7 Accelerated ABA Programs

Accelerated ABA Programs now offer a faster path to becoming a certified behavior analyst. Students can complete both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in five years instead of the traditional six or more. The workload remains manageable with students dedicating about 15 hours each week to homework, and these simplified processes help students progress efficiently through their education.

The programs provide substantial financial advantages. Students can reduce their tuition costs by nearly $8,000 at Rollins College, while University of Michigan-Dearborn offers savings exceeding $12,000. These programs let students take graduate courses during their undergraduate years at undergraduate tuition rates. Graduates qualify to become Board Certified Behavior Analysts through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, advancing their careers while maintaining high educational standards.

Purdue University Accelerated ABA Program

Purdue University ranks among the best in accelerated ABA education with their detailed program that helps you get BCBA certification faster. The university gives you several paths to certification – from accelerated 4+1 programs to online options that work well for professionals who already have jobs.

Program highlights

The Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis at Purdue helps students learn and apply behavioral theories and concepts. Students learn behavioral assessment, treatment intervention, and evaluation through a scientist-practitioner approach. The program pays special attention to ethical practice and supervision processes.

Students can choose between a traditional master’s program and an accelerated 4+1 option. Current Purdue undergraduates can start their graduate coursework while finishing their bachelor’s degree. This smart structure lets students earn both degrees in five years of full-time study instead of six or more years.

The program’s cohort model promotes professional learning communities and creates shared opportunities throughout your coursework. Students can either attend face-to-face sessions on campus or join synchronous distance learning classes.

Certification pathway

The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) has verified Purdue’s course sequence for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® examination via Pathway 2. When you complete the Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis, you meet the educational requirements for the BCBA credential in all states, Puerto Rico, and Guam.

The curriculum includes learning modules that prepare you for the BCBA certification exam. Students finish with a graduate research project that includes a BCBA certification prep exam. Each student must buy a 24-month subscription to the CBA Learning Modules from Behavior Development Solutions at a reduced price of $498.

Course structure

You need 39 total credits to complete the accelerated program – 33 credits of core coursework and 6 credits of practicum experience. Core courses include:

• Foundations and Principles of Applied Behavior Analysis
• Ethics and Professional Practice
• Verbal Behavior and Social Communication
• Basic Concepts of Applied Behavior Analysis
• Single Subject Research Design
• Advanced Applied Behavior Analysis

The practicum course (EDPS 55100) must be taken twice for 6 credits total. Students typically spend about 15 hours weekly on homework. The program is challenging but manageable for dedicated students.

Admissions process

Students need a 3.25 cumulative GPA to enter the accelerated 4+1 program. Priority admission applications are due by April 1, with a final June 1 deadline if spots remain.

You’ll need these application materials:

• An updated Purdue University official transcript
• Three recommendations
• Academic Statement of Purpose
• Personal History Statement
• Completed Combined Degree Program Form (Form 27)

The Office of the Vice Provost for Graduate Students and Postdoctoral Scholars sets English Proficiency Requirements for international applicants.

Tuition and duration

Indiana residents pay $494 per credit hour for the online Master of Science in Educational Studies with ABA concentration. Non-residents pay $705 per credit hour. Purdue Global’s online program costs $420 per credit hour, making it one of the most affordable options.

Students can finish the accelerated program in about one year, while traditional programs usually take two years. This shorter timeline saves both time and money.

Unique features

Students get a chance to conduct independent applied behavior analysis research. They also have access to a graduate resource center and ABA student site.

Graduates can work with individuals who have autism and other developmental disabilities in various settings. They can create positive behavior support systems in schools, train parents, and work with medical professionals.

Students admitted to the accelerated 4+1 program cannot switch to the online Master’s in ABA program. This residential requirement maintains quality and group integrity throughout the program.

The program really prepares graduates for the BCBA exam, even though it doesn’t lead to instructional or administrative licensure in Indiana or elsewhere. This opens doors to professional growth in this ever-changing field.

Queens College Accelerated ABA Program

Queens College has a unique accelerated ABA program that creates a direct path from undergraduate to graduate studies for students who want to speed up their behavior analysis career. Psychology majors can use graduate courses for both their bachelor’s and master’s degrees at the same time, which cuts down their total study time.

