ABAI-Accredited ABA Programs That Lead to Certification

Are you looking for accredited ABA programs to kickstart your career in a faster growing field? The number of board-certified behavior analysts grew by 23% from 2021 to 2022. Behavioral health professionals can expect an 18% job growth through 2032.

Your choice of program matters now more than ever. ABA therapists now just need licensure in 38 states. ABAI accredited programs are now the gold standard to get quality education and certification preparation. Top institutions like The Chicago School provide ABAI accredited degree programs in multiple formats (Chicago, Dallas, and online). These programs prepare you to deliver ABA services in a variety of client populations. Cincinnati University ranks among America’s Best Colleges and shows impressive first-attempt BCBA exam pass rates.

Let’s take a closer look at eight ABAI accredited programs in this guide. These programs meet strict quality standards and set you up for certification success. These credentials are what employers recognize and respect, whether you’re starting your behavior analysis experience or taking your existing career to new heights.

Auburn University

Auburn University stands out with its ABAI accredited programs that deliver proven results. The Department of Psychological Sciences offers a top-rated Master of Science degree in Applied Behavior Analysis in the United States.

Program Overview

Auburn University’s MS in Applied Behavior Analysis delivers an intensive on-campus program built for dedicated behavior analysis practitioners. The program combines classroom learning with supervised field experience under the guidance of five full-time faculty members who specialize in different research areas. Students start working on their thesis-equivalent capstone research project in their first year and continue until they graduate.

The program’s exceptional field training opportunities set it apart. Students get valuable experience in several Alabama community settings:

• On-campus ABA clinic (focusing on early intervention for autism/developmental disabilities)
• Home-based services for intervention and caregiver training
• Public school district consultation
• Inclusive pre-school environments
• Services through the Alabama Psychiatric Medication Review Team in foster care
• Juvenile corrections facilities

The program has achieved remarkable results. Students graduate within two years and have maintained a perfect 100% pass rate on the BCBA certification exam in the last five years.

Accreditation Details

The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) has granted full accreditation to Auburn University’s Applied Behavior Analysis program through December 31, 2028. The ABAI Accreditation Board awarded this status in 2024, confirming the program meets rigorous standards. They require a report on an open faculty search within one year.

The program aims to deliver “socially meaningful research and clinical application, collaboration, dissemination of behavior science, and complete training of future behavior analyst practitioners and leaders” in the field. This commitment to ABAI standards will give students education that meets international quality measures.

Tuition and Duration

Students complete this full-time program in six consecutive semesters (24 months), including summer terms. The 2025-2026 academic year costs per semester are:

• Alabama residents: $6,653 for tuition and fees
• Non-residents: $17,993 for tuition and fees

Students should plan for off-campus housing and food ($7,936) and other expenses like books, course materials, and personal needs ($3,760). First-year tuition fees total about $31,986, though individual circumstances may vary.

Students complete 24 semester hours of classroom coursework and 21 credit hours of formal practicum training. This structure helps students finish all requirements on time.

Certification Pathway

The program prepares students to become Board Certified Behavior Analysts by providing essential coursework and supervised experience for BCBA eligibility. Students complete 1,500 hours of supervised fieldwork during the program.

The curriculum follows BACB’s 5th edition standards with key courses:

• Behavioral Principles
• Applied Behavior Analysis 1 and 2
• Methods for Studying Individual Behavior
• Clinical Psychopharmacology
• Autism and Intellectual Disabilities
• Behaviorism
• Ethical & Professional Issues in Behavior Analysis

Every graduate since August 2003 has qualified for the BCBA examination. The program’s graduates have achieved a 100% first-time pass rate on the BCBA certification exam for five straight years.

Auburn University provides a solid path to certification with proven results for students committed to a career in applied behavior analysis.

Caldwell University

Caldwell University shines among ABAI accredited programs as a private Catholic institution. Its on-campus Center for Autism provides exceptional hands-on training opportunities. This New Jersey-based university has grown into a premier destination for aspiring behavior analysts over the years.

Program Overview

The Department of Applied Behavior Analysis at Caldwell University runs both Master’s and Doctoral programs that meet the rising need for qualified ABA professionals. The MA in Applied Behavior Analysis program teaches principles and procedures of basic and applied behavior analysis. Students practice these skills in real-life settings like homes, schools, and institutions.

