Careers in Applied Behavior Analysis



Applied behavior analysis has emerged as one of the most effective therapies for the treatment of autism and countless other disorders that influence behavior. Your career in ABA starts with the right degree, a period of pre-professional experience, and state licensure where applicable. Learn more about what it takes to become an ABA in your state.

Start Your Career in Applied Behavior Analysis

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is one of the most effective therapies for the treatment of autism and other disorders that influence behavior. Start your journey towards this fulfilling career by learning the ABA degree, training, and certification requirements to become an ABA in your state.

Applied Behavior Analysis Degrees

Your career in applied behavior analysis starts with the right ABA degree. While the requirements to become an ABA vary by state, here is what to keep in mind when choosing what you will study.

A bachelor’s degree in applied behavior analysis or a related field, such as education, psychology, or social work will build a strong foundation to continue your education with psychological concepts, tools, and trends.
A Master’s degree in applied behavior analysis prepares you to work as an independent practitioner of ABA in developmental services, mental health, special education, and beyond.
A Ph.D. in applied behavior analysis is a research-based program designed for those interested in becoming a researcher, scientist-practitioner, or university faculty in ABA.

Best Master’s in ABA Programs

Applied Behavior Analysis Programs

Applied Behavior Analysis Training

Completing relevant ABA training will allow you to gain the skills necessary to manage complex clinical problems across diverse clients in a variety of settings. Being eligible for ABA certification at any level involves building on your academic training with real-world experience in a supervised clinical setting.

Applied Behavior Analysis Certification and Licensure

Once you have completed your ABA degree and ABA training, the next step is to apply for the necessary credentials to become an RBT®, BCaBA®, or BCBA®.

Registered Behavior Technician (RBT®)

Becoming a Registered Behavior Technician® is a great way to start your career if you envision working in ABA. This high school diploma-level credential requires a 40-hour training program for supervised support staff.

Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA®)

Becoming a Board-Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst® is a great way to learn from others in ABA. This bachelor’s-level credential will allow you to work under the supervision of a BCBA.

Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA®)

This master’s or doctorate-level credential is one of the last steps to becoming a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst. The credential is necessary to conduct behavior assessments and design, implement, and supervise treatment plans.

Applied Behavior Analysis Careers

Wondering what you can do with a degree in ABA? ABA careers include several different paths, and there are numerous jobs related to applied behavior analysis. Among the ABA careers that await you are opportunities within education and hospital settings, non-profit organizations, and beyond.

  • Behavior Analyst
  • Behavior Analyst Consultant
  • Clinical Director
  • Non-Profit Program Coordinator
  • School Psychologist
  • Social Worker
  • Special Education Teacher
  • Wellness Coach

ABA Careers

Explore our ABA professor interview series to learn more about what experienced BCBAs have to say about earning a degree and getting into the field of applied behavior analysis.

Are You Ready for a Career in Applied Behavior Analysis?

Helping people is always worth the time, and an ABA degree and ABA training are only a few clicks away for those who are ready to jump in and earn certification, unlock professional opportunities, and learn new ways of helping people.

Get ready for a life-changing experience as you work to improve people’s lives one therapy session at a time. Take the first step towards your ABA certification today and learn how to become an ABA in your state below.

 

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