhDs (Doctorates)

We rank the best online PhD degree programs in applied behavioral analysis.

Key Takeaways

• There is a growing demand for Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA) with doctoral qualifications.
• Students who wish to hold special education leadership roles, conduct behavioral research, or teach at the postsecondary level may consider an array of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) PhD programs.
• Online applied behavior analysis programs make it possible to complete the doctorate in applied behavior analysis degree without disrupting professional development.

An online doctorate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) can lead to leadership opportunities for Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA) in areas like clinical practice, post-secondary education, and research. The doctorate may either be a professional training program, which is typically referred to as a Doctor of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) degree; or a research based program, which is typically referred to as a Doctor of Philosophy in Behavior Analysis (PhD).

A number of accredited graduate schools offer both fully online and blended learning opportunities for students wishing to complete doctoral level applied behavior analysis programs. For those already in the field working to advance professional goals in behavioral health leadership, online programs can provide the opportunity for balance.

For a look at how these online doctoral programs stack up against traditional on campus programs, check out our look at the Best Research Universities for Psychology degrees.

For a look at the best schools in any subject, check out our College and University Rankings .

Otherwise, read on and learn more about how you can earn an online doctorate in applied behavior analysis.

About Accredited Online PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis Degree Programs

Quality and credibility are important when it comes to finding an online doctorate in applied behavior analysis. The best online doctorate programs will have proper accreditation:

• Institutional Accreditation : Accreditation is vital for online doctoral programs. It signifies that the online Ph.D programs offered by the graduate school are in compliance with the standards of a Department of Education-approved accrediting body. A school must also be accredited in order to offer federal financial aid to its online doctorate candidates.

For more information on financial aid loans and grants, visit the Federal Student Aid website.

When looking for an online doctoral program, seek out options with accreditation from a colleges and schools commission in your region. This stamp of approval is critical for ensuring the quality and credibility of your online program.

• Programmatic Accreditation : In addition to institutional accreditation, be sure that you are only considering online doctorate degree programs with programmatic accreditation. The primary agency responsible for specialized accreditation in ABA is the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) Accreditation Board.
• Carnegie Classification : The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, or as it is more commonly known, the Carnegie Classification, is a framework for categorizing all accredited, degree-granting institutions in the United States. Originally formulated in 1970 by The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, and administered through the University of Indiana’s Center for Postsecondary Research since 2014, the Carnegie Classification is “the leading framework for recognizing and describing institutional diversity in U.S. higher education.”

Under this classification, top research universities for doctoral degrees and PhD candidates are identified as either R2: Doctoral Universities for “high research activity” or R1: Doctoral Universities for “very high research activity.” Look for these classifications when considering options for your online PhD programs.

Key Point: Only consider universities offering online doctorate degrees with both institutional and programmatic accreditation.

Admission Requirements

Students with a bachelor’s degree in applied behavior analysis will typically qualify for recognition through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). However, completing a doctoral in applied behavior analysis program may make it possible to advance to an array of leadership roles in clinical, post-secondary education, and research settings. Admission requirements generally include the following:

• A completed online application
• Official undergraduate college transcripts
• A cumulative GPA of at least 3.0
• GRE scores, MAT scores, or GMAT scores
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal interviews
• Personal statement or essay
• Plan of study

Key Point: In most cases, you’ll be eligible to enter your ABA doctoral degree online after earning a bachelor’s degree in a related field. However, some specialized online PhD programs may require you to have earned a master’s degree as well.

Curriculum and Courses in Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhD Programs

Students in this online doctor of ABA program will typically experience both comprehensive training in practical applications of applied behavior analysis as well as experience in the basic research methodology underlying the practice. Regardless of whether you complete a traditional, hybrid or online doctoral program, the typical time to completion is three to six years.

The typical components of your online doctorate in applied behavior analysis may include:

Foundational Courses

Foundational courses will typically focus on areas like experimental analysis and critical analysis as well as examination of human behavior, verbal behavior, the theoretical constructions of behavioral science. ABA programs will also incorporate basic and applied research methods as well as practical applications in experimental design. You may be able to complete many of these requirements through online classes.

Examinations for PhD Candidacy

Many online doctoral students are required to complete certain examinations to enter into online PhD candidacy. This will typically occur after students complete one to two years of foundational courses.

Dissertation

In most cases, the central component of your online PhD program will be the completion of your dissertation. After gaining status as an online PhD candidate, you will typically work closely with a professorial advisor or mentor to conduct research on an original research question.

This research question will form the basis of your dissertation—an ongoing project designed to address this research question through applied research. While you will work closely with your advisor or mentor, much of your dissertation will be rooted in independent research. This is especially true for students pursuing an online PhD.

Oral Defense

Upon completion of the written portion of your dissertation—which will typically present the findings from your original research project—you will be expected to defend your findings. This “oral defense” will typically be conducted by a commission of professors and experts in your field. PhD candidates in some online degree programs may be able to conduct this defense via teleconferencing.

Teaching Requirements

Some online Ph.D programs will also include a teaching component, which will require you to work as an adjunct professor or teacher’s assistant in an undergraduate or graduate school. It may be possible for students in the online doctoral degree program to also serve teaching requirements by instructing online students.

Key Point: Students pursuing an advanced degree in Applied Behavior Analysis can pursue the practical doctorate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) or the research based PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis.

Careers for Students Who Complete a PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis Program Online

Online accredited doctoral programs are generally terminal degree programs. This means that students who complete credible PhD programs online are usually eligible for top positions and opportunities in their field. Therefore, students with a Ph.d in applied behavior analysis will usually be eligible for opportunities in critical areas like special education leadership, autism treatment, policy research on behavioral health, and more.

For instance, Board Certified Behavior Analysts who earn a doctorate may be eligible for top field leadership roles such as Chief Clinical Officer. According to Payscale , Chief Clinical Officers may earn more than $112,000 per year in just the first four years of their career.

Working professionals who complete BCBA doctorate programs may also be eligible to work in the following areas.

• Public Health Research
• Special Education Leadership
• Special Education Curriculum Design
• Sociology Research
• Post-Secondary Education
• Educational Policy Consultation
• Clinical Practice
• Organizational Leadership

Key Points: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, BCBAs with a doctorate degree from an ABA PhD program can qualify for top leadership roles in the field.

What’s the difference between online doctoral programs and online Ph.D programs?

Technically, a PhD is a type of doctorate degree. This means that all online PhD candidates are doctoral students. By contrast, not all doctoral students are PhD candidates.

The primary distinction is that doctoral students are primarily focused on putting existing theories into practice. Depending on the chosen field, PhD programs in applied behavior analysis may require participation in an educational leadership program, engagement in clinical practice, work as a resident in a nursing program, and much more.

By contrast, online PhD students are focused on creating new knowledge in their area of study. This usually means that online PhD candidates are focused on introducing new theories, creating research projects around these theories, and presenting new findings that demonstrate a mastery of existing knowledge and the insight to introduce new ideas into the field.

Today, more working professionals than ever before are pursuing both online doctoral degrees and online Phd programs.

The Best Online Applied Behavioral Analysis Doctorates

The online doctorate in applied behavior analysis programs identified here are ranked based on influence, with weighting for graduation rate and full-time online enrollment. The following list contains fully online and blended programs for both the Doctorate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and the Doctor of Philosophy in Applied Behavior Analysis (PhD).

University of Washington

• #6 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online
• #7 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024
• #16 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
• #20 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
• #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
• #1 Best Public Colleges in Washington 2024
• #1 Best Grad Schools in Washington 2024
• #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Washington 2024
• #1 Best Colleges in Washington 2024
• #1 Best Research Universities in Washington 2024
• #2 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
• #5 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
• #15 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
• #16 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
• #16 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
• #17 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
• #19 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
• #19 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
• #20 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
• #22 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
• #23 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
• #24 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
• #1 5 Inexpensive Online Master's Programs in Library Science
• #1 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Washington 2024
• #1 Best Online Colleges in Washington 2024
• #4 Best Online MBA Degree Programs No GRE Required Ranked for 2024
• #5 Best Online MBA Programs in Washington
• #6 Most Affordable Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhD Programs
• #8 Guide to Free Online Courses for MBA Students in 2024
• #10 Most Affordable Early Childhood Education Bachelor's (Online, On-Campus)
• #10 Top 20 Best Business Schools for MBAs Ranked for Students
• #17 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024

Tuition + fees

Student body

Career Outlook for Behavioral Analysis degree at University of Washington

University of Washington’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Earth Sciences
• Computer Science
• Social Work
• Anthropology
• Criminal Justice
• Engineering

Most Influential Alumni

• George Stigler
• Frank Herbert
• Jerry Pournelle
• Robert Mundell
• Michael Hardt
• Harold Hotelling
• Minoru Yamasaki
• Lyle Campbell
• Dave Cutler
• Steven Holl

University of Washington is noted for several excellent online graduate level programs, including its Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Online Program .

Love reading. With 26 libraries, art centers, museums, labs, and lecture halls, UW boasts one of the largest library systems in the world.

Prefer sunny skies. The Pacific Northwest is famous for its cloudy climate.

Arizona State University

• #22 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2024
• #2 Best Colleges in Arizona 2024
• #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Arizona 2024
• #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
• #2 Best Public Colleges in Arizona 2024
• #2 Best Grad Schools in Arizona 2024
• #2 Best Research Universities in Arizona 2024
• #1 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Forensic Psychology Programs
• #1 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of English
• #1 Top 5 Best Online Criminal Justice Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #1 Best Online MBA Programs in Arizona
• #1 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Healthcare Administration
• #1 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Psychology Programs
• #1 Most Affordable Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhD Programs
• #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Human Development Degree Programs for 2024
• #2 Best Online Colleges in Arizona 2024
• #2 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of English Programs
• #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Arizona
• #2 Best Online Master's Programs in Arizona 2024
• #2 Best Online Master's in English
• #2 Top 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Web Design Degree Programs 2024
• #3 Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration Degree Programs
• #3 The Best Online Colleges Ranked for Students in 2024
• #3 Best Online Bachelor’s of Education Degree Programs for 2024
• #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Network Administration Degree Programs for 2024
• #3 Best Online Bachelor’s of Health Science Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #3 Fastest Accelerated Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
• #3 Best Online Master's in Special Education
• #3 Online Colleges That Start Anytime and the Benefits of a Self-Paced Education
• #4 11 Fastest Accelerated Online Master’s of Computer Science
• #4 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #4 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity
• #4 Best Online Bachelor’s of Communications Degree Programs for 2024
• #4 Best Online Master's in Cybersecurity
• #5 Best Online MBA Programs in Nevada
• #5 Most Affordable Online Sociology Doctorate Programs (PhDs)
• #6 Best Data Science Online Master’s Programs
• #6 Best Online Master's in Computer Science Degree Programs
• #6 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
• #7 Best Online Degrees for a Career in Teaching Ranked 2024
• #7 Best Online MBA Degree Programs No GRE Required Ranked for 2024
• #8 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice PhDs (Doctorates)
• #9 The Best Online MBA Degree Programs in 2024 Ranked for Students
• #9 Top 10 Fastest Accelerated Online PhD in Criminal Justice (Doctorates)
• #9 Best Online Colleges in Arizona 2024
• #10 Top 20 Easiest Online Degrees from Accredited Schools in 2024
• #11 Top 20 Best Online MBA Programs that Can Be Completed in One Year 2024
• #15 Best Online Bachelor’s of Graphic Arts Degree Programs for 2024
• #15 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
• #17 Best Online Master's in Management
• #23 Best Online Master’s in Sustainability and Green Technologies
• #1 Top 20 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's in Counseling

Career Outlook for Behavioral Analysis degree at Arizona State University

Arizona State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Political Science
• Jimmy Kimmel
• Michael I. Jordan
• Bernie Grundman
• David Spade
• Temple Grandin
• Robert O. Pihl
• Barry Bonds
• Larry Schweikart
• Linda Ronstadt
• Matthew Desmond
• Reggie Jackson
• Kim Komando

Arizona State University is noted for several excellent online doctoral degree programs, including its Online Doctor of Behavior Health , which is a clinical advanced degree.

Are seeking focused graduate degrees. With more than 400 advanced degree programs, ASU grad students can choose highly specialized programs.

Prefer smaller class and campus sizes. The Tempe, Arizona campus alone is home to nearly 55,000 students.

University of Nevada, Reno

• #2 Best Public Colleges in Nevada 2024
• #2 Best Colleges in Nevada 2024
• #1 Best Online MBA Programs in Nevada
• #2 Best Online Master's Programs in Nevada 2024
• #2 Best Online Colleges in Nevada 2024
• #3 Best Online Master's in Behavior Analysis Degree Programs
• #5 Most Affordable Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhD Programs
• #16 Best Online Master's Degrees in Accounting
• #19 Best Online Master's in Special Education
• #20 Best Online Master’s in Education
• #9 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Nursing Degree Programs 2024

Career Outlook for Behavioral Analysis degree at University of Nevada, Reno

University of Nevada, Reno’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Communications
• Mathematics
• John Etchemendy
• Colin Kaepernick
• Ralph W. Hood
• Loren Cordain
• William D. Lutz
• Roger Fouts
• Warren E. Dixon
• Claire Vaye Watkins
• Deborah Fouts
• Mary Lee Jensvold
• Robert Laxalt

The University of Nevada, Reno offers a doctorate of applied behavior analysis which is entirely on-campus. However, if you are interested in becoming a board certified behavior analyst through online programs, you can complete the online Board Certified Behavior Analyst Training program .

Are dedicated to their studies. Students note that the academic environment is extremely rigorous and that it is important to devote sufficient time to one’s classwork.

Are seeking a more intimate learning atmosphere. Students at UNR note that some of the class sizes are comparatively larger.

University of Nevada, Reno’s Online Degrees

• Required Credits : None Reported
• Completion Time : None Reported
• Format : Online
• Required Credits : 30
• Format : None Reported

Simmons University

• #10 Best Online Master's in Social Work MSW
• #12 Best Online Master's Programs in Massachusetts 2024
• #14 Best Online Master's in Nursing MSN
• #16 Best Online Master's in Behavior Analysis Degree Programs
• #20 Best Online Bachelor’s of Communications Degree Programs for 2024
• #21 Best Online Bachelor's in Computer Science Degree Programs

Median SAT/ACT

Career Outlook for Behavioral Analysis degree at Simmons University

Simmons University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Tipper Gore
• Lenore Blum
• Valerie Thomas
• Loren Coleman
• Laurel Thatcher Ulrich
• Christine Darden
• Dorothy Walcott Weeks
• David Ferriero
• Bertha Reynolds
• Ruth Winifred Howard
• Hal Clement

Simmons University is noted for several excellent online doctoral degree programs, including its PhD in Behavior Analysis .

Are studying in STEM subjects. Students note that the sciences programs at Simmons are generally stronger than the humanities programs.

Are seeking generous amenities. Students note that many dorms are outdated and that the food options in the dining halls are limited.

Simmons University’s Online Degrees

Degree concentrations.

• Advanced Clinical Practice
• Teaching And Education

Capella University

• #6 Top 10 Best Online PhD of Information Technology Programs (Doctorates)
• #6 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Social Work PhDs (Doctorates)
• #6 Best Online Doctorate of Educational Psychology (PhDs) 2024
• #10 Top 16 Most Affordable Online Counseling PhDs (Doctorates)
• #13 Fastest Accelerated Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
• #14 15 Most Affordable Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
• #17 Most Affordable Online Computer Science PhDs (Doctorates) 2024
• #12 Top 20 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's in Counseling
• #13 20 Fastest Online Bachelor's of Business Degree Programs Ranked 2024
• #17 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Counseling Degree Programs 2024

Career Outlook for Behavioral Analysis degree at Capella University

Capella University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Arthur Seale
• Tammy Duckworth
• Xavier Woods
• Ethan F. Becker
• Brandt Smith
• Annesa Flentje

Capella University is noted for several excellent online doctoral degree programs, including its Doctor of Philosophy in Behavior Analysis (PhD) .

Are seeking flexibility in their educational experience. Capella is geared toward the busy schedules of adult learners and working professionals, which means students can choose from an extremely wide range of online and blended learning paths.

Are not prepared to work independently. Students note that many of Capella’s programs require a large degree of self-guided learning.

The Chicago School

The Chicago School’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• James P. Liautaud

The Chicago-based institution is noted for several excellent online doctoral degree programs including the its Online PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis

Are seeking friendly and supportive professors and faculty. Students note that professors seem to genuinely care about their students and their success.

Are seeking a traditional residential experience. Students note that all housing options are located off campus.

Endicott College

Career outlook for behavioral analysis degree at endicott college.

Endicott College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Endicott College is noted for several excellent online doctoral degree programs, including its PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis .

Prefer smaller class sizes. Students note that classes are intimate and that it’s easy to receive personal attention from professors.

Are looking for a wide selection of activities and opportunities for involvement. Students note that, as a smaller campus, Endicott has a more modest offering of clubs and groups.

Walden University

• #2 Most Affordable Online Criminology Doctorate Programs (PhDs)
• #3 Accelerated Online Business Administration PhD Programs (Doctorates)
• #3 Top 8 Fastest Accelerated Online Psychology Doctorates (PhDs)
• #4 Best Online Doctorate of Educational Psychology (PhDs) 2024
• #5 Top 10 Best Online Counseling PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #5 Top 5 Best Online Sociology PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #6 Top 5 Best Online Criminal Justice Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #7 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Information Technology PhD Programs
• #7 Most Affordable Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhD Programs
• #10 Top 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Counseling Doctorates (PhDs)
• #10 Most Unusual Doctoral Degrees You Can Earn Online (PhDs)
• #10 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Business Administration Doctorates
• #10 Top 10 Best Online Communications PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #10 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Information Technology
• #12 15 Most Affordable Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
• #2 The Fastest Traditional MBA Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #6 Fastest Accelerated Online PhDs in Education Degree Programs 2024
• #8 How to Earn Your Master's Degree Without Your Bachelor's Degree
• #11 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Nursing Degree Programs 2024

Career Outlook for Behavioral Analysis degree at Walden University

Walden University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• John Antonakis
• Eboni Edmonson Haynes

Walden University offers a direct pathway for students planning to become board certified behavior analysts through its online Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®) graduate-level certification .

Are studying nursing, public health, and healthcare administration. Walden is one of the nation’s top degree providers in these fields.

Plan to earn PhDs in psychology. Walden’s PhDs do not have accreditation from the American Psychological Association (APA).

Other Options for Aspiring Applied Behavioral Analysts

Students considering an online doctoral in ABA should also check out the best on-campus options to compare features like cost, curriculum, acceptance rate, and more.

University of Southern California

• #19 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
• #2 Best Private Colleges in California 2024
• #4 Best Colleges in California 2024
• #4 Best Research Universities in California 2024
• #4 Best Grad Schools California 2024
• #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
• #5 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
• #9 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
• #13 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
• #15 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
• #16 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
• #16 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
• #17 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
• #17 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
• #17 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
• #17 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
• #19 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
• #19 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
• #20 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
• #20 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
• #20 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
• #20 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
• #21 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
• #22 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
• #1 Top 7 Best Online Social Work PhDs (DSW Programs) 2024
• #1 The Best Online MBA Degree Programs in 2024 Ranked for Students
• #1 Best Online Master’s in Communications
• #1 Best Online Master's in Hospitality and Tourism Degree Programs
• #1 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
• #1 Best Online Doctorate of Physical Therapy Programs (PhDs)
• #1 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
• #1 Best Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
• #1 Best Data Science Online Master’s Programs
• #1 Best Online Master's in Social Work MSW
• #1 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #1 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources
• #1 Best Online Master's in Project Management
• #1 Best Online Master's in Computer Science Degree Programs
• #1 Best Online Master's in Cybersecurity
• #1 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
• #1 Top 10 Best Online Master's of Public Relations Ranked 2024
• #1 Best Online Master’s in Finance
• #2 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics
• #2 Best Online Master’s in Sustainability and Green Technologies
• #2 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2024
• #2 Best Online MBA Programs in California
• #2 Best Online Master’s in Engineering Management
• #2 Best Online Master's in Public Administration Degree Programs
• #2 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
• #2 Best Online Master's in Criminal Justice
• #2 Top 18 Most Affordable No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs
• #2 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
• #3 Best Online Master's in Nursing MSN
• #4 Best Online PhD of Computer Science Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #4 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
• #5 Best Online Master's in Management
• #5 Fastest Accelerated Online Computer Science Doctorates (PhDs)
• #5 Top 10 Best Online Communications PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #5 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Social Work PhDs (Doctorates)
• #5 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2024
• #6 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #2 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Counseling Degree Programs 2024
• #12 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024

Career Outlook for Behavioral Analysis degree at University of Southern California

University of Southern California’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Frank Gehry
• Neil Armstrong
• Jack L. Warner
• John Mearsheimer
• Boris Podolsky
• Michael D. Griffin
• Maulana Karenga
• O. J. Simpson
• Robert Ballard

University of Southern California’s Online Degrees

• Required Credits : 43
• Required Credits : 60
• Required Credits : 50
• Required Credits : 42

University of Texas at Austin

• #22 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
• #23 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
• #1 Best Grad Schools In Texas 2024
• #1 Best Research Universities in Texas 2024
• #1 Best Public Colleges in Texas 2024
• #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Texas 2024
• #1 Best Colleges in Texas 2024
• #4 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
• #10 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
• #12 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
• #13 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
• #17 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
• #18 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
• #19 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
• #20 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
• #20 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
• #20 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
• #21 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
• #21 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
• #22 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
• #24 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
• #25 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
• #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Texas 2024
• #2 Top 20 Best Online MBA Programs that Can Be Completed in One Year 2024
• #3 Best Online Master’s in Engineering Management
• #3 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
• #4 Top 10 Best Online Communications PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #5 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #5 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
• #6 Best Online Master's in Management
• #11 Top 20 Best Business Schools for MBAs Ranked for Students
• #16 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024

Career Outlook for Behavioral Analysis degree at University of Texas at Austin

University of Texas at Austin’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Walter Cronkite
• Bill Moyers
• Edsger W. Dijkstra
• Robert Rauschenberg
• Bruce Sterling
• C. Wright Mills
• Neil deGrasse Tyson
• Steven Best
• J. M. Coetzee
• Robert Taylor
• Abhay Ashtekar

Boston College

• #6 Best Private Colleges in Massachusetts 2024
• #7 Best Colleges in Massachusetts 2024
• #7 Best Grad Schools in Massachusetts 2024
• #7 Best Research Universities in Massachusetts 2024
• #5 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
• #14 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
• #16 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
• #18 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
• #19 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
• #2 Best Online Master’s in Education
• #3 Best Online Master's Programs in Massachusetts 2024
• #5 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
• #5 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
• #9 Best Online MBA Degree Programs No GRE Required Ranked for 2024

Career Outlook for Behavioral Analysis degree at Boston College

Boston College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Religious Studies
• Robert Gallo
• Dennis Ross
• Ernest Moniz
• David H. Barlow
• R. Nicholas Burns
• Richard Cushing
• J. Arch Getty
• Maeve Kennedy McKean
• Julianne Malveaux
• Richard Swedberg
• John Courtney Murray

Boston College’s Online Degrees

University of denver.

