ABA Programs at University of Nevada, Reno
The University of Nevada, Reno provides outstanding behavior analysis education that serves students in a variety of ways. UNR’s integrated approach to behavior analysis training helps students prepare for professional certification and advance their careers.
UNR’s Behavior Analysis Program uses a junior-colleague model to provide supervised experience and instruction in key areas. Students work extensively with behaviorism philosophies, behavior analysis theory and methodology, and research in human and animal behavior. The program focuses on practical applications like organizational consultation, instructional design, parent training, and clinical population work.
Students can choose from several degree paths in behavior analysis. The on-campus Master of Science degree builds on what students learned in their undergraduate studies and prepares them for doctoral programs or professional careers in government and private sectors. This 36-credit program has full accreditation and contains a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Approved Course Sequence through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. UNR also offers a doctoral (Ph.D.) program that provides the highest level of academic and professional preparation.
UNR gives undergraduate students a specialized behavior analysis track within the psychology major. This 19-credit specialization helps students prepare for graduate study or paraprofessional roles in human services. The curriculum meets the Association for Behavior Analysis International’s undergraduate program accreditation standards and helps students become eligible for certification as Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analysts.
The university now has a fully online Master’s program through the Global Institute for Behavior Analysis. This program’s curriculum has pre-approval from the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) to meet BCBA certification course requirements. Students get classroom instruction combined with hands-on learning, research training, and certification exam preparation.
The online program stands out because of its practical training approach. Many graduate programs expect students to find their own practicum experiences, but UNR’s online program has a dedicated practical training coordinator who guides students through fieldwork. Students need to complete only half of the required BACB hours during the program and can finish the rest after graduation.
The on-campus and online programs share a steadfast dedication to behavior analysis education. Their accreditation from the Association for Behavior Analysis International ensures high-quality training. This recognition confirms that UNR’s programs meet the rigorous standards for behavior analysis educational programs.
What ABA programs does UNR offer?
UNR offers several paths for students who want to study Applied Behavior Analysis. Each program helps students reach their career goals while meeting high academic standards.
Students can earn a Master of Science in Behavior Analysis on campus with 36 credits. The program follows a scientist-practitioner model that prepares you for research and clinical practice. Core courses cover philosophical foundations, experimental analysis of behavior, and applied behavior analysis. The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) has verified this program, which has a Verified Course Sequence meeting BCBA certification examination requirements.
The Ph.D. in Behavior Analysis just needs about 95 credits beyond a bachelor’s degree. This research-focused program helps students make original scientific contributions to the field. Students build on their master’s knowledge through advanced coursework in experimental design, conceptual issues, and specialized behavior analysis applications. Most students complete the program in 4-5 years, including comprehensive exams and dissertation work.
UNR’s psychology major offers a specialized track at the undergraduate level. This 19-credit sequence gets you ready for entry-level positions or graduate study. You’ll take foundational courses in behavior principles, single-subject research design, and applied techniques. The program meets all coursework requirements to become a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA).
The Global Institute for Behavior Analysis now offers a fully online Master’s program. Working professionals seeking BCBA certification can complete this 42-credit program entirely online. The program stands out because it takes a structured approach to practicum experiences. Many programs make students arrange supervised fieldwork on their own. Instead, UNR’s dedicated practical training coordinator guides you through your fieldwork. You just need to complete 1000 of the 2000 BACB hours during the program and can finish the rest after graduating.
First-year online students learn foundational knowledge and skills. Second-year students work on specialized topics and practical applications. The online program matches the academic standards of on-campus classes, with similar graduation requirements and ABAI verification status.
Each program path meets different student needs while showing UNR’s dedication to excellent behavior analysis education.
Accreditation
Quality indicators for academic programs in behavior analysis rely heavily on accreditation status. The University of Nevada, Reno has full accreditation from the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) Accreditation Board for its behavior analysis programs.
The PhD in Behavior Analysis program received accreditation renewal in 2021, valid through December 31, 2027. This seven-year extension shows the program meets all professional standards without major issues. The program’s steadfast dedication to excellence is evident through its 23-year old continuous accreditation since 2000.
The on-campus Master of Science in Behavior Analysis program will remain accredited through December 31, 2027. The program, previously called Master’s in Arts (MA) in Behavior Analysis until 2022, earned a seven-year full accreditation renewal in 2021. It upholds the same high standards as the doctoral program.
The online Master of Science in Behavior Analysis through the Global Institute for Behavior Analysis has accreditation until December 31, 2025. The board is reviewing this period for extension. This program changed its name from Master’s in Arts (MA) in Behavior Analysis in 2022.
The BS in Psychology with Behavior Science specialization’s accreditation runs through December 31, 2025. The board is currently reviewing this period for extension. The program, known as BA in Psychology, Behavior Analysis Specialization until 2022, has met ABAI’s undergraduate education standards since its first accreditation in 2015.
UNR’s behavior analysis programs also hold ABAI-approved Verified Course Sequences (VCS) designation. This approval confirms the curricula meet all educational requirements for certification exams. Students who graduate become eligible for Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification and potential licensure in Nevada and many other states.
ABAI’s Accreditation Board works to create and implement standards for behavior analysis education. The board reviews programs against detailed standards to ensure quality education for future behavior analysts. Each program undergoes extensive evaluation with outcome tracking from 2015 through 2024.
These accreditations are a great way to get confidence for prospective students. They confirm that UNR’s behavior analysis programs deliver top-tier education while preparing graduates for professional certification and licensure requirements.
Tuition
The cost of education plays a major role in choosing an ABA program at the University of Nevada, Reno. Your tuition will vary based on your enrollment status, residency, and program choice.
