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Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Online

Make a profound impact for people with behavioral challenges, especially those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or developmental disabilities.

Ready to Get Started?

Fill out the form and we will contact you to provide information about furthering your education.

Please use our International Form if you live outside of the U.S.

  • Step 1: About You
  • Step 2: Contact Information

NEXT START DATE

Course-based: May 26, 2025

FINISH IN 12 MONTHS*

$20,650*
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Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Online

Ready to Get Started?

Fill out the form and we will contact you to provide information about furthering your education.

Please use our International Form if you live outside of the U.S.

  • Step 1: About You
  • Step 2: Contact Information

NEXT START DATE

Course-based: May 26, 2025

FINISH IN AS FEW AS 12 MONTHS*

$20,650*

Your path to BCBA® certification starts with our online ABA certificate.

ABA - VCS logo

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is an evidence-based therapy designed for people with behavioral issues and developmental delays, including autism spectrum disorders. With Walden’s streamlined Graduate Certificate in ABA online program, you can help children and adults transform problematic behaviors and lead more productive lives.

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SHORTENED PATH TO CERTIFICATION

Walden’s streamlined online ABA certificate program focuses only on the courses you need to prepare to sit for BCBA® certification. Complete your program in as few as 12 months and reach your professional goals faster.

Experienced Practitioner Faculty

Our faculty includes active BCBAs and ABA thought leaders who bring their real-world insights to the virtual classroom.

Thriving Community

Walden is home to 70,000+ College of Education and Human Services alumni who are driving change in human sciences and education.

Latest ABA Techniques

Prepare for your future with confidence. Our course sequence meets the 5th and 6th edition Task List requirements to sit for the BCBA® exam.

3 MINUTE QUIZ

Build an Education Plan, Suited for You

Create and download your comprehensive plan with scholarships, financial aid, credit transfer, and more!

Build Your Education Plan
3 MINUTE QUIZ

Build an Education Plan, Suited for You

Create and download your comprehensive plan with scholarships, financial aid, credit transfer, and more!

Build Your Education Plan

Program Details

Be Empowered to Reach Your Goals

Ready to use the principles of human behavior to transform lives? See what it’s like to earn your online ABA certificate program at Walden.

 

Student standing on pile of books

Curriculum and Completion Requirements

Walden’s online applied behavior analysis certificate program, designed to be completed in as few as 12 months, is an efficient way to meet your goals.

View our degree completion requirements
35

QUARTER CREDITS 

 

12 Months*

TIME TO COMPLETE
 

Featured Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Courses
Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is a set of skills used in the assessment and treatment of individuals with a variety of behavioral problems and developmental delays, including autism spectrum disorders. In this course, students explore the philosophy and theory of behaviorism and how these undergird applied behavior analysis. Students apply the theory and philosophy of behaviorism to the application of behavioral principles and concepts in the context of applied behavior analysis to impact social change.

This course covers tasks from the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®) Task List (5th and 6th ed.) and includes knowledge and skills foundational for the BCBA examination. The course is part of a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International as meeting specific coursework requirements, content hours, and faculty standards and meets coursework eligibility criteria for BCBA Eligibility Pathway 2 coursework requirements as part of the application for Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc.® (BACB®) examinations.

Concepts and Principles of Behavioral Analysis

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is a set of skills used in the assessment and treatment of individuals with a variety of behavioral problems and developmental delays, including autism spectrum disorders. Students in this course will explore the concepts and principles of applied behavior analysis. They also examine the concepts and principles of behaviorism to the application of behavioral principles in the context of applied behavior analysis, including behavioral observation and measurement, functions of behavior, developing and maintaining behaviors, and related ethical considerations. Students explore the impact of promoting positive social change through the application of ABA.

This course covers tasks from the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Task List (5th and 6th ed.) and includes knowledge and skills foundational for the BCBA examination. The course is part of a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International as meeting specific coursework requirements, content hours, and faculty standards and meets coursework eligibility criteria for BCBA Eligibility Pathway 2 coursework requirements as part of the application for Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc.® (BACB®) examinations.

