4 Top ABA Programs in DC

Looking for trusted ABA Programs in DC to kickstart your career in behavior analysis? DC’s Autism Insurance Reform passed in 2012 now requires insurance companies to cover ABA therapy when medically needed. This has boosted the need for qualified behavior analysts in the area by a lot.

The ABA landscape in DC prominent from its neighboring states. DC doesn’t ask for a license to practice as an applied behavior analyst within the city limits. This makes professional certification through accredited programs crucial for building credibility. Maryland’s rules are different – the state has required licensure since 2014, which makes proper education and certification a must for anyone interested in ABA programs there.

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology is a top choice for DC residents looking for ABA programs. Their Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis program offers a complete educational experience. The DC campus combines theory and hands-on experience to prepare behavior analysts for work settings of all types.

Program overview

The M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis program at The Chicago School will give you the analytical and conceptual tools you need to work effectively with different clients. The program’s strength lies in its coverage of all four behavior analysis domains:

• Theory and Philosophy
• Experimental Analysis of Behavior
• Applied Behavior Analysis
• Service Delivery

The scientist-practitioner model runs through these domains. Students learn to work as practitioners, researchers, scholars, and intervention evaluators.

Graduates of this program develop key skills. They learn to create interventions based on behavioral principles that lead to meaningful changes. The program teaches students to review how diversity affects clients while showing sensitivity in their interactions. Students also learn to handle ethical challenges using behavior-analytic guidelines. They build relationships with clients and stakeholders and conduct research.

Full-time students usually finish the program in 2 to 2.5 years. The curriculum gives students both theoretical knowledge and practical experience through fieldwork. Practicum seminars help students apply classroom learning in supervised settings.

Accreditation and BCBA alignment

The M.S. Applied Behavior Analysis programs at The Chicago School’s Chicago, Dallas, and Online campuses have earned accreditation from the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) Accreditation Board. The Chicago Campus holds this accreditation through December 31, 2027.

ABAI accreditation shows program quality and pushes programs to get better. The accreditation process helps recognize excellent training of behavior scientists in theory, practice foundations, and ethics.

Students interested in professional certification should know the program meets requirements for Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification. The Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) approves all programs yearly. Graduates must take and pass the BACB certification exam to become certified.

The ABAI Accreditation Board found areas needing improvement during their review. They noted issues with faculty-to-student ratios and student opportunities for professional growth through conferences and publications. The program must submit a progress report about these issues by February 1, 2026.

Student success rates

BCBA exam pass rates tell us how well the program works. The 2023 data shows different pass rates across campuses and delivery formats.

The Chicago Campus on-site program achieved a 63% pass rate from 16 candidates. Online students showed a 53% pass rate with 34 candidates. The DC Campus hybrid program, which mixes online and on-campus learning, had a 50% pass rate from 16 candidates. The online post-master’s certificate and M.S. programs saw a 45% pass rate with 40 candidates.

These numbers reflect how well students do on the BCBA certification exam. The ABAI Accreditation Board wants the program to explain these results and make improvements.

The DC location awarded 7 master’s degrees in applied behavior analysis during 2019-2020. Women made up 85.7% of graduates, matching the national figure of 86.5%. Racial-ethnic minorities represented 71.4% of graduates, much higher than the national average of 37%. These numbers show the program attracts diverse students.

Tuition and delivery format

Students can choose between on-campus classes in Washington D.C. or online learning.

The DC campus lets students connect with government and healthcare organizations in the capital. The online option works well for professionals who need scheduling flexibility.

The DC Campus charged $22,212 for full-time graduate tuition plus $1,364 in fees during 2019-2020, totaling $23,576. Recent data shows full-time tuition at $24,624 with $1,512 in fees. Part-time students paid about $1,219 per credit.

Students pay tuition each term based on credit hours, plus required fees. Payment plans split costs into monthly payments. The first payment comes due by the first Friday of term, and the last payment is due at term’s end.

The M.S. Applied Behavior Analysis program looks for candidates with a 3.0 or higher undergraduate GPA, official transcripts, and a $50.00 application fee. Students with GPAs under 3.0 need three recommendation letters and an essay. The school reviews applications using an all-encompassing approach that considers both academics and work experience.

George Mason University – MEd in Special Education (Behavior Analysis)

George Mason University is an excellent choice for students looking at ABA Programs in the DC area with its 36-credit Master of Education in Special Education with concentration in Behavior Analysis. The program takes a scientific approach to behavior analysis that describes, explains, predicts, and changes behavior in a variety of populations.

Program overview

The MEd in Special Education with concentration in Behavior Analysis at George Mason University prepares you for a career working with people of all types in multiple settings. You’ll be ready to work with children who have intellectual and developmental disabilities, adults seeking health and wellness behavior change, and people with substance use disorders. Your work environment could include homes, hospitals, corporations, and clinics.

