Applied Behavior Analysis is a well-established, scientifically-based academic discipline that investigates and describes how the environment and the individual interact, and how that interaction impacts behavior. Applied Behavior Analysis therapy has been used effectively to teach new skills and behavioral repertoires to all populations and is best known for its advances in the autism community.

What is an Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate and Why is it Important?

A certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis is important because it shows that the person working with a child has completed rigorous coursework, undergone close supervision, and is qualified to lead an intervention program. Students learn systemic, data-driven approaches to support individuals with behavioral disorders.

Why Pursue an ABA Certificate at Drexel University School of Education?

Consistently ranked among the world's best universities, a top-10 "Up-and-Coming" institution, and winner of the Sloan-C Award for Excellence in Institution-Wide Online Education, Drexel University is committed to providing quality education opportunities online by offering a convenient way to earn a reputable, accredited degree with no career interruption, commuting, or fixed class hours.

Drexel's course sequence is also ABAI verified, providing all of the coursework necessary to take the BACB exam.

What Can You Do with a Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis?

Drexel University’s Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis, or ABA Certificate Program prepares professionals in evidence-based interventions using behavior analytic theory and techniques.

Students who wish to sit for the Behavior Analyst Certification Board exam must complete the required hours of supervised practical fieldwork at education agencies or mental-health and behavioral health providers.

Graduates of the ABA Certificate who pass their Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) exam may qualify for positions such as:

• Behavior Analyst 
• Behavior Analytic Consultant
• Program Coordinator
• Clinical Director
• Behavioral Interventionist

For other career insights, please visit our ABA Career Path page.

Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate Program Options

Online ABA Certificate

The Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis program is available entirely online, giving graduate students the convenience and flexibility needed to achieve their educational goals while managing their busy lives. The online ABA program is one of over 100 online degrees and certificates offered by Drexel University. Students in the online ABA certificate program complete readings and assignments each week. Students also meet as a class via video-conferencing each week for one hour so students can connect directly with their classmates and professors. Alternative options are also available for students who are not available to meet via video-conferencing.

Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate Classes and Curriculum

Students in the Applied Behavior Analysis certificate program complete a rigorous curriculum that includes, among other topics, behavioral processes and terminology, assessment and intervention techniques, ethical standards and professional code of conduct, and basic concepts and practices of Organizational Behavior Management (OBM) and Performance Management (PM).

Course descriptions may be found in the Drexel University Course Catalog.

How Long Does It Take to Earn an ABA Certificate?

It takes approximately 1-2 years to earn a certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis. Students complete 31.5 credits of coursework that is delivered online with full or part time options.

Drexel University utilizes the quarter academic system. Quarters include ten weeks of classes and one week for final exams/projects.

How To Get An ABA Certificate? Admissions Requirements and Documentation

The Applied Behavior Analysis certificate program prepares students through a challenging course sequence verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International. In order to be admitted, students must meet the following requirements.

Admissions Criteria

Students must have a master's degree to be considered for the certificate program. Students who do not have a master's degree but are still interested in earning the certificate, should consider enrolling in Drexel's MS in Applied Behavior Analysis program.

Required Documents

• A completed application
• Official transcripts from all universities or colleges and other post-secondary educational institutions (including trade schools) attended
• Two letters of recommendation (professional or academic)
• An essay describing why you're interested in the field of ABA and pursuing this program at Drexel
• Resume
• Additional requirements for International Students

Who is a Good Candidate for the Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis?

Students who have a master’s degree and are passionate about making a difference in the lives of individuals with behavior disorders would make excellent candidates for a certificate in ABA. The program is ideal for those who wish to pursue careers as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst.

Earning a Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis at Drexel University’s School of Education

You can start the process by applying to the online program today. Request more information about this program here, or contact:

Dr. Christina Vorndran, PhD, BCBA-D
Clinical Professor
Program Director, Applied Behavior Analysis Program
cmv69@drexel.edu

Frequently Asked Questions About ABA Certificate Programs

Are Behavior Analysts in Demand?

Behavior analysts and similar occupations are on the rise and expected to grow for the next several years. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, fields that include behavior analysts are expected to rise by 23% from 2020-2030. In Pennsylvania, the demand for behavior analysts is growing at a high rate. According to a study from the BACB, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania experienced a 62% increase in job postings for behavior analysts from 2020 to 2021.

What is the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Exam and Do I Need to Take It?

The Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Exam assesses a student’s knowledge and skills in several areas required to become a BCBA including behavior processes, and designing behavior change procedures. Students must pass the exam in order to become a board certified behavior analyst.

What are the certification levels of behavior analysis?

There are four levels of certification granted by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. They include:

Registered Behavior Technician (RBT)

Registered behavior technicians are paraprofessionals who carry out services under the supervision of an eligible BCBA or BCaBA. Those applying to become an RBT should have a minimum of a high school diploma (or equivalent), complete 40 hours of training, and pass the RBT Competency Assessment and exam.

Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA)

Board certified assistant behavior analysts (BCaBA) carry out services under the supervision of an eligible BCBA. To be eligible for BCaBA certification, the person must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree, proof of completed coursework, and must have completed a defined period of supervised practice. If the applicant meets the requirements, they may sit for the BCaBA exam. A satisfactory score on the BCaBA exam will lead to certification.

Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)

Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification allows a person to conduct assessments and design and modify intervention plans and work independently in the field. Interested and eligible BCBA’s also supervise RBT’s and BCaBA’s who carry out interventions. To become a BCBA, a person must have a master’s degree, complete the required coursework and supervised fieldwork hours, and pass the BCBA exam. BCBA certification is offered by Drexel through the MS in Applied Behavior Analysis and the Post- Master’s Applied Behavior Analysis certification programs.

Board Certified Behavior Analyst Doctoral (BCBA-D)

BCBA’s who have completed doctoral-level training in ABA may apply for BCBA-D certification. BCBA-D’s have the same level of certification as a BCBA. They may design interventions and supervise RBT’s and BCaBA’s.