Program highlights

The Accelerated Master’s Program in Applied Behavior Analysis at Queens College lets undergraduate psychology students take up to 12 graduate credits that count for both their BA and MA degrees. This setup removes the usual gap between undergraduate and graduate education. Students who finish their BA in Psychology with a 3.0 GPA and score at least a B in each graduate course get automatic acceptance into the ABA Master’s program for the next fall semester.

This quick-track option works best for students passionate about behavior analysis who want to become certified and licensed behavior analysts. Students who have worked as Behavior Technicians or at QC-ACES facilities like SIBS Club, Horizons, or the Child Behavioral Health Clinic will find this program especially useful.

Certification pathway

The MA program and Advanced Certificate program at Queens College are approved by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) as verified course sequences (VCS) for the 4th and 5th edition task lists. The program meets all educational requirements needed for BCBA certification through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board.

The Queens College ABA MA program has New York State registration as a licensure-qualifying program under Subpart 79-17 of the Commissioner’s Regulations. Students must accrue 2000 hours of supervised experience after completing coursework to qualify for the BCBA exam. Queens College’s fellowship opportunities help students gain this supervised experience during their studies.

Course structure

Students need 40 credits to complete the MA program, including a 6-credit thesis project. Accelerated students can take these graduate courses during their undergraduate years:

• Psychology of Learning (PSYCH 730)
• Thesis Prep/Writing (PSYCH 795)
• Developmental Disabilities II: Functional Assessment (PSYCH 72002)
• Ethical Issues in Psychology (PSYCH 7713)

These 12 credits work for both BA and MA requirements, and students pay undergraduate rates for these graduate courses. Students can choose between full-time and part-time course sequences.

Admissions process

The accelerated program has specific entry requirements. Students need a 3.5 GPA as declared undergraduate Psychology majors. They must also complete these prerequisite courses with a B or better:

• PSYCH 311 Advanced Experimental: Learning OR PSYCH 317 Advanced Experimental: ABA
• PSYCH 251 Intro to Learning and Behavior Analysis
• PSYCH 372 Autism Practicum OR PSYCH 374 Culturally Responsive Family Support Practicum

Applications should include a personal statement about your interest in graduate behavior analysis training and a recommendation letter from an ABA faculty member. Students can apply through the Accelerated Degrees Online Application System using their QC username and password.

Tuition and duration

Current graduate tuition rates at Queens College are $470 per credit for New York State residents taking fewer than 12 credits, or $554.05 per semester for full-time students. Out-of-state students pay $855 per credit with no cap.

Students save money in the accelerated program by paying undergraduate rates for 12 graduate credits during their bachelor’s studies. This reduces both the total cost and time needed for the master’s degree.

Unique features

The Queens College Autism Center for Evidence-Based Services (QC-ACES) gives students valuable hands-on experience. Students in the accelerated program can work at QC-ACES or off-campus sites to get their required BCBA certification hours.

Graduates can work in many settings with different populations who need behavior-based interventions. The program helps students who want to advance the field through research and presentations or continue toward doctoral studies.

Students must apply by May 1st each year for the ABA MA program, and the accelerated track helps them enter this growing field faster.

Rollins College Accelerated ABA Program

Rollins College one of only 28 master’s programs in the country has earned prestigious accreditation from the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI). Their accelerated Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis and Clinical Science program lets you earn both your bachelor’s and master’s degrees faster, giving you educational and financial advantages.

Program highlights

Rollins’ Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis and Clinical Science (ABACS) program creates graduates skilled in evidence-based behavior analysis and clinical science applications. You’ll become skilled at application and research skills to design and review behavioral interventions that work.

Rollins stands out with their junior-colleague model that gives high-quality mentoring. Students work with faculty on every aspect of professional development—from networking to research design to job placement. This cohort-based approach creates a supportive community of learners who take courses together.

Certification pathway

The ABAI has accredited Rollins’ ABACS program through December 31, 2031. This confirms its adherence to professional standards with no serious deficiencies. The Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) has approved the course sequence and practicum. These meet all requirements to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst examination.

