To become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (or BCBA), aspiring individuals must obtain a master’s degree in applied behavior analysis or a similar field. BCBAs work with patients who suffer from behavioral and psychological disorders. They help their clients overcome daily barriers that otherwise affect their quality of life. BCBAs frequently treat individuals on the autism spectrum who require assistance with basic communication and social skills.
Graduate students can complete an online BCBA master’s program within two years if attending full-time. Coursework for an online master’s in this specialty integrates psychology, scientific investigation, and application of behavior analysis techniques. The program equips graduates to work with various populations across residential, school, or senior settings. Established programs fulfill the academic and fieldwork requirements for board certification and licensure; however, candidates must still complete a licensure exam before earning their official BCBA credential.
Projection data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics suggests that employment opportunities for mental health counselors will increase by 18% over the next decade, which is much faster than average. Individuals working in this field make an average salary of $49,710. A graduate degree and board certification will add to your earning potential.
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How we rank schools
Our list features the best online BCBA degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:
Academic Quality:
- Admission rate versus enrollment rate
- Retention rate of students who return after year one
- Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
- Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions
Graduation Rate
- Overall graduation rate
- Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
- Student-to-faculty ratio
Cost and ROI
- In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
- Required credits to graduate
- Earning potential after graduation
- Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options
Student Resources
- Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
- On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries
Read more about our ranking methodology.
Best 29 Accredited Online BCBA Master's Degree Programs
FiltersInstitution Type
Status
- Intelligent Score
- Alphabetically By University Name
- Acceptance Rate
- Enrollment
- In-state Graduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Graduate Tuition
- In-state Undergraduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Undergraduate Tuition
Southeast Missouri State University
Intelligent Score: 99.77In-state: $6,779
Out-of-state: $12,951
In-state: $5,373
Out-of-state: $5,373
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$383
Online
Higher Learning Commission
42
National Louis University
Intelligent Score: 98.56In-state: $13,419
Out-of-state: $13,419
In-state: $11,646
Out-of-state: $11,646
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$790
Hybrid, On-Campus
Higher Learning Commission
38
Mary Baldwin University
Intelligent Score: 97.38In-state: $30,690
Out-of-state: $30,690
In-state: $13,000
Out-of-state: $13,000
SAT: 940-1120
ACT: 18-24
$495
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
35
Endicott College
Intelligent Score: 97.08In-state: $34,470
Out-of-state: $34,470
In-state: $12,666
Out-of-state: $12,666
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$662
Online, Hybrid
New England Commission of Higher Education
40
St. Cloud State University
Intelligent Score: 96.18In-state: $7,505
Out-of-state: $15,921
In-state: $7,607
Out-of-state: $7,607
SAT: 1000-1250
ACT: 18-24
Resident: $517
Non-Resident: $785
Online, On-Campus
Association for Behavior Analysis International
52
University of North Texas
Intelligent Score: 95.40In-state: $8,295
Out-of-state: $18,111
In-state: $6,350
Out-of-state: $6,350
SAT: 1050-1240
ACT: 20-27
Resident: $353
Non-Resident: $570
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
30
University of South Florida
Intelligent Score: 94.49In-state: $4,559
Out-of-state: $15,473
In-state: $8,350
Out-of-state: $8,350
SAT: 1160-1320
ACT: 25-30
$600
Online, On-Campus
Association for Behavior Analysis International
41
National University
Intelligent Score: 94.08In-state: $13,320
Out-of-state: $13,320
In-state: $15,480
Out-of-state: $15,480
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$696
Online
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
30
Saint Joseph’s University
Intelligent Score: 91.87In-state: $47,740
Out-of-state: $47,740
In-state: $17,802
Out-of-state: $17,802
SAT: 1100-1290
ACT: 23-29
$960
Online
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
30
Western Connecticut State University
Intelligent Score: 90.00In-state: $6,162
Out-of-state: $18,436
In-state: $7,674
Out-of-state: $7,674
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$480
Online
New England Commission of Higher Education
30
The Chicago School
Intelligent Score: 88.59In-state: $46,796
Out-of-state: $46,796
In-state: $50,636
Out-of-state: $50,636
SAT: Not Required
ACT: Not Required
$1,409
Online, On-Campus
Association for Behavior Analysis International
49
Empire State University
Intelligent Score: 87.57In-state: $22,984
Out-of-state: $32,894
In-state: $27,822
Out-of-state: $27,822
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
Resident: $471
Non-Resident: $565
Online
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
41
Northeastern University
Intelligent Score: 87.18In-state: $54,360
