Purdue Global ABA Program Options
Purdue Global is an online university that caters to working adults who want to advance their education while managing their careers. The university offers detailed psychology programs with multiple paths to start a career in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).
Accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) shows Purdue Global’s quality standards. The U.S. Department of Education recognizes HLC as an institutional accreditation agency. This recognition proves that Purdue Global delivers high-quality education and meets institutional effectiveness standards.
Students in Purdue Global’s Applied Behavior Analysis programs learn behavioral theories and concepts in depth. The programs focus on behavioral assessment, treatment intervention, and evaluation through a scientist-practitioner approach. Students become skilled at ethical practices and learn management and supervision processes they need to succeed professionally.
Students who want certification will find that Purdue Global’s curriculum helps them prepare for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®) examination. The Master’s program concludes with a graduate research project that includes a BCBA certification prep exam to boost certification readiness.
The Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Applied Behavior Analysis program gives students the foundation they need to begin their ABA experience. Students learn to work with people in many settings, especially those who face behavioral challenges from daily social interactions to autism spectrum disorders. The program meets Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst® (BCaBA®) Pathway 2 coursework requirements.
Purdue Global students can choose from over 175 programs while getting a prestigious Purdue education. The university’s structure lets students earn employer-respected degrees while keeping their jobs. This makes education available to people who might otherwise struggle to advance their careers.
What ABA programs does Purdue Global offer?
Purdue Global has a complete lineup of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) programs that meet educational and career goals. These programs prepare you for different certification pathways at both undergraduate and graduate levels.
The Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Applied Behavior Analysis program needs 180 quarter credit hours and gives you the ability to work with people facing behavioral challenges. The program’s design meets Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst® (BCaBA®) Pathway 2 coursework requirements.
Students with a bachelor’s degree can enroll in the Applied Behavior Analysis Postbaccalaureate Certificate program that needs 41 quarter credit hours. The program helps people with developmental disabilities, autism, or traumatic brain injuries.
The Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis needs 45 quarter credit hours and ends with a graduate research project that blends a BCBA certification prep exam. Students get specialized learning modules that help them prepare for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® examination.
Purdue Global also has a Postgraduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis designed for professionals with a master’s degree in related fields. This 35-credit program expands your applied behavior analysis knowledge and meets coursework requirements needed for the BCBA® examination.
Each program has coursework that covers:
- Principles of applied behavior analysis
- Assessment and intervention techniques
- Ethical considerations and professional standards
- Behavioral concepts and theories
These programs are a great way to get knowledge and credentials that help you pursue career paths in schools, clinics, group homes, and organizations.
Accreditation
Purdue Global’s Applied Behavior Analysis programs are built on strong institutional recognition. The Higher Learning Commission (HLC), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, accredits the university. This accreditation will give a solid foundation to all Purdue Global degrees.
The ABA programs line up perfectly with industry certification standards. The Postgraduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis meets the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®) Pathway 2 coursework requirements. The Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis offers courses that meet these requirements too.
Students who complete either program can take the BCBA examination in all states, the commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the territory of Guam. These programs help students pursue Behavior Specialist licensure in Pennsylvania, though they might need to meet additional educational requirements.
The Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis program has started a mission to gain recognition through the Association for Behavior Analysis International’s (ABAI) Tiered Model of Education. The Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Applied Behavior Analysis follows the same path.
Each state has different requirements for behavior analysts. Students should research their local jurisdiction’s specific requirements before starting practice. The BACB’s Global Certification policies state that from January 1, 2023, they no longer accept certification applications from candidates outside the United States and designated countries.
Tuition
The Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis program at Purdue Global costs $420.00 per quarter credit hour. With 45 quarter credit hours needed, you would pay around $18,900 in total tuition before any discounts.
Purdue Global’s tuition reduction options can help lower your costs. Military servicemembers on active duty pay $320.00 per quarter credit hour for graduate programs. Veterans get a special rate of $361.20 per quarter credit hour for most master’s degrees. Military spouses can reduce their tuition by 10% off standard rates.
Students who live in Indiana receive a 10% discount on graduate program tuition. Special tuition reductions might apply if you work for one of Purdue Global’s partner organizations.
You have several ways to fund your education:
Federal financial aid for eligible students Federal and state grants and loans Transfer credits from eligible institutions Corporate partner benefits
Purdue Global’s Tuition Calculator shows how discounts, transfer credits, and prior experience could reduce your total costs. A financial aid advisor can explain your funding options and help you understand what works best for your situation.
Admissions
Purdue Global’s ABA programs have specific admission requirements that vary by program level.
A high school diploma or GED certificate qualifies you to enter the Bachelor’s in Psychology with ABA concentration. You’ll need to complete an orientation before your classes begin.
The Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis and Postbaccalaureate Certificate programs require a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. You can submit an unofficial transcript when you apply, but you’ll need to provide the official one showing your completed degree later.
A graduate degree (master’s or doctoral) from an approved institution is required to join the Postgraduate Certificate program. Students with international degrees must verify their credentials through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board’s qualifying institutions list.
It’s worth mentioning that some programs need you to complete a Career Outcomes Survey before enrollment. Your career goals should match the program outcomes, or your application might be rejected.
Purdue Global makes education accessible with multiple start dates throughout the year. The 2026 academic calendar shows new classes starting almost every month. You’ll need to submit your application about two weeks before classes begin.
An Admissions Advisor will help you navigate from your first interview through the entire enrollment process.
What sets Purdue Global apart?
Purdue Global stands as the largest provider of behavioral sciences master’s degrees in the United States, giving ABA students significant advantages beyond standard educational outcomes. Students can join a vast network of peers, alumni, faculty, and employers in the behavior analysis field.
The program’s faculty sets a high standard with 99% holding advanced degrees and 58% possessing terminal degrees. These instructors bring their ground expertise directly to your coursework as practicing professionals. Faculty achievements speak volumes – they completed over 44,000 professional development hours and produced 477 publications in 2024-2025 alone. This commitment keeps your education aligned with the latest industry developments.
Students benefit from Purdue Global’s practical advantages. A risk-free three-week trial period lets you experience classes before making any financial commitment. Corporate partner employees receive textbooks and course materials at no extra cost for undergraduate programs.
Career prospects look bright for graduates. The need for board-certified behavior analysts grew by 58% from 2023 to 2024. Employment opportunities for behavioral and mental health professionals should expand 17% between 2024-2034—significantly faster than most occupations.
These combined strengths have made Purdue Global’s Applied Behavior Analysis program a top choice nationwide, earning the #4 spot on the Most Well Attended ABA Major list.
Next steps
Are you ready to start your ABA education at Purdue Global? The path to your degree offers several simple options.
The first step is to understand your investment of time and money. Purdue Global’s calculator shows how your previous credits can lower your tuition and speed up graduation. Students typically pay $15,000 for their bachelor’s degree and graduate in 2.3 years.
Purdue Global offers a unique three-week trial period. You can attend classes without any financial obligation. This risk-free opportunity helps you decide if the program meets your needs.
Your previous learning can lead to significant savings:
- Military students receive 54% of required credits for associate’s degrees and 45% for bachelor’s degrees
- Active service members get a 55% tuition discount, while veterans receive 38% per credit
- Employees from partner organizations can save 14-20% on tuition
An Advisor can guide you through program requirements, curriculum choices, credit transfers, and financial aid options. They will help create an education plan that fits your career goals.
Once enrolled, you’ll have access to the ABA Student Site, Psychology Club, and optional internships for real-life experience. These resources will improve your learning and expand your professional network.