Ethical, Legal, and Professional Issues in Behavioral Analysis

With a focus on the Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts issued by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc.® (BACB®), students in this course review responsible conduct of behavior analysts, ethical responsibilities to clients and their welfare, and ethical responsibilities to other individuals (e.g., colleagues) and the BACB®. In addition, students examine professional and legal issues involved in providing services in different contexts and with different client groups.

This course covers tasks from the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Task List (5th and 6th ed.) and includes knowledge and skills foundational for the BCBA examination. The course is part of a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International as meeting specific coursework requirements, content hours, and faculty standards and meets coursework eligibility criteria for BCBA Eligibility Pathway 2 coursework requirements as part of the application for Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc.® (BACB®) examinations.

Introduction to Behavioral Assessment and Intervention

With a focus on the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Task List (5th and 6th ed.) issued by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc.® (BACB®), this course covers the basic principles of behavioral assessment and applied behavior analysis. Course participants explore fundamental techniques leading to the implementation of behavioral procedures and behavioral programs. More specifically, instruction focuses on conducting functional assessments and functional analyses, developing and implementing intervention procedures based on the outcome of the assessments and analyses, and data-based decision-making.

This course covers tasks from the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Task List (5th and 6th ed.) and includes knowledge and skills foundational for the BCBA examination. The course is part of a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International as meeting specific coursework requirements, content hours, and faculty standards and meets coursework eligibility criteria for BCBA Eligibility Pathway 2 coursework requirements as part of the application for Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc.® (BACB®) examinations.

Research Methods for Behavioral Analysis

This course covers a variety of methods for data collection, measurement data collection, data analysis, and experimental designs that are common to applied behavior analysis. In addition to the theoretical background for single-subject research, this course emphasizes practical applications of research methods from baseline measurement to treatment evaluation. Advantages and limitations of various single-subject research methods are examined. Students design a small-n research study based on a research question developed from the applied behavior analysis literature. In addition, they critically evaluate research studies for the appropriate research design and methodology.

This course covers tasks from the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Task List (5th and 6th ed.) and includes knowledge and skills foundational for the BCBA examination. The course is part of a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International as meeting specific coursework requirements, content hours, and faculty standards and meets coursework eligibility criteria for BCBA Eligibility Pathway 2 coursework requirements as part of the application for Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc.® (BACB®) examinations.

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Admissions

You’ll work one-on-one with an Enrollment Specialist who will guide you through every step—from finding the right program to funding your education.

Get in Touch with a Specialist
Simple Admissions Process

Pursuing your online applied behavior analysis certificate is a major decision, which is why we’ve simplified the admissions process. Start your journey at Walden with:

  • No application fee

  • No essay or SAT/ACT requirement

View Admission Criteria

General Admission Requirements: A master’s degree is required as well as a completed online application and transcripts. Please note that the materials you are required to submit may vary depending on the academic program to which you apply.

More information for international applicants.

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Tuition and Scholarships

We believe you can achieve your goals—and we are here to support you along your journey. Request information to learn more about scholarships and financial aid for those who apply and qualify.

Request Information

Tuition Breakdown

We know cost is a factor when you’re exploring online ABA certificate programs. Walden helps put your goals in reach with two options to reduce your tuition:

  • Special Tuition Savings

  • Scholarships

Curriculum ComponentRequirementsCostAmount
Tuition35 total quarter credits$590 per quarter hour

$20,650 

Program FeePer quarter$180

$720 

Your Tuition

$21,370*

*Tuition reflects the minimum time to completion. Time to completion varies by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. Tuition may be reduced if you receive scholarships or other tuition reductions. Tuition and fees are subject to change. Contact a Walden Enrollment Specialist for more information.

Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included and may cost between $1,000 to $2,000.

PROGRAM OUTCOMES

Change Lives for the Better

By earning a Graduate Certificate in ABA online, you’ll build a strong foundation in ABA therapy and start preparing to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®) exam.

