How do school psychologists differ from school counselors?

A school psychologist typically works with individual students and their families while a counselor tends to work with the larger school population. School psychologists for example might help qualify an individual for special services, while a counselor tackles matters such as crisis intervention and preparing students for their overall future success. Read more.

What skills do school psychologists need?

Some foundational skills schools and districts are looking for in candidates include patient education and support, disorder diagnosis, treatment and care, and strong written and oral communication skills. Those with specializations in telehealth, report writing and crisis intervention are positioned well for these critical roles.

How do you become a school psychologist?

Just like other mental health professions, you will need an advanced degree to practice as a school psychologist. Some states, like California, also require a specific credential program dedicated to the area of study. Once these prerequisites are complete, you’ll then apply for licensure.

Certificate in Applied Behavioral Analysis

ABA Program Overview

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has been shown to be an effective intervention for individuals with autism as well as a wide range of developmental, medical, and behavioral conditions, including intellectual disabilities, dementia, addiction, and traumatic brain injury. This graduate certificate program is designed to meet the BCBA Certification Pathway 2 coursework requirements. Please note that additional requirements must be met to qualify for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) credential.

Develop expertise in experimental research design and learn how to apply data to inform behavioral change.
Gain a comprehensive understanding of key ABA principles, including reinforcement, punishment, schedules of reinforcement, motivating operations, stimulus control, imitation, shaping, chaining, and verbal behavior.
Evaluate ABA methodologies for instruction and intervention, conduct Functional Behavior Assessments, and analyze measurement tools for specific behaviors.

At a Glance

Online

8 weeks per course

7 courses total

3 credits per course

21 academic credits total

$900 per course

$6,300 Full program (other fees may apply)

Next Start Date

Spring I (Jan 12, 2026)

Program Benefits that Benefit You.

Data-Driven Decisions

Explore how to use data to encourage changes in behavior using experimental research designs and more.

Nationally and Internationally Recognized ABA Training

Become a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with our nationally and internationally recognized program.

BCBA Certification

This program meets the BCBA Pathway 2 coursework requirements and prepares you to take the BCBA exam.

Courses You Might Take

EDUU 692

The Science and Philosophical Underpinnings of Applied Behavior Analysis

3 Credits

EDUU 693

The Foundational Concepts and Principles of Applied Behavior Analysis

3 Credits

EDUU 694

Using and Analyzing Measurement, Data and Experimental Design in Applied Behavior Analysis

3 Credits

EDUU 695

Assessment to Guide and Evaluate Intervention in Applied Behavior Analysis

3 Credits

EDUU 696

Selecting and Implementing Interventions for Behavior Change in Applied Behavior Analysis

3 Credits

EDUU 697

Program Oversight, Collaboration and Management in Applied Behavior Analysis

3 Credits

Our Faculty

All Faculty

Dr. Isa Ribadu, PhD

Associate Dean, School of Arts and Sciences, Professor of Psychology

Dr. Aimee Massafra, PhD

Assistant Professor of Education

Admission Requirements

Applicants for this program must complete the formal application process with all required documents, which include:

Completed application
2.75 grade point average (GPA)
Admitted to either the Master’s in Special Education or the Graduate Certificate program before registering for classes
Resume showing current employment in a field that uses Applied Behavior Analysis (i.e., education, medicine, social work, occupational or speech therapy)
Official transcripts from all regionally accredited institutions where baccalaureate and/or post-baccalaureate coursework was completed or attempted (No transfer credit may be used)

Financial Aid Eligible

This program is eligible for financial aid for admitted students.

Conferral Fee

There is a $150 certificate conferral fee at program completion.

Who Should Enroll

Clinical, Counseling, and School Psychologists
Marriage and Family Therapists
Occupational Therapists
Speech-Language Pathologists
Educational, Guidance, School, and Vocational Counselors
Teachers, Paraprofessionals (with a BA), and other educators

WASC Senior College and University Commission

University of Massachusetts Global is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Calculate Time and Cost

Upskill your career with a certificate from UMass Global.

I enrolled in the online ABA program because I was ready to take the next step in my professional career and the university met all of the “must haves” on my checklist. One of the objectives on the BACB task list requires BCBAs to be able to convey behavior analytic terms into language that people outside of the field can interpret. Throughout the ABA program, I have gained the ability and confidence to discuss ABA terminology and interventions in an effective manner to a variety of individuals. It has also allowed me to take on more responsibility at work and ultimately given me the

Katie B.

Special Education Applied Behavior Assistant

As a father of four children, having flexibility is very important. The university had the flexibility that allowed me to continue to work full time in order to provide for my family. Thanks to the ABA program I have been given the opportunity for career advancement at my job.

Juan L.

RBT, Public Health-Education Assistant

After two years I'm leaving with the knowledge necessary to pass my boards. I'm thankful to the program for the opportunity and the knowledge I have gained.

Leonard W.

Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis, MA

The online format gave me the flexibility to learn and participate in the course when I had free time. Each new concept I learned was easily applied to my daily work with children with special needs. The interventions were practical and sometimes made all the difference I needed to make a significant impact on the children in my class.

Samantha B.

Early Intervention Teacher

I can honestly say that the ABA certification program at UMass Global was top notch. This program was driven by superb educators with extensive knowledge of ABA. I was blessed to find such a program that was affordable and offered the best experience. I highly recommend this program to anyone wanting to succeed in the field of ABA!

Robbie G.

Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate

An Online Education Built For You

Degree Type

Area of Interest

Program of Interest

Session

I'm active-duty military or spouse Yes No

First Name

Last Name

Email Address

Phone Number

Consent

By submitting this form, I consent to receive calls, texts, emails and advertising from UMass Global and/or Kaplan North America, LLC using the contact information provided, including mobile numbers and email addresses, which may be sent with automated or pre-recorded technology. Message & data rates may apply. Consent is not required to attend and I may opt-out at any time.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

All Articles

Partnerships

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Graduate Certificate