ABA Programs at Keiser University
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the proof of Keiser University’s commitment to prepare qualified professionals who make meaningful differences in people’s lives. Keiser University’s ABA education options meet the growing need for behavior analysis specialists in a variety of settings.
Students receive essential knowledge, research skills, and clinical expertise to design and implement evidence-based behavioral interventions. Keiser’s curriculum prepares you for success whether you want to work with individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or learn about other populations that benefit from ABA techniques.
Keiser’s Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program has a diverse curriculum that covers multiple aspects of behavior, mental processes, communication, research, and writing. Students can begin specializing early in their educational experience through an Applied Behavior Analysis concentration option.
The Master of Science in Behavioral Health program trains professionals in Applied Behavior Analysis science. Students gain expertise in theoretical foundations, behavior assessment, intervention planning, ethical practice, and research methodology through rigorous coursework and supervised fieldwork.
This program goes beyond simple instruction and prepares graduates to assess, analyze, and intervene in various behavioral health concerns, including:
- Autism spectrum disorders
- Psychiatric conditions
- Brain injuries
- Organizational behavior management
The program prepares you to pursue certification as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) under the Behavior Analyst Certification Board’s Pathway 2 requirements. BCBA certification creates opportunities for leadership roles in ABA therapy settings, behavioral consulting, and research positions across multiple populations.
Students can take additional electives to increase their competency in specialized areas such as working with persons with brain injuries, psychiatric conditions, athletic performance, and more.
What ABA programs does Keiser University offer?
Keiser University has well-laid-out academic paths for students who want to study behavior analysis at both undergraduate and graduate levels.
The Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with an Applied Behavior Analysis concentration is perfect for undergraduates. Students need 120 credits to graduate, and 21 of these credits focus on ABA. The program teaches students about:
- Foundations of Behavior Analysis
- Behavior Assessment
- Methods of Behavior Analysis
- Ethics of Behavior Analysis
- Treatment Selection and Implementation
- Organizational Behavior Management
The Master of Science in Behavioral Health stands out as the university’s premier graduate program. This detailed 42-credit curriculum helps students meet the educational requirements to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) through Pathway 2. Students will complete:
- 21 credit hours of core courses that cover foundations, assessment, research design, and ethics
- 15 credit hours of required courses that also cover verbal behavior and intervention strategies
- 6 credit hours of specialization courses in areas like brain injuries, addiction, or sports performance
The university also offers a Master of Science in Psychology. This research-based program is about cognitive psychology, organizational psychology, and human behavior principles. Graduates often work as rehabilitation technicians, psychological researchers, and social service managers.
The programs maintain small class sizes with a 14:1 student-faculty ratio. This ensures each student gets personal attention from faculty. The bachelor’s program gives students flexibility with both on-campus options at several Florida locations and an online format. Each program builds a strong foundation while developing practical skills that lead to success in applied behavior analysis.
Accreditation
Quality standards in education rely heavily on institutional accreditation. Keiser University earned its accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). This recognition allows the university to award degrees from associate through doctoral levels. The university’s foundation rests on this institutional recognition to provide specialized programs in various fields.
ABA program accreditation needs special attention. The Accreditation Board of the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) reviews and certifies master’s and doctoral behavior analysis programs across the United States. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) recognizes ABAI, which validates its authority as an accreditation organization.
Academic training programs must meet ABAI’s tiered educational model standards. Programs that fulfill these strict requirements show their steadfast dedication to quality behavior analysis education.
Institutional accreditation is just one factor to think over when exploring Keiser University’s ABA programs. Program-specific recognition often determines if students can take certification exams, including BCBA credentials. Students should check the current accreditation status with the university directly. This status might change and affects both education quality and future career opportunities after graduation.
Tuition
Students need to carefully plan their finances for ABA programs at Keiser University. The undergraduate tuition stands at $38,160, with an increase to $39,688 in 2026-2027. Students pursuing graduate programs, including the MS in Behavioral Health, will pay $41,960 (2026-2027).