 

Career Opportunities

Demand for professionals with BCBA or BCBA-D certification has grown each year in the U.S. since 2010, with a 14% increase from 2022 to 2023.1

In Demand

Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors

Support clients in recovering from addiction, modifying problem behaviors, or improving mental health

Expected growth: 19%

Estimated annual wage: $36,700–$70,130

1Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Job outlook | Estimated wage (as of May 2023)
No guarantee is made that a person who enrolls in the Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program will obtain a job or will earn the stated salaries. Percentile wage estimates are based on the 10th–75th percentile.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program will be prepared to:

Apply foundational knowledge (e.g., philosophy, concepts, and principles) to the science of behavior analysis.

Implement behaviorally based assessments for behavior change that promote positive social change.

Apply professional and ethical behaviors according to the Professional and Ethical Compliance Code for Behavior Analysts.

Define the dimensions of applied behavior analysis.

Evaluate results of behavior analytic research using single-subject experimental designs.

Apply personnel supervision and management strategies.

Meet Your Academic Team

Walden’s faculty is made up of active ABA practitioners and subject matter experts who are committed to helping you grow in your practice.

Steven Little
Academic Coordinator
Read More
Angeleque Akin-little
Contributing Faculty
Read More

You Might Also Be Interested In 

Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis FAQ

What are the advantages of pursuing an online ABA graduate certificate?

An online ABA certificate program with courses verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) meets an educational requirement to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) examination. Applied behavior analysis is a great field for people who want to help people manage challenging behaviors. Board certified behavior analysts are independent practitioners who can work with different populations in a variety of organizational, educational, or mental health settings.

Can I become a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA) with a graduate degree in ABA?

The path to becoming a BCBA includes earning a master’s degree, completing the ABAI Verified Course Sequence (VCS) for behavior analysis, completing required fieldwork hours, and passing the BCBA examination. A master’s or graduate certificate program in ABA from Walden University includes the VCS and meets the educational requirements to sit for the BCBA exam. Walden programs do not offer the fieldwork component required for the BCBA exam.

What are some of the specialized areas of study within a graduate program in ABA?

Specialized coursework in behavior analysis includes focus on the approaches to behavior, the interpretation of behavior in context, measurement of behavior, data collection and analysis, ethics, and techniques of behavioral intervention procedures.

Coursework that has been verified by the Association of Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) meets an educational requirement for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst exam. Walden offers several ABA program options with the ABAI Verified Course Sequence: the MS in Psychology with a specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis, the MS in Applied Behavior Analysis, and the Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis.

How long does it typically take to complete an online ABA certificate program?

Walden’s online Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program is designed to be completed in as few as four terms―about 12 months.

Questions About Our Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)?

Talk to your personal Enrollment Specialist for more information today.

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DISCLOSURES

1U.S. Employment Demand for Behavior Analysts, 2010–2023

The Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program is designed to prepare graduates to qualify to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst ® (BACB®) examination. This program is designed to meet the licensure requirements of some state licensing boards. The BCBA certification requires an MS degree, the Verified Course Sequence (VCS), 1,500 hours of supervised fieldwork (not offered by Walden), and passing the BCBA examination. Our certificate program will fulfill the VCS requirement, which will prepare graduates for the BCBA examination. Learn more about professional licensure.

The Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program has been verified that it meets the behavior-analytic coursework requirement that is needed to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (restricted) examination. Applicants will need to meet additional requirements before they can be deemed eligible to take the examination, including meeting the fieldwork requirement. Walden University does not offer the fieldwork experience required for eligibility to sit for the BCBA exam. Walden Enrollment Specialists can provide information relating to national certification exams; however, it remains the individual student’s responsibility to understand, evaluate, and comply with all requirements relating to national certification exams for the state in which he or she intends to practice. Walden makes no representations or guarantee that completion of Walden coursework or programs will permit an individual to obtain national certification. For more information on applying for certification from BACB, visit www.bacb.com/bcba. BCBA certification may be a requirement to obtain licensure to practice applied behavior analysis, for more information on professional licensure visit https://www.waldenu.edu/professional-licensure-disclosure

This program has applied for approval for students to utilize veteran’s benefits (including but not limited to Chapter 30 and Chapter 33 veteran’s benefits) to fund their education. Walden makes no guarantee that this program will receive approval.