Become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)

The Department of Special Education has two master’s programs consisting of course sequences approved by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) that are needed to become a BCBA, and to work as an Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapist or behavioral consultant.

A young woman works with a boy who is sitting next to a teddy bear.

Autism and Development Disabilities

The Autism and Developmental Disabilities master’s program provides training in the use of assessment and treatment practices for individuals across the age span with autism or other developmental disabilities.
Two boys playing on a playground

Early Childhood Special Education

The Early Childhood Special Education master’s program has a BCBA track and focuses on the developmental and learning needs of young children, including those with autism spectrum disorders and other disabilities.

Both programs can be completed in 12 months (fall, winter, spring) of full-time enrollment. More information about the certification process can be found on the BACB website.

Alumni

Ross Nesselrode with students at a cafeteria tablel

Ross Nesselrode, M.Ed. '18

"Applying the skills I've learned as a BCBA has guided me in helping students in public schools achieve their goals, regardless of disability or socio-economic situation. The ability to apply the science of ABA to change the lives of students who need support is the reason why I come to work every day!"