The 36-credit curriculum has both core coursework and concentration-specific classes that cover the fundamental principles and applications of behavior analysis. The core coursework includes:

• Introduction to Special Education (EDSE 501)
• Computer Applications for Special Populations (EDSE 517)
• Thesis I (BEHV 798)
• Applied Behavior Analysis: Verbal Behavior (EDSE 625)
• Ethical and Professional Conduct for Behavior Analysis (EDSE 664)

The concentration coursework builds on these foundations with specialized classes:

• Principles of Behavior Analysis (BEHV 602)
• Conceptual Analysis of Behavior (BEHV 603)
• Research Methods for Behavior Analysis (BEHV 604)
• Experimental Analysis of Behavior (BEHV 605)
• Assessment of Behavior (BEHV 606)
• Organizational Behavior Management (BEHV 607)
• Thesis II (BEHV 799)

Research emphasis sets this program apart. Students learn to conduct behavior analytic research and complete a thesis. Dr. Christine Barthold, George Mason University’s ABA Program Coordinator and a BCBA-D, explains, “We’ve been really intentional in the ABA program to make sure that our students know they’ll be learning about the science of why organisms – and I’m using that term very, very specifically – do what they do”.

Accreditation and BCBA alignment

The MEd in Special Education with concentration in Behavior Analysis meets the Behavior Analyst Certification Board’s (BACB) 2027 coursework requirements. This prepares you to take the BACB exam, which you need for licensure in Behavior Analysis in states requiring a license to practice, including Virginia.

The program seeks recognition through the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI)’s Tiered Model of Education, though recognition status isn’t guaranteed. Students who want immediate BACB verification should know that the Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis at George Mason remains a BACB Verified Course Sequence (VCS) until the end of 2026, when this option ends.

Students can complete both the Masters in Special Education Program (30 credits) and Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate Program (21 credits) at the same time due to overlapping requirements. The total credit requirement for both the MEd and certificate comes to just 30 credits because of this overlap.

Student success rates

The MEd in Special Education with concentration in Behavior Analysis represents a new program configuration. Applications open in mid-September for Spring 2026 entry, so specific student success metrics aren’t available yet. All the same, the institution shows strong performance in special education programs.

George Mason’s online Master of Education in Special Education ranks #5 in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Online Special Education Programs. This ranking shows the university’s quality education in this field.

Tuition and delivery format

The program costs $805.00 per credit for both Virginia residents and non-Virginia residents. A distance learning fee of $35.00 per credit brings the total to $840.00 per credit. New graduate students pay a one-time, non-refundable fee of $60.00. Earlier sources showed different rates – $755.00 per credit for in-state and $1546.00 for out-of-state students. Students should check current rates directly with the university.

The 36-credit program’s total tuition comes to approximately $30,240.00 (at $840.00 per credit), not including the one-time fee and other expenses.

While specific delivery details for the MEd in Behavior Analysis concentration aren’t stated in current materials, George Mason University offers flexible learning options. The university’s online MEd in Special Education uses convenient asynchronous and synchronous formats that let students join real-time virtual sessions. This helps busy professionals balance work and family commitments while getting quality education.

The university also offers a 21-credit Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis. Students can complete this certificate in about 18 months through online and in-person formats. This option doesn’t require GRE scores, making it more accessible.

Dr. Christine Barthold leads the program as Academic Program Coordinator and oversees instruction in Behavior Analysis. Students with questions about courses and instruction can reach out to Dr. Barthold directly.

University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC)

UMBC sits at a sweet spot – just 15 minutes from downtown Baltimore and 30 minutes from the Washington beltway. This makes it an excellent choice for DC residents looking into ABA programs in Maryland. Students can reach campus resources easily by car or public transportation.

Program overview

UMBC’s Master of Arts in Human Services Psychology with an Applied Behavior Analysis track has served the mid-Atlantic region since 2003. The program responds to the growing need for behavior analysis services. Students complete 36 credits without a thesis requirement and learn simple measurement techniques they can use to customize disability interventions.

UMBC’s curriculum focuses on these core components:

• Learning and cognitive aspects of behavior
• Measurement of behavior
• Single-case experimental designs
• Basic and applied analysis of behavior
• Behavioral intervention design and data evaluation
• Ethics of behavioral interventions

The program excels through collaboration with Kennedy Krieger Institute’s Department of Behavioral Psychology. This partnership creates an exceptional training environment. Students get practicum opportunities at several locations:

• Kennedy Krieger Institute’s Neurobehavioral units (inpatient/outpatient)
• Pediatric Feeding Disorders program
• The Shafer Center for autism education
• Verbal Beginnings, offering diagnostic testing and various interventions

Students work under supervision during their practicum to get hands-on experience. Rather than writing a traditional master’s thesis, they complete a capstone project. This project might replicate previous research or involve original work.