The program aims to achieve three goals:

1. Produce highly skilled scientist-practitioners
2. Expand access to behavior analytic services in NJ and surrounding areas
3. Conduct and spread quality research that advances the field

The on-campus Center for Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis sets Caldwell’s programs apart. This facility helps people with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities. Doctoral-level Board Certified Behavior Analysts who teach in the programs lead the Center. Students gain valuable practical experience here that fulfills supervision and fieldwork requirements.

Students must show proficiency through challenging coursework and complete a research thesis. They can earn only one grade below B throughout the program. A second grade below B leads to dismissal.

Accreditation Details

Caldwell University’s MA and PhD programs in Applied Behavior Analysis hold full ABAI accreditation. These programs are accredited through December 31, 2029.

The ABAI Accreditation Board gave both programs full accreditation in 2024. Their professional judgment found that the programs meet standards without serious issues. This accreditation means students receive education matching international quality standards.

Tuition and Duration

Graduate students in ABA programs at Caldwell University should expect these costs for 2025-2026:

• Tuition: $1,123 per credit hour
• Complete Fee: $329 per semester (Fall/Spring only)
• Technology Fee: $175 per semester (Fall/Spring only)

The complete fee covers academic support, parking, security, library services, student activities, wellness center, and online services. Technology fees pay for IT infrastructure, wireless environment, classroom equipment, and technical support.

Students should factor in textbooks, transportation, and personal expenses. International students’ total costs range from $37,000 to $44,000 yearly, depending on housing choices.

Certification Pathway

Caldwell University’s ABA programs excel at preparing students for certification. Eight candidates achieved a 100% first-time pass rate on the BCBA exam in 2022.

The post-master’s ABA certification program lets students learn hands-on at Caldwell University’s Center for Autism. This experience helps build skills to work with people who have autism spectrum disorders and other diagnosed behavioral disorders.

The curriculum covers all areas the Behavior Analyst Certification Board requires. Students complete their coursework and supervised experience hours for BCBA eligibility. Graduates find success in this rewarding field, particularly in New Jersey.

Caldwell University creates a clear certification path through its challenging curriculum and outstanding practical training. The perfect BCBA exam pass rate proves the program’s effectiveness for students pursuing applied behavior analysis careers.

Florida Institute of Technology

Florida Tech has made its mark as a pioneer in behavior analysis education. The university offers several ABAI accredited programs both on-campus and online. Students benefit from a research-driven, hands-on approach that combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience.

Program Overview

The School of Behavior Analysis at Florida Tech takes a scientific approach to human behavior. The focus lies on describing, explaining, predicting, and changing behavior that matters to society. Students can choose from several programs:

• Bachelor of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis
• Master of Science programs in Applied Behavior Analysis (Melbourne and Orlando campuses)
• Online Master’s in Behavior Analysis Professional Practice
• Online Behavior Analyst Graduate Certificate
• D. in Behavior Analysis

The university’s interactive and supportive learning environment makes it stand out. Online programs come with engaging features:

• Videos you can watch anytime
• Biweekly online meetings with BCBA instructors
• Small classes of 12-15 students per section
• Online unit tests and final exams

Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA or BCBA-D®) lead these programs. These experts know their material well and love teaching behavior analysis. The online certificate follows a well-laid-out sequence. Knowledge gained in early courses builds the foundation for advanced topics.

Accreditation Details

The School of Behavior Analysis boasts four ABAI-accredited programs:

The M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis programs at Melbourne and Orlando campuses will stay accredited through December 31, 2029. This decision came from the Accreditation Board in 2024 after they saw how well the programs met their standards.

The B.A. in Applied Behavior Analysis program earned full accreditation through December 31, 2029. This recognition came in 2025 when the program showed it met all required standards.

Tuition and Duration

Students complete the Online Behavior Analyst Certificate program in five semesters, or about 20 months, earning 21 credits. Certificate courses within the master’s program cost $530.00 per credit hour.

The Behavior Analysis M.A. Program’s costs for 2025-2026 break down like this:

Year 1 comes to $40,661.05 total. This includes $9,030.00 for tuition, $250.05 in fees, $166.00 for federal student loans, plus housing, books, transportation, and personal expenses.

Year 2 totals $44,031.06, with $12,350.00 for tuition, $300.06 in fees, and $166.00 for federal student loans.

Graduate students on campus pay $1,350.00 per credit hour in the College of Psychology and Liberal Arts. The Orlando Program charges $810.00 per credit hour, while ABA Online Certificate courses cost $530.00 per credit hour.

