In the field of behavioral science, Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA) play a critical role in improving lives through their specialized knowledge. If you are in California and aspire to pursue this career, the state offers a variety of online and in-person BCBA programs designed to prepare the next generation of professionals.
These programs provide rigorous academic training while integrating real-world experiences to ensure you are thoroughly prepared. Explore this guide to learn about some of the popular BCBA programs in California and take the first step towards a successful career.
BCBA Programs in California
Listed below are some of the popular schools offering BCBA programs in California:
- Pepperdine University
- The Chicago School
- National University
- Arizona State University Online
- Purdue Global
- Simmons University
Pepperdine University
Online Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
Pepperdine University offers an online Master of Science program in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) that prepares you to become a board-certified behavior analyst. You can complete this program in 18 months if enrolled full-time or in 21 months if studying part-time. The program’s courses are verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI).
Through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous online classes, you will develop the skills needed to support individuals across various settings, including education, autism support, and rehabilitation. The program also addresses organizational behavior management.
Using an evidence-based, data-driven approach, you will gain a thorough understanding of behavioral psychology. The curriculum is designed to help you observe and assess behavior patterns, identify target behaviors, and implement strategies to achieve positive changes.
Through this program, you will acquire in-depth knowledge of analytical behavioral health and modern techniques to identify, assess, and address human behaviors. You will study ABA concepts, assessment procedures, behavior change applications, and organizational behavior management.
In addition to learning applied behavior analysis principles and techniques, you will explore topics such as ethical conduct, multiculturalism, and diversity. Core courses you will take include:
- Assessment of Individuals, Couples, and Families
- Concepts and Principles of Applied Behavior Analysis
- Ethical and Professional Conduct for ABA
- Applications of ABA for Behavior Change
- Assessment Procedures for ABA
- Supervision and Management for ABA
- Autism Spectrum Disorders
As part of your studies, you will gain practical experience and receive supervision from a BCBA at approved clinical sites during a practicum course. This hands-on training will allow you to discuss cases and receive valuable feedback.
The course sequence at Pepperdine provides foundational knowledge of various clinical interventions for children, adolescents, and adults. You will assist patients in developing adaptive skills to enhance their functioning in educational, family, social, and occupational roles.
Upon completing the program and fulfilling the required experience hours, you will be eligible to sit for the BCBA exam. Mentors within the program will guide your learning, helping you prepare for BCBA certification.
Pepperdine University accepts applications year-round, allowing you to start the program at various times. To apply, you must have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution. GRE scores are not required, and application fee waivers are available for applicants who meet the priority deadline.
The Chicago School
Online M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis
The online master’s program in ABA at the Chicago School provides you with a strong foundation in the principles, science, and applications of behavior analysis. This program is designed to support your development of a fulfilling career in the rapidly growing ABA field. You will learn under experienced instructors who will guide you through diverse ABA specialties, including:
- Designing instructions
- Precision teaching
- Verbal behavior
The online format of this master’s program is structured to fit your busy schedule. You will have access to the university’s Global Student Dashboard, which provides all the resources you need to complete your program, including coursework, assignments, and platforms for interacting with classmates and instructors.
This part-time program takes just over two years to complete.
Graduates of this online ABA master’s program serve a diverse range of individuals, including children, adults, and seniors, in settings such as homes, schools, and community centers. You will work with individuals with various needs, including schoolchildren, teachers seeking improved effectiveness, and individuals with autism, behavioral challenges, developmental disabilities, mental illnesses, or elderly-related conditions.
This program meets the educational requirements for becoming a BCBA. In addition to completing the coursework, you must pass the BCBA exam and complete the certification process to earn the BCBA credential.
During the program, you will complete either an Advanced Research Project (thesis) or an Advanced Applied Project (non-thesis option). Both options are designed to demonstrate your ability to make data-driven decisions in assessing and addressing behavior.
You will also engage in critical study of the professional, ethical, and legal aspects of behavior analysis practice. The program provides ethical guidelines and supplementary materials to enhance your understanding of ethics and other professional considerations.
To apply for this online ABA Master’s program:
- Submit an online application.
- Have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and meet other entry requirements.
- Include the following documents with your application: a resume, an essay, official transcripts from previous universities or colleges, and three letters of recommendation.