Accreditation and BCBA alignment

The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) Accreditation Board has accredited the MA program through December 31, 2025. The ABAI Accreditation Board confirmed in 2021 that the program meets professional standards without serious issues.

The coursework meets all minimum requirements set by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. Students who finish the program meet the coursework requirements to take the BCBA exam. Note that completing coursework alone does not qualify students to take the certification exam – they must also meet experience requirements.

The program aims to create accountable service providers who are ready to take the BCBA certification examination.

Student success rates

UMBC graduates have performed well on the BCBA examination. One source reports that 92% of UMBC graduates pass the BCBA exam. More recent data from 2023 shows 60% of 10 first-time candidates passed.

The program helps students become behavior analysis practitioners and get BCBA certification. Many alumni present their work at behavior analytic conferences. Some publish in leading behavioral journals, which shows the program’s research focus.

Graduates move into various roles after finishing. Common career paths include:

• School districts and private schools
• Consulting companies
• Organizations providing behavioral services to children and adults with autism and developmental disabilities

Many graduates continue to Ph.D. programs in behavior analysis or psychology. This reflects the program’s strong academic foundation.

Tuition and delivery format

The 2024-2025 academic year costs about $16,344 for in-state students and $25,920 for out-of-state students who enroll full-time (9+ credits). Per-credit costs are $715 for in-state and $1,196 for out-of-state students.

Students should factor in these additional costs:

• Housing/utilities/food: $22,500
• Books: $800
• Transportation: $3,048
• Other expenses: $2,074
• Direct loan fee: $180
• PLUS loan fee: $840

Total annual costs reach $45,786 for in-state and $55,362 for out-of-state students.

Classes meet once weekly on weekday afternoons. They start between 4:30-5:30 pm and run for 2.5 hours. Many classes take place at Kennedy Krieger Institute in East Baltimore. Students can finish their degree in two years while working full-time. A full course load means three courses (9 credits) per semester.

UMBC likes to see GPAs above 3.0, though they haven’t set strict cutoffs. The ABA MA program does not require or consider GRE General Test scores.

Students must apply by January 1 to start in fall. Applications should include unofficial transcripts, a resume or CV showing relevant experience, three recommendation letters, and a two-page statement of purpose.

George Washington University – Graduate Certificate in ASD

The Graduate Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) at George Washington University completes our look at ABA Programs DC students can access. This specialized 15-credit certificate program sits in Washington, D.C.’s heart and prepares professionals to work with individuals on the autism spectrum.

Program overview

George Washington University’s Graduate Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders helps educators, therapists, counselors, and other professionals expand their expertise in supporting individuals with autism. The program gives you the knowledge and skills to assess, select, and implement evidence-based practices for individuals with autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders.

The curriculum emphasizes several key developmental areas:

• Academic achievement and personalized learning approaches that line up with cognitive strengths
• Social skills development for diverse environments
• Problem-solving strategies for challenging situations

The program has both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experiences through a practicum where you work with individuals on the autism spectrum in supervised settings. Students can apply their classroom learning in real-life situations.

The program’s connection to GW Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders Institute (ANDI) sets it apart. Students get valuable research exposure and can network with leading experts in the field.

Students must complete 15 credits in required courses:

• Family Support and Collaboration in Special Education (SPED 6240)
• Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorders (SPED 6253)
• Developmental Assessment in Special Education (SPED 6260)
• Practicum in Methods and Materials for Early Childhood Special Education (SPED 6261)
• Affective Development and Behavior Management for Teaching Students with Disabilities (SPED 6290)

The program creates a balance between theory and practice, preparing you to support children with autism in homes, schools, and clinics.

Accreditation and BCBA alignment

Based on available information, the Graduate Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders lacks specific Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) accreditation. The program takes a broader approach to autism education rather than focusing on applied behavior analysis certification.

Students who complete the certificate become eligible for special education endorsement. This endorsement improves your professional credentials and job prospects in educational settings. Teachers working in inclusive classrooms or specialized programs for students with autism find this endorsement particularly valuable.

The program examines autism through medical and social models of disability. This detailed view goes beyond behavioral interventions. Graduates learn to apply neurodiversity views and disability justice perspectives to support disability advocacy and create inclusive schools and communities for children with autism.

Success rates

GW tracks student achievement data across programs effectively. Students who started their studies in fall 2023 showed 100% continuation into fall 2024 in comparable graduate programs, showing strong retention.

GW’s Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences reports excellent completion rates. The 2025 graduation year saw 45 on-time completions and only 2 delayed completions, achieving a 94% three-year average completion rate.

The university’s Sustainable Urban Planning Program reports impressive results. All students demonstrated strong written and oral communication skills, broad knowledge of practice, ability to connect theory to practice, and understanding of professional ethics. These results from different departments highlight GW’s commitment to student success.