Certification Pathway

The Online Behavior Analyst Graduate Certificate meets the Behavior Analyst Certification Board’s (BACB) 2027 Coursework Requirements for BCBA certification. This makes it perfect for professionals who have a master’s degree and want to become BCBAs.

Students can also choose the online Behavior Analysis Professional Practice M.A. program. It satisfies BACB 2027 requirements for both degree and coursework needed for BCBA certification (Pathway 2).

Florida Tech’s certification success speaks volumes. A newer study published in 2023 showed that 78% of ABA Online students passed the BCBA exam on their first try. This is a big deal as it means that the overall pass rate of 56% across all universities. These numbers prove how well Florida Tech prepares its students.

Students can start their journey in Spring (January), Summer (May), or Fall (August). This flexibility lets them begin when it works best for them.

Regis College

Regis College’s ABAI accredited ABA programs are exceptional and offer flexible options that work well for working professionals. Their detailed curriculum blends theory with hands-on practice to help students become skilled behavior analysis practitioners.

Program Overview

The Department of Applied Behavior Analysis at Regis College offers two main paths – a Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis and a Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis. Students who already have a master’s degree in an approved field can take the certificate program, which needs 18 credit hours of coursework and nine credit hours of supervised practicum. The MS program needs 33-39 credits and smoothly combines coursework with supervised field experience.

These programs stand out because of their innovative teaching approach. Students learn through active role-play, peer presentations, and detailed practicums. This rich learning experience combines research studies with hands-on field training.

The programs work well for both full-time students and working professionals, with evening courses available for the certificate program. The curriculum teaches students about historical and current scientific frameworks. Students learn to interpret and apply behavior analysis science, which helps them deliver expert service that makes a real difference.

Accreditation Details

Both the on-campus and online Master’s programs at Regis College have earned prestigious ABAI accreditation. The ABAI Accreditation Board renewed the on-campus MS program’s accreditation through December 31, 2029.

The online MS program got its first accreditation through December 31, 2027, which was granted in 2025. This double accreditation shows how committed the school is to quality education across different formats.

Regis College earned Tier 1 accreditation status – the highest mark of quality in behavior analysis education. This puts Regis in an elite group of only 33 master’s-level programs with Tier 1 accreditation in the U.S. Only three institutions in Massachusetts have achieved this status.

Tuition and Duration

The Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis program will cost $1,060 per credit hour in the 2025-2026 academic year. Students need 40 credits total, which brings the program cost to about $42,400 before fees.

Students can finish the Master’s program in 16-20 months. The Graduate Certificate usually takes 14 months but could be completed faster depending on how courses are scheduled. Most courses run for eight weeks, though practicum and capstone courses take 16 weeks.

The program’s flexible design fits different schedules:

• Certificate program: Can be done in three semesters (full-time)
• Online Master’s: Students can start in January, May, or August

Certification Pathway

Regis College’s programs get students ready for Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) certification. The coursework meets all BCBA exam requirements. Students also get the supervised practicum hours they need for certification.

The results are impressive – 89% of graduates passed the BCBA exam on their first try in 2020. This is a big deal as it means that Regis students do much better than the national average.

Graduates from either program are ready to work in a variety of settings as board-certified behavior analysts or registered behavior technicians. They can take on clinical, research, or supervisory roles to implement research interventions.

Regis College is a top choice for future behavior analysts. Its ABAI accreditation, detailed curriculum, and strong certification results prove it’s one of the best places to study behavior analysis.

University of South Florida

The University of South Florida takes an interdisciplinary approach to ABA education through their ABAI accredited programs. Students get detailed preparation across multiple academic disciplines. The 20-year old program has become a leader in behavior analysis education with high certification pass rates and flexible learning options.

Program Overview

USF’s Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis equips practitioners to work in developmental disabilities, autism, education, child protective services, rehabilitation, and mental health. The 45-credit-hour degree program creates a detailed curriculum by drawing from three colleges: Behavioral and Community Sciences, Arts and Sciences, and Education.

Program students will:

• Show their expertise through core curriculum courses
• Gain hands-on skills through supervised practicum experiences
• Develop research skills by completing a thesis

Students can also choose a fully online Master of Arts in ABA program that matches the on-campus curriculum’s rigor. The online format combines self-paced learning with live sessions on Microsoft Teams. These sessions run Wednesday and Thursday evenings at 6 PM Eastern Time.