• #2 Best Grad Schools in Colorado 2024
• #1 Best Online MBA Programs in Colorado
• #1 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Information Technology
• #2 Best Accredited Online Juris Doctorate (JD) Law Programs
• #2 Best Online Master's Programs in Colorado 2024
• #3 Best Online Colleges in Colorado 2024
• #4 Best Online Degree Completion Programs for Returning Students
• #17 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
• #4 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Counseling Degree Programs 2024

Career Outlook for Behavioral Analysis degree at University of Denver

University of Denver’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Huston Smith
• Mohammad Javad Zarif
• Robert Gilpin
• Margaret Singer
• Bruce Hoffman
• Katherine Anne Porter
• Condoleezza Rice
• Henry T. Lynch
• John L. Horn
• Njabulo Ndebele

Saint Louis University

• #3 Best Grad Schools in Missouri 2024
• #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
• #3 Best Research Universities in Missouri 2024
• #3 Best Colleges in Missouri 2024
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Missouri
• #2 Best Online Bachelor’s of Data Science and Analytics Degree Programs for 2024
• #2 Best Online Master's Programs in Missouri 2024
• #3 The Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Bachelor's Degrees
• #4 Best Online Master's in Project Management
• #4 Best Online Colleges in Missouri 2024
• #5 Best Online Bachelor's in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
• #5 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity
• #6 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity
• #6 Best Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
• #7 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Master's Degrees
• #8 Best Online Bachelor's in Social Work Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #8 Top 8 Fastest Accelerated Online Psychology Doctorates (PhDs)
• #12 Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration Degree Programs
• #14 Best Online Master's in Cybersecurity
• #17 The Best Online Colleges Ranked for Students in 2024

Career Outlook for Behavioral Analysis degree at Saint Louis University

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• Richard Kieckhefer
• Robert J. Richards
• Walter Halloran

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• PhD in Behavior Analysis

Behavior Analysis Doctor of Philosophy in Behavior Analysis

For those who strive to reach the highest levels of academic, research or clinical leadership can seek the challenge they need in a PhD in Behavior Analysis from Capella. Learn to expand beyond the theoretical and perform research that could help you make a positive contribution to your field, potentially developing new or advanced scientist-practitioner repertoires. Completion of this program and a behavior-analytic dissertation allows you to apply for doctoral designation as a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA-D). 

Earn additional credentials

Successful completion of the coursework in this program meets the educational requirements to be eligible to apply for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral (BCBA-D) designation on your Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) credential.

Scholar-practitioner faculty

Learn the latest in theory and practice from experienced doctoral faculty actively engaged in research and practice.

Relevant, real-world learning

Your behavior analysis coursework allows you to conduct research in consultation with Capella faculty.

Use the code WINTER  to waive the $50 application fee.

At a glance

• 93 Quarter credits
• 11 Core courses
• 3 Elective courses
• 3 Virtual residencies
• 15 Max transfer credits

Comprehensive exam

Dissertation

Reduce your tuition by $20,000

Enroll in a qualified program and apply for a $20K Capella Progress Reward, a scholarship to help fund your doctoral degree.

Courses and skills

Explore behavior analysis courses.

• This degree requires a total of 78 program credits
• You’ll need to complete eleven core courses, three elective courses, three doctoral project development seminars, one comprehensive exam and one dissertation

View all courses

Learning outcomes

The PhD in Behavior Analysis is designed for professional behavior analysts seeking to become academic, research, or clinical leaders. Learners integrate the practice of behavior analysis with basic behavior analytic theory and basic and applied research to develop advanced scientist-practitioner repertoires. 

Learners who complete the program with a behavior-analytic dissertation can apply for the doctoral designation as a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA-D).

On successful completion of this program, you should be able to:

• Synthesize the science behind the behavior of living organisms and the relationship between behavior and environmental variables
• Apply scientifically supported theories into the practice of behavior analysis for behaviors of social significance
• Design and conduct research consistent with the basic principles of behavior analysis to contribute to the field of behavior analysis
• Adhere to ethical expectations of the field in personal and professional interaction
• Communicate professionally in the field of psychology
• Critically evaluate cultural humility and compassion in communication, assessment, and interventions in the field of behavior analysis Review the Capella career exploration guide to learn more about this program and career paths to explore.

Review the Capella career exploration guide to learn more about this program and career opportunities.

Tuition and learning format

How much does the phd in behavior analysis cost.

The total cost of your degree will depend on academic performance, transfer credits, scholarships and other factors. See GuidedPath cost information below.

A structured learning format with an active peer community and faculty guidance. We’ll set the schedule, you meet the deadlines.

• Based on the quarter system; 1-3 courses per 10-week quarter
• 1 semester credit = 1.5 quarter credits
• Weekly assignments and courseroom discussions
• Pay for what you take, price varies by courseload or term

$555  per credit,  78  coursework credits, 15 max transfer credits

Learn more about GuidedPath »

Tuition breakdown

Program phases.

$555 Per quarter credit

78 coursework credits

Per quarter credit

$2,780 Per quarter

Per quarter

Resource kit fee

$175 Per quarter

Coursework phase only; includes eBooks, textbooks, interactive media, software, course packs, articles, and other instructional materials

Application fee

$50 One-time fee

One-time fee

Tuition and program length are unique to you

Your total tuition and program length depend on a variety of factors:

• Academic performance
• Complexity of your dissertation
• Prior coursework 
• Scholarships and finances
• Unexpected life events
• Employer and/or military benefits

About cost scenarios

The cost scenarios below are examples based on general program pricing and 2023–24 Capella tuition rates, and assume the average number of transfer credits a student brings into the program. Pacing information is current as of January 1, 2023. These rates are the same nationwide and may change depending on factors affecting program length and price. You are responsible for paying your own travel costs related to residencies, including plane, hotel, and food expenses.

To discuss whether the specialization you’re interested in has additional factors that may affect program cost and length, contact a Capella enrollment counselor.

Cost Scenarios

*Eligibility rules apply. Connect with us for details.

Get the details

Connect with an enrollment counselor to further discuss the cost of the program and explore your eligibility for scholarships and discounts.

Scholarships and savings

Are there scholarships available for doctoral degrees.

Your education is an investment in your future that’s within your reach. There are  more ways to save  than you might think.

$20K toward your doctorate

Apply for a $20K scholarship Capella Progress Reward, a scholarship to help fund your doctoral degree. Apply now

Employer & association discounts

If your employer or organization is a Capella network partner, you may be eligible for a discount. Ask your employer what offers are available.

10% military discount

If you’re an active-duty military service member, spouse, dependent, or veteran, you may be eligible for discounts on tuition at Capella. Get Details

Accredited and recognized

Capella is accredited by the higher learning commission..

Accreditation and recognitions provide assurance that we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability. See all our  accreditations  and  recognitions .

How to apply

Applicants must provide the following information for  admission  to Capella programs and specializations:

• A master’s degree from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or from an internationally recognized institution
•  Your official master’s transcripts, with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale
• A valid, government-issued form of photo identification
• Current BCBA certification
• Goal Statement with rationale for seeking a doctoral degree and research interests
• 2 letters of recommendation completed by professionals who can assess your aptitude for doctoral education in Behavior Analysis
• Your resume or curriculum vitae (CV)

GRE and GMAT are not required for admission.

International Student Requirements

If you completed your most recent academic coursework, degree, or credential at an institution outside the United States, regardless of your citizenship or where you currently live, you are considered an international applicant.

In addition to the above admission requirements, you will need to submit these materials:

• Minimum score on acceptable test for proof of English proficiency
• Transcript evaluation

Learn more about  international student admissions .

Faculty and support

What support does capella offer online students.

Our programs are designed to meet the unique needs of doctoral students. We’ve structured the experience in manageable pieces that build on one another to help you earn your doctorate. You’ll have support from faculty, staff, and online resources along the way.

Doctoral faculty

Work with faculty members who have years of experience and specialize in their areas of expertise throughout each phase of your program, including literature review and implementation planning.

Enrollment counselors

These experts will set you up for success. They’ll help you find the right degree program and answer all your questions about Capella.

Academic coaches

Through quarterly appointments and as-needed counseling sessions, these specialists introduce you to Capella and help you tailor your program to your personal goals and experiences.

Articles and resources

Expand your perspective on academic and career topics with articles and resources from Capella University.

What is the study of human behavior?

The study of human behavior centers on the relationship between individuals and groups.

Kids Won’t Eat Dinner? Capella University Faculty Member Invents a Fun Fix

Anesa Doyle used ABA principles to invent a product to encourage kids to eat.

What’s it like to be a doctoral student?

What does it take to earn a doctoral degree? Learn more about the experience and explore each step of the journey.

Career exploration

What can you do with a phd in behavior analysis degree.

Your education can help you reach your personal and professional goals. Here are some of the jobs and employment settings to consider with a PhD in Behavior Analysis.

Related job titles to explore*

• ABA program manager
• ABA supervisor
• Applied behavior analyst
• Assistant/associate/full professor
• Behavior consultant
• Behavior intervention specialist
• Behavior specialist
• Behaviorist
• Center director
• Program director

Employment settings to explore

• Colleges, universities and professional schools
• Elementary and secondary schools
• Residential intellectual and developmental disability facilities
• Services for the elderly and persons with disabilities
• Other individual and family services

*These are examples intended to serve as a general guide. Some positions may prefer or even require previous experience, licensure, certifications, and/or other designations along with a degree. Because many factors determine what position an individual may attain, Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific job title, a promotion, salary increase, or other career outcome. We encourage you to research requirements for your job target and career goals.

**Educational and professional requirements for faculty positions vary widely by employer. Understanding your target employers’ particular requirements is key in deciding on a doctoral program.

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Hand-Picked Top-Read Stories

Why you should or shouldn’t get a phd, what is self-plagiarism and how can you avoid it, what’s the difference between a dissertation and a thesis, trending tags, best online applied behavior analysis (aba) phd programs, table of contents hide, increasing your professional expertise, widening your carrer choices, research opportunities, meeting experts in the field, personal fulfillment, behavior analyst, program director, clinical supervisor, research and development specialist, administrator, online or blended learning, rigorous coursework, technical and methodical know-how, experienced instructors, financial aid and student support, accreditation and academic standards, recognition and affiliations, the chicago school of professional psychology, simmons university, endicott college, capella university, cambridge college, getting your ph.d. in applied behavior analysis online.

A Ph.D. in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) can benefit professionals who want to advance their careers in academia, research, or clinical practice. Overall, this degree allows you to build a highly rewarding career that can help people live healthier and happier lives.

If you’ve decided to get a PhD in applied behavioral analysis but don’t have the opportunity to dedicate your entire time to your studies, you may want to consider getting the degree online.

An online ABA PhD can give you a chance to make new career choices without giving up on your work and family commitments. You can use this opportunity to set your own studying pace and achieve your education goals from the comfort of your own home.

Why Get an Online Doctor of Philosophy in Applied Behavior Analysis

Obtaining an online doctoral degree in applied behavior analysis can be a transformative step toward achieving your professional and career goals. This advanced degree not only deepens your knowledge in the field but also opens up a world of opportunities for career advancement. Here is why you should consider a Ph.D. in Applied Behavior Analysis

Online doctoral programs in applied behavior analysis allow you to develop a deep understanding of the principles and practices within the field. By following the rigorous program and joining practical experiences, you will gain in-depth knowledge of:

• Behavior analysis theories
• Research methodologies
• Evidence-based interventions

This type of knowledge and related skills will position you as an expert in the field. With the degree, you will be able to make significant contributions to research, practice, and therapy development.

A Ph.D. in applied behavior analysis can significantly enhance your career prospects and open doors to advanced leadership positions in new settings.

With this degree, you can pursue roles such as:

• Behavior analyst
• Program director
• And many more

The demand for professionals with expertise in applied behavior analysis is growing across many sectors. They include education, healthcare, human services, and business. Having a Ph.D. in ABA sets you apart from the competition in the field because it demonstrates your commitment to excellence and your ability to contribute to innovations.

Pursuing an online doctor of philosophy degree in applied behavior analysis provides opportunities for engaging in original research and making meaningful contributions to the healthcare industry.

Conducting research allows you to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deeper understanding of the complexities of behavior analysis. Meanwhile, your research findings can influence the field and pave the way for improvements in practice.

Engaging in an online doctorate program in applied behavior analysis provides opportunities to collaborate with experts from the healthcare industry and professionals who specialize in applied behavior analysis.

Even though the studies are arranged online, you can still meet colleagues, fellow students, and mentors who can contribute to your professional growth. You may be able to attend networking events, conferences, and group meetings remotely. Some programs arrange offline events for their online students as well.

Pursuing a Ph.D. in ABA is not only about professional growth. It also contributes to personal fulfillment. It allows you to delve deeper into a field you are passionate about and help develop methods that make a positive impact on the community.

The pursuit of knowledge, the challenges of research, and the impact you can make on the lives of others can be highly rewarding.

Career Opportunities After Getting an Online PhD in ABA

Earning an online PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis opens many rewarding career opportunities. This degree allows you to explore multiple positions in many industries, not just healthcare. Some of the career options you could consider after earning the degree include:

With a best online PhD in ABA, you can work as a behavior analyst. Your responsibilities would include designing and implementing behavior intervention plans to address behavioral challenges in individuals across diverse settings.

This role involves:

• Conducting assessments
• Developing treatment strategies
• Monitoring behavioral progress

Behavior analysts can work in schools, clinics, hospitals, residential facilities, and community organizations.

Many organizations require the expertise of behavior analysts to develop and implement behavior management programs. As a consultant, you can work with schools, businesses, healthcare facilities, and government agencies. Your responsibility could include guidance, training, and support in implementing evidence-based practices.

Behavior consultants often collaborate with teams to address complex behavioral issues to create positive environments.

A Ph.D. in ABA prepares you for a career in research so you can contribute to the advancement of the field.

As a researcher, you may work in academic institutions, research organizations, or government agencies. Your responsibilities would include conducting studies, analyzing data, and publishing findings. Your research can contribute to evidence-based practices, policy development, and the overall understanding of human behavior.

The best online doctor of applied behavior analysis opens up many opportunities for building a career in academia. You may be able to pursue a career as a professor or instructor.

In this role, you can teach applied behavior analysis courses at the undergraduate or graduate level and mentor students. As a professor, you have the opportunity to shape the future generation of behavior analysts.

A leadership position as a program director allows you to oversee and manage applied behavior analysis programs in various settings. This role involves:

• Program development
• Staff supervision
• Quality assurance
• Ensuring compliance with ethical and professional standards.

Program directors often work in schools, clinics, or agencies that offer ABA services.

Clinical supervisors work to ensure the quality and effectiveness of applied behavior analysis services. As a clinical supervisor, you provide guidance and support to behavior analysts and other professionals working directly with individuals with behavioral challenges.

This role involves monitoring progress, providing feedback, and promoting professional development.

After getting a Ph.D. in applied behavior analysis online, you can work as a research and development specialist. You would be collaborating with organizations to develop and evaluate new approaches.

• Conducting research studies
• Analyzing data
• Providing recommendations for evidence-based practices

Research and development specialists contribute to the innovation and advancement of behavior analysis.

A Ph.D. in ABA can also help you secure administrative or managerial positions within organizations providing applied behavior analysis services. As an administrator or manager, you can:

• Oversee operations
• Supervise staff
• Manage budgets,
• Ensure the delivery of high-quality services

This role requires strong leadership and organizational skills.

What to Look for in a Best Online PhD Program in ABA

When choosing the best doctoral program in behavior analysis online, you need to review several important factors. They include:

Look for a program that offers online graduate or hybrid options, catering to the needs of adult learners or applied behavior analysis professionals. Keep in mind that even if the school provides 100% online learning programs, they may still need you to come to the campus several times a year. Make sure to check this before making a decision and assess your ability to travel.

Opt for a program that offers a rigorous online format or hybrid coursework that’s comparable to traditional on-campus programs. The curriculum should cover the latest techniques, processes, concepts, and applications in the field of applied behavior analysis.

Find out if the coursework is up-to-date with advancements in the discipline so it can prepare you to apply evidence-based practices in real-world settings.

A comprehensive online Ph.D. program in applied behavior analysis should not only focus on theoretical knowledge but also emphasize the development of technical and methodical skills required for efficient research-based practice.

Look for a program that provides opportunities to enhance your research capabilities and equips you with the necessary tools for success in different settings.

Find out if the program features seasoned instructors who hold terminal degrees in Applied Behavior Analysis. Experienced faculty members bring a wealth of knowledge and practical insights to the learning experience. Their guidance can significantly enhance your understanding of ABA principles and their real-world applications.

If you need financial aid, consider programs that offer financial support options to assist with tuition costs.

Look for institutions that provide robust student support services, such as academic advising, career counseling, and networking opportunities. These resources can contribute to your overall success and help you navigate your academic journey.

Verify that the online Ph.D. in ABA program meets all necessary accreditation requirements and maintains high academic standards.

Graduating from an accredited program enhances your professional credibility and enables you to practice ABA accordingly.

Look for programs that are recognized by or affiliated with organizations that promote Applied Behavior Analysis as a degree program and career track. Affiliations with professional associations demonstrate the program’s commitment to upholding industry standards and staying connected to the broader applied behavior analysis community.

Top Programs for Earning a Ph.D. in ABA Online

These universities offering online doctorate degrees provide programs in Applied Behavior Analytics, available in online or hybrid formats, enabling you to earn your Ph.D. Each of these schools can become an excellent solution for achieving your education goals.

The Chicago School offers an online excellent opportunity to get a  Ph.D. in ABA . This program is 100% remote. Depending on your study pace, you can complete it in three to four years.

While in this program, you will learn the evidence-based approach to clinical practice. You will study philosophy, science, and application of behavior analysis through theory and practice.

The program requires:

• Master’s degree from an accredited university
• GPA of 3.0 or higher
• Resume or CV
• Three letters of recommendation
• Current BCBA or eligibility

The school is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

Simmons University has a comprehensive program to help you get a  Ph.D. in Behavior Analysis online . The program consists of live online classes as well as multiple collaboration opportunities for students from all states.

While in this program, you will get an opportunity to conduct and publish research with the assistance of the faculty. Examples of research areas are induced behavior, behavioral medicine, and analysis of verbal behavior.

Admissions requirements include:

One of two criteria:

• Licensed and/or certified in the country where you clinically practice
• Two years of experience in a defined practice area (please visit the university’s website for more details)

The school is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (formerly the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc.).

Endicott College has an  online doctoral program  for students who want to get a Ph.D. in applied behavior analysis. You can complete this 60-credit program in three years. The format is synchronous.

While in the program, you will learn how to objectively define and measure the behavior by using scientific methods, such as description, analysis, and qualification.

Admissions requirements:

• Master’s degree from an accredited college or university
• Official transcripts from all institutions
• Admissions interview

The school is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).

Capella University has a strong program that allows you to get a Ph.D. in Behavior Analysis. In this online program, you will have such courses as behaviorism, experimental analysis of behavior, education and teaching in applied behavior analysis, and others.

Once you complete the program, you will be eligible to apply for the Board-Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral designation on your BCBA credential.

• Current BCBA certification
• Two letters of recommendation
• Goal statement

The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Cambridge College has a  robust program  to help you get a Ph.D. in Applied Behavior Analysis with Specialization in Autism Intervention. This program will prepare you for leadership positions in companies that offer ABA services to underserved populations. You will deepen your clinical skills while conducting valuable research and applying it in the clinical setting.

For admission requirements, please contact the admissions committee at 1-800-829-4723 or [email protected].

The school is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

A Ph.D. in ABA is a big step toward improving your career and getting a chance to contribute to the field. By choosing an online program that suits your requirements, you can complete your Ph.D. in just three to four years while working and studying from the comfort of your own home.

If a Ph.D. in applied behavior analysis is something you are passionate about, it’s time to explore multiple options.

PHD in Economics, Associate Professor, Department of Business Process Management, Faculty of Market Technologies IOM

Home / Discover Psychology Degrees / Online Applied Behavior Analysis Programs / Online Ph.D. and PsyD in Applied Behavior Analysis Degree Programs

Online Ph.D. and PsyD in Applied Behavior Analysis Degree Programs

What will i learn in an online applied behavior analysis doctorate program, what to look for in an online applied behavior analysis doctorate program, admissions requirements for a doctorate in applied behavior analysis, list of applied behavior analysis doctorate degree programs.

There are several higher-level occupations that require a doctorate degree in applied behavior analysis. An applied behavior analyst (ABA) needs to have this advanced degree to be employable.

To become a board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA), you need to earn a doctorate degree in applied behavior analysis. This is a career that puts you in line with teachers, social workers, therapists, and administrative positions.

As you prepare for a job as an ABA or BCBA, there are certain steps you need to follow. Here is what you will learn and how to be admitted into an applicable online program.

To earn an applied behavior analysis and doctorate degree takes approximately three years, following the requirement of a master’s degree. The program is typically 60 credits with fully or partially online curriculum options available.