Out-of-state: $54,360
In-state: $25,264
Out-of-state: $25,264
SAT: 1410-1540
ACT: 33-35
$1,390
Online, On-Campus
New England Commission of Higher Education
30
Bay Path University
Intelligent Score: 86.45In-state: $35,781
Out-of-state: $35,781
In-state: $19,235
Out-of-state: $19,235
SAT: 940-1170
ACT: 23-31
$775
Online
New England Commission of Higher Education
48-60
Ball State University
Intelligent Score: 85.25In-state: $9,482
Out-of-state: $26,470
In-state: $9,328
Out-of-state: $9,328
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
In-State: $464
Out-of-State: $696
Online
Higher Learning Commission
30
Drexel University
Intelligent Score: 83.83In-state: $53,868
Out-of-state: $53,868
In-state: $36,234
Out-of-state: $36,234
SAT: 1180-1380
ACT: 25-31
$1,111
Online, On-Campus
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
31
University of Kansas
Intelligent Score: 83.73In-state: $10,092
Out-of-state: $26,960
In-state: $9,989
Out-of-state: $9,989
SAT: 1070-1320
ACT: 22-29
$700
Online
Higher Learning Commission
30
University of Nevada, Reno
Intelligent Score: 83.16In-state: $7,901
Out-of-state: $23,554
In-state: $5,657
Out-of-state: $5,657
SAT: 1060-1260
ACT: 20-26
Resident: $344
Non-Resident: $723
Online
Association for Behavior Analysis International
37
How to Choose an Online BCBA Master’s Degree Program
Choose your area of study
To become a BCBA, candidates must first earn their graduate degree. In most cases, the best degree to pursue is a Master of Science (MS) in applied behavioral analysis. Some institutions offer a master’s in education or psychology with a specialized track for behavioral analysis. All options should fulfill the necessary educational components for eventual board certification.
You may also be able to select a concentration and focus your studies on a particular niche in this field, such as autism, childhood clinical disorders, mental health, or organizational behavior management. If you already know what you would like to do after you graduate, look for programs that closely match these specific career goals.
Research schools and programs
After determining which online BCBA programs provide the necessary academic coursework for your professional interests, the subsequent step is to research each program further.
You should only apply to institutions that have been approved by a DOE-recognized regional accrediting organization, such as the New England Commission of Higher Education or Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. These organizations evaluate schools to ensure they provide students with a high-quality education. Those who attend a school that isn’t regionally accredited may be unable to access financial aid or transfer credits to another institution if needed.
You should also look for programmatic accreditation from the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI), as this is essential for professional licensure.
Significant hands-on practice under the supervision of an experienced BCBA is crucial to future board certification and professional success. Determine how each program integrates internship and other fieldwork components for online students.
To learn more about any schools that you’re interested in, you can visit the school’s website, contact an admissions counselor, follow the school on social media, or attend an in-person or virtual open house.
Prepare for tests and applications
Application requirements vary by school and program. Few online BCBA master’s programs require GRE scores. However, your application packet will probably need to include undergraduate transcripts, a personal statement, and several letters of recommendation. Preparing these materials can take several weeks, so pay attention to submission deadlines and plan accordingly. Before submitting an application, always contact an admissions counselor to ensure you have the most accurate information regarding requirements and deadlines.
Select your program
Determine which programs match your professional goals, learning style, and financial situation. Then, it’s time to apply. While programs can have several start dates each year, space is usually limited. Apply early if you can.
Before making your final decision, review your needs and goals again. Do you plan to attend school full-time or part-time? Do you want your program to be as online as possible, or are you fine with a hybrid program that has a fair amount of in-person requirements? Some programs offer asynchronous courses, which can be completed at your own pace, while others only offer synchronous courses, which involve remotely attending lectures and completing assignments at the same time as other students — which of these two online learning formats do you prefer? Your school should accommodate your scheduling needs and learning preferences.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
There are several avenues to consider when planning how to pay for your degree:
- Submit the FAFSA to ascertain whether you qualify for federal grants or loans.
- Share your professional goals with your employer; if you currently work in the educational or mental health field, you might qualify for employee tuition assistance.
- Speak with a financial aid counselor or academic advisor through the school; they can guide you on whether you qualify for discounts, scholarships, or other funding opportunities.
Ultimately, paying for your degree is a serious financial commitment, but most institutions and loan agencies can help you set up a payment plan that works for you.
What Can You Expect from an Online BCBA Master’s Degree Program?