Accreditation Details

The MS in Applied Behavior Analysis program at USF has full ABAI accreditation until December 31, 2028. The ABAI Accreditation Board renewed this status in 2022, confirming the program meets all standards without major issues.

The program aims to achieve four main goals:

1. Preparing graduates to work in multiple fields
2. Building knowledge and skills for BCBA certification
3. Training successful researchers
4. Adding value to the field through quality research

The program continues its steadfast dedication to developing skilled scientist-practitioners, though it was previously known as the Master’s in Arts (MA) in Applied Behavior Analysis.

Tuition and Duration

The online MA in ABA program charges $600 per credit hour for 41 credits. Both in-state and out-of-state students pay a total program cost of $24,600. This flat-rate makes the program available to students whatever their residency status.

The classroom-based MS program has different rates:

• Florida residents pay $431.43 per credit × 45 credits = $19,414.35
• Non-residents pay $921.74 per credit × 45 credits = $41,478.30

Students need about $1,000 for textbooks and BCBA exam preparation software. The online MA program uses a cohort model with a five-semester sequence that students can finish in just 1.5 years.

Certification Pathway

The program aligns with BACB’s “Option 1 Eligibility Requirements” to create a direct path to certification. Students earn their Master’s degree through an ABAI Verified Course Sequence that covers all required content from the BACB Fifth Edition Task List.

The certification success rates speak for themselves:

• 92% first-time BCBA exam pass rate in 2018
• 80% first-time BCBA exam pass rate in 2022, well above the 55% national average
• 98% of graduates have earned BCBA certification since the program began

Students complete 1,500 hours of Concentrated Supervised Fieldwork to meet the BACB Experience requirement. Each semester features a Practicum Seminar that connects with practicum sites and covers clinical issues and experience hours documentation. Students take a dedicated BCBA Exam Preparation course in their final semester to boost their chances of certification success.

University of North Texas

The University of North Texas leads the way in behavior analysis education as the first graduate program nationwide to earn accreditation from the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI). This groundbreaking institution gives students multiple paths toward quality ABA education with good certification outcomes.

Program Overview

UNT’s MS in Behavior Analysis program delivers detailed education in principles, theory, research methods, and practical applications. Students learn theoretical knowledge and get hands-on experience in neuro-operant interventions, functional analysis, early autism intervention, animal welfare, college teaching, and social justice.

• Behavior-analytic coursework that meets BCBA certification requirements
• Research training with expert faculty members
• Real-world experience in various settings

Students working on departmental lab and clinic projects have access to the department’s on-campus facilities with computers, printers, and shared office space. Students must submit applications by January 15th for fall admission priority, with March 1st as the final deadline.

Accreditation Details

The MS in Behavior Analysis program maintains accreditation through December 31, 2028. The ABAI Accreditation Board renewed full accreditation for five years in 2023 after the program showed strong adherence to standards.

The program aims to provide nationally recognized learning opportunities, contribute to the discipline through applied and basic research, and develop behavioral solutions for social problems at local, national, and international levels.

Tuition and Duration

Graduate student tuition in the MS program changes based on residency status. International students pay about $2,591.16 for combined fall and spring tuition and fees. Students also need to budget for books, housing, and personal expenses.

Students can apply for several scholarships:

• Douglas P. Field Memorial Scholarship
• Grace of a Miracle Scholarship in Behavior Analysis
• Guy Bedient Memorial Scholarship

Certification Pathway

The MS curriculum meets all course requirements for Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification. Students pursuing BCBA credentials must complete their fieldwork hours separately from degree requirements.

Texas requires BCBA certification for licensing, which falls under the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation’s oversight. Requirements vary by state, so future students should check with their state’s licensing board. The department suggests checking the BACB website for current state licensure requirements.

St. Cloud State University

St. Cloud State University runs one of the 40-year-old graduate training programs in applied behavior analysis, which started in 1982. The program has maintained continuous ABAI accreditation since 1999. Students can choose between online and on-campus options to pursue their education in behavior analysis.

Program Overview

The MS in Applied Behavior Analysis at St. Cloud State University requires 52 credit hours. Students receive advanced academic and professional training with specialization options in:

• Autism spectrum disorders
• Developmental disabilities
• Community integration strategies
• Program evaluation and organizational development
• Staff training and development

The program has built strategic collaborations with more than 120 agencies nationally and internationally. These partnerships give students access to diverse practical experiences. Students get hands-on training at the Offerdahl Autism Discovery Center on campus. They conduct assessments, design and implement programs, and train staff and parents. The core team consists of full-time faculty with Ph.D. degrees who ensure high-quality instruction.

