Applied Behavior Analysis Programs at UCSB
Want to take your career in applied behavior analysis to the next level? Qualified behavior analysts are in high demand worldwide. Your passion to help others can find the perfect outlet through UCSB’s detailed programs.
UC Santa Barbara’s applied behavior analysis (ABA) programs feature specialized 40-hour trainings on different topics. The programs prepare professionals to help others using evidence-based behavioral interventions. The school welcomes students from the US, Canada, UK, Australia, and any other country who have completed their bachelor’s or master’s degrees.
Let’s explore UCSB’s applied behavior analysis programs together. You’ll learn about certification requirements, what makes their approach special, and how to begin your journey toward a fulfilling career in this expanding field.
What ABA programs does UC Santa Barbara offer?
UC Santa Barbara provides multiple certification paths in applied behavior analysis. These paths cater to students from different educational backgrounds with varying career aspirations.
The Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) track helps you get certified through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. Students must complete 315 coursework hours within 10 years. This program lines up with BACB’s 6th Edition Task List. You’ll learn about ethical conduct, functional behavior assessments, behavior change procedures, and supervision program design. U.S. residents will find this option most suitable.
Students looking for worldwide recognition can choose the Qualified Behavior Analyst (QBA) professional certificate program. The Qualified Applied Behavior Analysis Credentialing Board (QABA®) has verified and approved this path. Requirements include 270 coursework hours, 1500 supervised fieldwork hours, and passing QABA’s exam. Students need a graduate degree or should be working toward one to qualify.
These programs share essential curriculum elements that teach you to:
- Apply fundamental ABA principles and data collection methods
- Implement skill acquisition and behavior reduction interventions
- Conduct functional behavior assessments
- Design supervision programs
- Assess behavioral progress using single-case design methodology
UCSB also offers specialized 40-hour trainings on various ABA topics. The university provides a Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Intervention (NDBI) Professional Certificate program too.
Working professionals can benefit from asynchronous class options in all programs. New ABA students should take one course per quarter, not counting supervision courses. This approach helps them absorb the materials better.
Students don’t need to buy textbooks, but Cooper, Heron, and Heward’s “Applied Behavior Analysis (3rd Edition)” serves as a helpful resource across all programs.
UCSB creates programs that balance cost and flexibility without sacrificing quality. Their research-based curriculum gives you a full picture of ABA theories, behavior assessments, ethical guidelines, and interventions. This knowledge prepares you to use proven techniques that positively impact people’s lives.
Accreditation
Institutional recognition is a vital factor in selecting an applied behavior analysis program. UCSB Professional and Continuing Education (PaCE) has full accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College & University Commission. Regional accreditation will give students assurance that all program courses meet high academic standards and qualify for professional-level, post-graduate credit.
UCSB’s applied behavior analysis (ABA) programs are arranged to meet industry certification standards. The BCBA and BCaBA programs comply with the Behavior Analyst Certification Board’s (BACB) 6th Edition Task List. UCSB also features an ABAI-approved 5th Edition Verified Course Sequence for BCBA certification candidates.
Students should know that UCSB does not directly award BCBA or BCaBA certification. The university provides the educational foundation needed for certification. BCBA certification requires:
- 315 coursework hours (7 classes) completed within 10 years
- 2000 supervised fieldwork hours
- Passing the BACB-administered examination
BCaBA certification needs an undergraduate degree, 225 coursework hours minimum, 1300 supervised fieldwork hours, and a passing score on the BACB exam.
UCSB PaCE is adding two new courses to prepare for the BACB’s updated standards that take effect January 1, 2027. These additions help students stay on track for certification while receiving complete, current training.
Industry standards since January 2022 state that ABAI-Accredited Programs fulfill the BACB’s degree and coursework requirements (via Pathway 1) for BCBA and BCaBA certification applications. This recognition highlights the quality education provided through accredited programs.
UCSB’s applied behavior analysis programs provide a respected path to professional certification, supported by institutional accreditation that delivers quality education and industry-relevant training.
