Post-Master's Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis

Certificate Level: Graduate
Admission Requirements: Master's degree
Certificate Type: Post-Master's
Number of Credits to Completion: 31.5
Instructional Delivery: Online, Campus
Calendar Type: Quarter
Expected Time to Completion: 1 to 2 years
Financial Aid Eligibility: Aid eligible

Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) Code: 42.2814
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) Code: 19-3031

About the Program

Behavior analysis is a widely accepted and empirically-validated approach to the investigation and improvement of behaviors with environmental determinants. Extensive research has established proven methods and best practices for the field of applied behavior analysis. Together with client-focused clinical approaches, these methods and practices have enabled behavior analysts to make significant contributions to the education and behavioral health fields. 

The post-master's certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis will prepare students to gain the knowledge and skills to become clinical and educational leaders in behavior analysis. Successful completers of this program will be highly successful candidates for employers seeking knowledgeable and skilled clinicians and leaders in behavioral health and educational settings. 

The Association for Behavior Analysis International has verified the core applied behavior analysis course sequence as meeting the 5th edition task list course content hour requirements and faculty standards. For eligibility to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst Examination®, applicants will have to meet additional fieldwork and supervision requirements set forth by the Behavior Analysis Certification Board.

Admission Requirements

Applicants for the program will follow the university standards for admission to graduate study. Prospective students must have earned a master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution and have a graduate GPA of 3.0 or higher to be considered for admission.

In addition, prospective students are required to submit the following:

  • Completed graduate school application form
  • Official transcripts from all universities or colleges attended
  • Two letters of recommendation—professional or academic
  • An essay describing why the applicant is interested in pursuing graduate study in this field
  • Resume

Program Requirements

Core Applied Behavior Analysis Courses
ABA 630Fundamental Elements of Behavior Change4.5
ABA 632Behavioral Assessment and Functional Analysis4.5
ABA 633Behavioral Interventions4.5
ABA 634Consultation, Systems Change and Supervision4.5
ABA 635Ethical Considerations and Professional Conduct4.5
ABA 636Applications of Fundamental Elements of Behavior Analysis4.5
ABA 731Research Methods and Practice4.5
Total Credits31.5

Sample Plan of Study

Full-Time Plan of Study

First Year
FallCreditsWinterCreditsSpringCreditsSummerCredits
ABA 6304.5ABA 6334.5ABA 6344.5ABA 7314.5
ABA 6324.5ABA 6364.5ABA 6354.5 
 9 9 9 4.5
Total Credits 31.5

Part-Time Plan of Study 

First Year
FallCreditsWinterCreditsSpringCreditsSummerCredits
ABA 6304.5ABA 6324.5ABA 6334.5ABA 6364.5
 4.5 4.5 4.5 4.5
Second Year
FallCreditsWinterCreditsSpringCredits 
ABA 6344.5ABA 7314.5ABA 6354.5 
 4.5 4.5 4.5 
Total Credits 31.5

Additional Information

For more information about this program, please visit the School of Education's website.