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology is one example of an online PhD in applied behavioral analysis program. Some of the courses available are:

• Critical analysis of research using verbal behavior
• Experimental analysis of behavior
• Supervision in ABA
• Private consulting
• Teaching and academics
• Behaviorism and the philosophy of science
• Research and social statistics

Other courses that are taught across the board for this subject include professionalism and ethics. In addition, if a student wants to pursue an ABA certificate for applied behavior analysis, they need to earn a master’s degree in this subject area while earning a doctorate degree.

Internships are another important part of the applied behavior analysis program. This is in relation to the application of behavior analysis tools and information. In order to be able to apply behavior analysis in the field, students are trained to use this information applicably.

This may also be referred to as an immersion program rather than an internship. Also, students in a doctoral program for applied behavioral analysis will have to complete a doctoral dissertation.

When considering online doctorate programs, it’s important to consider what options are available for internships and immersion programs. Usually, accommodations are made in the form of local internships for each individual student participating in the program.

When exploring online doctorate programs in applied behavior analysis (ABA), it is important to consider certain key factors. Accreditation should be a top priority, as it ensures that the program meets rigorous standards of quality and legitimacy. Look for programs accredited by recognized accrediting bodies in the field of psychology or ABA. The curriculum should be comprehensive and aligned with the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) requirements, covering core areas of ABA, such as behavior assessment, intervention strategies, research methodology, ethics, and supervision. It is essential to evaluate the qualifications and expertise of the faculty members, ensuring they possess extensive experience and knowledge in applied behavior analysis.

Research opportunities and resources, including access to ABA journals, databases, and research labs, are invaluable for doctoral students to stay abreast of the latest developments in the field. Flexibility in scheduling and interactive online platforms that foster collaborative discussions and provide support services are important considerations. Lastly, practical training experiences, such as supervised internships or practicum placements, can greatly enhance the application of ABA principles in real-world settings. By carefully considering these factors, prospective students can make an informed decision when selecting an online doctorate program in applied behavior analysis (Ph.D. or PsyD).

In order to earn a doctorate in behavior analysis online, you must first be accepted into a program or school. The general process for admissions requirements involves submitting transcripts and work history, as well as proof of relative experience to behavioral analysis.

• Have a master’s degree in a related subject, like special education or psychology or in applied behavior analysis
• Be ready to publish scientific research articles in journals
• Have some internship experience in applicable work history
• Writing sample
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal statement
• Interview with advisors
• 3.5 GPA or higher

The typical doctorate program for applied behavior analysis is difficult to get into. This is due to the specialization of the field and the fact that there are a limited number of slots for students at each school every year. Therefore, you want to exceed expectations when providing all possible forms of information regarding your application when you submit it to the school.

In addition, if you are planning on working with medical patients or neurological clients, such as autistic people, which is the job of an ABA, you will be required to have a health screening. You will also be required to obtain medical insurance before you can work with individuals in an internship setting.

Looking for an online or campus-based applied behavior analysis Ph.D. or PsyD degree program near you? Browse our state-by-state school listings below.

Jump to Your State Listings

University of colorado denver/anschutz medical campus.

• PhD in Health & Behavioral Sciences Campus

Florida Institute of Technology-Online

• Ph.D. in Behavior Analysis Campus

Emory University

• PhD in Psychology-Behavioral and Systems Neuroscience Campus

University of Georgia

• Behavioral and Brain Sciences Doctoral Program Campus

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology at Chicago

• Ph.D. in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program Campus

Western Michigan University

• Doctor of Philosophy in Behavior Analysis Campus

Capella University

• Doctor of Philosophy in Behavior Analysis Online
• Doctor of Philosophy in Advanced Studies in Human Behavior Online

Saint Cloud State University

• Applied Behavior Analysis Campus

University of Nevada-Reno

• Behavior Analysis Ph.D. Campus

Columbia University in the City of New York

• Ph.D. Program in Teaching as Applied Behavior Analysis Campus

North Carolina

University of north carolina wilmington.

• PhD Concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis Campus

North Dakota

University of north dakota.

• General Experimental Psychology Ph.D. Campus

Rhode Island

University of rhode island.

• Behavioral Science Ph.D. Program Campus

South Carolina

University of south carolina-columbia.

• Behavioral-Biomedical Interface Program Campus

The University of Texas at Austin

• Perception, Brain and Behavior Campus

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.

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Applied Behavior Analysis (Ph.D.)

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Become a leader in the field of applied behavior analysis (ABA).

Ph.d. in applied behavior analysis (60 credits).

The Doctor of Philosophy in Applied Behavior Analysis is a research-based program preparing you to teach at the university level or work as a scientist-practitioner involving business/industry, developmental disabilities (including autism), education, and public policy.

Applied behavior analysis is devoted to the understanding and improvement of human behavior by:

• Objectively defining and measuring the behavior under question, while
• Demonstrating a reliable relationship between the procedures employed and the behavioral improvements gained, by
• Utilizing methods of science, including description, quantification, and analysis.

Program Features:

• Program can be completed in as little as three years
• Cohorts begin each September
• No residency requirement
• Offered as a synchronous online model
• 60 semester hours • 30 hours of coursework • 30 hours of research and clinical immersion
• Expert faculty

Doctoral Admission Requirements

Register for an Info Session

Curriculum Requirements - Total Credits Required: 60

Core courses - 24 credits.

• ABA 701 - The History of Behavior Analysis (Cr: 3)
• ABA 705 - Behaviorism and Philosophy of Science (Cr: 3)
• ABA 710 - Conditioning and Learning (Cr: 3)
• ABA 715 - Verbal Behavior and the Science of Human Behavior (Cr: 3)
• ABA 720 - Professional and Ethical Issues in Behavior Analysis (Cr: 3)
• ABA 730 - Research Methods and Applied Behavior Analysis (Cr: 3)
• ABA 745 - Experimental Design & Analysis (Cr: 3)
• ABA 760 - Technology of Teaching Seminar (Cr: 3)

Electives - 6 credits

• ABA 735 - Advanced Seminar in ABA Research (Cr: 3)
• ABA 751 - Research in Social Skills Training (Cr: 3)
• ABA 754 - Behavioral Research on Complex Skill Acquisition (Cr: 3)
• ABA 758 - Bridging the Gap: The Scientist-Practitioner Model (Cr: 3)
• ABA 761 - Topical Seminar (Cr: 3) Multiple topics are available

Immersion Experiences - 9 credits

• ABA 762 - Clinical Immersion (Cr: 3)
• ABA 765 - Research Immersion Practicum I (Cr: 3)
• ABA 766 - Research Immersion Practicum II (Cr: 3)

Additional Requirements - 21 credits

• ABA 855 - College Teaching Practicum (Cr: 0)
• ABA 865 - Research Tool Demonstration (Cr: 3)
• ABA 870 - Research Project (Cr: 3)
• ABA 886 - Qualifying Examinations (Cr: 3)
• ABA 891 - Doctoral Dissertation I (Cr: 6)
• ABA 893 - Doctoral Dissertation II (Cr: 6)

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the program, students will:

• Organizes the knowledge, principles, and skills of Applied Behavior Analysis in the conduct of problem- oriented research
• Formulate research questions that are in keeping with a problem-oriented model
• Design problem-oriented research projects to provide evidence-based solutions to socially significant problems
• Demonstrate skill in planning curriculum and instruction, delivering effective instruction, managing classroom climate, promoting equality and meeting professional standards
• Analyze and compare previous research solutions to topics within the scope of Applied Behavior Analysis

2024 Best Online PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis

If you’re looking to take the next step in your career as a behaviorist, you might want to consider a PhD in applied behavior analysis.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Not only can it help prepare you for the rigors of science, independent research , or teaching, but it can also help you bolster your qualifications to enter an often lucrative but highly competitive field.

Universities Offering Online Doctorate in Applied Behavior Analysis Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

Arizona State University

Arizona State University offers an online Doctor of Behavioral Health to interested graduate students . There are three main foundational pillars of this program including medical literacy, entrepreneurship, and integrated behavioral interventions. The goal is to provide clinicians with the most comprehensive training on working in today’s primary career environments.

• Doctor of Behavioral Health

Arizona State University  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges.

Capella University

Graduate students at Capella University can earn their Ph.D. in Psychology with a concentration in applied behavior analysis. The program requires 104 total quarter credits for completion, and these credits include seven core courses, six specialization courses, three electives, and three dissertation seminars. Students can transfer a total of 25 credits.

• PhD in Psychology – Behavior Psychology

Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Endicott College

The Ph.D. in Applied Behavior Analysis program at Endicott College is a research-based program that aims to prepare graduate students for advanced clinical and practitioner work or university-level teaching careers.

Courses are designed to teach students to objectively define and measure behavior, cultivate reliable relationships with patients, and utilize methods of science in treatment.

Endicott College  is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

Students enrolled full-time in The Chicago School of Professional Psychology’s Ph.D. in Applied Behavior Analysis program can expect to graduate in three to five years depending on prior educational achievement. Sample courses include critical analysis of research in verbal behavior, supervision, consulting, and experimental analysis of behavior.

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.

University of Nevada – Reno

The University of Nevada – Reno offers an online Ph.D. in Behavior Analysis through its Department of Psychology. Graduate students receive supervised instruction and hands-on experience in many different fields such as basic research in animal behavior, basic and applied research in human behavior, and the philosophies of behaviorism.

• PhD in Behavior Analysis

The  University of Nevada – Reno  is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

University of Washington

Students interested in behavior analysis at the University of Washington can enroll in the special education doctoral program with a concentration in applied behavior analysis.

Students have opportunities to complete rigorous coursework, conduct behavioral research alongside distinguished researchers, supervise future students, and collaborate with special education educators. Financial aid options may be available.

• Doctorate in Special Education – Applied Behavior Analysis

The  University of Washington  is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Walden University

Walden University’s Doctor of Psychology in Behavioral Health Leadership program helps students develop firm, sophisticated knowledge bases while also building their practical experience and cultivating their management skills.

Students can choose from six specializations and are expected to take part in numerous interactive case studies. Up to 40 credits may be transferred.

• PsyD in Behavioral Health Leadership

Walden is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis Programs

Applied behavior analysis (ABA), sometimes called behavioral engineering, is a specialization within the field of behavioral therapy. It looks at scientific and research-based methods for identifying, cataloguing, and correcting various types of behavior.

You might be most familiar with ABA in the context of autism treatment, but ABA specialists can seek employment in a variety of fields.

Common careers in applied behavioral analysis include:

• Psychologist
• Behavioral analyst
• Medical scientist
• Health services manager
• Researcher or university professor

While the specifics will depend on your college’s unique ABA program, topics covered in your coursework will usually include things like psychology, research methodology, special education, and leadership.

A doctorate is the highest degree that you can receive for applied behavioral analysis, but there are a few professional certifications that you can pursue after graduation.

The most well-known is the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification issued by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board . There’s also the Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) and the Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) certifications.

To qualify for the BCBA, you’ll need to have a master’s degree or doctoral degree from an accredited university.

Some schools offer a special program that has been accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) specifically for BCBA certification, and allows students to skip some of the usual requirements of certification.

Something to note about applied behavior analysis PhD programs is that many of them have face-to-face requirements.

Even if you’re enrolled in online degree programs , you might be expected to fulfill things like clinical hours in a real-world setting. You’ll have to make arrangements with your school to satisfy these requirements locally.

Applied Behavior Analysis Careers & Salaries

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , psychologists make a median salary of $82,180 per year. Their typical salary range is $46,270 to $137,590 per year. The highest-paying jobs for psychologists are in hospitals, schools, government agencies, and ambulatory healthcare services.

Here are a few common career paths for ABA students, as well as their median salaries:

The Bureau of Labor Statistics doesn’t have specific wage information for the field of ABA, so that’s something to keep in mind as you’re comparing and contrasting salaries.

For the most accurate assessment of what you might make after obtaining a PhD in behavioral therapy, look at specific jobs in your area that are held by people with the same level of education as you.

Choosing a PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis Degree

There are several things to consider before enrolling in applied behavior analysis programs .

• Accreditation. Is the university accredited? Is the program accredited? The latter is particularly important if you want something that meets BCBA certification requirements.
• Admission requirements. Some schools will want you to have a background in psychology or behavioral therapy. Others might ask for a certain number of master’s degree courses or for you to retake master’s degree courses at their own institution.
• Concentration areas. While ABA is already a specialized field, there are some programs that narrow their focus even further into areas like education, behavioral research , data analysis, and technology.
• Online accessibility. It’s hard to find an ABA program that’s entirely offered through online degree programs . Most will be blended or hybrid programs that outsource the necessary fieldwork components to local organizations.

However, you can still look for programs with a high ratio of online classes. Since ABA programs can be highly competitive, it’s best to start applying early. This will give you time to apply to other schools if your first options don’t pan out.

PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis Curriculum & Courses

Every degree program is different. However, since graduate-level ABA programs are often developed to follow the certification guidelines for the BCBA, there’s some uniformity in their subjects.

Here are some of the courses you may encounter in your ABA program:

• Concepts and Principles of Behavior Analysis: This introductory course is designed to give you the framework that you’ll need to understand the tools, technologies, methods, and code words of the ABA field.
• Research Methods: As a PhD student, your degree will likely involve ample amounts of independent research , and it can help to take preparatory courses to understand what’s expected of you at this level of your education.
• Behavioral Disorders: This is a broad-ranging course that can help prepare you for the realities of working with people with autism, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and other behavioral conditions.
• Special Education: Aimed at future educators, these classes can cover everything from disability laws to the emotional and psychological analysis of special needs behavior.
• Experimental Design: Experimental design is a necessary skill for studies and clinical trials. You’ll often find these classes listed within specialties like Experimental Design in Education.
• Data Analysis: Some ABA careers involve working with large volumes of data, and these courses can teach you how to find, track, analyze, and organize it into things like databases and statistical models.
• Supervision, Management, and Consultation: Focused on leadership, these classes are often part of degree programs that lead to BCBA certification.
• Ethical and Professional Conduct: Often a required class in ABA PhD programs, it is designed to teach the codes of conduct that you’ll be expected to uphold once you start your professional career.
• Special Topics in Behavioral Therapy: This is an ever-changing course that revolves around current, contemporary issues and trends within the ABA community.
• Fieldwork: Most applied behavior analysis programs require fieldwork, a condition of obtaining BCBA certification, in the form of practicums, internships, clinical rotations, or supervised classroom hours.

For more information on things like BCBA requirements, check out the Behavior Analyst Certification Board website. They have extensive breakdowns of what you’ll need before applying, including credits, courses, and fieldwork hours.

Admissions Requirements

What does it take to get into a PhD program for applied behavior analysis? Every school’s requirements are different, but there are a few general criteria that you can expect to see for many programs.

• Test scores. While a growing number of schools are going “test-optional” with the GMAT and GRE, it’s still a requirement for some institutions.
• Relevant classwork or fieldwork. Some ABA programs are only open to students with a demonstrated interest in the subject. This might take the form of classes, fieldwork hours, or total credit hours.
• Resume or CV. This is the place to list your accomplishments in the field. You might include original research, published papers, or nonprofit programs that you’ve started or contributed to in some way.
• Statement of purpose. A place to explain why you want a PhD in applied behavior analysis, and to explain your goals and purposes in applying.

Depending on the school, you might also need things like transcripts, interviews, writing samples, letters of recommendation, or credit hour assessments.

Accreditation

Accreditation can be especially crucial when you’re seeking a PhD in ABA. For starters, credits may not be transferable unless they were earned at an accredited university.

Since behavioral therapy programs can require anywhere from 3-5 years to finish, there’s always a possibility of rotating or changing schools while in the process of getting your degree. Transferable credits will be essential if you do.

BCBA eligibility requirements include a master’s degree or doctorate degree from an accredited university, and if you attend a school accredited by their organization, all of the necessary coursework and fieldwork will be built into the program. Continuing professional development is also usually required after entering the profession.

If you want to know whether a potential school is accredited, use the search engine at the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) website.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Financial aid is available for qualified PhD students. There are even some opportunities for fully-funded PhD programs. In some cases, the school will pay for your tuition and textbooks, and also provide you with a stipend. In exchange, you’ll participate in internships or assistantships.

Another option is filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) . While you won’t qualify for the same FAFSA loans and grants as undergraduate students, you might be eligible for exclusive, doctorate-level assistance in the form of the Direct PLUS Loan for Graduate or Professional Students.

Lastly, you can look around for scholarships and employer programs that will pay for some or all of your schooling. While these aren’t always advertised by colleges, you may be able to find some you qualify for through your own research.

What Can You Do With a PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis?

You can pursue many different careers with a PhD in this field. Jobs are available in schools, hospitals, government agencies, mental health agencies, and a variety of social service programs.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the occupational growth rate for psychologists is projected at 3%. This translates to thousands of new jobs being added to the market every year, so it’s a good time to invest in a degree.

How Much Does a PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis Program Cost?

The cost of your PhD can depend on several different factors, including the length of your program and the number of credits or fieldwork hours required.

The per credit hour cost can vary widely by university, but you can likely expect to pay between $600 and $1,500 per credit hour. Financial aid or scholarships may help to offset these costs.

How Long Does it Take to Get a PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis?

PhD programs usually take between 3 and 5 years to complete. However, accelerated or dual degree programs may be completed more quickly, and it may take longer if you are attending as a part-time student.

It’s common for ABA doctorate programs to offer both a post-bachelor’s option and a post-master’s option. The post-bachelor’s option usually takes around 5 years to complete—2 years for your master’s degree and 3 years for your PhD.

How Much Does a PhD BCBA Make?

The median salaries for many of the careers open to those with a PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis are available from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, but keep in mind that those with PhDs often make more than the median salary.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual median salary for psychologists is $82,180 per year, and the top earners in the field can take home as much as $137,590 per year.

How Do You Become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)?

If you are interested in pursuing a BCBA doctoral program online, there are four different pathways to getting your certification. The first requires enrollment in a PhD program that’s been accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI).

The second allows you to be enrolled in any accredited university, but you’ll need to prove that you meet the same coursework and fieldwork requirements that are built into an ABAI-approved program.

The third and fourth options are for teachers and other professionals who have graduate degrees with a high number of fieldwork hours. In addition to meeting these prerequisites, you’ll also need to submit an application and sit for a qualifying exam. You may need to commit to professional development as well so that you care always current on new knowledge discovered in the field. 

Is a PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis Worth it?

Yes, a doctorate in applied behavior analysis is worth it for many graduate students . The Bureau of Labor Statistics is projecting 5% job growth in life, physical, and social science occupations over the next 10 years.

Common ABA careers in this field include psychologist, therapist, behavioral analyst, researcher, university professor, and health services coordinator.

Getting Your PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis Degree Online

Maybe you’re a first-year college student already thinking about the future. Maybe you’re a practicing professional who wants to take the next step towards a higher-paying or more advanced job.

Whatever your reasons for considering an applied behavior analysis degree, it may be a very rewarding choice, especially if you combine your education with a certification program.

If you have been researching what you can do with a masters in applied behavior analysis , consider reaching out to universities about their doctorate-level ABA programs. There are many opportunities that are worth exploring.

Top 15 PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis

Earning a PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis can prepare students for careers in academia, research, or clinical practice. ABA professionals may work with children with disabilities and their families, teach at the university level, or conduct independent research. The PhD is considered a terminal degree in the field. Admission to ABA PhD programs is highly selective and competitive. Programs feature:

• advanced coursework in ABA
• research opportunities
• the opportunity to publish and present manuscripts

Admission criteria varies by program, but some programs are open to students with only a bachelor’s degree.  Others may require students to have a master’s in ABA and experience working with individuals with disabilities. Some programs are offered online, but most are traditional brick and mortar programs. We considered both types when creating this ranking of the top 15 PhD in applied behavior analysis.

We created this ranking of the best PhD behavior analysis programs to showcase some of the top degrees in the country. We looked to the National Center for Education Statistics to find schools offering graduate level programs in ABA. We narrowed our focus to schools offering a PhD. We then awarded points based on factors like student/faculty ratio, average graduate tuition rate and whether they were ABAI accredited. We felt ABAI accreditation was important since it is an indicator of a quality training program.

Featured Programs

Student/Faculty ratio:

• 12:1 or less- 3 points
• 13:1 to 19:1- 2 points
• 20:1 and above- 1 point

Average Graduate Tuition Rate:

• Less than $10,000- 3 points
• $10,000 to $15,000- 2 points
• Greater than $15,000- 1 point

Accreditation

• 2 points for ABAI accreditation

See Also:  Ethics in ABA: 7 Ethical Quandaries Faced by Applied Behavior Analysts

#15 – Marquette University – Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Applied behavior analysis phd program.

Website Student to Faculty Ratio : 13:1 Average Graduate Tuition : $21,690/year ABAI Accredited? No Points : 3 Marquette University features a full-time PhD in behavior analysis program that takes just two years to complete. Students complete intensive coursework and develop an area of specialization. Marquette ABA students train in the new Behavior Analysis Program Building. It includes clinic space for students to complete practicum training with clients from the community. World-renowned faculty serve as research mentors. They provide guidance and assistance to help students reach their professional goals. Students will learn how to implement state-of-the-art behavioral analytic assessments and interventions, becoming leaders and innovators in their field.

See Also: 10 Symptoms of High-Functioning Autism

#14 – The Chicago School of Professional Psychology – Chicago, Illinois

Online master’s degree in educational psychology.

Website Student to Faculty Ratio : 4:1 Average Graduate Tuition : $22,212/year ABAI Accredited? No Points : 4 The Chicago School of Professional Psychology features a top full-time online PhD in ABA. It’s a great choice for working professionals. Courses are taught by practitioner faculty who expose students to a variety of ABA applications and specializations. Course offerings include:

• Supervision and Consulting in ABA
• Critical Analysis of Research in Verbal Behavior
• Experimental Analysis of Behavior

Capstone offerings include either a thesis or an Advanced Applied Project. All students are required to complete a dissertation. Students who complete their master’s during the five-year PhD are able to pursue BCBA certification.

See Also: What is an RBT?