National University
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis
National University offers a Master’s program in Applied Behavioral Analysis for individuals like you who wish to support individuals with Autism and other behavioral needs. This program prepares you to take the BCBA exam.
To earn your master’s degree in ABA from National University, you must complete 45 quarter units of graduate coursework. You can transfer up to 4.5 units from other institutions if the courses were taken within the last seven years and have not been applied toward another degree. This program is available in both online and in-person formats.
At National University, you will work with experienced faculty who bring real-world insights into the classroom. The program is highly individualized and focuses on enhancing your learning experience.
You will take the following courses as part of this program:
- Understanding Behavior Analysis: This course introduces the fundamental concepts of behavioral analysis and its various branches.
- Basics of Behavior Analysis: You will learn the key elements of behavior analysis, including the definition of behavior, environmental antecedents, and consequential events that influence it.
- Studying Problem Behaviors: This course focuses on understanding why certain behaviors occur and how to address them effectively.
- Changing Behaviors: You will explore strategies to promote positive behavior changes.
- Planning for Behavior Changes: This course teaches you how to set clear goals and select appropriate strategies based on analysis.
- Ethics in Behavior Analysis: You will study professional standards, ethical codes, and strategies for delivering ethically sound services to clients.
By the conclusion of the program, you will be able to:
- Understand and articulate the principles of behavior analysis.
- Analyze measurement, data display, and interpretation in experimental design.
- Adhere to ethical guidelines when studying and modifying behaviors.
- Monitor and manage behavior during interventions.
- Apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings and research.
- Conduct research using appropriate methods to improve outcomes.
As part of the program, you will complete a research-based capstone project. Additionally, National University will assist you in securing an appropriate internship placement upon graduation.
This program prepares you for various roles in the field, including:
- Board Certified Behavior Analyst
- Registered Behavior Technician (RBT)
- Behavior Consultant
- Behavior Analyst
- Behavior Specialist
- ABA Interventionist
- Lead ABA Interventionist
Here’s what you need to apply:
- Online application form.
- An up-to-date resume or CV.
- Personal statement.
- Official academic transcripts from all colleges or universities you have attended.
Arizona State University Online
Online Master of Arts in Special Education – Applied Behavior Analysis
With Arizona State University’s (ASU) Master of Arts in Special Education with a focus on ABA, you can develop a strong understanding of ABA principles. You will learn how these principles are applied to teach new skills and improve human behavior. The program’s courses are verified by the ABAI, preparing you to sit for the BCBA exam.
This ABA-focused degree through ASU Online emphasizes ethical values and evidence-based best practices. You will learn to evaluate behavior, design individualized therapy plans, and use data to monitor progress. The program also offers insights into learning processes and theories of behavior change.
The master’s program includes coursework that fulfills the ABAI’s verified course sequence requirements, qualifying you for the BCBA exam. However, additional requirements must be met to establish exam eligibility. ASU also offers an optional practicum for students seeking supervised BCBA fieldwork experience.
During the program, your core courses will include:
- Concepts & Principles of Applied Behavior Analysis
- Ethics of Applied Behavior Analysis
- Behavior Analytic Assessment
- Advanced Applications of Applied Behavior Analysis
- Behavior Change Procedures
After graduation, one potential career path is becoming an ABA therapist. Although this program is a special education master’s with an ABA focus, it equips you for various ABA careers beyond the educational field.
To graduate, you must complete either an Applied Project or a Capstone project. The Applied Project is ideal if you are pursuing a professional career in applied behavior analysis, involving a supervised project in the field. The Capstone project, on the other hand, involves a reflective review of your coursework within the 30-credit-hour program.
ASU makes no distinction between online and in-person degrees. Your degree and transcripts will state “Arizona State University,” and you will receive the same education and course content as on-campus students.
To apply for this program:
- You must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 in the last 60 hours of your bachelor’s program or a 3.0 GPA in a relevant master’s program.
- Submit a graduate admission application along with the application fee.
- Provide letters of recommendation, official transcripts, a personal statement, and a current curriculum vitae or resume.
The GRE is not required for this program.
How Much Does a BCBA Make in California?
As of December 2024, the average salary for a BCBA in California is $121,276 per year. Top earning BCBAs in California earn over $140,000 per year, which suggests there could be numerous possibilities for career advancement and salary growth, based on your expertise, geographical location, and years of experience.
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