The program’s curriculum aligns with both ABAI accreditation criteria and BACB guidelines. After graduating, you’ll be ready to start master’s-level professional practice in applied behavior analysis or pursue doctoral-level work.

Course structure

The accelerated master’s program needs 45 credit hours total as a cohort-based experience. The detailed curriculum has:

• 11 core courses
• 2 clinical science electives
• 1 professional development course
• 1 thesis or capstone project

Admissions process

You’ll need these key components to apply:

• Completed Application for Graduate Admission with a $50 non-refundable fee
• Official transcripts from your bachelor’s or master’s degree-granting institution (3.0+ GPA recommended)
• Current resume showing professional or volunteer experience
• Two letters of recommendation
• Personal statement answering specific prompts about behavior analysis

Priority decision applications are due by February 17, while regular decision applications should reach by June 2. Staff reviews later applications if space remains.

Tuition and duration

The accelerated program can save you up to one year and nearly $8,000 in tuition and other costs compared to separate degrees. ABACS program credit hours cost $721 as of the 2025-2026 academic year. You’ll pay an extra $35 graduation fee.

The Department of Health Professions offers two research assistantships yearly with a $10,000 stipend. These positions take about 10 hours per week and give valuable professional experience.

Unique features

The new Behavior Services Center at Rollins gives hands-on experience with expert faculty guidance to build your skills and career confidence. Students can apply classroom learning in real-life settings.

The program teaches more than technical skills – it gives a broad understanding of clinical science applications. The job market for Board Certified Behavior Analysts has grown by nearly 2,000% in the last decade. Average salaries now exceed $70,000. This makes Rollins graduates highly competitive in their field.

Graduates often succeed in professional practice or doctoral programs at behaviorally oriented institutions. A program alumnus, now pursuing a PhD at the University of Florida, says “The skills I encouraged in research analysis and creation are a great way to get and exclusive to my Rollins experience”.

Ball State University Accelerated ABA Program

Ball State University has an accelerated master’s program (AMP) that connects undergraduate and graduate studies in Applied Behavior Analysis. This program creates a path to professional certification. Students can complete both degrees nowhere near the usual time through smart academic planning and course integration.

Program explains

The AMP in Applied Behavior Analysis at Ball State lets you use up to 9 credits for both your undergraduate and graduate degrees. You can choose between 8-week or 16-week courses in this 100% online master’s program. This setup helps you balance your education with other commitments.

Ball State’s Teachers College runs this program and ranks high nationally. The curriculum focuses on autism and gives you specialized expertise that employers value more and more. Classes stay small with 25 students or fewer, so you get personal attention from faculty.

Certification pathway

The Association for Behavior Analysis International confirms Ball State’s course sequence meets all requirements to take the BCBA exam through Pathway 2. You’ll qualify for the BCBA exam under current eligibility criteria after completing the 5th edition Verified Course Sequence (VCS).

Ball State’s first-time BCBA exam candidates achieved a 53% pass rate in 2024. Your studies will end with a detailed Capstone Project that shows your grasp of behavior analytic concepts. This project has study materials for BCBA exam preparation and requires 83% accuracy on a Mock BCBA Exam.

Course structure

The master’s program needs 30 total credits spread across 10 courses. Students usually take two courses each semester and finish in five semesters – about 18 months. The core courses are:

• SPCE 609: Introduction to ABA
• SPCE 680: Introduction to Persons with Autism Spectrum Disorders
• Field-based experience courses (SPCE 638 or SPCE 683)

Each course has Capstone assignments that become part of your final portfolio. The curriculum matches the BACB’s 5th Edition Task List and stays eligible for the 6th Edition exam through 2027.

Admissions process

The accelerated program requires at least 75 credits with a 3.25 cumulative GPA, with 30 credits minimum at Ball State. Regular master’s program admission needs a bachelor’s degree with at least a 2.75 GPA from an accredited institution.

Application review takes 3-6 weeks typically. Ball State keeps it simple – no personal statements, recommendation letters, or GRE scores are needed if you meet regular admission requirements.