#13 – Simmons University – Boston, Massachusetts

Phd program in behavior analysis.

Website Student to Faculty Ratio : 9:1 Average Graduate Tuition : $21,528/year ABAI Accredited? No Points : 4 The top online PhD in Behavior Analysis at Simmons University is a 48 credit-hour program. It’s for analysts who want to make significant contributions to the science and practice of ABA. The live, online format allows students to engage with peers and faculty from across the country. Students participate in ongoing lab meetings of faculty, becoming immersed in their research. Research opportunities are available in a variety of areas including:

• conditioned reinforcement
• stimulus equivalence
• behavioral medicine

Graduates are prepared to work in:

• clinical intervention and management.

#12 – Endicott College – Beverly, Massachusetts

Website Student to Faculty Ratio : 13:1 Average Graduate Tuition : $12,666/year ABAI Accredited? No Points : 4 The School of Education at Endicott College offers a 60-credit hour PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis. This research-based program prepares students to work in academia or as a scientist-practitioner in a variety of settings. Courses are delivered in a convenient online format that’s ideal for working students. The synchronous online model allows students to interact with their peers and faculty from any location. Students complete 30 credit hours of coursework and 30 credits of research and clinical immersion experience. Admission to the program is competitive and applicants should have a master’s in ABA or the equivalent. New cohorts begin in the fall semester.

#11 – University of South Florida – Tampa, Florida

Website Student to Faculty Ratio : 22:1 Average Graduate Tuition : $8,350/year in-state and $19,048/year out-of-state ABAI Accredited? No Points : 4 The University of South Florida features a top value ABA PhD program focused on developing scientist-practitioners. Students work closely with dedicated, dynamic faculty and a cohort of talented students from around the globe. Research opportunities are available to help students gain breadth and depth in their area of interest. Courses were designed to meet ABAI accreditation requirements and give students perspectives that are helpful for ABA practitioners. Students will benefit from mentored and independent teaching experiences that prepare them for a future faculty position. All students complete a dissertation and present their research and state and national meetings.

#10 – Caldwell University – Caldwell, New Jersey

Website Student to Faculty Ratio : 13:1 Average Graduate Tuition : $17,910/year ABAI Accredited? Yes Points : 5 The top PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis at Caldwell University prepares students for high-level ABA employment in settings like:

• special education
• mental health

The 90-credit hour curriculum includes courses in:

• Professionalism for Behavior Analysts
• Advanced ABA
• Language and Social Skills for Individuals with Autism

Students can choose 10 elective courses to tailor the program to meet their professional goals. A thesis and dissertation are also required. Students must complete either an applied practicum or research practicum to complete the program.

#9 – Western Michigan University – Kalamazoo, Michigan

Phd in behavior analysis.

Website Student to Faculty Ratio : 18:1 Average Graduate Tuition : $16,360/year in-state and $30,432/year out-of-state ABAI Accredited? Yes Points : 5 Western Michigan University offers a well-rounded, ABAI accredited PhD in Behavior Analysis through the Department of Psychology. The program features primary specialty areas that include:

• developmental disabilities
• basic operant research with humans and non-humans
• behavioral pharmacology
• behavioral neuroscience
• behavioral gerontology

Students have access to research facilities that include non-human behavior labs and child and adult studies labs. The program follows a mentorship model that allows students to work closely with faculty members throughout their time in the program. Financial support is available. Students have the opportunity to apply for graduate assistantships and fellowships.

#8 – Florida Institute of Technology – Melbourne, Florida

Ph.d. in behavior analysis.

Website Student to Faculty Ratio : 20:1 Average Graduate Tuition : $16,128/year ABAI Accredited? Yes Points : 5 The innovative Behavior Analysis PhD from Florida Tech University is a great choice for students who want to become:

• behavior-analytic researchers
• practitioners

The program is accredited by the ABAI. The BACB has approved the course sequence and the Intensive Practical Training in Behavior Analysis needed to sit for the BCBA exam. Courses are taught by dedicated faculty who are committed to the field. Courses are offered at two different campuses during the daytime, evening, and weekend. Students gain real world experience by:

• participating in research
• leading training sessions for educators
• working with children and families at the Scott Center for Autism Treatment.

#7 – West Virginia University – Morgantown, West Virginia

Phd in psychology-behavior analysis.

Website Student to Faculty Ratio : 21:1 Average Graduate Tuition : $10,134/year in-state and $26,154/year out-of-state ABAI Accredited? Yes Points : 5 West Virginia University Department of Psychology offers a PhD in Psychology focused on behavior analysis. Students develop a strong foundation in:

• basic research
• applications of behavior principles

The curriculum includes research, coursework, and practica. The program includes the verified course sequence needed for graduates to become BCBAs. Students can conduct studies at the Intensive Autism Service Delivery Clinic through:

• the Center for Excellence in Disabilities
• in local public schools

Funding, including a nine-month stipend and tuition waiver, is provided for each student in the program.

#6 – Utah State University – Logan, Utah

Behavior analysis phd.

Website Student to Faculty Ratio : 19:1 Average Graduate Tuition : $6,184/year in-state and $21,575/year out-of-state ABAI Accredited? No Points : 5 The College of Education and Human Services at Utah State University offers a high-quality Behavior Analysis PhD. It’s focused on the variables influencing both human and nonhuman behavior. Students can choose from a PhD track with a specialization in behavior analysis or a PhD+BCBA track.

Students in the PhD track typically pursue careers in academic and research settings. They complete a dissertation project and take courses that align with their interests. Training emphasis is on the human and nonhuman experimental analysis of behavior.

PhD+BCBA students complete the ABAI verified course sequence and receive training in experimental and applied behavior analysis. Graduates work as scientist-practitioners in clinical and research settings. Tuition is fully covered, and students receive an assistantship with a monthly stipend.

#5 – Teachers College at Columbia University – New York, New York

Phd in applied behavior analysis.

Website Student to Faculty Ratio : 6:1 Average Graduate Tuition : $42,432/year ABAI Accredited? Yes Points : 6 The Teachers College, Columbia University features an ABAI accredited PhD in ABA emphasizing research-based instruction. Students will learn how to use scientific tools and instructional practices to help accelerate children’s educational progress. Research opportunities include areas like effective classroom practices and observational learning. New students are admitted during the summer and fall terms. Graduates are eligible for the CABAS Advanced Board Certification as:

• Assistant Behavior Analyst
• Associate Behavior Analyst
• Senior Behavior Analyst.

#4 – The Ohio State University – Columbus, Ohio

Phd in educational studies, special education.

Website Student to Faculty Ratio : 19:1 Average Graduate Tuition : $11,560/year in-state and $36,276/year out-of-state ABAI Accredited? Yes Points : 6 The Ohio State University College of Education and Human Ecology offers a unique PhD in Educational Studies focused on Special Education. This ABAI accredited full-time program prepares students for leadership roles in:

Students work closely with faculty members on research in areas like:

• learning disabilities
• attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder

Students are fully funded, including a tuition waiver, monthly stipend, and benefits. Applicants should have earned their master’s degree and have experience working with individuals with disabilities to apply.

#3 – University of Kansas – Lawrence, Kansas

Phd in behavioral psychology.

Website Student to Faculty Ratio : 17:1 Average Graduate Tuition : $9,989/year in-state and $23,951/year out-of-state ABAI Accredited? Yes Points : 7 The University Kansas Department of Applied Behavioral Science offers a PhD in Behavioral Psychology that strives to train students as highly competent researchers in behavior analysis. The program follows a junior-colleague model. It allows students to work with their advisors in every aspect of professional development.

Through this model, students will design and conduct research and prepare manuscripts for publication and presentation working closely with their advisor. The curriculum includes the Verified Course Sequence needed by students who want to sit for the BCBA exam. Students with their master’s degree can complete their PhD in about four years.

#2 – The University of Nevada – Reno, Nevada

Behavior analysis ph.d..

Website Student to Faculty Ratio : 17:1 Average Graduate Tuition : $5,657/year in-state and $21,310/year out-of-state ABAI Accredited? Yes Points : 7 The Department of Psychology at the University of Nevada, Reno offers a high-quality ABAI accredited PhD in Behavior Analysis that provides students with comprehensive training. The program uses a junior-colleague model that includes supervised experience and instruction in areas like basic and applied research.

The program strives to maintain a balance of basic, applied, and theoretical training. The 89-credit hour program includes the BCBA Approved Course Sequence needed to sit for the BCBA exam. Graduates are prepared to:

• do research
• work as consultants.

#1 – University of Nebraska Medical Center’s Munroe-Meyer Institute – Omaha, Nebraska

Applied behavior analysis – msia doctoral program.

Website Student to Faculty Ratio : 2:1 Average Graduate Tuition : $9,207/year in-state and $26,379/year out-of-state ABAI Accredited? Yes Points : 8 Our top choice for a PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis is offered by the University of Nebraska Medical Center Munroe-Meyer Institute. This ABAI accredited program focuses on ABA for:

• adolescents

Students can specialize in areas like:

• behavioral pediatrics
• severe behavior disorders

Their innovative training model incorporates didactic instruction with supervised research and clinical practice. This means students can immediately apply classroom concepts and principles. Students admitted to this three-year program receive:

• free health care benefits
• a full tuition waiver
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2024 Best Online PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis [Doctorate Guide]

A PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis combines the study of behavior with techniques that can help you understand, predict, and offer remediation for behaviors.

This degree program allows you to exercise your observational skills and then apply analytics to complete a thorough assessment that explores possible causes and recommendations.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Read on to learn more about how applied behavior analysis PhD programs can help you advance your professional career path.

Online PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis Programs

Those who earn their Doctor of Philosophy in Applied Behavior Analysis have many options when it comes to selecting a concentration or future career path.

For example, some students of ABA PhD programs choose to focus on areas such as:

• Developmental disabilities
• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
• Family issues
• Language and speech development
• Mood disorders
• Forensic behavior analysis

Some professionals prefer to work in a clinical setting, actively participating and engaging with patients and their families. Others might work on the experimental side of applied behavior analysis, working to create theories and intervention opportunities that could be implemented in the future.

Those who complete Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) doctorate programs can become eligible to apply for their BCBA-D designation. This designation indicates that they have completed doctorate-level education in the field. BCBA-D programs often involve selecting a concentrated path of study that can build on your graduate work.

Some schools require BCBA certification as a prerequisite for admissions, allowing graduate students to build upon their foundation in behavior analysis. When examining applied behavior analysis PhD programs, you may wish to select a school that offers a curriculum that can enhance your current skills and professional goals.

ABA Careers & Salaries

Those who graduate from ABA PhD programs may have a range of opportunities available to them. This variety is usually enhanced by any specialty or concentration studied throughout their program.

Many of those who earn their PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis continue with a career in clinical behavior analysis, working as psychologists, therapists, or counselors. Some work in experimental fields or pursue independent research and teaching positions at universities.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , here are various career paths associated with the study of applied behavior analysis.

Some of the above career paths require specialized training or licensing. The positions you qualify for can depend on a number of factors, such as your prior experience, degree concentration, and professional credentials.

Professionals in this field have the opportunity to apply their knowledge of behavior patterns and causation in a number of industries. Some choose to work one-on-one with patients, while others go on to work in laboratory settings, in education, or in corporate areas.

Applied Behavior Analysis PhD Curriculum & Courses

Applied behavior analysis PhD programs offer their own unique curriculum, but the coursework is designed to help engage your skills in basic and applied research, observation, and application of theory.

Example courses include:

• Intervention for Developmental Disabilities : This course allows you to focus on creating programs and plans that can assist those living with developmental disabilities.
• Historical Theories of Behaviorism : In this course, you’ll learn how various theories have been developed over time, and you’ll cover popular misconceptions about behaviorism.
• Language Development and Verbal Behavior : You’ll learn how behavior is linked to language use and speech.
• Behavior and Culture : This course allows you to examine how cultural values may impact behavior.
• Forensic Behavior Analysis : In this course, you’re encouraged to consider criminal behaviors to create a profile, teach valuable negotiation tactics, or anticipate future behaviors.
• Research Design and Methods in ABA : Much of the behavior analysis process relies on basic and applied research skills, and this course prepares you for conducting independent research in a credible manner.
• Experimental Design and Analysis : The ethical and credible design of your experiments will be taught in this course.
• Legal and Ethical Issues in ABA : This course covers the legal and ethical concerns and practices in the field of applied behavior analysis.
• Behavior and Economics : Behavior patterns and analysis also impact consumers and corporations, and this course provides insight into these activities.
• Behavior Analysis for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) : This course concentrates on ASD because various chronic conditions and disorders offer unique challenges and methods of study.

Many doctorate programs allow graduate students to focus on areas of study that complement their dissertation. You may want to review each school’s offerings to coordinate your concentration with a suitable program.

Doctorate in ABA Admissions Requirements

Each school will have their own admissions requirements for their ABA PhD programs, so it’s beneficial idea to review your prospective school’s admissions page.

Here are some common criteria:

• GRE or GMAT scores (only some schools require them)
• Transcripts for all graduate-level work
• Master’s degree in a related field
• Current Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification
• Personal statement

You may also be asked to provide a professional resume, a copy of your master’s degree thesis, and letters of recommendation.

ABA Doctoral Programs Accreditation

When selecting an ABA doctoral program for your path of study, you may wish to provide extra consideration to schools that have received regional accreditation. You can verify a prospective school’s accreditation status through the US Department of Education ’s website.

Since BCBA doctorate programs are connected with professional membership, selecting a school that is fully accredited is often a requirement. There are many additional advantages to selecting a program that has been noted for its educational excellence.

For instance, federal financial aid is often tied to these programs, and employers are often more interested in candidates who have a degree from an accredited institution.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

For those who may want assistance in paying for their PhD in Behavior Analysis program, there are several possibilities to explore.

Completing the FAFSA , or Free Application for Federal Student Aid, can determine your eligibility for need-based financial assistance. If you are currently working in the field, your employer might offer tuition assistance or reimbursement programs. Professional organizations may also offer grants for those continuing their education in this field.

You can also check with your prospective school to see if they have scholarship, assistantship, or fellowship opportunities that you qualify for. Depending on your proposed field of study, you could have educational grants available to you as well.

What Can You Do with a PhD in Behavior Analysis?

A PhD in Behavior Analysis can lead to a number of opportunities. Some PhD graduates work directly with people who want assistance in understanding their behavioral situations. Many professionals work to help individuals understand and remedy unwanted behaviors.

Others choose to use their expertise to assist law enforcement in understanding and evaluating criminal behavior patterns. Behavior analysis is also becoming more prevalent in the corporate world, with analysts working to understand and predict consumer habits. Some PhD holders go on to pursue positions in research and academia.

How Long Is a PhD in ABA Online?

Many BCBA doctorate programs take approximately 3 to 5 years to complete with full-time study. A program’s length is based on the number of credit hours required as well as the time required to complete a dissertation.

If you select a doctorate program that does not require a dissertation, you may be able to complete the program in 3 years with full-time study and year-round enrollment. This is one of the fastest online psychology degrees offered.

Many PhD online degree programs require a dissertation or practical work in your area of concentration, which could increase the amount of time it takes to complete the program.

How Much Can You Make with a PhD in ABA?

Your potential for earning can vary, depending on the direction you choose to go with your PhD in ABA. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that most substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors make between $30,870 and $77,980.

You might earn considerably more if you specialize in a role related to speech development and pathology or psychology. Speech-language pathologists tend to make between $51,310 and $125,560 each year. The median salaries for special education teachers and psychologists are $61,820 and $81,040, respectively (Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Holding a PhD could increase your overall earning potential, but each of these numbers can fluctuate depending on your region, specialty, and place of employment.

What’s the Difference Between a PsyD vs. PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis?

There are many similarities in the subject matter covered by a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Applied Behavior Analysis and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Applied Behavior Analysis program. The differences mainly lie in the focus of each program.

PsyD degrees are often based on practical clinical experience and may not require a dissertation.

Is a Doctorate in Applied Behavior Analysis Worth It?

Yes, a doctorate in applied behavior analysis is worth it for many professionals. There are many potential fields of study for those who pursue their doctorate in applied behavior analysis. This means that students can often tailor their program to suit their skills, interests, and desired career path.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, community and social service occupations are expected to see 12% job growth over the next ten years. While many are familiar with the clinical applications of behaviorism, some professionals choose to use their degree in educational, corporate, or even criminal justice fields.

Earning your doctorate in applied behavior analysis could help you take your professional career to the next level beyond a master’s degree by enhancing and building upon your current skills.

Universities Offering Online Doctorate in Applied Behavior Analysis Degree Program

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer online degree programs or those in a hybrid format.

Arizona State University offers an online program for a Doctor of Behavioral Health with a Clinical concentration. The program consists of 18 classes that are each 7.5 weeks long. Coursework includes both synchronous and asynchronous components so students can have live discussions with classmates while maintaining scheduling flexibility.

Arizona State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Capella University’s Doctor of Philosophy in Behavior Analysis can be earned online. The program requires the completion of 93 quarter credits of coursework and a dissertation. Courses include Single-Subject Research Design Methods, Behaviorism, Experimental Analysis of Behavior, Education and Teaching in Applied Behavior Analysis, and more. Students must also pass a comprehensive exam to graduate.

Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Endicott College offers a PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis. This is a synchronous online program with new cohorts starting each fall. Students are given opportunities to participate in research and clinical immersion experiences. The program can typically be finished in 3 years. Graduates often pursue professional research opportunities or teaching careers after graduating.

Endicott College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

The Florida Institute of Technology offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Behavior Analysis. Students in the program are given opportunities to conduct research and gain clinical experience at the Scott Center for Autism Treatment on campus at Florida Tech. Professors work alongside students and provide one-on-one attention.

Florida Institute of Technology is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Simmons University’s PhD in Behavior Analysis requires the completion of 48 credits. The program is available both on campus and online, and the online classes include live meetings. Students have opportunities to collaborate on research with faculty, studying such topics as verbal behavior, behavioral medicine, conditioned reinforcement, and more.

Simmons University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology offers an online program for a PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis. The program can typically be completed in 3 years and is intended for full-time students. Coursework includes Critical Analysis of Research in Verbal Behavior, Supervision and Consulting in ABA, Experimental Analysis of Behavior, and more.

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.

The University of Nevada—Reno offers a PhD in Behavior Analysis. The program is fully on campus and requires the completion of 89 credits of coursework. The curriculum includes studies in behaviorist philosophies, research methodology, and how to apply behavioral principles in a variety of settings. Students must also participate in practicums and conduct research.

The University of Nevada – Reno is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

The University of South Florida offers a PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis. Students in the program take classes on campus with a cohort and must complete a dissertation to graduate. Coursework includes Experimental Analysis of Behavior 1 and 2, Conceptual Foundations of Behavior Analysis, College Teaching Seminar, and more.

The University of South Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Walden University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Behavioral Health Leadership. Six optional specializations are available: Healthcare Management, Health Psychology, Industrial and Organizational Psychology, International Practice, Public Health, and Teaching. Each specialization requires an additional three courses in addition to the general program. Students are also required to participate in two in-person residencies.

Walden is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Getting Your Doctoral Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis Online

Earning an ABA PhD online could be your next step toward advancing your knowledge and career in this growing field.

There are a variety of ABA opportunities in the areas of clinical work, education, intervention, criminal justice, and even the corporate sector.

It’s beneficial to carefully consider your concentration. It could influence your dissertation topic, your specialized skill sets, and your professional qualifications. You can start exploring accredited schools today to find the BCBA doctoral program that’s right for you.

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• PsyD vs PhD

Best Online PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis Programs

Earning your Ph.D. in Applied Behavior Analysis is a vital step towards a lucrative career in academia, research, or clinical practice. Students often participate in vital research in assessing and treating behavior problems, teaching methods for students with disabilities, and other critical aspects of applied behavior analysis.

While most Ph.D. programs in this specialty require classes on campus, there are a few online programs available in applied behavior analysis. We have reviewed the best options for you below.

Schools On This Page

Capella university.

• The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
• Arizona State University
• Ball State University

With an online Ph.D. in Behavior Analysis , you can transform yourself into a research leader in the field of applied behavior analysis. With these advanced skills, you can help patients overcome their psychological issues and live a more fulfilling life.

Your five years of online coursework will help you to learn knowledge of the theoretical basis of ABA so you can perform applied and basic research. Students are prepared for careers as leaders, teachers, or researchers in applied behavior analysis.

This program is unusual in that you will start your dissertation early in the five-year program. Faculty, support team, and online resources will give you plenty of support throughout your dissertation process.

*Visit Capella University

• Institution type : Private, for-profit
• Delivery method : Online
• Headquarters : Minneapolis
• Accreditation : Higher Learning Commission
• Degrees offered : Ph.D. in Applied Behavior Analysis
• Expected total tuition : Inquire
• Prerequisites : Master’s degree in psychology or related field.

#2 The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

The Chicago School’s Online Ph.D. in Applied Behavior Analysis offers the professional a solid knowledge base in experimental behavior analysis, applied behavior analysis, and radical behaviorism. Students are equipped with the advanced skills to bring about behavioral changes through program development based on evidence.

Graduates who finish the M.S. in ABA during the Ph.D. program can be certified as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Students are guided by faculty who are active practitioners in the filed. Students gain vital experience and exposure in many ABA specialties and applications, such as instructional design, precision teaching, and verbal behavior.

• Institution type: Private, non-profit
• Headquarters : Chicago
• Accreditation : Western Association of Schools and Colleges
• Prerequisites : Master’s degree in psychology, education, or behavioral analysis
• Visit school : Click here

#3 Arizona State University

You can prepare for a successful career in the healthcare industry with this Doctor of Behavioral Health offered by Arizona State University. This program features a clinical concentration that provides advanced learning opportunities in behavioral analysis, behavioral health, and medical literacy.

This program can provide you the insight and training needed to pursue a career in behavior analysis and health in the modern primary care environment. The clinical concentration has coursework that centers on teaching evidence-based behavioral interventions. The also is a 400-hour internship for those who are licensed as behavioral or medical health professionals. This internship will provide you with real-world skills in ABA that you will be able to take with you when you graduate.

