Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Graduate Certificate

This online certificate was developed to meet the educational requirements to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), recognized both nationally and internationally.

ABA Program Overview

Applied behavior analysis has been demonstrated as an effective intervention approach for individuals with Autism and a variety of related developmental, medical and behavioral disorders such as intellectual disabilities, dementia, addiction, and traumatic brain injury. This ABA graduate certificate is an Association of Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) verified course sequence program and meets the 5th task list coursework requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) examination. Attend an upcoming online info session to learn more about the program and get all your questions answered. Read about our recent alumnus Juan's experience in our ABA program.

As an ABA graduate certificate student, you will:

  • Learn the extensive vocabulary of applied behavior analysis and prepare for the BCBA exam.
  • Gain the use of experimental research designs and how to use the data to make changes in behavior.
  • Understand how to use positive and negative reinforcement, positive and negative punishment, schedules of reinforcement, motivating operations, stimulus control, imitation, shaping and chaining and verbal behavior.
  • Evaluate the various ABA methodologies for instruction and intervention, the design and implementation of a Functional Behavior Assessment, and analyzing measurement tools for particular behaviors.

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

Other Fees:

  • $150 certificate conferral fee (at program completion)

Duration

8 weeks per course

7 courses total

Estimated Tuition

$900 per course

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

Ways to Learn

Online

Credit

3 credits per course

21 academic credits total

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 Recognized

Become a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with our nationally recognized certificate that meets the 5th task list coursework requirements for eligibility to take the BCBA examination.

ABAI Verified

Our certificate is part of the prestigious Association of Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) course sequence program.

Admission Requirements

Students are required to be admitted to either the Master’s in Special Education or the Graduate Certificate program prior to registering for classes. Applicants must be employed at least part-time in a field related to Applied Behavior Analysis.

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

  • Completed application
  • 2.75 grade point average (GPA)
  • Resume showing current employment in a field which 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)
This program is eligible for financial aid.

HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT THE ABA CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS? Request more information.

ABA Certification Curriculum

  • Code Course Name Credits
    EDUU 692  The Science and Philosophical Underpinnings of Applied Behavior Analysis

    3

    EDUU 693  The Foundational Concepts and Principles of Applied Behavior Analysis

    3

    EDUU 694  Using and Analyzing Measurement, Data and Experimental Design on Applied Behavior Analysis

    3

    EDUU 695  Assessment to Guide and Evaluate Intervention in Applied Behavior Analysis

    3

    EDUU 696  Selecting and Implementing Interventions for Behavior Change in Applied Behavior Analysis

    3

    EDUU 697  Program Oversight, Collaboration and Management in Applied Behavior Analysis

    3

    EDUU 698  Ethical Behavior and The Compliance Code for Behavior Analysts 3
     Total   21

     

    Program Details

    • This program is a Verified Course Sequence approved by the Association of Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) and meets the 5th Task List course work.
    • Courses must be taken sequentially starting with EDUU 692. 
    • Students must receive a grade of B- or higher to progress to subsequent course and maintain an overall 3.0 GPA.
    • This program does not include the supervised fieldwork requirement to sit for the BCBA exam. Click here to download the Supervised Independent Fieldwork Resource Sheet or visit the BACB’s website.
WSCUC

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

KatieB
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 confidence to take on those new responsibilities.
Katie B.
Special Education Applied Behavior Assistant
Trisa J
The university offered an online program with well-qualified and experienced ABA professionals to convey pertinent information in our field and was the most accessible and affordable program for me. Finishing the post-graduate certificate helped my promotion potential and allowed me to increase my areas of responsibilities as I pursue BCBA certification. I now have the ability to inform change in behavior plans and interventions for our clients.
Trisa J.
ABA Program Manager
JoyG
I chose the online program because I currently work full time and have four children. I needed to have the flexibility to schedule the classwork around my busy life! The program and classes were well thought out and put together.  I felt like the assignments and activities were useful and promoted learning rather than just being busy-work. The collaborative activities gave me an opportunity to connect with other students in the class and by the end, I felt a sincere bond with some of them. This program truly prepared me to understand and work within the field of ABA.
Joy G.
Special Education Teacher
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
Juan L.
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
Dolores T.
The ABA program has transformed my way of handling the behavior of my students. It helps me understand and determine the functions of my students' behavior and design interventions that address the functions of their behavior. ABA also helps me identify effective strategies to teach my students.
Dolores O.
Special Education Teacher
Jessica B
I knew a face to face program would not work for my schedule, so I explored the online route. The university offered a great schedule and a reasonable price for the program. The knowledge I have gained helps me every day with the students I work with, even if I am not specifically doing ABA therapy. I use the data collection techniques often. I’ve also used the information to help me develop interventions for problem behaviors.
Jessica B.
Special Education Teacher
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 Ward
Masters in Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis emphasis

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