The Applied Behavior Analysis program charges $675 per credit. This rate is specific to the ABA program and is different from regular graduate tuition. Note that most master’s programs need 36-42 credits to graduate, which determines your total investment.
Base graduate tuition at UNR is $353.50 per credit, though rates change based on where you live. Your actual costs depend on whether you’re an in-state or out-of-state student. In-state full-time graduate students pay about $5,625 in base tuition. Out-of-state students pay much more at $21,715.
Graduate assistantships can help reduce your educational expenses. UNR offers several assistantship levels (10-hours, 15-hours, and 20-hours), each with different tuition benefits. Students with these positions pay much less than those without assistantships.
Part-time students have different per-credit rates. In-state part-time graduate students pay about $304 per credit hour. Out-of-state part-time students pay around $640 per credit hour. All students must also pay required fees—about $665 for both in-state and out-of-state full-time graduate students.
UNR offers several ways to help with costs. These include research and teaching assistantships, healthcare benefits, institutionally-sponsored loans, scholarships, graduate assistantships, and federal work-study opportunities. You’ll need to submit a FAFSA application by March 1 for priority consideration.
Each student’s net tuition costs are unique. UNR provides a tuition estimator tool to help calculate your costs. This tool includes program-specific fees, housing, meals, and parking permits to give you a complete financial picture.
UNR’s Ph.D. in Behavior Analysis program and various master’s options have different fee structures. Some sources indicate the undergraduate specialization and graduate programs might cost as little as $285-$293 per credit for in-state students. Always check current rates with the university since tuition rates change yearly.
Admissions
The ABA programs at University of Nevada, Reno demand close attention to deadlines and requirements. Students who show research potential and aptitude as teachers, scientists, and practitioners will find their place in the Behavior Analysis Program. The program specifically looks for candidates dedicated to behavioral psychology.
A structured timeline guides the application process. Traditional on-campus programs require applications by December 1st to start the following August. The program invites selected applicants to an Interview Weekend event in February. Since this happens just once a year, submitting applications on time becomes crucial.
The Graduate School handles the complete online application process which needs:
- Completed Graduate School application
- Nonrefundable application fee
- Official transcripts from all previous colleges/universities
- Three letters of recommendation
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Brief statement of purpose
UNR stands out with its cohort-based admission model. The program accepts students first, who then join specific faculty laboratories later. This means applicants should not list or rank preferred faculty groups in their applications.
The online master’s program in behavior analysis has slightly different requirements. You need a four-year bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum 2.75 GPA. The program offers multiple entry points through rolling admissions: Spring (applications due November 15), Summer (due March 15), and Fall (due June 15).
International students must meet extra requirements beyond standard materials. The university shows steadfast dedication to spreading behavior analysis globally and welcomes students from many countries. International applicants should reach out to the University’s Office of International Students and Scholars about country-specific requirements.
Students aiming for BCBA® certification training must hold or be enrolled in a master’s degree in behavior analysis, psychology, or education. Right now, only residents of the United States, Canada, Australia, or the United Kingdom can take BCBA® certification exams.
What sets University of Nevada, Reno apart?
The University of Nevada, Reno sets itself apart from other behavior analysis programs through several unique features. Students don’t just attend classes – they work with faculty members as developing professionals through the junior-colleague model.
The behavior analysis faculty at UNR are leaders in their field. Many have served as presidents of major behavior analysis organizations, editors of top journals, and received awards for their scientific contributions. Students get exceptional mentorship from these experts.
UNR’s research output stands out among research-intensive universities. Faculty run active research programs in behavioral economics, verbal behavior, animal behavior, behavioral pharmacology, and clinical applications. This research-rich environment helps students build strong scientific foundations, whatever their career goals may be.
The university’s deep community involvement sets it apart. UNR partners with local organizations that provide behavior analytic services, which gives students hands-on experience. These partnerships often create job opportunities for graduates.
The program takes a balanced approach to behavior analysis. Unlike many ABA programs that focus on autism treatment, UNR gives equal weight to experimental and applied work. Graduates can adapt their skills to many different settings instead of being limited to one area.
The results speak for themselves. Almost every doctoral graduate finds work in academia, research institutions, or clinical leadership roles. Master’s graduates pass their BCBA certification exams at high rates and find jobs they want.
The Sierra Nevada location is a bonus. Students get professional opportunities and great quality of life – something worth considering when choosing a graduate program. This mix of academic excellence, research opportunities, and supportive environment makes UNR’s behavior analysis programs special.
Next steps
Are you ready to pursue your ABA degree at University of Nevada, Reno? The next steps follow a straightforward process based on your program of interest.
Students interested in the undergraduate behavior analysis track should start by learning about career options and program outcomes through the psychology degrees webpage. Graduate program applications differ depending on your chosen pathway.
The online master’s program has these application deadlines:
- Spring: Applications due by November 15 (Classes: January-April)
- Summer: Applications due by March 15 (Classes: May-August)
- Fall: Applications due by June 15 (Classes: August-November)
Your application requires these six essential steps:
- Create an online application account
- Select “Degree Seeking” enrollment status
- Choose “Domestic” application type
- Select “Psychology MS” program
- Specify “Psychology MS – Online Academy” emphasis
- Choose your enrollment semester
An admissions consultant can help answer your questions about the program. International students must apply through the Global Institute’s Satellite Program.
You should think about whether you want to help behavior analysis clients or improve program effectiveness before applying. UNR’s program advances the field through collaborative efforts with biology, medical education, and engineering departments.