• Institution type : Public, non-profit
• Headquarters : Tempe, Arizona
• Accreditation : Western Association of Colleges and Schools
• Degrees offered : Online Doctor of Clinical Behavioral Health
• Expected total tuition : $109,200
• Prerequisites : Master’s degree in psychology, behavioral health, behavior analysis or related field.

#4 Ball State University

Ball State University offers an online EdD in Special Education with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis . This doctoral education will provide you with the multifaceted skills to be a leader in the educational or behavioral professions through scholarship, administration, or entrepreneurship. Graduates often move on to become teacher educators, curriculum supervisors, or directors of treatment centers.

The ABA concentration is for professionals who want to apply the theories of applied behavior analysis to support people with autism and other disabilities, so they can make important improvements in their life quality. This focused area allows the student to learn how to apply ABA strategies to boost vital life skills and decrease problem behavior that interferes with opportunities in communities and schools.

• Headquarters : Muncie, Indiana
• Degrees offered : EdD in Special Education with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis
• Expected total tuition : $60,000
• Prerequisites : Master’s degree in education, psychology, or a related field.

All of the online doctoral programs in applied behavior analysis listed here are high-quality options that give you the chance to do most of your doctoral work from the comfort of your home. After you graduate, you will have the advanced skills in applied behavioral analysis to embark on a rewarding career as a clinician, researcher, or academic. 

*Indicates school is a Featured Partner.  Click here for disclosure on Featured Partners. 

Applied Behavior Analysis PhD Programs

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in applied behavior analysis is a research-based program designed to produce researchers, scientists-practitioners, and university faculty in applied behavior analysis (ABA).

Doctorate-prepared applied behavior analysts work in business and industry, education, and public policy, while some continue to work as practitioners of applied behavior analysis.

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Applied Behavior Analysis

A doctorate in applied behavior analysis provides advanced-level education and training in the discovery, translation, and application of newly acquired knowledge in behavior analysis, aimed at solving socially significant problems of human behavior through applied interventions.

Many programs provide the opportunity to:

• Conduct clinical and research training alongside experts in the field of applied behavior analysis
• Specialize in areas such as autism, community outreach, or severe behavior disorders
• Engage in teaching experiences

The Association for Behavior Analysts International (ABAI) accredits doctoral degree programs in applied behavior analysis.

PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis programs consist of about 60 semester hours of coursework, research, and dissertation credits and take about three years to complete.

Many programs are offered either through an online format or as blended campus/online format, allowing busy professionals and those not residing near a campus-based program the opportunity to complete the program through an interactive, web-based format.

Admission Requirements

Admission into a PhD in Behavior Analysis is highly selective and competitive. Most programs demand, at a minimum, a master’s degree in applied behavior analysis, psychology, or special education, along with a minimum GPA (usually 3.5 or above) in your master’s degree coursework.

Other requirements for admission often include:

• Current BCBA® certification from the Behavior Analysis Certification Board
• A writing sample – Usually your master’s thesis or research-based paper from a graduate course
• A personal statement or essay describing your reasons for pursuing a PhD in ABA
• Personal interview
• Letters of recommendation who can attest to your ability to complete a doctoral program successfully
• Minimum GRE scores
• Resume/curriculum vitae describing your post-master’s/BCBA® professional experience

A PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis requires students to display proficiency in three areas:

• Practicum and research
• Dissertation research

Curriculum Requirements

The core curriculum of a PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis focuses on:

• Advanced principles and procedures of basic and applied behavior analysis practice and research
• Applying behavior analysis and behavioral support in complex environments
• Supervising and training others in behavior analysis
• The conceptual and theoretical foundations in advanced topics in behavior analysis
• The development and completion of independent research in behavior analysis

Core coursework includes:

• Analysis and Intervention in Developmental Disabilities
• History of Behavior Analysis
• Verbal Behavior
• Behaviorism and the Philosophy of Science
• Research methods in ABA
• Experimental Design and Analysis
• Professional and Ethical Issues in ABA

Most programs require students to complete all core and elective requirements before they can attain the status of doctoral candidate and receive approval to proceed with the programs’ research and practical experience requirements.

Practicum and Research Requirements

The research and practical experience requirements of a PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis may include a college teaching practicum, a research tool presentation, a research presentation, and a doctoral dissertation.

Before submitting a dissertation proposal, most students are required to complete a research project in applied behavior analysis under supervision of their doctoral advisor. Students are generally required to publish their research paper or present it at a professional conference.

Independent work and internships at local partner sites are often part of a doctoral program in ABA. Clinical experiences allow students to partake in research, teaching, and clinical practice experiences.

Dissertation Requirements

The third year of a doctoral degree in applied behavior analysis will be spent working on your doctoral dissertation. Under the direction of a faculty mentor, you must develop an empirical thesis/project and defend it in an oral examination.

Doctoral Degrees in Applied Behavior Analysis Leading to the BCBA®-D Certification

The doctoral designation (-D) for the BCBA® certification allows BCBA®s to demonstrate they have successfully completed a doctoral program in applied behavior analysis.

To qualify for the BCBA®-D designation , you must hold a current BCBA® certification and meet ONE of the following requirements:

• Complete a doctoral program accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysts International (ABAI)
• Passed at least four behavior-analytic courses as part of your doctoral program; OR
• Were formally advised by a faculty member who held the BCBA® designation; OR
• Authored two peer-reviewed journal articles that were behavior-analytic in nature
• Have at least 1,800 hours of experience in ABA during a postdoctoral fellowship or postdoctoral employment experience that included ongoing education in ABA under the supervision of a BCBA®
• Authored two peer-reviewed journal articles that were behavior-analytic in nature and were completed as part of your training experience

Ready to take the next step in your education journey? Find an online aba doctoral program .

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Behavior Analysis, Ph.D.

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The Ph.D. in Behavior Analysis

The behavior analysis graduate program at Florida Tech offers a PhD for students looking to pursue further study in this discipline. PhD graduates become behavior-analytic researchers, instructors, and practitioners. Florida Tech professors expect graduates of the behavior analysis doctorate program to approach the world from the perspective of a behaviorist; to continue to contribute to behavioral research; to inform their practice with current research findings; to obtain academic and professional positions; and to effectively manage other behavior analysts under their supervision.

Flexible Program—Professional Culture

Florida Tech students include a diverse mix of working professionals to students from around the globe seeking to obtain higher-level consultation skills. Students who choose one of Florida Tech's applied behavior analysis programs build the foundation necessary to become a well-respected professional. Students in the Behavior Analysis Ph.D. program can choose to specialize in either clinical applications of behavior analysis or organizational behavior management by conducting research in one of these areas. 

“ Why Choose Florida Tech for a Ph.D. in Behavior Analysis? ”

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The Association for Behavior Analysis International Accreditation Board accredits Florida Tech's School of Behavior Analysis on-campus graduate programs, including the PhD Behavior Analysis.  The BACB® has approved the Concentrated Supervised Fieldwork in Behavior Analysis as meeting the fieldwork requirements for the experiential component of the BCBA® examination.

Florida Tech's on-campus master's-level applied behavior analysis programs (applied behavior analysis, organizational behavior management, and the dual program) provide students with the requirements to take the BCBA examination immediately upon completion of graduate school. If a doctoral student has completed a master's degree but is not a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA) or does not meet the supervision requirements to sit for the BCBA examination, Florida Tech offers coursework in Concentrated Supervised Fieldwork in Behavior Analysis.

Dedicated Faculty

Professors in the applied behavior analysis programs are dedicated, productive researchers and practitioners with a commitment to developing the field of behavior analysis. Training the next generation of behavior analytic researchers and practitioners, the faculty is made up of Board Certified Behavior Analysts. Students receive one-on-one attention from professors who work alongside them in research and through client interaction. A close student-professor culture in the applied behavior analysis programs creates a professional environment where students are viewed as research professionals and colleagues and demonstrate competency in research, teaching, supervision and consultation.

Research Opportunities

Florida Tech professors perform applied research outside of their teaching responsibilities working in settings such as clinical treatment or organizational consulting. Ph.D. students participate in this research, often publishing research articles in respected ABA journals. Leading training sessions for educators on classroom behavior problems and working with children and their families to provide assessment, training and behavior therapy at the Scott Center for Autism Treatment are examples of how Florida Tech's applied behavior analysis programs provide real-world experience.

Facilities & Resources

The School of Psychology houses classrooms, human research areas, observation and treatment rooms, computer facilities, two conference rooms, and a student workroom/lounge. In addition, the Scott Center for Autism Treatment is located directly on Florida Tech's campus providing real-world experience and research with children with autism and related disorders. The Society for Performance Management and Behavior Analysis Student Association are also available resources for students in applied behavior analysis programs.

“ What can I do with a Career in Behavior Analysis? ”

Though behavior analysts are often best known for advances in autism treatment and support, the field offers a variety of options for graduates with a PhD in behavior analysis. Alumni of Florida Tech behavior analysis programs reside around the world, working in businesses, schools, clinics, residential treatment centers, group homes, and private practice.

This same success is seen by the doctoral graduates, who have successfully obtained post-doctoral fellowships at prestigious institutions (such as the University of Nebraska Medical School/Munroe Meyer Institute) or been hired as university faculty members. Other graduates have obtained behavior analysis jobs as consultants or program directors.

These applied behavior analysis jobs involve working with children, individuals with autism, people with schizophrenia or intellectual disabilities. Graduates also work with employees in both for-profit and nonprofit organizations in business, industry, speech-language pathology, animal behavior and training, and special education.

Diverse Career Options

Though applied behavior analysts are often best known for advances in autism treatment and support, graduates find work in a wide variety of fields working as consultants, independent contractors and as Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) professionals. On average, graduates of a behavior analysis graduate program with a PhD have higher salaries and employment rates than those with master's or bachelor degrees, according to the US Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Some doctoral graduates also continue into academia as professors to teach the next generation of students.

The Occupational Outlook Handbook , published by the BLS, provides detailed information about hundreds of occupations, including, entry-level education, overall working environment, and employment prospects. According to the Bureau, overall employment in psychology careers such as applied behavior analysis jobs are projected to grow 12% through 2022. This includes a higher demand for school psychologists to work with students, particularly those with special needs, learning disabilities, and behavioral issues. Jobs will also include professionals who can assess and counsel students, as well as study how in-school and out-of-school factors affect learning.

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) jobs include:

• Private practice as a certified ABA providing early intervention services to children with autism
• ABA in a school district assisting teachers to manage students with problem behavior
• ABA in a group home
• ABA consultant to companies focusing on improving employee performance
• ABA internal consultant to improve employee performance
• Program manager or director of specialized school
• ABA for state or federal government

Applied Behavior Analysis Training at the Doctoral Level

The mission of Florida Tech's applied behavior analysis training is to develop PhD behavior-analytic practitioners and consultants who have obtained their BCBA certification and contribute to behavioral research and practice.

Applied behavior analysis training at the doctoral level includes participation in a high-degree of behavior-based research projects under the mentorship of a faculty member. Many professors are published authors and experts on many facets of applied behavior analysis, such as:

• Behavioral economics
• Token economies
• Self-management
• Sports psychology
• Organizational behavior management

As noted above, students participate in such research as assessing and treatment behavior problems, teaching methods for individuals with disabilities while working with faculty members in ongoing research at the Scott Center for Autism Treatment.

In addition, teams of faculty and students form to study topics in behavioral analysis, presenting their research at state and national conferences, such as the annual meeting of the Florida Association for Behavior Analysis (FABA) and the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI). Graduates of the applied behavior analysis graduate programs at the doctoral level are well prepared to pursue academic positions, to continue active research programs and to effectively manage behavior analysts under their supervision, both in research and practice. 

Portfolio of Published Articles

Outside of research , ABA students often publish research in respected ABA journals, including the Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, Behavior Analysis in Practice , and Behavioral Interventions . Organizations and research centers located both on and off campus help students delve deeper into applied behavior analysis training, such as:

• The Society for Performance Management —Designed to facilitate up-to-date information on the newest research and practices performed by professionals in the field.
• Behavior Analysis Student Association —MS and PhD students who meet regularly to discuss topics in behavior analysis and hold an annual conference on the field.
• The Scott Center for Autism Treatment —Specializes in working with children with autism and related disorders.
• Florida Tech Continuing Education —Professional development courses and certification programs online.

“ ”

10 Best Value ABA PhD Programs

In this article, we profile the 10 best ABA PhD degree programs.

You’ve finished a master’s in ABA or a closely related topic. Now you’re interested in a PhD in ABA. Maybe you’re planning to get a PhD right away, or just curious to know what’s involved. Either way, this article contains the information you need. PhD ABA programs can prepare you with the advanced knowledge and skills you need. They can prepare you to conduct behavioral research and design treatment plans to help with behavioral problems. When you graduate from a BCBA doctoral program, you are prepared to take the Board-Certified Behavior Analyst certification exam. Once you pass the test and become certified, you will be ready to practice ABA as a BCBA-D.

Featured Programs

10 best aba phd degree programs ranking methodology.

For the purpose of this list, we looked at approximately 17 ABA PhD degree programs and BCBA D programs. We confirmed accreditation (regional and/or national) and selected those schools that offered accredited programs. Few online ABA programs exist, so we gathered information on both on-campus and online BCBA doctoral programs. The graduate tuition and fees were taken from the most recent information offered by the National Center for Education Statistics (College Navigator). After gathering our information, we listed the PhD in ABA programs according to affordability .

Table of Contents

• Utah State University
• University of Nevada Reno
• Florida Institute of Technology
• Marquette University
• University of South Florida
• Tennessee Tec h
• Cambridge College Boston 
• Caldwell University
• Capella University
• St. Cloud State University

Ranking the 10 Best ABA PhD Degree Programs

10. utah state university, phd in behavior analysis, logan, utah.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $2 4,008

Utah State University offers a program where you can work towards a PhD. Or, if you prefer, you can earn the PhD + Board Certified Behavior Analyst. The first option focuses more on research, theory, and academics. The second approach prepares students to practice or research in a clinical setting. 

This first track offers benefits such as: 

• training in experimental analysis of behavior
• a curriculum that is tailored to the interests of the student
• a dissertation project

The second track:

• offers training in both experimental and applied behavior analysis
• requires thesis and dissertation projects
• offers experiences in a clinical practicum over the course of several years 
• prepares students for the BCBA examination from the Behavior Analyst Certification Board

No matter which track you choose, this is one of the best applied behavior analysis doctoral programs available. This university is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges & Universities. Utah State University, as ranked by U.S. News and World Report, ranked among top performers in social mobility as well as among top public schools.

9. University of Nevada Reno

Reno, nevada.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $ 22,986

The Department of Psychology in the University of Nevada at Reno offers one of the few ABA doctoral programs in the country. You’ll learn about topics such as:

• basic & applied research in human behavior
• the philosophies of behaviorism
• basic research in animal behavior
• how the study of behavior applies to organizations

This program, which is one of the best PhD ABA programs, requires 89 graduate credits. It is accredited by the ABAI and prepares you for the BCBA examination. The University of Nevada at Reno ranks with U.S. News & World Report among the best national universities and top public schools, and offers one of the top ABA doctoral programs. 

8. Florida Institute of Technology

Melbourne, florida.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $22,588

Florida Institute of Technology does not offer BCBA doctoral programs online. However, it does offer a traditional PhD in behavior analysis. The classes are not delivered online, but the program is designed for ABA professionals. Once you graduate, you can plan to :

• continue your researc h
• instruct others in applied behavior analysis
• practice ABA yourself

Core courses required in the program include:

• advanced organizational behavior management
• applications of behavior analysis to college instruction
• behavioral & functional assessment
• ethical & professional standards in ABA
• verbal behavior

Florida Tech ranks with major publications like U.S. News & World Report among best national universities.

7. Marquette University

Milwaukee, wisconsin.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $2 2,410

Marquette University offers this PhD in behavior analysis through its Psychology Department, and 63 credits are required to earn this degree. We reached out to Dr. Tiffany Kodak, the Behavior Analysis Program Director at Marquette, asking how the program stands out. This was Dr. Kodak’s response:

“Our program stands out and is unique in several ways. The faculty work closely with students to publish clinical research that focuses on teaching important pre-academic, academic, functional communication, self-help, social, and vocations skills to neurodiverse children and adolescents. The purpose of this research is to develop and evaluate practices that help individuals acquire the skills to participate fully in their education, advocate for themselves, build relationships with others, and live fulfilled lives.

“Students are drawn to our program because they work closely with faculty mentors who are renowned in the field and have won awards for mentorship from various organizations, our on-campus clinics provide specialized training to students seeking to conduct patient-driven research as well as develop supervisory skills, and our program’s emphasis on professional skills training so our students can become leaders in the field following graduation.”

In addition, says Dr. Kodak, “all of our doctoral students have assistantships that come with a full tuition waiver and a monthly stipend, making the program no cost to the students.”

Marquette University, according to U.S. News & World Report, tied for #83 among best national universities.

6. University of South Florida

Phd in applied behavior analysis, hillsboro county, florida.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $21,126

One of the top ABA PhD programs available is the PhD in applied behavior analysis offered at the University of South Florida. To be admitted to this program, you must have a master’s degree in behavior analysis or a closely related degree area that includes multiple courses in behavior analysis. Other requirements include:

• a GPA of at least 3.5
• a personal statement
• three strong letters of recommendation

Curriculum requirements include:

• 21 credit hours of core courses
• 15 credit hours of independent research
• dissertation consisting of a minimum of 18 credit hours

Courses you’ll see in the ABA PhD program include:

• experimental analysis of behavior
• statistical applications in translational research and evaluation
• conceptual foundations of behavior analysis

U niversity of South Florida ranks with U.S. News & World Report among top national universities. This is among the best options for BCBA PhD programs.

5. Tennessee Tech

Applied behavior analysis – phd, cookeville, tennessee.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $20,708

One of the least expensive ABA PhD programs on our list is this applied behavior analysis PhD. The degree is technichally in exceptional learning, with a concentration in applied behavior analysis. This program offers two specializations within that concentration. The first is Young Children and Families (abbreviated YCF). The second is School-Aged Children and Adult Populations (ABAS). This second option prepares you to take the BCBA examination.

Some of the career options listed on the program website are:

• clinical director/supervisor
• crime, delinquency, & forensic behavior analyst
• organizational behavior manager
• positive behavior support consultant
• university faculty member

Tennesse Tech is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges & Schools’ Commission on Colleges, and is one of the top BCBA degree programs. 

4. Cambridge College Boston

Phd in applied behavior analysis with specialization in autism intervention, boston, massachusetts.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $1 6,923

The ABA PhD program at Cambridge College requires 48 credits. It takes nine terms to earn the degree–one of the top BCBA doctoral programs in the country. This program focuses on autism intervention. You’ll take classes such as:

• behavior analytic perspective on child development
• early intensive behavioral intervention
• evaluation & treatment of severe behavioral disorders

This program is offered mostly online, with the exception of two summer residencies during the first two years of the program. To be admitted into the program, you must complete an interview with the program chair and faculty, as well as completing other requirements. Cambridge College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education and ranks with U.S. News & World Report among the top regional universities in the North, as well as among top performers on social mobility. 

3. Caldwell University

Caldwell, new jersey.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $16, 536

Caldwell University offers an ABAI-accredited PhD in applied behavior analysis. The program has five main learning objectives. The first is that graduates understand the theoretical concepts behind behavior analysis. The second is that graduates are able apply these concepts in a practical and effective way in real-world environments. The third is that graduates are able to supervise and train others in behavior analysis. The fourth is that graduates understand advanced topics in behavior analysis. And finally, the fifth is that graduates are able to develop and complete independent research in this field. Caldwell University ranks with U.S. News & World Report. Rankings include #14 in best value schools, and tying for #85 in regional universities in the North. This is one of the top BCBA doctorate programs.

2. Capella University

Phd in psychology with a specialization in education and teaching in applied behavior analysis, minneapolis, minnesota.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $14, 826

Capella University offers a PhD in Psychology with a specialization in Education and Teaching in Applied Behavior Analysis. This degree is offered entirely online. The program, according to the website, requires:

• three elective courses
• six specialization courses
• seven core courses
• three doctoral project development seminars
• one comprehensive exam
• one dissertation

Some of the core courses you’ll need to take to complete this program are:

• foundations of theory and practice for doctoral psychology learners
• advanced single-subject research design for behavior analysis
• ethics and multicultural issues in psychology

Some career options listed by the website are:

• board certified behavior analyst
• clinical director
• behavior analyst
• professor of psychology

While this is not strictly a PhD in applied behavior analysis, it is a good option for those who want to learn more about behavior and is worth looking into for those searching for the top BCBA doctoral programs . Capella University ranks with U.S. News & World Report among top psychology schools. 

1. St. Cloud State University

Applied behavior analysis (psy. d.), st. cloud, minnesota.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $14, 387

St. Cloud State University’s PhD in ABA program is an on-campus program that focuses on ABA for children with autism spectrum disorder. This is a great option if you’re looking for BCBA PhD programs. The coursework is approved by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, and at the end of the program, you’ ll be equipped to become certified as a doctoral-level board certified behavior analyst, or BCBA-D.

The program requires that you complete 90 credits in order to graduate. Graduate assistantships are offered, and the program has access to a modern autism clinic, through which you will be trained using the latest research. According to U.S. News & World Report, St. Cloud State University tied for #95 in best regional universities in the Midwest, #85 in top performers on social mobility and #29 in top public schools. Due to the institution’s affordable graduate tuition, St. Cloud State University earns the #1 spot on our list of the best value ABA PhD programs.

ABADP Staff

November 2023

Related Resources:

• 10 Best Online ABA Degree Programs (Bachelor’s)
• 10 Best ABA Master’s Degree Programs
• 20 Most Affordable Online ABA Graduate Certificate Programs
• 5 Conditions that Benefit from ABA Therapy
• What Does an Applied Behavior Analyst Do?
• 20 Best Online ABA Master’s Degree Programs

This concludes our list of the top 10 PhD in ABA programs.