Tuition and duration

The accelerated structure saves money since graduate courses taken during undergraduate studies cost undergraduate rates. Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio residents pay under $16,000 total for the master’s program. Out-of-state residents pay under $23,000.

You can pick between regular 16-week courses or faster 8-week options. The program lets you start any semester and take one or two courses based on your schedule.

Unique features

Ball State’s program is unique because you just need an internet connection – everything happens online with no campus visits. You’ll get hands-on experience at places like ABA clinics, home-based programs, schools, or hospitals.

Graduates find work in many areas including federal and local government, hospitals, schools, and family services. The ABA field pays well with a national average salary of $64,000, showing high demand for qualified behavior analysts.

University of South Florida Accelerated ABA Program

The University of South Florida offers a comprehensive online Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis program. This program helps professionals fill the nationwide gap in behavior analysts. USF’s program excels by providing a quick path to certification through academic training and supervised fieldwork.

Program highlights

USF’s fully online MA in Applied Behavior Analysis meets all upcoming 2027 BACB certification standards. Students can finish their degree and certification requirements in just five semesters, making it faster than traditional programs.

Students get these benefits:

• Classes created by PhD-level behavior analysts with decades of teaching experience
• A verified course sequence you can complete online
• A practicum fieldwork curriculum that guides you through 1,500 supervised experience hours required by the BACB
• Out-of-state students pay in-state tuition rates
• Faculty members focus on one course at a time to give you their full attention

The program creates ethical scientist-practitioners who make valuable contributions to their communities.

Certification pathway

The program’s certification results speak for themselves. In 2018, 92% of USF students passed the BCBA exam on their first try, while the national average was 55%. The success continued with 80% of students passing their first attempt in 2022. Since the program started, 98% of graduates have earned their BCBA certification.

Students complete all fieldwork and academic requirements to become board certified behavior analysts after graduation. You’ll take part in practicum seminars that complement your hands-on experience. The program ends with a BCBA Exam Preparation course in your final semester.

Course structure

Students move through the program as a group over five semesters, including summers. Classes run from 6 PM to 7:30 PM EST on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Students can meet one-on-one with instructors Monday through Friday.

The main courses cover ABA Basic Principles, Single Case Experimental Design, Ethics in ABA, Observational Methods and Functional Assessment, Supervision in ABA, Behavior Theory, and ABA in Complex Communities. The program includes practicum seminars that feature case studies and tracking of experience hours.

Students should plan for about 20 hours of supervised experience each week to graduate in five semesters. This includes both restricted and unrestricted activities. Each semester requires at least 250 concentrated supervised fieldwork hours, but 300 hours helps stay on schedule.

Admissions process

Students must find a practicum placement and supervisor before applying. USF’s ABA faculty needs to approve your supervisor after admission. The program accepts students twice a year – Fall (August) applications are due June 1, and Spring (January) applications are due October 15.

You’ll need:

• A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited university
• A 3.0 GPA or higher on a 4.0 scale (some exceptions apply for outstanding candidates)
• Three recommendation letters
• A personal statement showing you can handle graduate work
• A CV or resume
• A BCBA supervisor support form

The program looks at each application as a whole rather than focusing on just one aspect.

Tuition and duration

The Online MA in ABA costs $24,600 for everyone, no matter where they live. That’s $600 per credit hour for the 41-credit program. The classroom-based MS costs $19,414.35 for Florida residents and $41,478.30 for non-residents.

Budget about $1,000 for books and BCBA exam prep software. Financial help comes in many forms: federal aid, private loans, corporate tuition help, and Post 9-11 GI Bill benefits for eligible veterans.

Unique features

USF partners with the Behavioral Health Center of Excellence (BHCOE) to give students more quality training sites for fieldwork. The university works with many approved agencies for practical training.

Graduates can work in various fields like developmental disabilities, autism, education, child protective services, rehabilitation, mental health, and business and technology. This flexibility creates more career options while helping fill critical workforce gaps in Florida and nationwide.

Simmons University Accelerated ABA Program

Simmons University’s accelerated ABA program boasts a 78% first-attempt BCBA exam pass rate, well above the national average of 54%. Students can choose between campus-based and online options to get their certification quickly.