Tuition
The financial investment in your ABA certification deserves detailed attention before you begin your studies. UCSB’s ABA programs offer a clear and detailed cost structure.
Public and international students pay $680 per course. UCSB students get a 25% discount and pay $510 per course. Students must pay a $150 certificate release fee. The required ABA Competency Course costs $250.
Students can choose these optional components:
- Supervision Course: $650
- Study Prep Course: $250
- Learning Module Series: $279-$425 (depends on your chosen option)
The program charges a standard $25 application fee. Students need to arrange their own housing and living expenses separately.
UCSB’s program delivers excellent value compared to national rates. Most BCBA master’s programs cost between $20,000 and $60,000 in tuition nationwide. Books, practicum fees, and certification exams add $2,000 to $5,000 more.
Take time to plan your budget carefully. Behavior analyst credentials offer strong returns due to high market demand. A solid financial plan that covers both direct and indirect costs will help your educational experience run smoothly.
Admissions
UCSB’s applied behavior analysis programs have specific eligibility requirements that candidates must meet before admission.
To get BCBA certification, you must have a graduate degree (Master’s or higher) or be working toward one. BCaBA candidates need a Bachelor’s degree or must be completing one. BACB regulations require candidates to be citizens or residents of the United States, Canada, Australia, or the United Kingdom.
Students must complete seven courses with a minimum “C” grade and request coursework attestation. This involves a $150 fee and submitting the BACB DocuSign with verification course sequence numbers (BCBA: 51083 or BCaBA: 51337).
UCSB’s VCS Coordinator will submit your coursework attestation to BACB within 72 hours, and you need to send your official transcripts to BACB directly.
UCSB suggests that new students take one course each quarter, not including supervision courses. The program requires all coursework to be finished within 10 years.
The admission process helps ensure that students are well-prepared to pass the BACB examination and become certified behavior analysts.
What sets UC Santa Barbara apart?
UCSB is the only program through the UC system that offers an ABA program among all ten UC campuses. This unique position within California’s prestigious university system gives graduates a distinctive edge.
Working professionals benefit greatly from the program’s flexibility. UCSB has designed its coursework to fit the needs of full-time employees. Students can complete their requirements while managing their existing work schedules.
The program’s economical solutions make it stand out. Students who grab early bird discounts can complete all six required classes for approximately $3200. Regular rates stay around $3500. Quality education becomes available at these affordable prices without compromising academic standards.
The program boasts expert faculty members like Dr. Sunny Kim. Her specialized knowledge spans pivotal response treatment and naturalistic interventions for autism. Students learn crucial aspects of autism-specific interventions, communication strategies, and behavioral assessments.
Remote students who find it hard to connect with qualified supervisors can use UCSB’s internal supervision options. The program’s global reach has caught the attention of international students. Chinese students show growing interest since behavioral analysts remain scarce in their country.
The program creates a perfect balance between academic excellence and practical needs. Students worldwide can now enter this vital field through well-structured pathways.
Next steps
UC Santa Barbara’s applied behavior analysis programs create an excellent path for aspiring behavior analysts worldwide. This piece highlights the complete certification options – the BCBA track for U.S. students and the QBA track for global recognition. The programs’ WASC accreditation and arrangement with BACB standards ensure your education meets industry requirements.
Program costs play a vital role in choosing advanced certification. UCSB ranks among the most budget-friendly ABA programs in the nation. Each course costs $680, and current students can access various discounts. Students get quality behavior analysis education without compromising academic standards.
The admission process is simple, but you must meet specific degree requirements based on your certification track. Students who pass all required courses go through a quick attestation process to confirm their completed studies.
UCSB stands out as the only ABA program among all ten UC campuses. The program combines the university’s prestigious credentials with flexible learning options. Working professionals can learn at their own pace through asynchronous classes. International students seeking quality behavior analysis training can easily access the program.
Starting your path to become a certified behavior analyst needs proper planning and dedication. UCSB gives you everything you need – accredited courses, supervision opportunities, exam preparation, and respected credentials. These qualifications will help you succeed in a growing field where you can transform countless lives through evidence-based behavioral interventions.