Accreditation Details

The program’s accreditation runs through December 31, 2025, under the Department of Community Psychology, Counseling and Family Therapy. A full accreditation renewal came from the ABAI Accreditation Board in 2021. The board confirmed the program meets standards but noted two items about data collection and public disclosure that need attention. The program aims to create behavior analysts equipped with academic, research, clinical, and professional skills to serve clients and employers worldwide.

Tuition and Duration

Graduate tuition for 2025-2026 costs $769.53 per credit. Students need 52 credits, bringing the total tuition to approximately $40,015.56, not including additional fees. The 2024 data shows different completion times based on format—campus students finish in 2.25 years while online students take 3.25 years.

Certification Pathway

Recent BCBA exam first-time pass rates show remarkable success: 93% (2023), 91% (2022), and 94% (2021). This is a big deal as it means that national averages fall well below these numbers. The curriculum meets all verified course sequence requirements set by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. Students can also apply for graduate assistantships during fall and spring semesters, which are a great way to get experience toward certification.

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

The Chicago School has several ABAI accredited programs that help students become Board Certified Behavior Analysts. Students can choose from different formats that suit their needs. The MS in Applied Behavior Analysis programs give students the scientific, analytical, and conceptual tools they need for behavioral interventions.

Program Overview

The Applied Behavior Analysis programs at The Chicago School focus on a scientist-practitioner model in four key areas: theory/philosophy, experimental analysis, applied behavior analysis, and service delivery. Students learn through hands-on experience that connects classroom learning with real-world practice. They must complete either an Advanced Research Project or an Advanced Applied Project to show they can assess and treat clients effectively. Graduates can design interventions, understand how diversity shapes outcomes, solve ethical challenges, and work well with stakeholders.

Accreditation Details

The MS in Applied Behavior Analysis programs hold ABAI accreditation at several locations:

• Chicago Campus: Accredited through December 31, 2027
• Dallas Campus (Hybrid format): Accredited through December 31, 2027
• Online program: Accredited through December 31, 2027

These accreditations show that the programs meet high standards for behavior analysis education.

Tuition and Duration

Students pay different rates based on their program level:

• Master’s programs: $1,458 per credit hour
• Bachelor’s programs: $566 per credit hour
• Doctoral programs: $1,815 per credit hour

Students also pay an application fee ($50), technology fee ($175 per semester), and comprehensive fees ($329 per semester).

Certification Pathway

These programs help students become qualified behavior analysts who can supervise Registered Behavior Technicians and others who implement behavioral interventions. Students can complete BACB-compliant practicum at The Chicago School, though it’s optional. The program works well for people who have master’s degrees in non-ABA fields and want to get BCBA licensure.

Picking the Right Program

Picking the right ABAI accredited ABA program is a vital first step to start a successful career in behavior analysis. This piece highlights eight outstanding institutions that give you a complete education and clear paths to BCBA certification. These programs excel with their strong curricula, expert faculty, hands-on training, and BCBA exam pass rates that are substantially higher than national averages.

The field just needs more qualified behavior analysts, and programs like Auburn University with its 100% BCBA exam pass rate and Florida Tech with multiple accredited options are a great choice. Schools like Caldwell University and Regis College have special facilities where you’ll get hands-on experience while finishing your supervised fieldwork.

You’ll find these programs from South Florida to St. Cloud, so there’s bound to be one that fits your priorities. Many schools now offer flexible learning formats – online, hybrid, and on-campus options are available whatever your work schedule or location might be.

While tuition varies between programs, you’ll see great returns given the field’s strong job outlook through 2032. BCBA certification opens doors to opportunities in schools, clinics, hospitals, and private practices.

Your choice should depend on the program format, location, cost, focus areas, and your career goals. Each featured program meets ABAI’s strict standards while offering something unique – whether it’s Auburn’s perfect certification rate, Florida Tech’s program variety, or The Chicago School’s multiple locations.

With over 30 states now requiring ABA practitioners to have licenses, getting your degree from these respected ABAI accredited programs sets you up for success in this fast-growing field. The journey to becoming a board-certified behavior analyst starts with the right educational foundation, and these eight programs definitely prepare you well for this rewarding career.