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The 5 Best Online Doctor of Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) Degree Programs

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An online Doctor of Applied Behavioral Analysis degree will allow you to assist others by conducting research, teaching at the university level, or by establishing your own psychology practice. With this accolade, you may discover and develop new and exciting applications that specialize in autism, brain injuries, or other severe behavioral disorders. 

Please note that most online doctorate programs in this field do require some on-campus attendance. If you have the desire to help people in your community, check out these top programs!

Positions in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis are much needed, and the average salary of a Psychologist, for example, can range from $48,010 to upwards of $141,910 annually, according to the BLS . ABA positions can be obtained in the fields of healthcare, business management, education, or private practice, among others.

M ETHODOLOGY

At Online-PhD-degrees.com, we hope that the following school suggestions for the   Best Online Doctor of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Degree Programs  will assist you in pursuing an online educational program that fits your educational needs, as well as your personality and busy schedule. The below-referenced schools are all exceptional schools; therefore, Online-PhD-degrees.com has chosen to rank these educators in random order, for all exhibit equivalent attributes, such as:

• 100% online availability,
• Comprehensive degree-specific curriculum in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis,
• Ease of use, Exceptional Student Support, and Learning Management System,
• Available Financial Aid opportunities,
• Allows for the development of advanced skills in ABA Management,
• Gain advanced knowledge in ABA theoretical foundations, behavioral analysis methodology, and philosophy, among many other topics,
• Hones Research skills and prepares for the Dissertation process,
• Offers experienced Faculty, experts in the field of ABA,
• Provides educational requirements toward Board Certification in Behavior Analyst – Doctoral (BCBA-D).

To learn more, please see our  Methodology  page.

5 BEST ONLINE DOCTOR OF APPLIED BEHAVIORAL ANALYSIS (ABA) DEGREE PROGRAMS

Arizona state university.

PROGRAM STANDOUTS: At Arizona State University, you can earn the same prestigious degree through their distance learning format as those students who attend on-campus.

Their accredited online programs offer students innovative and high-quality educational opportunities in many topics, such as an online Doctor of Behavioral Health (Clinical) degree that specializes in applied behavior analysis.

As the core curriculum in this program is a focus on healthcare interventions and management, you will concentrate your efforts on medical literacy, integrated behavioral intercessions, and entrepreneurship. ASU also offers an online degree in Doctoral of Behavioral Health with a focus on management. Graduates will be prepared for leadership positions.

CAMPUS LOCATION: Tempe/Scottsdale, AZ

ACCREDITATION: Arizona State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, 230 South LaSalle St., Suite 7-500, Chicago, IL 60604-1441, www.hlcommission.org    Ph: (800)621-7440

TYPES OF AID: Scholarships, Grants, Federal Work-Study Programs, Federal Student Loans, Federal Parent Loans, Private Student Loans

ACCEPTANCE RATE: 88%

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS: You can expect ASU online programs to begin every 7 1/2 weeks. To apply, you must have completed a master’s degree program from an accredited institution with a minimum of 3.0 cumulative GPA. You will need to complete a graduate admission application and submit a $70 application fee.

You will need to include your graduate transcript, personal statement, your current license, or proof of license eligibility, as well as a work resumé and one professional letter of recommendation. You may also need to attend a webcam admission interview.

PROGRAM FLEXIBILITY: Arizona State University online classwork includes synchronous, or live, chats with fellow students and faculty, live streaming video consultation with experts, in addition to a research project to include a business plan specific to your career goals and interests.

DEGREE OUTCOMES: As a graduate of ASU’s Online Doctor of Behavioral Health program, your clinical concentration will provide many career opportunities, such as a Behavioral Health Consultant, Health Coach, or Health Educator. If you choose to concentrate on a management degree, you will qualify for a position as a Health Care Administrator, Executive, Consultant, or Manager, among many others.

LEARN MORE ABOUT ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE DOCTOR OF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (CLINICAL) DEGREE PROGRAM

CAPELLA UNIVERSITY

PROGRAM STANDOUTS: Capella University takes pride in its extensive options of online distance learning programs. They have approximately 36,000 students enrolled in online classes with an average of 1488 faculty members (of which 86% are doctoral degree holders) to help you succeed in your quest for higher education.

Established in 1993, Capella provides quality and innovative, yet convenient and flexible, educational experience to all students from all walks of life.

If you are interested in the field of Applied Behavioral Analysis, Capella offers their students the opportunity to earn a Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology degree with a focus on Behavior Analysis. This program focuses on the knowledge and skills necessary to help you perform research and practice in the field of ABA.

You will be responsible for completing core courses, specialization, and elective courses, along with dissertation research seminars and a comprehensive exam. Upon completion, you can apply for the Board-Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral (BCBA-D) certification.

CAMPUS LOCATION: Minneapolis, MN

ACCREDITATION: Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, 230 South LaSalle St., Suite 7-500, Chicago, IL 60604-1441, www.hlcommission.org    Ph: (800)621-7440

TYPES OF AID: Federal Loan Programs, such as Subsidized Loans and Unsubsidized Loans, Federal Grad PLUS Loans, Employer and Association Discounts, Military Discounts, Third-Party Scholarships, Private Loans, and Federal Grants

ACCEPTANCE RATE: 100%

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS: Enrollment counselors are ready to help you find the right program for you. You may complete your application and submit your non-refundable $50 application fee online.

You will need to submit your master’s degree transcript (with a minimum of 3.0 GPA) in the fields of behavior analysis, education, or psychology. You must also have graduated from a program with a BCBA-approved sequence or currently own BCBA certification.

PROGRAM FLEXIBILITY: Depending on your program, you may have a choice of the following two learning formats: FlexPath lets you choose your own pace. You can, based on your own schedule, take up to two weeks to complete a course or up to ten weeks; then, you can move on to the next course. In this manner, your completion times determine your costs.

For those that prefer more structure, the GuidedPath format is designed to allow each student to work at their own convenience; however, you will have specific deadlines to complete your assignments.  

However, through your psychology program, you may be required to attend some on-campus coursework, as well. Through all programs, you will have the guide support, career center, enrollment counselors, as well as community and networking groups to help you along the way. Capella’s faculty is dedicated to your success. In addition, they offer doctoral advice and dissertation mentors.

DEGREE OUTCOMES: Through Capella, rest assured your online doctoral degree program is designed to prepare you for the expertise needed in the field of applied behavior analysis; therefore, you can count on advancing in your career.

You will leave Capella with exceptional skills relevant to the field of psychology and qualify for positions such as a board-certified behavior analyst, clinical director, or professor of psychology. These positions can be found at universities or colleges, healthcare facilities, nursing homes, schools, or government agencies.

LEARN MORE ABOUT CAPELLA UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN PSYCHOLOGY DEGREE PROGRAM

ENDICOTT COLLEGE

PROGRAM STANDOUTS: Endicott College was founded in 1939 and is located on 235 acres of pristine beachfront property; therefore, attending in person is an exceptional experience in itself.

Originally a women’s college in 1994, Endicott became co-ed. In addition to the quality curriculum and programs offered on campus, they also now offer excellent online doctorate courses, as well. Endicott offers their students the privilege of earning an online Ph.D. degree in Applied Behavior Analysis.

This is a research-based program that will provide you with the skill set needed to teach at the university level or pursue a career in research, all while understanding the complexities of human behavior.

Therefore, pack your swimsuit, for you will witness the gorgeous beach backdrop of Endicott yourself, no doubt, because as an online student in this program, there will be some on-campus requirements, as well.

As you become a leader in applied behavior analysis, your coursework will include Behaviorism and Philosophy of Science, Research in Social Skills Training, Analysis and Intervention in Developmental Disabilities, in addition to many others. Your Endicott experience will be memorable, as well as rewarding, as they help make your dreams a reality.

CAMPUS LOCATION: Beverly, MA

ACCREDITATION: Endicott College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, 230 South LaSalle St., Suite 7-500, Chicago, IL 60604-1441, www.hlcommission.org    Ph: (800)621-7440

TYPES OF AID: As earning your online doctorate degree is a huge investment, Endicott College is most assuredly interested in helping you obtain the financial help you deserve to obtain your college education. You must complete an online financial aid application to see what types of financial aid assistance you may qualify for. Their representatives are there to help you every step of the way.

ACCEPTANCE RATE: 73%

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS: Please complete your online application and submit a non-refundable $50 application fee. The application fee is waived for military and veteran students. In addition, you must have earned a master’s degree from an accredited university and submit applicable transcripts of all post-secondary academic work, three recommendation letters, an original 6-10 page personal statement, GRE scores, evidence of at least three years of related professional experience and a writing sample concerning the critical challenges facing Behavior Analysts today. An admission interview will also be conducted.

PROGRAM FLEXIBILITY: At Endicott College, your online Ph.D. program in Applied Behavior Analysis is offered in two formats. You will be required to attend occasional classroom-based instruction as well as synchronous online classes. You may be asked to review documentaries and lectures in addition to other learning programs.

You will have multiple ways to communicate with fellow classmates and professors. Online tutoring, an academic advisor, and technical support are also readily available.

DEGREE OUTCOMES: Upon graduation from Endicott College, you will qualify for positions as a scientist-practitioner in education, public policy, developmental disabilities, or within business or industries.

Through your online doctorate program, you will display the skills and principles needed to excel in the field of applied behavior analysis. Endicott’s Career Center is there to help you long after graduation.

LEARN MORE ABOUT ENDICOTT COLLEGE’S ONLINE PH.D. OF APPLIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS DEGREE PROGRAM

UNIVERSITY OF NEVADA – RENO

PROGRAM STANDOUTS: The University of Nevada-Reno has much to offer its on-campus students, as well as its online students.

They promote diversity and technological advances, in addition to outstanding educational experiences, to ensure everyone’s success. They are dedicated to conducting original research and encouraging creative thinking, and they promote leadership through academic excellence.

You can expect exceptional, well-respected, and highly accomplished faculty to help you along your educational journey. At the University of Nevada-Reno, you may choose to participate in their Ph.D. in Psychology program with a specialization in Behavior Analysis.

Their doctorate program for this field is unique in that it is partially conducted online, while other portions are sponsored by off-campus locations such as the sponsor’s worksite. This is referred to as a satellite program; therefore, it will require occasional face-to-face attendance.

The doctoral program in Behavior Analysis provides each student with comprehensive training in applied behavior analysis, which allows you to develop a specialized interest, therefore, making a positive contribution to society through your extensive research in human behavior.

CAMPUS LOCATION: Reno, NV

ACCREDITATION: The University of Nevada-Reno is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, 230 South LaSalle St., Suite 7-500, Chicago, IL 60604-1441, www.hlcommission.org    Ph: (800)621-7440

TYPES OF AID: Scholarships, Grants, Work-Study Programs, Fellowships, and Loans

ACCEPTANCE RATE: 82%

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS: All applicants must complete an online application for entry into a graduate program along with a Satellite program application. There is a non-refundable $60 application fee.

You must also submit your official transcripts from all accredited graduate schools, as well as your GRE scores, statement of purpose, work history, and three letters of recommendation. With this program, you must be admitted to the graduate school and the Behavior Analysis Program (Satellite Program Application).

PROGRAM FLEXIBILITY: The University of Nevada-Reno offers its satellite program in Behavior Analysis at off-campus locations that are sponsored by businesses, human service agencies, or other organizations. Training is delivered face-to-face at a sponsor’s workplace and other coursework is delivered through an online format. You can communicate with instructors through WebCampus using email and chats.

DEGREE OUTCOMES: The friendships you will develop throughout your online/satellite doctorate program at the University of Nevada-Reno will last a lifetime, as all alumni support each other personally and professionally. This unique program will provide you with a comprehensive view of philosophy and applied behavior analysis, in addition to the basics of research and experimental work.

Due to the program’s reputation for high-quality academics, most graduates find gainful employment immediately after graduation. As you embark upon your future graduate education, consider the University of Nevada-Reno for your doctoral degree needs.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF NEVADA-RENO’S Ph.D. IN PSYCHOLOGY, BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS DEGREE PROGRAM

CHICAGO SCHOOL OF PROFESSIONAL PSYCHOLOGY

PROGRAM STANDOUTS: In 1979, the Chicago School of Professional Psychology was established. They are a graduate university specializing in psychology and is recognized for its noteworthy contributions to the field of psychology.

Their Ph.D. in Applied Behavior Analysis online degree program provides the convenience and flexibility needed by most professionals who have full-time careers already in place. The exceptional faculty at CSPP brings their real-world work experience to the classroom by focusing on the relevant topics of today.

Your coursework will provide you with a solid foundation in the analysis of human behavior, including classes in Experimental Analysis of Behavior, Critical Analysis of Research in Verbal Behavior, and ABA Supervising and Consulting.

Your program will combine online, cohort, and blended formats to bring to you the most up-to-date and innovative study in your chosen field. With a significant job growth rate, the field of applied behavior analysis is on the rise.

Get the job or promotion you deserve by completing an online doctoral degree from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology, where you can pursue your dream from anywhere, at any time.

CAMPUS LOCATION: Chicago, IL

ACCREDITATION: The Chicago School of Professional Psychology is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

TYPES OF AID: Grants, Fellowships, Student Loans, Scholarships, and Paid Employment, either inside or outside of the school.

ACCEPTANCE RATE: 37%

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS: The Chicago School of Professional Psychology offers Career Support Services to help graduates choose the best educational path and goals for themselves. To apply, complete an online application and include your $50 application fee.

You will also need to submit your official transcripts from all accredited graduate programs, as well as a personal essay answering their two required topic questions, your current resumé, and three letters of recommendation.

Applicants will be judged by their academic aptitude, emotional and social maturity, in addition to, their overall ability to commit to a graduate program.

PROGRAM FLEXIBILITY: The Chicago School of Professional Psychology is dedicated to providing online programs that will fit your busy lifestyle.

Many online doctorate programs will require a one to two-hour session each term; however, depending on your chosen program, on-campus attendance may be required in a “blended” format, as well. At these times, students will be required to attend a synchronous virtual residency component at the same time.

Through “Canvas,” you can access your coursework easily via mobile devices, laptops, desktops, or tablets. Through this interactive format, you can communicate in real-time with other classmates, easily contact instructors, and experience video conferencing and podcasts. In addition, 24/7 technical support and your Student Advisor will be there to assist you from start to finish.

DEGREE OUTCOMES: With your doctoral degree in Applied Behavior Analysis, you will develop an excellent skill set in research, practice, and theory within the field of ABA. You will qualify for Behavioral Analysts positions in the areas of education, government, and business, among many others.

You can expect to reach and exceed your goals through the extraordinary programs that the Chicago School of Professional Psychology has to offer!

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CHICAGO SCHOOL OF PROFESSIONAL PSYCHOLOGY’S Ph.D. IN APPLIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS DEGREE PROGRAM

How long will it take to earn a Doctorate in Applied Behavior Analysis?

The length of time it takes to earn a Doctorate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) varies depending on the program and the individual’s circumstances. On average, completing a doctoral program in ABA can take about 5-7 years of full-time study.

What are the benefits of earning a Doctorate in ABA?

Increased Credibility: A doctoral degree in Applied Behavior Analysis can provide valuable credibility and recognition from academic peers and the broader medical community, which can open up numerous opportunities for career advancement and personal growth.

Increased Job Security: Obtaining a terminal degree in ABA typically offers greater job security as it increases the likelihood of being able to find positions in specialized fields or serving as an independent consultant.

Increased Expertise: A doctoral degree in ABA provides the opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of the principles of ABA for assessments, interventions, and research. Students are likely to gain a deeper understanding of various methods of analysis, insights on how to build and develop programs for various fields, and access to specialized training programs.

Potential Higher Earning Potential: Having a Doctorate in ABA can provide an individual with the potential for a higher salary and career prospects in the field, as it is often a requirement to obtain higher-level positions in leading organizations.

Meaningful Contribution to the field of Applied Behavior Analysis: A Doctorate in ABA can provide individuals with the opportunity to make meaningful contributions to the field and help to innovate and shape the standard of treatment for those individuals dealing with disabilities and mental health issues. It also provides the opportunity to teach and mentor younger generations of professionals and students.

Is a Ph.D. in Behavior Analysis worth it?

It depends on what your career goals are. For some people, obtaining a Ph.D. in Behavior Analysis can open the door to more career opportunities, such as working in research, teaching, and management roles. It can also provide you with more in-depth knowledge and skills in the behavior analysis field and help you become better qualified to lead organizations. On the other hand, it is essential to consider the cost and time commitment that a Ph.D. requires. Ultimately, it should be based on an individual’s personal goals and interests.

Additional Info:

• 3 Best Doctor of Behavioral Health (D.B.H.) Degree Programs
• 5 Best Doctor of Health Education (D.H.Ed) Degree Programs: Salary and Information

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Ph.D. in Behavioral Psychology

The curriculum provides a sequence of instruction that integrates:

• Courses in the basic principles of behavior, experimental methods and research design
• Conceptual foundations with training in basic, applied, and intervention research (e.g., assessment, analysis, intervention, evaluation).

For its research and training, the department receives considerable grant funding.  The doctoral training program operates according to a junior colleague model. Students work closely with their advisors, joining them in every aspect of professional development. This includes designing and conducting research, preparing manuscripts for presentation and publication, and presenting and publishing those manuscripts. Students typically work with one advisor, but may work with others or have co-advisors.

The Doctorate in Behavioral Psychology is accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International Accreditation Board: annual report data .

The PhD program helps meet the educational requirements for licensure in the state of Kansas. If you plan to obtain a license or certification in a state other than Kansas or a US territory after completion of your program, it is highly recommended you first seek guidance from the appropriate licensing agency BEFORE beginning the academic program to ensure you can obtain a license or certification in your home state or territory.  The APBA provides resources for licensure and certification boards outside of Kansas. 

Annual reporting period: Calendar year January-December 2023

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Course Requirements

Ph.D. students are required to take one course in each of seven content areas, along with two practicum courses. Students complete and orally defend an empirically based Master's thesis. With approval, empirically-based theses from other graduate programs may meet this requirement. Following competency exams, students propose, conduct, and defend an empirically-based dissertation.

Current Doctor of Philosophy in Behavioral Psychology requirements from the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Affiliated Programs

The department offers a joint PhD-MPH degree in collaboration with the Master's of Public Health (MPH) program in the Department of Preventive Medicine at the University of Kansas Medical Center. This is the first degree in the nation to combine an MPH with the strengths of advanced study in applied behavioral science. It incorporates efficiencies in the elective and research requirements of both departments.

Faculty and student research teams address issues in community health and development, child and youth health and development, disabilities and independent living, and healthy aging. Separate admission is required for both the department (Ph.D. program) and Preventative Medicine (M.P.H. program).

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Students enroll in 5-9 total credits per (fall and spring) term during the first two years of the program. During the third year, students enroll in the Dissertation Research course. In all subsequent semesters and until completion of all degree requirements, students enroll in a Dissertation Continuation course.

Highlights of the Cambridge College PhD in ABA Program

Convenience.

• Program can be completed in 3 years
• Distance learning model with only 1-week residencies in years 1 and 2
• Remote, live classes scheduled in the evening to fit busy schedules
• Dissertation research can be completed at your location

Hybrid Format

• Remote, live classes promote discussion and build rapport with your cohort
• Online format supports study from any location

Cost-Effective Program

• $1035 per credit hour
• 48 credit program

Real-World Expertise

Faculty hold administrative and supervisory positions at partner organizations:

• Beacon ABA Services
• Evergreen Center

Learning Outcomes of the PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis at Cambridge College 

In the ABA Doctoral Program at Cambridge College, students will:

• Analyze published research across a range of behavior analytic content, including evaluating the experimental methods used and interpreting the results

• Formulate systematic research studies using valid experimental designs to enable them to qualify for full membership in the ABAI and to present findings at regional and national ABA conferences
• Develop experimental methods to address the research question in their applied dissertations
• Evaluate published research addressing skill development and behavior reduction procedures for individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and synthesize that research to create a taxonomy of empirically supported treatment procedures.
• Create assessment procedures for evaluating treatments, conduct assessments, analyze the outcomes of those assessments, and synthesize the results of assessments to develop function-based treatment plans and instructional programs
• Propose and adapt empirically supported staff training models and systems
• Design and conduct trainings in advanced ABA content across a range of audiences (students, parents, stakeholders, etc.)

This course presents the scope and sequence of the doctoral program and orients students to program expectations and focus.

This course will feature a review of quantitative skills and methods required to produce scientific research. Single-subject design formats often used in behavior analytic research will be reviewed in detail. Single-subject designs will be compared and contrasted with group designs and issues of generality will be explored. Areas of study will include variables, reliability and validity, arranging experimental comparisons, interpreting experiments, analyzing behavioral data, and behavioral variability. The goals of the course are to provide students with the analytic tools necessary to become effective, critical consumers of research, as well as to produce their own research and supervise the research of other practitioners.

This course will review a wide range of seminal literature on the application of principles of behavior. Students will demonstrate competency in describing concepts and principles of behavior analysis using technical terminology. Students will develop teaching programs using these principles and concepts, and present instruction in a variety of contexts and to a range of audiences. The ability to translate principles into practice and to disseminate the principles effectively will be core expectations of this course.

Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention (EIBI) has been demonstrated to be the most efficacious treatment for young children with autism. The depth and breadth of the current EIBI literature is reviewed and analyzed. Variables that influence effectiveness of treatment will be reviewed including age, duration, intensity, and supervision of treatment. Methodological issues (e.g., outcome measures, experimental designs, etc.) will be assessed. Limitations to the existing research and areas for future research are also considered. Studies that examine non-behavioral and eclectic models will also be contrasted with behavioral approaches.

Students will read and evaluate and critique key published studies that use a wide range of single-subject and group experimental designs. The focus will be on ensuring that students are fluent with seminal studies and their relation to current effective treatments and gaps in existing literature. As will most courses in this program, a direct relation between this research and the key topics of EIBI and severe challenging behavior will be made.

