11 Best BCBA Programs & Schools (In-Person & Online)

Looking for the best BCBA programs?

We've compiled a list of the best BCBA schools and programs that prepare students to become certified behavior analysts who are ready to help patients in different settings.

In order to take the BCBA exam, you're required to complete a verified graduate program which covers required behavior-analytic coursework.

Luckily for you, the BCBA programs listed below all prepare students to pass the exam (on the first try). Keep reading.

Most Reputable BCBA Programs

Across the United States, plenty of colleges and universities offer BACB-certified master's programs in applied behavior analysis.

Many offer both online and on-campus learning options. Some BCBA programs can be completed in as little as 18 months, but most take around two years.

Best On-Campus BCBA Programs

Below is a list of the best on-campus BACB-certified graduate programs:

1. Simmons University: Here, a master's in behavior analysis is offered through evening classes and certain online courses.
2. Michigan State University: This university prepares students to receive a master's in ABA, and to be highly skilled behavior analysts in educational settings.
3. Central Washington University: This is one of the most affordable graduate ABA programs available in the United States. This school prepares students to become certified behavior analysts and work with a variety of populations in different settings.
4. Drexel University: Aspiring BCBAs can earn a master's in ABA on-campus, online, or in hybrid learning programs with an option to extend into a PhD program in ABA, experimental psychology, or school and clinical psychology.
5. Michigan State University: Students are prepared to be a highly competent behavior analysts in educational settings. Students will receive a master's in the university's ABA program.
6. University of Michigan: Students are offered a master's in ABA and are prepared to become independent ABA therapists as well as to pass the BCBA exam. Degree and certificate programs in ABA are available at the University of Michigan.

Best BCBA Online Certification Programs

Here is a list of the best online BCBA programs that are certified by the BACB.

1. Florida Institute of Technology: Florida Tech offers students an online master's in ABA that is aligned with BACB's requirements. There are online and in-person courses available, as well as a PhD option for students who wish to continue their studies beyond the master's level.
2. Northeastern University: Students are offered a master's degree in behavior analysis through a part-time fully online program that can be completed in 18 to 24 months. Students who'd like to gain supervised experience hours toward their certification are offered an optional two semester course.
3. Regis College: This university offers a fully online master's in ABA that students can complete in 20 months. The coursework is certified by the BACB and helps students prepare to take the BCBA exam.
4. Monmouth University: Students are offered a master's in education with an ABA certificate. Students are required to take an online six-course sequence to receive an ABA certificate. The certificate qualifies them to take the BCBA exam.
5. Pennsylvania State University: Students are offered a master's in education with a focus on ABA. An optional course is also offered. There are online courses available at this university, and the program prepares students to pass the BCBA exam (on the first try)

How to Select the Right BCBA Program

Selecting the right program will require you to determine your personal and professional goals.

Some students benefit from in-person interactions that on-campus learning offers them, while others enjoy learning online by themselves and at their own pace.

Students should also consider cost while choosing a program. In-person and online programs have different costs, mainly due to the different level of services involved in the program.

Online programs are usually more affordable than in-person programs, so if you'd prefer to spend a smaller amount on your BCBA program, consider choosing an online program.

Once you identify your personal, professional, and education goals, you will be able to find the best BCBA program for you.

Requirements from BCBA Programs

In order to become a BCBA, you must follow these steps:

1. Earn a graduate degree.
2. Complete behavior-analytic coursework.
3. Complete supervised fieldwork.
4. Pass the official exam.

The Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) defines qualifying institutions as:

1. U.S. institutions listed in the Council for Higher Education Accreditation database.
2. Institutions outside the U.S. that provide degrees which meet specific standards.

References

1. https://www.appliedbehavioranalysisprograms.com/rankings/applied-behavior-analysis-programs/
2. https://www.intelligent.com/best-online-bcba-masters-degree-program/