Applied behavior analysis the application of a science that uses the principles of behavior and psychology to change behavior in important ways. In contrast to other branches of psychology, applied behavior analysis’ primary focus is on how one individual behaves under different situations rather than looking for statistical differences across groups of people.
Applied behavior analytic services are an integral part of the health care system. Behavior analysts provide service to individuals and families in situations of great stress and personal crisis. A behavior analyst must be prepared to address the needs of individuals and families and to adapt to ever-changing clinical environments.
Applied behavior analysis is most widely known for its application as a treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder. Numerous studies have shown that early intensive behavior intervention (EIBI), which is often referred to as ABA, produces socially significant behavior changes for this population.
Applied behavior analysis has also acquired a vast amount of empirical support showing it to be effective in producing socially significant behavior changes in other areas. Some of these areas include:
Accordingly, the demand for individuals who hold these credentials has increased substantially over the last decade.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), students who pursue the ABA certificate program at FranU can look forward to career growth at a rate of 23% in the substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health counseling industries between 2020-2030. ABA certificate holders can work in a variety of care settings, such as mental health centers, community health centers or private practices. In addition, certified applied behavior analysts can work in client homes or schools, with in-home work being one of the most common employment types for ABAs.
With the job outlook expected to increase at a rate much faster than the average for all occupations, students will have ample opportunity to establish a career in the ABA field. In terms of earning potential, the median annual salary for careers in substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health counseling is $48,520, according to the BLS.
The Behavior Analysis Certification BoardTM (BACB®) offers several credentials in ABA. Each credential has specific criteria related to educational and practical experiences required for an individual to qualify to take a credentialing examination. The specific requirements can be found on the BACB’s website.
Students who complete the ABA certificate program at FranU can pursue credentials at the following levels:
Registered Behavior Technicians
Registered behavior technicians® (RBTs®) can implement behavior-change interventions but must have supervision from a behavior analyst higher in the tier system. General requirements include 40 hours of instructional training in ABA and competency assessment.
FranU now offers a Registered Behavior TechnicianTM (RBT©) course and certificate.
Assistant Behavior Analysts
Board-certified assistant behavior analysts® (BCaBAs®) can implement behavior-change interventions, conduct behavior analytic assessments and develop behavior-change plans; however, BCaBAs must work under the supervision of behavior analysts higher in the tier system. General requirements include a bachelor’s degree that includes specific coursework and supervised experience.
Certified Behavior Analysts
Board-certified behavior analysts® (BCBAs®) can implement behavior-change interventions, conduct behavior analytic assessments and develop behavior-change plans. BCBAs can work independently. General requirements include a master’s degree that includes specific coursework and supervised experience.
FranU now offers a Master’s of Science in ABA.
Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral
If you currently hold a doctoral degree or are interested in continuing your education, the ABA certificate program can be a powerful stepping stone toward doctoral-level certification. Board-certified behavior analyst-doctoral® (BCBA-D®) can implement behavior-change interventions, conduct behavior analytic assessments and develop behavior-change plans. BCBA-Ds can work independently. General requirements include a doctoral degree that includes specific coursework and supervised experience.
At FranU, we strive to demonstrate the highest level of care, ethical behavior and professionalism while assisting students and their families with finding the best options to pay for college. As one of the nation’s most affordable private Catholic universities, we work to provide financial aid to a large portion of our student body.
To learn more about financial aid options and the financial aid process or to see answers to our frequently asked financial services questions, visit the Office of Financial Aid page.
For information on internal and external scholarships, view FranU’s Scholarship page.
To learn more about estimated tuition rates, see the undergraduate Tuition & Fee Schedule.
Apply
Visit