In this course, students will learn about many of the advanced behavioral change systems and procedures that have been successfully used to treat severe and challenging problem behaviors. Assessment procedures will be reviewed with an emphasis on the use of assessment data to develop instructional procedures and strategies for reducing problematic behavior. There will be an emphasis on the application of procedures in complex environments (e.g., home, public schools, specialized schools, etc.) for individuals exhibiting severe problem behaviors.

This course discusses ethics from two varying perspectives. First, the ethical challenges associated with Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention and the prevalence of non-empirically validated treatment interventions for individuals with ASD. Secondly, from the perspective of treating individuals with severe behavioral challenges, the use of aversives, physical, mechanical and chemical restraints will be discussed and debated.

This course will focus on the experimental analysis of behavior with particular emphasis on the study of human behavior. Students will demonstrate a thorough understanding of basic principles of behavior (reinforcement, schedules of reinforcement, punishment, extinction, classical conditioning,) and how these principles were derived from basic research.

Over 3 semesters, students will select a dissertation topic, conduct a literature review, submit a research prospectus, and submit a dissertation proposal.

The Application of Behavior Analysis Across the Life Span (3 credits): This course is designed to have candidates investigate and evaluate the breadth of application of ABA across the life span of the two target areas (Severe behavior disorders and EIBI). Underserved populations and challenges unique to each stage of human development will be discussed in the context of the literature in these areas, as well as the key gaps in the existing literature.

This course will focus on the application of OBM principles as they relate to leading and managing a medium to large human service agency. Students will participate in projects related to the development implementation and ongoing monitoring of Operations and Clinical systems in actual human service agencies.

Students will do an in-depth review, evaluation and critique of basic experimental (animal) research that relates to the two core areas of EIBI and severe challenging behavior. The ability to relate experimental research to the applied research and identify discrepancies, gaps and conceptual lineage of the studies underlying principles will be a key evaluation component for this course.

This course is designed to have candidates investigate and evaluate the breadth of application of ABA across the life span of the two target areas (Severe behavior disorders and EIBI). Underserved populations and challenges unique to each stage of human development will be discussed in the context of the literature in these areas, as well as the key gaps in the existing literature.

This course requires students to conduct an in-depth review of the theoretical basis of traditional theories of typical and atypical child development and from a behavior analytic perspective. Students will compare and contrast the behavior analytic perspective to traditional psychological and psychodynamic models of language, psycho-social skill development. Early language development models are analyzed and critiqued, using the above perspectives and in relation to typical the achievement of developmental milestones. Behavior analytic topics that will be studied in depth will include; 1) understanding the development of stimulus control and basic learning behavior in early development, 2) the establishment of functional, language and communication skills and 3) behavioral research on teaching complex social behavior.

Students will conduct applied research and write their dissertations under the supervision of their dissertation committee. (This 3-credit course is taken in the seventh term of the program.)

Students will conduct applied research and write their dissertations under the supervision of their dissertation committee. (This 1-credit course is taken in the eighth term of the program.)

Students will submit and defend their dissertations.

ABA Faculty

ABA faculty are Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA). Other faculty listed on this page teach other programs/courses in the School of Education.

Core Faculty

Senior instructor.

No standardized graduate school tests required for admission into non-licensure programs

• Admissions Office: 1-800-829-4723
• Application Form: Apply Online Now
• Application Fee: $50 ($100 for international students)

Program Requirements

Candidates for this program require:

• BCBA Certification
• Interview with Program Chair and faculty
• School of Education Requirements

Health Requirements for Massachusetts Students 

The Massachusetts Health Department and Cambridge College require the following of students in Massachusetts:

Immunizations  – All students in Massachusetts are required to get certain immunizations before you can register for your first term.  See form

Health Insurance  – In Massachusetts, undergraduate students taking nine or more credits/term and graduate students taking six or more credits/term must enroll in the College’s health insurance plan. Students who have insurance with comparable coverage may request a waiver.  See information and enroll or waive .

School Requirements

International students .

International students need to provide  supplemental documentation :

• Official demonstration of English language proficiency
• Supplemental documentation for issuance of I-20
• International transcripts, evaluated by an accepted evaluation service

Transfer Credit 

Please complete the  transfer credit request form  if you wish to have prior course work evaluated for transfer.  Learn more about transferring credits .

• Credits: 48
• Cost per credit hour: $1,076
• Health Insurance Fee: $3,940 - Required for Massachusetts students only. See waiver details on Tuition & Fees page.)
• Internship/Practicum Fee: $400

See all fees

Note: Rates are as of July, 2022, and are subject to change without notice. Rates apply to all students, unless otherwise noted.

Cambridge College offers financial aid to students in our degree programs who are enrolled at least half time. Undergraduate students must be enrolled in at least 6 credits each term. Graduate and doctoral students must be enrolled in at least 4 credits each term. Learn more

Grants, Scholarships and Loans

Cambridge College welcomes the opportunity to support your efforts to pay for college.  Federal, state and local resources in the form of grants, scholarships, loans and work-study, including Cambridge College Scholarships, are available to help defray the cost of tuition. Learn more

Many companies have tuition assistance programs, designed to help their employees with their professional development. Learn more

Take the Next Step Toward your PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis

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Cambridge College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education. The College and all its degree programs are authorized by the Massachusetts Board of Higher Education. The College is authorized to operate and offer selected degree programs in their states by the California Bureau for Private Post-Secondary and Vocational Education and the Puerto Rico Board of Higher Education Institutions under the Department of State, and the graduate education programs are also recognized by the Puerto Rico Department of Education and the Puerto Rico Board of Professional Counselors under the Puerto Rico Health Department.

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Bouvé College of Health Sciences

Applied behavior analysis.

The Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis prepares graduates to become behavior analysts, serving in supervisory and consultant roles within schools, agencies, hospitals, and other organizations that seek to apply behavioral science to improve socially significant behaviors.

The MS in Applied Behavior Analysis program is verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) as meeting the coursework requirements to sit for the 5th Edition Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) exam. This online program includes seven core courses in behavior analysis plus an additional three courses that extend the student’s familiarity with clinical procedures and with the research supporting their use. Students are given the option of completing supervised fieldwork on their own or by enrolling in courses that provide supervision through the Concentrated Supervised Fieldwork option. 

Northeastern University became one of the first universities to offer a Master's degree in applied behavior analysis when it was created in 1976. In 2013, the MABA program became a fully online program which employs evidence-based practice in applied behavior analysis and online learning experiences. 

More Details

Unique features.

• Asynchronous online program with optional synchronous components, allows students to complete their degree in a way that works for their life and commitments
• Choose how to accrue your field work hours as required by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board

Program Objectives

This program was designed to prepare students to employ the principles and procedures derived from research to create meaningful change in the lives of their clients. This is achieved through in-depth exploration of foundational concepts such as classical and operant conditioning, reinforcement, motivating operations, stimulus control, and more. Advanced courses build upon this foundation, preparing graduates to address the most complex behavior problems and learning challenges.

Career Outlook

Many students become Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) after graduation. Our graduates often go on to work in schools or private agencies, providing oversight of behavioral and educational programming for individuals with autism and related disabilities. Graduates also work in research or hospital settings, or they pursue terminal degrees in behavior analysis or related fields.

Accreditation Description

The Master’s program is verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) as providing the course content required to sit for the BACB exam. See the data: BCBA Examination Pass Rates for Verified Course Sequences.

Testimonials

Greg lum, alumnus, catherine martin, alumna, looking for something different.

A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern—a top-ranked university—can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and hands-on professional experience in the area of your interest. Apply now—and take your career to the next level.

Program Costs

Finance Your Education We offer a variety of resources, including scholarships and assistantships.

How to Apply Learn more about the application process and requirements.

Requirements

• Application fee
• Two letters of recommendation
• Transcripts from all institutions attended
• Personal statement
• TOEFL or IELTS for applicants who do not hold a degree from a U.S. institution and whose native language is not English

Are You an International Student? Find out what additional documents are required to apply.

Admissions Details Learn more about the Bouvé College of Health Sciences admissions process, policies, and required materials.

Admissions Dates

Students enroll in the fall and spring. Fall:  August 1 Spring:  December 15

We use rolling admissions. Applications will be reviewed after they are complete in our system.

Industry-aligned courses for in-demand careers.

For 100+ years, we’ve designed our programs with one thing in mind—your success. Explore the current program requirements and course descriptions, all designed to meet today’s industry needs and must-have skills.

View curriculum

Northeastern's signature experience-powered learning model has been at the heart of the university for more than a century. It combines world-class academics with professional practice, allowing you to acquire relevant, real-world skills you can immediately put into action in your current workplace. This makes a Northeastern education a dynamic, transformative experience, giving you countless opportunities to grow as a professional and person.

Our Faculty

Northeastern University faculty represents a broad cross-section of professional practices and fields, including finance, education, biomedical science, management, and the U.S. military. They serve as mentors and advisors and collaborate alongside you to solve the most pressing global challenges facing established and emerging markets.

Nicole M. Davis, PhD. BCBA LABA

Maeve Donnelly

Laura Dudley, PhD. BCBA-D LABA

By enrolling in Northeastern, you’ll gain access to students at 13 campus locations, 300,000+ alumni, and 3,000 employer partners worldwide. Our global university system provides students unique opportunities to think locally and act globally while serving as a platform for scaling ideas, talent, and solutions.

Below is a look at where our Psychology & Mental Health alumni work, the positions they hold, and the skills they bring to their organization.

Where They Work

• Behavior Analysis, Inc.
• Behavior Based Learning, LLC
• Boston Public Schools
• UMass Medical School
• The New England Center for Children

What They Do

• Healthcare Services
• Community and Social Services
• Business Development
• Entrepreneurship

What They're Skilled At

• Mental Health
• Psychotherapy
• Public Speaking

Learn more about Northeastern Alumni on  Linkedin .

Related Articles

5 Alternative Careers For Psychology Majors that Aren’t Counseling

5 Research Careers With a Master’s in Psychology

Is Getting a DPT Worth It?

• Partnerships

Applied Behavior Analysis (MS)

YOU ARE BOUVÉ

Video: Our ABA program, your way…

Our ABA program, your way…

Apply teaching and intervention skills based on behavior science.

Since 1976, Northeastern University has provided quality graduate instruction in applied behavior analysis (ABA). Along with our hybrid program in Charlotte NC, our online graduate program is designed to develop teaching and intervention skills based on the principles of the science of behavior analysis.

The MS in Applied Behavior Analysis program is verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) as meeting the coursework requirements to sit for the 5th Edition Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) exam.

Our program provides the experience needed to oversee the educational and behavioral programming of individuals with autism or behavioral needs.

Hundreds of our graduates have gone on to become Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA™), working to improve the lives of clients and consumers all over the world.

Flexible options for study

Our online courses make use of cutting-edge technology to permit flexible schedules while creating opportunities for increased interactions between students and instructors. Courses are designed to allow students to complete lectures and other learning tasks on their own time across the semester.

Hybrid ABA in Charlotte, NC

The hybrid program on our Charlotte campus is delivered online and in person. The industry-aligned curriculum allows you to work independently for most of the semester, with face-to-face instruction at critical points in your studies.

Degree types: – MS in Applied Behavior Analysis Study options: – On line – Hybrid — online/on-ground (Charlotte, NC)

Application deadlines: On-ground: Aug 1

GRE: Not required

F-1 Eligibility : Due to the online nature of this program, Northeastern University cannot support students, who require F-1 non-immigrant status, to study within the United States. However, students, who wish to pursue this program from their country of residence, are welcome to apply.

Notes: Evidence-based practice in learning experience design

Verified Course Sequence by ABAI

45-year history of instruction in ABA

Optional Supervised Fieldwork

Video: Lilibeth Torres, an ABA Master’s student, shares her experience of the program

Lilibeth Torres, an ABA Master’s student, shares her experience of the program

Northeastern University became one of the first universities to offer a master’s degree in applied behavior analysis when it was created in 1976. In 2013, the MABA program became a fully online program which employs evidence-based practice in applied behavior analysis. In 2019, our curriculum was updated to meet new 5th edition task list requirements of the BACB and to strengthen the skillsets acquired by our students. BACB VCS pass rates can be found at:  BCBA-Pass-Rates .

For those students looking to connect in real-time with professors and classmates around the globe, most courses also have the option to attend synchronous meetings. The extensive access to online resources supports a connected, flexible experience that fits into even the busiest life.

Our online program includes 7 core courses in behavior analysis plus an additional 3 courses that extend the student’s familiarity with clinical procedures and with the research supporting their use.

Students are given the option of completing supervised fieldwork on their own or by enrolling in courses that provide supervision through the Concentrated Supervised Fieldwork option.

A professional portfolio is the capstone for the Master of Science program. This electronic portfolio is compiled of competencies students have achieved while in the program. Evidence is gathered from projects that students conduct as part of their coursework, including assessments, teaching protocols, and intervention programs.

Graduates are fully prepared for board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA) coursework requirements and able to demonstrate assessed skills.

Free Career Guide:

Learn What You Can Do with a Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis

Explore possible career paths and identify the essential skills needed to advance in the industry.

Providing Over 45 Years of Instruction in Applied Behavior Analysis

Concentrated Supervised Fieldwork

The Northeastern University Applied Behavior Analysis Programs are designed to give students options to allow them to learn and meet their goals wherever they are. Thus, they have the option to complete supervised fieldwork requirements through a Northeastern provided course, or on their own.

Students may enroll in elective practicum courses to gain experience in the field under the supervision of NU faculty. These courses are designed to meet the requirements set forth by the BACB for Concentrated Supervised Fieldwork. Our faculty supervisors bring a rich array of practical experience in public and private settings. Students enrolled in practicum courses meet twice weekly with their assigned faculty supervisors in group and individual formats. Students who meet the stated requirements in all four practicum courses complete 100% of the fieldwork needed to sit for the BCBA examination. Students who are already employed in a behavior analytic role may be eligible to complete their fieldwork in their current professional setting. Other students may gain assistance from NU faculty in identifying practical settings for fieldwork.

Professional Portfolio

The Professional Portfolio is the capstone for the Applied Behavior Analysis Programs at Northeastern University. This portfolio documents the student’s behavioral competency in critical clinical skills. These skills include ethical decision-making, assessing behavior, planning for behavior reduction, teaching and training, and professional supervision and consultation skills.

Each student completes projects associated with the above clinical skills, and each project culminates in professional documents to be included in the student’s Professional Portfolio. A faculty member reviews and signs each project in the Professional Portfolio. The faculty member’s signature indicates that the student has achieved the faculty-established standards for the project. Graduates are encouraged to use their Professional Portfolio when applying for employment.

Northeastern’s ABA program is a sponsor of the Women in Behavior Analysis organization

Northeastern’s master’s program in Applied Behavioral Analysis was recently ranked among the top ABA programs in the country.

Admissions Requirements

A Bachelor’s Degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0.

Related work experience with individuals with special needs is a plus, but not required.

Completed Application Form

Statement of Purpose

2 Letters of Recommendation

Official Transcripts

Application fee (Note: This fee can be waived if you attend a virtual information session .)

Got questions?

Please reach out to us.

Nicole Davis, PhD, BCBA Program Director and Associate Clinical Professor 617-373-5917

Where to Send Your Documents

Please choose from the following two mailing addresses:

1.  If you are mailing your documents from within the U.S., use this address:

Northeastern University Bouvé College of Health and Sciences Applicant ID: XXXXXXX (insert your Applicant ID number) Graduate Application Processing Center P.O. Box 1434 Portsmouth, NH 03802

2.  If you are mailing your documents from outside the U.S., use this address:

Northeastern University Bouve College of Health Sciences Applicant ID: XXXXXXX (insert your Applicant ID number) Graduate Application Documents 360 Huntington Ave. Boston, MA 02115 USA

Referencing Your Applicant ID (AYID)

Please include your 7-digit Applicant ID with your documents. Northeastern uses the Applicant ID to match your document with your official admissions record. If you have more than one Applicant ID, use the one associated with the College/Degree/Program in which you plan to enroll. Your Applicant ID may have been emailed to you by your graduate college admissions office.

If you do not know your Applicant ID, follow these steps:

1. Login to your application (ApplyYourself) account 2. Click EDIT APPLICATION

Your Applicant ID will appear towards the top of any introductory language or content, and/or can be referenced on the left-hand side of the screen menu under the Important Links section. There you will see “Check Your Applicant ID XXXXXXX” (where XXXXXXX will be your 7-digit unique ID).

Life can be quite chaotic taking classes, while balancing a career and family. I needed a master’s program that fit into my life that didn’t take away from the things that were important to me. That is why I chose Northeastern University’s MS in ABA program. The online format afforded me the time to reach my goals academically, continue on my career path, and spend quality time with my family. I would recommend Northeastern’s MS in ABA program to anyone, but particularly those balancing a family and career.

Carmen Susman, MS ’17

Learning Partnerships

The ABA programs at Northeastern are excited to partner with organizations in the community providing behavior-analytic services to clients in need. The partnerships allow student-employees to practice what they are learning and have a streamlined path to the best option for accruing supervised fieldwork.

Organizations interested in partnering with the Northeastern ABA graduate programs should contact Nicole M. Davis at  [email protected] .

Nicole Davis

Director, Applied Behavior Analysis Program; Associate Clinical Professor Applied Psychology

422 International Village

Maeve Donnelly

PhD, BCBA-D, LABA

Assistant Clinical Professor; Director of Supervision for Applied Behavior Analysis Programs Applied Psychology

Laura Dudley

Associate Clinical Professor, Director of Applied Behavior Analysis Programs, and Associate Chair of the Department of Applied Psychology Applied Psychology

431 International Village

Part-Time Lecturers

Paula Braga-Kenyon, PhD, BCBA-D Mike Dorsey PhD, LABA, BCBA-D Ksenia Gatzunis PhD, BCBA-D Shawn Kenyon, PhD, BCBA Amanda Laprime, PhD, BCBA-D Hanna Rue, PhD, BCBA-D Ashley Williams, PhD, BCBA

Frequently Asked Questions

Are all courses online and do i have to log in at certain times to take part.

Yes, all of our courses are provided in an online format.

Our courses are asynchronous. That is, students are not required to log in at a specific time each week to participate. Rather, course materials are made available each week, and students are expected to complete required readings, view lecture materials, and complete assignments and discussion requirements by the end of the week.

Some of our courses do include optional synchronous video discussions during select weeks of the semester.

How many students are in each class?

Classes have up to 19 students.

Are there opportunities to interact with other students and faculty?

There are many opportunities to interact with other students and with faculty members within our courses. Weekly discussions, projects, presentations, and other assignments allow for students to interact with one another and with the instructor on a weekly basis. Some courses also include collaborative assignments and group-based teaching pedagogies that create the opportunity for interactions

How do students accrue supervised experience hours required to sit for the BCBA exam?

Students may either achieve their supervised fieldwork hours under the supervision of a BCBA at their place of work, or they may achieve their experience hours under the supervision of an NU faculty member, by taking our elective Intensive Practicum courses. One semester of Intensive Practicum provides students with up to 375 supervised fieldwork hours. (See the BACB Handbook. )

When do students take the Intensive Practicum courses if they elect to do so?

Students may take the Intensive Practicum courses at any point after their first semester in the program, alongside their other coursework. Alternatively, students may take the Intensive Practicum courses after they have completed their other coursework.

I have completed previous coursework in ABA. Can I transfer those credits to Northeastern’s ABA Program?

In some cases, students may transfer credits from a previous institution, but only if those courses align closely with our own. Students may transfer up to 3 graduate level courses (9 credit hours), provided they received a 3.0 or better in those courses, provided the coursework was completed within the last 5 years, and provided the course did not lead to a terminal degree (e.g., a master’s degree).

It is important to note that our program is a verified course sequence (VCS); when students transfer coursework from a previous institution, they are no longer following an approved course sequence. Students who transfer coursework will need to submit evidence of all coursework to the BACB in order to sit for the BCBA exam.

It is ultimately up to the BACB to determine if students have completed all of the necessary coursework prior to sitting for the BCBA exam. In order to transfer credits, students must first apply to the program. Once accepted and enrolled, students complete a Petition to Transfer Credits form which must be approved by the Program Director and the Bouvé Graduate Office.

How much does tuition cost and is it different for out-of-state students?

The cost is a per-credit rate (subject to change) for 30 credits.

Tuition is the same for in-state and out-of-state students. Students may take advantage of financial aid opportunities. See more about financial aid .

Is financial aid available?

Yes, students can take advantage of Northeastern’s financial aid opportunities .

What do students do after graduation?

Most of our graduates plan to become Board Certified Behavior Analysts after completing our program. Many of our graduates work in schools or private agencies, providing oversight of behavioral and educational programming for individuals with autism and related disabilities. Many of our graduates also work in research or in academia. See our website for a sampling of our alumni and where they work.

Connect with us

Have more questions about Bouvé? We’re here to help.

Want to take the next step and start your journey at Bouvé?

Request more information

Interested in learning more about what Bouvé has to offer?

Chicago - Los Angeles - Washington D.C. - Online

Program overview.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the ethical design, implementation, and evaluation of environmental changes to produce socially significant improvements in behavior. The MS Applied Behavior Analysis program incorporates the content areas and practicum requirements for eligibility to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®) by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® (BACB®). Please see further information about professional licensure and certification below.   

Through the integration of theory and practice, the ABA program provides a solid foundation in the philosophy, science, and application of behavior analysis, promoting an interdisciplinary and translational approach to clinical practice. At the PhD level, the program expands upon the knowledge and skills learned in the MS program by strengthening students’ research, clinical, and leadership skills. The aim is to prepare students for a rewarding career in the rapidly growing field of Applied Behavior Analysis. Doctoral graduates are lead practitioners and researchers in educational, clinical, and business settings who can successfully respond to the diverse needs of consumers of behavioral interventions and therapies, and who can teach and mentor students of behavior analysis in university settings.

The Chicago School’s PhD Applied Behavior Analysis program is offered in a variety of formats across the different campuses. Many students work (some full-time) but we advise students to consider carefully the balance between school, family, and work and make reasoned choices about time and resource allocation. Students at the MS level (the first two years of the doctoral program) generally invest a minimum of 20-30 hours of coursework per week excluding practicum. Each campus offers unique opportunities for students to expand their experiences. Once doctoral students become certified as BCBAs®, they are encouraged to provide BCBA® supervision, teaching and/or advisement to MS students in unique training opportunities that allow them to hone their supervision, teaching, research and management skills.