GW programs typically lead to strong career outcomes, with some departments reporting 100% employment rates. While specific data for the Autism Spectrum Disorders certificate isn’t available, these numbers suggest positive career prospects.

Tuition and delivery format

Working professionals can easily fit this certificate program into their schedules. Classes meet once weekly in the evenings. Part-time students can complete the certificate while working full-time. This flexibility helps professionals improve their skills without career interruption.

The Graduate Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders costs $970.00 per credit hour. The 15-credit program totals approximately $14,550. This rate applies to online and off-campus offerings, while main campus graduate courses cost more at $1,905.00 per credit.

Extra fees include:

• Student Government Association fee: $3.00 per credit (maximum $45.00 per semester)
• Matriculation fee: $300.00 (one-time charge for each entering student)
• Registration fee for off-campus and online programs: $35.00

The program accepts applications year-round for fall, spring, and summer terms. Applicants need unofficial transcripts from all colleges and universities attended, two recommendations, a statement of purpose (250-500 words), and a resume. International students must meet additional English language proficiency requirements.

Washington, D.C.’s location offers unique benefits. Students can access research, internship, and job opportunities with various organizations and schools. You can build professional networks in the nation’s capital while studying.

Online ABA Programs Accepting DC Applicants

DC residents who want to become behavior analysts can now access education beyond their local area through online ABA programs. These virtual options give students flexibility and accessibility while matching the quality of traditional campus programs.

Programs overview

Online ABA master’s programs deliver training that matches on-campus experiences but let students set their own schedule. Students learn behavior analysis principles, assessment techniques, intervention strategies, and ethical practices. DC applicants can choose from several institutions including Simmons University, The Chicago School, Johns Hopkins, and Mount St. Mary’s University.

Simmons University’s online program takes about 20 months to complete, which works well for working professionals. Many programs include practicum components that help fulfill supervised fieldwork requirements for certification.

Accreditation and BCBA alignment

Program content matters as much as accreditation status. The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) checks course sequences to ensure they meet BCBA certification educational requirements. ABAI-accredited programs now satisfy the BACB’s degree and coursework requirements through Pathway 1 for BCBA certification applications since January 2022.

Pepperdine University’s program meets the BCBA Pathway 2 coursework requirements with ABAI verification. Johns Hopkins University’s Post-Master’s Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis meets educational prerequisites for Maryland licensure.

Student success rates

BCBA examination success rates differ between programs. Mount St. Mary’s University data shows that 18% of students passed the BCBA exam on their first try in 2024, while self-reported data shows a 47.4% pass rate from 2022-2024.

Some online programs show better success rates:

• University of South Florida: 89-92% pass rate
• Cloud State University: 90% pass rate
• Florida Institute of Technology: 100% pass rate

Tuition and delivery format

Online ABA programs have varying tuition costs. Mount St. Mary’s charges $720 per credit, which adds up to about $30,240 for their 42-credit program. Regis College’s online ABA program costs $1,025 per credit. Simmons University offers better rates at $500-700 per credit.

Programs offer both synchronous and asynchronous learning options. The Chicago School lets students complete all Applied Behavior Analysis programs online. Mount St. Mary’s classes work around professional schedules with all instruction available through live Zoom sessions.

DC residents can get quality ABA education through online programs that match local institutions’ standards. These programs need 33-42 credit hours and take 16-20 months to finish, creating an optimized path to professional certification.

Next Steps

Your career goals and personal situation will determine the best ABA program for you. Looking at the five top-ranked ABA programs in the DC area reveals key factors you should think about. Each program brings something unique to the table. The Chicago School excels with its complete scientist-practitioner model. George Mason University puts research first. UMBC’s partnership with Kennedy Krieger Institute stands out. George Washington University focuses on autism. Several online programs also welcome DC applicants.

BCBA exam success rates tell an important story. They range from 45% to 92% among these schools. These numbers matter because they directly shape your career prospects. Money is another big factor. Program costs run from $14,550 to $30,240. You’ll need to plan your finances carefully.

The way programs deliver their courses matters too. Evening classes work well if you have a day job. Online options give you freedom if you’re busy or live far away. George Mason and UMBC are great choices for research lovers. The Chicago School shines in practical training in a variety of settings.

DC’s rules are unique. You don’t need a license to work as an applied behavior analyst here. This makes picking an accredited program even more vital for your professional credibility. But keep in mind – if you plan to work in Maryland, you’ll need to meet their licensing rules that are 9 years old.

These programs prepare you to help different groups of people. You might work with autistic children or adults trying to change health behaviors. Pick a program that matches both your practice interests and learning style. Becoming a certified behavior analyst isn’t easy, but these programs open doors to rewarding careers. You’ll be able to help people make real changes in many different settings.