The Rate of Job Growth for BCBAs (In 2023)

BCBA job growth is expected to increase by more than 20% in the next eight years, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BCBA) started tracking such data in 2010, and ever since then, job growth has increased each year in the BCBA field.

The BCBA Job Market

Behavior analysts are in high demand in the United States, making it a great time to be a BCBA. ABA therapy companies across the country, including our own, are looking for certified behavior therapists to join their teams.

The increased autism population is likely causing an increased demand for ABA services which is causing ABA therapy companies to need more BCBAs.

All 50 states have experienced an increased demand for BCBAs over the last few years.

Whether you are a BCBA or an assistant behavior analyst, the BCBA job market has plenty of opportunities for you.

BCBA Job Growth Rates

In 2019, Burning Glass Technologies conducted a study which was published by the BACB. The study found that the demand for behavior analysts and assistant behavior analysts increased significantly each year since 2010.

The demand for BCBAs increased by 1,942% from 2010 to 2018. Between 2017 and 2018, demand increased by 127%. From 2010 to 2018, the demand for assistant behavior analysts (BCaBAs) increased by 1,098%, and it increased by 184% from 2017 to 2018.

The rate of BCBA job growth is staggering, and hasn't increased across all 50 states. However, the BCBA job market has plenty of opportunities for aspiring BCBAs and should continue to grow over the next several years.

Top States For BCBA Job Growth

The top five states for BCBA job growth are:

1. California
2. Massachusetts
3. Texas
4. Illinois
5. Arizona

The top five states for BCaBA job growth are:

1. California
2. Florida
3. Virginia
4. Texas
5. Arizona

There's Increased Demand for BCBAs

The increase in demand for behavior analysts is due to several reasons:

1. Rise in awareness of autism
2. Effectiveness of applied behavior analysis
3. Recognition of how valuable a skilled BCBA is

There is an increase in demand for BCBAs in numerous professional fields, including:

1. Behavioral pediatrics, behavioral gerontology, behavioral sport psychology
2. Substance abuse treatment
3. Environmental sustainability
4. Organizational behavior management
5. Recovery for patients with brain injuries

Job Outlook for BCBAs

The BLS hasn't yet provided data on BCBAs, however, the job outlook for related positions is strong. For example, there is a projected 22% job growth rate from 2019-2029 for family and marriage therapists. Also, behavioral counselors are predicted to see a 25% job growth rate by 2029.

The job growth outlook for BCBAs is much higher than the national average. Based on the current job outlook, you have a high chance of having a long and rewarding career in behavior analysis.

References

1. https://www.purdueglobal.edu/blog/psychology/careers-applied-behavior-analysis/
2. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/substance-abuse-behavioral-disorder-and-mental-health-counselors.htm
3. https://www.bacb.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/BurningGlass2022_220208.pdf