An online BCBA master’s degree program provides students with the academic knowledge and practical experience required for eventual BCBA examination and licensure. Participants learn the industry expectations for ethical and professional conduct, the principles of behavior analysis, research methods, and application. Many programs facilitate the theoretical component through online discussion or asynchronous study, but the practical application of behavioral analysis techniques demands several hundred hours of in-person, supervised fieldwork.
Most full-time attendees can graduate within two years, though many programs provide a path for part-time attendance. All programs feature a thesis, comprehensive exam, or some form of pinnacle assignment before graduation.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online BCBA master’s degree program
- Science and Human Behavior. This course enhances student understanding of behavior analysis and how to apply the concept to real-world problems. Participants establish a solid philosophical base; students will read, discuss, and critique fundamental behavioral analysis theory.
- Behavior Assessment. Students learn how to facilitate and interpret behavioral assessments. Based on their findings, students practice establishing behavioral goals and meaningful strategies for clients.
- Ethics for Behavior Analysts. Using the Professional and Ethical Compliance Code for Behavior Analysts as a foundation, participants discuss ethical considerations for BCBA practice.
- Graduate Research in Behavior Analysis. This course prepares individuals pursuing a thesis option. Students develop their research questions and begin conducting research toward their final thesis.
What Can You Do With an Online BCBA Master’s Degree?
Career outlook
The career outlook for individuals holding an online BCBA master’s degree is promising, reflecting the growing demand for professionals skilled in applied behavior analysis (ABA). The field of ABA has gained prominence for its impactful contributions to improving the lives of individuals with behavioral challenges, particularly those with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities.
Indeed, graduates with an online BCBA master’s degree have a wide range of career paths to explore, each centered around applying ABA principles to create positive behavioral changes. Here are some possible career options for individuals with this degree:
- Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, or mental health counselor — Evaluate the mental and physical health of clients, recommend treatment plans, and monitor progress.
- Median annual salary: $49,710
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 18%
- New job openings projected: 42,000 annually
- Social worker — Help individuals and families deal with problems in their everyday lives, such as health and behavioral issues.
- Median annual salary: $55,350
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 7%
- New job openings projected: 63,800 annually
- Social or community service manager — Oversee operations and secure funding for programs that support public well-being.
- Median annual salary: $74,240
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 9%
- New job openings projected: 16,000 annually
Online BCBA Master’s Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an online BCBA master's degree program?
Confirm your admissions eligibility. You must have an undergraduate degree, preferably in a field related to psychology, social work, counseling, or education. Moreover, institutions typically set a GPA minimum for undergraduate coursework. You’ll need a 3.0 or higher to be competitive for a BCBA master’s program.
Each BCBA master’s degree will list its application requirements and deadlines via the program website. In general, you will need to submit the following:
- A graduate school application form
- Official copies of your undergraduate transcripts
- A personal statement
- A processing fee
- A resume
- Two to three letters of recommendation
For specific questions regarding eligibility or application materials, contact an admissions counselor.
How much does an online BCBA master's degree cost?
The average cost of graduate school tuition is $20,513 per year. Private schools are usually more expensive than public schools, and public schools tend to charge out-of-state students a higher tuition rate than in-state students.
Most schools charge similar tuition regardless of course delivery (in-person or online), and some online programs include an additional technology fee. Besides tuition, there are other costs for online BCBA students, including books, technology needs (such as webcams, computers, and reliable home internet), and travel expenses for in-person components.
How long does it take to earn an online BCBA master's degree?
If you attend full-time, you can finish an online BCBA master’s degree within two years. Part-time students may need closer to three years. A standard MS in applied behavioral science is 30 to 40 academic credit hours, which includes supervised field experience.
Is an online BCBA master’s degree worth it?
Earning an online BCBA master’s degree offers many advantages for individuals seeking to make a meaningful impact in the field of applied behavior analysis. A master’s degree equips students for leadership roles and higher salary options than they would earn with a bachelor’s degree.
An online BCBA master’s degree equips you with specialized knowledge and skills in behavioral analysis, allowing you to make a significant difference in the lives of individuals with behavioral challenges. The increasing demand for certified behavior analysts across various sectors, including healthcare, education, and community services, ensures ample job opportunities and the potential for career growth.
An online degree program offers a higher level of flexibility than can be found in on-campus programs, often allowing students to take classes at a time that is convenient to them. This makes an online program particularly appealing to adult learners, who may have other personal or professional commitments that take up much of their time.
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