University of Cincinnati’s ABA Programs

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a scientific approach that helps us understand human behavior and create better strategies to improve lives. What started as a way to help people with developmental disabilities like autism has grown by a lot into many other fields.

The University of Cincinnati’s ABA programs give you the skills you need to support people with behavioral and learning challenges. These programs teach you about human behavior while helping students build positive social skills. They’re perfect for working with people who have autism spectrum disorder, learning disabilities, and other conditions.

1. Master of Education in Foundations in Behavior Analysis – This program prepares you to help people in clinics, schools, residential facilities, and their homes.
2. Master of Science in Behavior Analysis – This program is built for students who want to get their BCBA certification. You’ll get exceptional hands-on experience with chances to do research and grow professionally.

Both programs have a complete curriculum based on proven practices. They meet all requirements for the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) verified course sequence needed by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). The results speak for themselves – UC has a 51% pass rate for the 5th task list BCBA exam in 2024. The university ranks among the top 10 schools for students passing the BCBA exam on their first try.

The skills from these programs go beyond traditional uses. Behavior analysts started with developmental disabilities, but now they work in education, business management, health and fitness, childcare, and even animal behavior training.

These programs come with great features:

• 100% online delivery
• You can finish in just over two years
• Start in fall, spring, or summer
• Financial aid and scholarships available

UC stands as a prestigious research institution. U.S. News & World Report ranks it among America’s Best Colleges, and it has full accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

What ABA programs does University of Cincinnatti offer?

The University of Cincinnati offers two outstanding ABA programs that create different career paths in behavior analysis.

The Master of Education in Foundations in Behavior Analysis gives you the skills to work with people from all backgrounds. You’ll gain expertise in:

• Behavioral assessment techniques
• Implementation of behavior change procedures
• Ethical practice standards
• Data collection and analysis methods

This path opens doors to work in educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and community organizations.

The Master of Science in Behavior Analysis takes a research-focused approach. Students master:

• Advanced methodological training
• Research design and experimental analysis
• Scientific writing and publication preparation
• Leadership in clinical settings

Both masters programs follow a well-laid-out curriculum that meets the latest BACB task list requirements. The programs include practicum experiences that connect theory with real-life application.

UC’s programs excel by balancing theory with practice. The faculty actively contributes to behavior analysis research while maintaining strong ties with clinical partners.

These programs help you advance toward BCBA certification. The coursework builds the skills you need to pass the certification examination. Graduates can make an impact in their chosen specializations right away.

You can access quality education through the online format. Location or work commitments won’t stand in your way of earning advanced credentials.

Accreditation

Quality ABA programs depend heavily on institutional credibility. The University of Cincinnati and its regional campuses have earned accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission. This accreditation ensures high educational standards and supports all academic programs, including behavior analysis.

UC’s masters ABA programs go beyond basic requirements. The MS in Behavior Analysis program is working toward specialized accreditation to meet the BACB’s new certification standards for 2032. This proactive step shows UC’s dedication to keeping its programs relevant.

Students who want to earn BCBA certification need specific program credentials. Getting certified as a BCBA in Cincinnati requires a master’s degree from either a BACB-approved program or one with an ABAI-verified course sequence. BACB accreditation remains essential for professional practice.

UC stands among America’s top universities. U.S. News & World Report ranks it in the top tier of America’s Best Colleges. This recognition highlights UC’s excellence in every field and gives behavior analysis students access to better resources and a respected degree.

Tuition

The cost of ABA programs plays a vital role in program selection. Students at the University of Cincinnati benefit from affordable tuition rates in both graduate certificate and masters ABA programs.

Students pursuing the online ABA graduate certificate program pay in-state tuition of $724 per credit hour. The complete 18-credit program costs $13,032. Out-of-state students pay just $15 more per credit hour, with a total program cost of $13,302.

UC’s standard graduate tuition follows this structure:

• Ohio residents pay $746 per credit hour (part-time) or $7,451 per term (full-time)
• Non-residents pay slightly higher rates with minimal extra charges for online programs

The program costs remain simple with few extra expenses. Students need about $150 each semester for textbooks.

Students can access financial support through several options. While certificate programs might not qualify for traditional financial aid, students should:

• Submit FAFSA applications to check loan or grant eligibility
• Look into employer tuition reimbursement options
• Check field-specific awards like the Autism Recovery Foundation Behavior Analysis Scholarship

The university’s Office of Financial Aid helps students find scholarships, loans, and veteran educational benefits to support their professional growth.

Admissions

Getting into UC’s ABA programs requires several essential qualifications. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution. The degree should be in Applied Behavior Analysis, Education, Psychology, or related fields.

A complete application package includes:

• Resume or CV
• Official academic transcripts
• Goal statement that explains your interest and career plans
• Two recommendation letters (one must assess academic abilities)
• Confirmation from a BCBA credentialed supervisor who will provide on-site supervision

The MS in Behavior Analysis program does not accept any transfer credits.

International students must prove their English proficiency through one of these options:

• TOEFL scores (minimum 92 internet-based, 580 paper-based, 237 computer-based)
• IELTS score of at least 6.5
• PEARSON Test score of 47

UC gives preference to candidates who work in settings that employ behavior analysis techniques. Students can start in fall, spring, or summer terms. The program website lists specific deadlines.

What sets University of Cincinnatti apart?

UC’s ABA programs stand out with several distinct advantages. The university ranks among the top 10 institutions where students pass the BCBA exam on their first attempt, demonstrating exceptional professional outcomes.

A balanced curriculum forms the core of UC’s approach. Students learn both theoretical foundations and practical applications while learning from faculty who conduct behavior analysis research and maintain strong clinical partnerships.

The programs excel in flexibility and accessibility. Working professionals can pursue their education without career interruption through fully online courses that take just over two years to complete. Multiple yearly entry points make the timing convenient for all students.

Research-minded students in the MS program can conduct original studies with faculty guidance. This experience helps them develop significant skills in experimental design and scientific writing that go beyond standard practice requirements.

UC delivers academic excellence with real-world relevance. Students prepare not just for certification but for leadership roles in behavior analysis. The university keeps up with industry trends by pursuing specialized accreditation that meets future BACB requirements, showing its innovative approach to ABA education.

Next steps

Want to get your ABA certification at UC? You can submit applications for both masters ABA programs any time during the year. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Submit your online application along with applicable fees:
   • $65 for domestic applicants
   • $70 for international applicants
   • Fee waivers available through Fall 2026 for applications submitted by July 1, 2026
   • Automatic waivers for active military and veterans

UC’s support resources can help you make the right choice. The university’s Enrollment Advisors will guide you through the application process and answer your eligibility questions. Once accepted, you’ll work with a Student Success Coordinator who ensures you’re ready for classes and stays with you throughout your studies.

Application deadlines for program entry are:

• Fall term: August 1
• Spring term: December 1
• Summer term: April 1

The university hosts online information sessions that explore program details. You can request more program information through UC’s dedicated admissions portal right now.