The goal of the PhD Applied Behavior Analysis program is to develop professionals who can help individuals and organizations, select, implement, and manage effective systems to improve outcomes across a variety of settings. The program provides students with a solid understanding of the Science and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis as the foundation that informs the Applied Behavior Analysis, Experimental Analysis of Behavior, and Service Delivery domains to produce graduates who rely on the science of behavior to contribute to the betterment of society.

The objective of the PhD Applied Behavior Analysis program is to train individuals to contribute to applied practice settings in addition to the behavior-analytic scholarly and political communities. Doctoral-level ABA students gain a comprehensive understanding of Science and Philosophy, the Experimental Analysis of Behavior, Applied Behavior Analysis, and Service Delivery. Graduates are equipped with the repertoire to function as leaders in their respective positions (i.e., clinical, academic, etc.) and are prepared to address a range of issues and problems, and to design, implement, and test practical effective solutions that work in the real world. 

Program Philosophy

The PhD Applied Behavior Analysis program is designed to prepare students in a wide variety of specialization areas within ABA. Although it is common for lay people to assume that ABA is relevant only to people with autism or other developmental disabilities, behavior analysis is applied to numerous populations and problems. Thus, in the program, students can focus not only on issues related to the assessment and treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders, but also on the assessment and treatment of severe behavior problems, instructional design, organizational behavior management, and applications with non-traditional populations such as geriatrics, people with traumatic brain injury, and regular and special education. Thus, while ABA techniques apply to people with disabilities, they are just as useful to people in the general population.

The PhD Applied Behavior Analysis program provides training to students related to all four domains of Behavior Analysis (i.e., Philosophy, Experimental Analysis of Behavior, Applied Behavior Analysis, and Service Delivery). Further, the programs and curricula are designed to infuse the scientist-practitioner model across these domains and teach students to be consumers of new research findings, evaluators of their own interventions and programs using empirical methods, and researchers, producing new data from their own settings and reporting these data to the applied and scientific community.

In summary, the PhD Applied Behavior Analysis program’s mission is to provide students with the scientific, analytical, and conceptual tools they need to provide effective, ethical, and practical behavior-analytic interventions and to contribute to the research agenda as applied to the diverse populations that they serve. The vision of the program is to provide the most comprehensive and effective graduate training in ABA, and to that end, the faculty provide the students with the most up-to-date information and research, and encourage critical analysis of the research with an emphasis on using it to drive practice. The ABA doctoral program emphasizes the investment in contributing to research and/or to become clinical leaders in our field. Because ABA is based on a rapidly developing and evolving behavioral technology grounded in research, the knowledge base is constantly changing. It is our Mission in the PhD Applied Behavior Analysis program at The Chicago School to remain at the forefront of the development of this field.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program students will be able to:

Professional Practice

• Develop and apply advanced techniques to assess and intervene on behavior.
• Evaluate systems and train others to design and conduct behavior-analytic interventions and research.
• Analyze complex behavior, interactions, and systems through a radical-behaviorist framework, and design interlocking contingencies to address complex cultural issues.
• Evaluate the impact of diversity issues on individuals and society (as a whole in domestic or international settings,) and demonstrate sensitivity and competence while working with diverse populations. 

Professional Behavior

• Evaluate ethical behavior and to arrange contingencies to establish and maintain ethical behavior in their individual work and at a systems level.
• Communicate effectively with clients, stakeholders, and other professionals; present research and other information to the professional community and the general public; and lead advocacy efforts for clients, agencies, and groups.

Scholarship

• Conduct original behavior-analytic research and to synthesize and evaluate behavior-analytic and other psychological research.

For information on where The Chicago School meets, does not meet, or has not determined if the program meets licensure eligibility requirements for the state in which you wish to be licensed, please visit: https://www.thechicagoschool.edu/admissions/licensure-disclosures/ .

Admission Requirements

For information on where The Chicago School is currently authorized, licensed, registered, exempt or not subject to approval, please visit   https://www.thechicagoschool.edu/why-us/state-authorization/

Application to The Chicago School’s PhD Applied Behavior Analysis program (post- Master’s) is open to any person who has earned a master’s degree as specified below from a regionally accredited institution and who meets other entrance requirements.

The school admits applicants whom it judges to possess sufficient academic aptitude, as well as the emotional and social maturity to function effectively as a professional behavior analyst. Applicants will be judged on their overall ability to engage in graduate work. Factors considered in admission are: undergraduate and any graduate coursework, GPA from undergraduate and graduate schools; successful work history; admission essay(s); and letters of recommendation from academic professors or professional or volunteer experience supervisors. An undergraduate or graduate GPA of a 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale is required for admission to the school’s Applied Behavior Analysis doctoral program. Applicants must submit official transcripts from all schools where a degree was earned. It is recommended that transcripts are submitted from all schools where credit was received to enhance their applications.

Applicants for admission to the PhD post-master’s must fall into one of these categories:

• Category A : Have a master’s degree in Psychology, Education, Behavior Analysis, or other related degree recognized by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB®) and hold a current BCBA® certification in good standing.
• Category B : Have a master’s degree in Psychology, Education, Behavior Analysis, or other related degree recognized by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB®) and have completed the BACB® approved courses required to qualify for the BCBA® credentialing examination (based on the Fourth Edition Task) list.

Based on the evaluation of these materials, selected candidates may be invited to interview for further consideration of their application. Applications must be submitted with the $50.00 (USD) application fee in order to be evaluated.

For all students: In addition to the admission criteria, it is recommended that students have access to a computer that is less than three years old, a broadband or Internet connection, and the Microsoft Office Suite including Word, Excel, and Outlook and, at minimum, the following computing skills:

• A comfort with basic Internet technology
• The ability to open and attach files from and to email
• The ability to send and receive email
• The ability to save documents                 

Applicant Notification

The Chicago School reviews applications on a rolling basis. Once review begins, complete applications will be considered by the Admission Committee and applicants will be notified regarding the admission decision. The Chicago School does not share information or provide any feedback regarding admission decisions.

If a student is offered admission and in order to secure a place in the incoming class, a non-refundable tuition deposit of $250 will be required by the deposit deadline indicated in the offer of admission. The non-refundable deposit will be applied in full toward the student’s tuition upon enrollment.

Degree Completion Requirements

• Successful completion of required coursework (107 credit hours post-bachelor’s; 58 credit hours post-masters; 87 credit hours post-master’s credentialing track)
• Successful completion of Comprehensive Examination
• Successful completion of Dissertation

The following policies are located under  Academic Policies and Procedures   : Academic Calendar, Admissions Requirements, Attendance, Satisfactory Academic Progress, Service Learning, and Transfer Credit/Course Waiver. Click the link above for detailed information.

Earning a Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis

A student in the post-bachelor PhD Applied Behavior Analysis program may earn a MS Applied Behavior Analysis following the successful completion of required coursework and specific program requirements. At the beginning of the semester in which a student expects to be eligible for the master’s degree, they are required to submit a Petition for Degree Conferral to the Office of the Registrar. The petition is a request to conduct an audit to determine eligibility for the degree. A student who meets the requirements is eligible to participate in the next scheduled commencement. A student who files a Petition for Degree Conferral is charged a fee.

The specific requirements are as follows:

• Academic and Financial Aid Good Standing
• Successful completion of required coursework    (49 credits)

Ethical Guidelines

Students are expected to learn and to follow the ethical guidelines of the American Psychological Association, the Association for Behavior Analysis International, and the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® during and after their work at The Chicago School. A class in ethics is required at the Masters level, and student adherence to ethical codes is evaluated both formally and informally.

Professional Development Group

All PhD Applied Behavior Analysis students are required to enroll in an Advanced Professional Development Group (PA602) during their first semester or term in the post-Masters program.  Their instructor serves as their academic advisor until they select a dissertation chair.

Comprehensive Examination

Students are required to take and pass a written comprehensive examination and an oral defense before they are allowed to propose their dissertation research to the Institutional Review Board (IRB). Four 1-credit courses prepare students to take the exam and to defend their answers. Students have two chances to pass each component (a third attempt may be allowed under extenuating circumstances). When the written and oral components of the comprehensive exam are passed, the student becomes a Doctoral Candidate and can proceed to their dissertation research.

Dissertation

Students are also required to complete a dissertation. The dissertation must be a data-based empirical evaluation that marks an original contribution to the published literature. The PhD Applied Behavior Analysis course sequence facilitates student completion of the dissertation with a carefully designed course sequence that has the necessary steps toward dissertation completion embedded into the required coursework. Students receive detailed information about the dissertation process and related requirements during their first year in the program.

The Curriculum

Total Program: PhD Applied Behavior Analysis (post-bachelors): 107 credit hours

• Required Core: 50 credit hours
• Electives: 9 credit hours
• Qualifying Master’s Degree: 49 credit hours

Total Program: PhD Applied Behavior Analysis (post-masters): 58 credit hours

• Required Core: 49 credit hours
• Electives: 9 credit hours

Total Program: PhD Applied Behavior Analysis with Credentialing Track Option* (post-masters): 83 credit hours

• Required Core: 49 credit hours
• Credentialing Track Option: 25 credit hours

*Students registered in the Credentialing Track Option incur a one-time $195 Experiential Learning Technology Fee.

Post-Master’s Required Core

• PA 602 - Advanced Professional Development (1 credit hour)
• PA 620 - Advanced Applied Behavior Analysis (3 credit hours)
• PA 621 - Foundations of Behavioral Acquisition (3 credit hours)
• PA 649 - Translational Research (3 credit hours)
• PA 650 - Research in Psychology and Education (3 credit hours)
• PA 651 - Advanced Behavioral Research (3 credits)
• PA 652 - Statistical Analysis (3 credit hours)
• PA 670 - Supervision and Consulting in ABA (2 credits)
• PA 673 - Radical Behaviorism II (3 credit hours)
• PA 677 - Essentials of Instructional Design (2 credit hours)
• PA 686 - Critical Analysis of Research in Verbal Behavior (3 credit hours)
• PA 700 - Proposal Development Seminar (3 credit hours)(auto full time)
• PA 714 - Experimental Analysis of Behavior (3 credits)
• PA 730 - Comprehensive I (auto half time) (1 credit hour)
• PA 731 - Comprehensive II (auto half time) (1 credit hour)
• PA 732 - Comprehensive III (auto half time) (1 credit hour)
• PA 733 - Comprehensive IV (auto half time) (1 credit hour)
• PA 741 - Dissertation Development I (2 credit hours)(auto full time)
• PA 742 - Dissertation Development II (2 credit hours)(auto full time)
• PA 743 - Dissertation Development III (2 credit hours)(auto full time)
• PA 744 - Dissertation Development IV (2 credit hours)(auto full time)
• PA 745 - Dissertation Development V (2 credit hours)(auto full time)

The following Residency courses are required for Online students only.

• PA 800 - Residency I (auto half time) (0 credit hours)
• PA 801 - Residency II (auto half time) (0 credit hours)
• PA 802 - Residency III (auto half time) (0 credits)
• PA 624 - Seminal Writings in Behavior Analysis (2 credit hours)
• PA 625 - Verbal Behavior (3 credit hours)
• PA 637 - Introduction to Experimental Analysis of Behavior (3 credit hours)
• PA 639 - Science and Human Behavior (3 credit hours)
• PA 653 - Statistical Analysis II (3 credit hours)
• PA 658 - Behavioral Development (2 credit hours)
• PA 660 - Research Experience I (1 credit hour) (auto half time)
• PA 661 - Research Experience II (1 credit hour) (auto half time)
• PA 662 - Research Experience III (1 credit hour) (auto half time)
• PA 675 - Canonical Writings of B.F. Skinner (2 credit hours)
• PA 676 - Theoretical Foundations of Behavior Analysis (2 credit hours)
• PA 678 - Conceptual Foundations of Instructional Design (2 credit hours)
• PA 679 - Designing a Behaviorally Based Curriculum (2 credit hours)
• PA 680 - Analysis and Treatment of Developmental Disabilities (2 credit hours)
• PA 684 - Experimental Behavioral Pharmacology (2 credits)
• PA 687 - Special Topics I (1 credit)
• PA 688 - Special Topics II (2 credits)
• PA 689 - Special Topics III (3 credits)
• PA 704 - Advanced Ethics (1 credit)
• PA 705 - Advanced Diversity (1 credit)
• PA 710 - Traumatic Brain Injury (2 credits)
• PA 712 - Advanced Organizational Behavior Management (2 credits)
• PA 713 - Advanced Precision Teaching (2 credits)
• PA 810 - Independent Study I (1 Credit Hour)
• PA 811 - Independent Study II (2 credit hours)
• PA 812 - Independent Study III (3 credit hours)

Credentialing Track Option

• AB 540 - Concepts and Principles in Behavior Analysis I (3 credit hours)(course fee online only $56)
• AB 541 - Concepts and Principles in Behavior Analysis II (3 credit hours)(course fee online only $56)
• AB 545 - Measurement and Design in Behavior Analysis (3 credit hours)(course fee online only $56)
• AB 556 - Behavior Change Procedures I (3 credit hours)(course fee online only $56)
• AB 557 - Behavior Change Procedures II (3 credit hours)(course fee online only $56)
• AB 564 - Behavior Assessment (3 credit hours)(course fee online only $56)
• AB 565 - Professional Ethics and Issues in Behavior Analysis (3 credit hours)(course fee online only $56)

On-Ground Practicum Sequence

• AB 615 - Practicum I (1 credit hour)(auto half time)
• AB 616 - Practicum II (1 credit hour)(auto half time)
• AB 617 - Practicum III (1 credit hour)(auto half time)
• AB 618 - Practicum IV (1 credit hour)(auto half time)

Online Practicum Sequence

• AB 630 - Practicum I (0.5 credit hour)(auto half time)
• AB 631 - Practicum II (0.5 credit hour)(auto half time)
• AB 632 - Practicum III (0.5 credit hour)(auto half time)
• AB 633 - Practicum IV (0.5 credit hour)(auto half time)
• AB 634 - Practicum V (0.5 credit hour)(auto half time)
• AB 635 - Practicum VI (0.5 credit hour)(auto half time)
• AB 636 - Practicum VII (0.5 credit hour)(auto half time)
• AB 637 - Practicum VIII (0.5 credit hour)(auto half time)

Option for Online students to complete individual supervision through the following courses:

• EBC 520 - Individual Supervision (0.5 credit hours)(auto half time)
• EBC 521 - Individual Supervision (0.5 credit hours)(auto half time)
• EBC 522 - Individual Supervision (0.5 credit hours)(auto half time)
• EBC 523 - Individual Supervision (0.5 credit hours)(auto half time)
• EBC 524 - Individual Supervision (0.5 credit hours)(auto half time)
• EBC 525 - Individual Supervision (0.5 credit hours)(auto half time)
• EBC 526 - Individual Supervision (0.5 credit hours)(auto half time)
• EBC 527 - Individual Supervision (0.5 credit hours)(auto half time)

Extension Courses

• PA 953 - Manuscript Preparation (MP) Extension (0 credit hours) - auto full-time
• PA 954 - Manuscript Preparation (MP) Extension (0 credit hours) - auto half-time
• PA 959A - Manuscript Preparation (MP) Extension (0 credit hours) - auto half-time
• PA 959B - Manuscript Preparation (MP) Extension (0 credit hours) - auto half-time
• PA 960A - Manuscript Preparation (MP) Extension (0 credit hours) - auto full-time
• PA 960B - Manuscript Preparation (MP) Extension (0 credit hours) - auto full-time
• AB 950A-F - Thesis Extension (1 credit hour) - auto half-time
• AB 951A-F - Thesis Extension (1 credit hour) - auto full-time
• AB 997A-D - Practicum Extension (0 credit hours)(auto half time)
• EBC 567A-D - Individual Supervision Extension (0 credit hours)(auto half time)

Research Project Extension Courses - Semester Based Program Versions (Doctoral Level)

These courses are used in accordance with the Research Project Courses policy.  Students in Semester Based doctoral programs may use only these courses as extensions for dissertations, theses, advanced applied projects, advanced research projects, and applied research projects. RPX courses may not be repeated, substituted, or combined with term-based research project extension courses.

• RPX 501 - Research Project Extension 1 (3 credit hours) (Auto full-time)
• RPX 502 - Research Project Extension 2 (3 credit hours) (Auto full-time)
• RPX 5031 - Research Project Extension 3 (Summer 1) (1.5 credit hours) (auto full-time)
• RPX 5032 - Research Project Extension 3 (Summer 2) (1.5 credit hours) (auto full-time)
• RPX 504 - Research Project Extension 4 (3 credit hours) (Auto full-time)
• RPX 505 - Research Project Extension 5 (3 credit hours) (Auto full-time)
• RPX 5061 - Research Project Extension 6 (Summer 1) (1.5 credit hours) (auto full-time)
• RPX 5062 - Research Project Extension 6 (Summer 2) (1.5 credit hours) (auto full-time)

Research Project Extension 7, 8, 9, and External IRB require the written approval of the department prior to enrollment.

• RPX 507 - Research Project Extension 7 (3 credit hours) (Auto full-time)
• RPX 508 - Research Project Extension 8 (3 credit hours) (Auto full-time)
• RPX 5091 - Research Project Extension 9 (Summer 1) (1.5 credit hours) (auto full-time)
• RPX 5092 - Research Project Extension 9 (Summer 2) (1.5 credit hours) (auto full-time)
• RPX 510 - Research Project Extension External IRB (1 credit hour) (auto full-time)

Research Project Extension Courses - Term Based Program Versions (Doctoral Level)

These courses are used in accordance with the Research Project Courses policy.  Students in Term Based doctoral programs may use only these courses as extensions for dissertations, theses, advanced applied projects, advanced research projects, and applied research projects. RPX courses may not be repeated, substituted, or combined with semester based research project extension courses.

• RPX 551 - Research Project Extension 1 (1.5 credit hours) (auto full-time)
• RPX 552 - Research Project Extension 2 (1.5 credit hours) (auto full-time)
• RPX 553 - Research Project Extension 3 (1.5 credit hours) (auto full-time)
• RPX 554 - Research Project Extension 4 (1.5 credit hours) (auto full-time)
• RPX 555 - Research Project Extension 5 (1.5 credit hours) (auto full-time)
• RPX 556 - Research Project Extension 6 (1.5 credit hours) (auto full-time)
• RPX 557 - Research Project Extension 7 (1.5 credit hours) (auto full-time)
• RPX 558 - Research Project Extension 8 (1.5 credit hours) (auto full-time)
• RPX 559 - Research Project Extension 9 (1.5 credit hours) (auto full-time)
• RPX 560 - Research Project Extension 10 (1.5 credit hours) (auto full-time)
• RPX 561 - Research Project Extension 11 (1.5 credit hours) (auto full-time)
• RPX 562 - Research Project Extension 12 (1.5 credit hours) (auto full-time)

Research Project Extension 13 through 18, and External IRB A and B require the written approval of the department prior to enrollment.

• RPX 563 - Research Project Extension 13 (1.5 credit hours) (auto full-time)
• RPX 564 - Research Project Extension 14 (1.5 credit hours) (auto full-time)
• RPX 565 - Research Project Extension 15 (1.5 credit hours) (auto full-time)
• RPX 566 - Research Project Extension 16 (1.5 credit hours) (auto full-time)
• RPX 567 - Research Project Extension 17 (1.5 credit hours) (auto full-time)
• RPX 568 - Research Project Extension 18 (1.5 credit hours) (auto full-time)
• RPX 569 - Research Project Extension External IRB A (0.5 credit hour) (auto full-time)
• RPX 570 - Research Project Extension External IRB B (0.5 credit hour) (auto full-time)

Graduate Program Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

• Program Details
• Info Sessions
• Admission Details

Degree Details

• Masters (M) Total Credits Masters + ABA Graduate Certificate—45 credits Start Term Fall Delivery Method Online
• Graduate Certificate (GC) Total Credits ABA Graduate Certificate—32 credits Start Term Fall Delivery Method Online

Learn more about our academic program delivery methods

APPLIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS OVERVIEW QUICK FACTS

Portland State University’s ABA program is fully online and provides a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) aligned with the 5th Edition Task List as a non-degree option; or in conjunction with a master’s degree as part of the Pathway 2 eligibility  outlined by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® (BACB®) . In addition, the program includes a number of added curricular areas of focus, including an explicit emphasis on the use of Positive Behavior Interventions and Support, Telehealth/Technology, and use of behavioral supports within early childhood settings.

The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) has verified PSU’s course sequence toward the coursework requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® examination. Applicants will need to meet additional requirements before they can be deemed eligible to take the examination. Please refer to the  BACB®  for additional requirements.

Quick Facts

• 32 credit to a certificate; 45 credits when paired with a master's degree
• Fully online cohort format
• Part-time format allows students to acquire  independent supervised field experience  required to sit for the credentialing exam

Program Benefits

• Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) Verified Course Sequence (VCS)
• Resident tuition rates apply for non-degree students who reside outside of Oregon
• Scholarship opportunities and Financial Aid eligibility for degree-seeking students
• Access to a network of experts in the field
• Coursework content preparation for BACB®-administered credentialing exam

Applied Behavioral Analysis: Why PSU?

As the only fully online program in the state of Oregon, graduate students receive expert content, training, and clinical experiences from practicing BCBAs with national and international experience in Applied Behavior Analysis, Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports, and Telehealth across a variety of settings (e.g., home, schools, and community-based settings).

What can I do with a certificate in Applied Behavioral Analysis?

According to the Behavior Analysis Certification Board ® (BACB®) “Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has been empirically shown to be effective in a wide variety of areas, including parent training, substance abuse treatment, dementia management, brain injury rehabilitation, occupational safety intervention, among others." Our graduates are behavior specialists in schools, as well as in day-treatment centers, ABA provider agencies, community based organizations, homes and in communities.

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Business analytics mastery: Online degrees for analytical minds

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