Program highlights

The Behavior Analysis program equips students with skills to lead, implement, and evaluate applied behavioral analytic principles. Students can pursue either MS or EdS degrees through a curriculum that explores contemporary research in behavioral analysis fields. The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) has fully accredited the program.

Certification pathway

ABAI verifies the course sequence, which meets all BCBA exam coursework requirements. Students complete practicum courses to fulfill supervised experience requirements for certification. Graduates meet all educational requirements to take the BCBA examination.

Course structure

The 40-credit program combines core coursework with practicum experiences. Core courses include:

• Introduction to Applied Behavior Analysis
• Single Subject Research Designs
• Verbal Behavior
• Ethics and Legal Issues

Students must complete a thesis research project during their Practicum courses.

Admissions process

The program requires a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. A GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred. The committee looks for candidates with relevant experience who show dedication to behavior analysis. Students don’t need to submit GRE scores.

Tuition and duration

Students typically complete the program in 20 months. The accelerated pathway lets undergraduates take two graduate courses that count toward both degrees. This creates significant cost savings since these courses are part of undergraduate tuition.

Unique features

Junior year undergraduates can start the accelerated pathway. Students who complete graduate courses in their senior year receive the Double Shark Scholarship, which cuts graduate tuition by 20%. The university’s placement specialists help students find clinical sites in their local communities.

National University Accelerated ABA Program

National University provides the quickest way to earn a Master of Science in Applied Behavioral Analysis through an 18-month program that balances cost and flexibility. Working professionals pursuing BCBA certification will find this accelerated format particularly appealing.

Program highlights

Students can complete the MS in Applied Behavioral Analysis program online in just 18 months. The program culminates in a capstone project. National University helps graduates secure internships to fulfill their required fieldwork hours.

Certification pathway

The curriculum has eight courses verified by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. Students must complete 2,000 supervised fieldwork hours after their coursework to qualify for the BCBA exam.

Course structure

Students need 45 quarter credits to graduate. Most courses last one month, though Verified Course Sequence classes take two months. Students typically finish their studies in 16 months.

Admissions process

Students with GPAs above 2.5 don’t need to submit GRE scores. The university allows faster completion options for students who excel academically (graduate students with 3.7+ GPA).

Tuition and duration

Each credit costs $464, making the total program expense about $21,080. Students can access various financial aid options.

Unique features

Students can start their program any month, which creates excellent scheduling flexibility. In spite of that, students must find their own practicum sites, which some find challenging.

Find Your Program Today

Accelerated ABA programs offer a clear path to professional certification while maintaining educational quality. Students can earn both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in about five years instead of six or more. This saves valuable time. On top of that, it brings financial advantages – you can take graduate courses at undergraduate rates and save thousands of dollars during your educational experience.

Each program comes with its own special benefits. Purdue University’s strength lies in cohort learning communities and research options. Queens College gives hands-on experience through their Autism Center. Rollins College is known for its ABAI accreditation and junior-colleague mentoring model. Ball State makes it easy with 100% online coursework. The University of South Florida shows excellent BCBA exam pass rates. Simmons University gives great scholarships to accelerated students. National University lets students start any month they want.

These programs have strong ties with fieldwork sites to help students get their required supervised experience hours. This hands-on training helps students become skilled at behavior analytic techniques before starting their careers. While admission rules differ between schools, most want students with good GPAs who show interest in behavior analysis.

The job market for Board Certified Behavior Analysts grows faster each year. Data shows a staggering 2,000% increase in demand over the last decade. Average salaries top $70,000, showing the high demand for qualified professionals in schools, clinics, hospitals and government agencies.

Your ideal program choice should go beyond just time and cost savings. You should think over the program format, location, accreditation, BCBA exam success rates, and fieldwork placement support. Look at whether programs focus on specific populations that line up with your career goals.

Getting BCBA certification through an accelerated program takes deep commitment and focused study. All the same, the benefits make these programs worth exploring. You get into a growing profession faster, save money on tuition, and receive detailed preparation for certification. This path makes sense for anyone passionate about applied behavior analysis.