The total yearly cost goes beyond just tuition. Students should budget around $58,016 for undergraduate programs and $60,200 for graduate studies. These amounts cover books ($2,000 yearly) and housing ($18,860 per year).
Keiser’s residential campus has a clear semester-based pricing structure:
- Full-time (12-17.99 credits): $17,638 per semester
- Three-quarter time (9-11.99 credits): $13,230 per semester
- Half-time (6-8.99 credits): $8,820 per semester
- Less than half-time: $4,410 per semester
Keiser’s tuition ($39,189) is more affordable than most private institutions, which average $46,950. The good news is that 80% of students get financial help. Most students end up paying between $33,554 and $38,630, depending on their family’s income.
Students should use Keiser’s Net Price Calculator to get a personalized cost estimate. The university provides several funding options, from merit-based scholarships to needs-based grants and federal student loans.
Admissions
Getting into Keiser University’s ABA programs requires a clear understanding of their admission criteria. These programs attract more applicants than available seats, so meeting every requirement becomes crucial.
Students pursuing BCBA certification typically choose the Master of Science in Behavioral Health program. The basic requirements include:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- A 3.0 or higher GPA from your latest accredited degree program
- Two letters of recommendation
Keiser University’s psychology programs, including the Master of Science in Psychology, don’t require GRE scores. This makes graduate education more accessible to many students.
Keiser University serves nearly 20,000 students through its 21 Florida campuses, online platforms, and international locations. U.S. News and World Report ranked the university first in social mobility in 2023. As a Hispanic-Serving Institution, Keiser makes education accessible to diverse communities.
The university provides dedicated financial aid support to help you explore funding options during your application process. New students appreciate Keiser’s student-centered approach that lets them take one or two classes at a time. This flexibility helps them manage their education alongside other commitments.
Your application must be complete before submission since the university doesn’t process incomplete applications.
What sets Keiser University apart?
Keiser University has grown into a leading behavioral health education institution since its founding in 1977. The university responds to the growing field of ABA professionals, shown by a 58% increase in job postings for Board Certified Behavior Analysts.
Students at Keiser learn both theory and real-life applications. The programs give you the exact skills you need to design and implement behavior analytic interventions in a variety of settings. Graduates can make immediate contributions to their field thanks to this hands-on approach.
Keiser prepares you for more than simple certification requirements. You’ll be ready for leadership roles in ABA therapy settings, behavioral consulting, and research positions. This career-driven approach builds on the university’s 45+ year tradition of practical, career-focused education.
U.S. News and World Report recognized Keiser’s impact on social mobility by ranking it #1 in the U.S. in 2023. The university serves nearly 20,000 students through 21 Florida campuses, online platforms, and two international sites as a Hispanic-Serving Institution.
Keiser’s specialized electives let you shape your education to match your interests. You can work with people who have brain injuries, psychiatric conditions, or maybe even focus on athletic performance improvement. This customization creates a tailored educational path that matches your career goals.
Next steps
Your BCBA certification experience starts right after completing Keiser University’s ABA program. The first step begins when you get your degree – request official transcripts to be sent to the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). These documents prove you’ve completed all educational requirements and start your certification process.
You should also complete your supervised fieldwork documentation. Work with your supervisor to review and sign all required forms. These documents are your only proof of hands-on experience.
The next phase requires you to set up your BACB account and submit your application with a $245 fee. The BACB will review and approve your application. You can then schedule your certification exam for $175. A final $245 certification fee activates your credentials once you pass.
Most candidates complete this process in four to six months after graduation. The BCBA handbook will guide your exam preparation. Practice tests help assess your knowledge and create an effective study plan. Successful candidates usually spend one to six months preparing.
Your certification needs 32 continuing education units every two years to stay active. BCBA credentials unlock opportunities as a behavior consultant, clinical director, special education behavior specialist, or autism program director.