Top 5 ABA Bachelor's Degrees Online
A guide to the best online bachelor's degrees in applied behavior analysis in 2024.
Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is a therapeutic approach that uses behavior modification to improve social, emotional, and educational outcomes. From treating children with autism and other spectrum disorders to helping organizations optimize employee performance, ABA has a wide range of practical applications. With the U.S. Department of Labor projecting massive 22% job growth in this field over the next decade, now is an excellent time to pursue a bachelor's degree in applied behavior analysis.
This article will cover everything you need to know before choosing an ABA bachelor's degree online, including which courses to look for, what jobs you can get after graduation, continuing education options, and insider tips. We'll also highlight the best online bachelor's degrees in applied behavior analysis you can enroll in today.
What makes our rankings valuable?
Most degree rankings rely heavily on National Center for Education Statistics data, measuring school-wide rates for student retention, graduation, acceptance, etc. The NCES has good data, and we use it too; however, we go further to analyze the current and future demand for the skills and credentials gained. We also list actual tuition costs and delve deep into value and flexibility to consider dual-degree, accelerated, and distance learning options.
| The Best Online ABA Bachelor's Degrees | ||
| Rank | School | Program |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ball State University | Bachelor's Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis (Autism) |
| 2 | Purdue University Global | B.S. in Psychology in Applied Behavior Analysis |
| 3 | Florida International University | B.A. in Psychology: Applied Behavior Analysis Track |
| 4 | Capella University | B.S. in Psychology with an ABA Specialization |
| 5 | Troy University | B.S. in Psychology with a Minor in ABA |
How to Choose an Online Bachelor's in ABA
Earning your bachelor's in applied behavior analysis online offers added convenience and affordability. However, due to the abundance of degree options, choosing the best ABA program for your needs can be difficult.
Consider these factors to choose the best online ABA degree:
Curriculum
The skills you learn in your applied behavior analysis program are vital to your success. Seek out an ABA bachelor's with courses in behavioral psychology, autism spectrum disorders, behavior analysis and assessment, research methodology, and organizational behavior management to meet the current demands of this field. Scroll down for a comprehensive list of marketable courses in ABA programs.Accreditation
ABA bachelor's candidates should ensure that a reputable organization accredits their prospective degree. Accreditation signifies that a program meets strict quality standards and will be recognized by employers and other universities. To determine the accreditation of an applied behavior analysis program, search for it on the Council for Higher Education Accreditation's (CHEA) website. The CHEA maintains the leading directory of institutional and programmatic accreditations for ABA and other fields in the U.S.BA vs BS
There are 2 main types of undergraduate programs in applied behavioral analysis - Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Science (BS). A Bachelor of Arts in ABA has more elective courses, exposing students to a wider range of subjects and opening up additional opportunities for a career outside of behavior analysis. Conversely, a Bachelor of Science in ABA has more required courses in research and statistics, providing a more direct path to becoming an applied behavior analyst or advanced researcher. Read more about BS vs BA degrees in psychology.Student Support
The best online bachelor's degrees in applied behavior analysis include a variety of services to set up students for success. Seek out an ABA program with valuable support services such as one-on-one academic advising, a career center with an established job/internship placement program, digital office hours to connect with instructors, and dedicated technical support (which can prove especially useful in a self-paced online program).Marketable Courses in an ABA Bachelor's Degree
Beyond your program's intro-to-psych classes and general education requirements, there are specialized courses that cover the skills and experience to thrive in applied behavior analysis.
Seek out classes in these in-demand subjects in your online ABA degree:
Autism Spectrum Disorders
ASD training provides an in-depth look at the characteristics and treatment of autism spectrum disorders, such as autism, childhood disintegrative disorder, Rett syndrome, and Asperger's. Students in this class will learn how to assess and diagnose spectrum disorders, build treatment plans, and offer support to ASD patients and their families.Applied Behavior Analysis
ABA coursework explores the popular applications of behavior analysis in real-world settings. Students learn how to conduct functional behavior assessments, design and implement behavior modification plans and evaluate and optimize the results of clinical interventions.Behavior Analysis Research
This course in an online ABA degree covers the scientific research methods used in applied behavior analysis, including single-subject design, group design, and systematic reviews. Students will learn how to perform behavioral research studies, analyze data, and present their findings.Organizational Behavior Management
Students in this class will learn how to wield behavior analysis tools and techniques to manage and improve organizational performance. Sought-after OBM skills include behavior reinforcement and modification, key performance indicator (KPI) measurement, leadership, and change management.Behavioral Pharmacology
This part of your ABA degree includes training in psychopharmacology and the behavioral sciences. Behavioral pharmacology can prepare you for jobs in biotechnology, the pharmaceutical industry, and other roles in medicine.BCaBA Certification Prep
The best ABA bachelor's programs - including all of those featured in this ranking - will provide the educational requirements and preparation to take the Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) exam.The Best ABA Bachelor's Programs Online
We chose the best online degrees in applied behavior analysis based on numerous factors, including curriculum relevance, school reputation, program features, flexibility, affordability, and overall value.
Here are the best ABA bachelor’s you can attend online in 2024:
1. Ball State University
Ball State's Online Bachelor’s in Applied Behavior Analysis with Autism Spectrum Disorder Emphasis provides the skills and credentials to meet the growing demand for ABA specialists. Marketable courses in this program include lifespan development, behavior analysis principles, introduction to autism spectrum disorder, ethical behavior analysis practices, and advanced interventions for ASD.
This well-designed curriculum covers theoretical knowledge and practical application, preparing students for the Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) certification and a variety of ABA roles. It features flexible part-time and full-time online learning options so students can balance their studies with personal commitments.
- Format: Online
- Tuition Cost:
- Indiana Resident: $34,752 (8 semesters @ $4,344 each)
- Out-of-State: $61,752 (8 semesters @ $7,719 each)
- Accreditations:
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)
2. Purdue University Global
Purdue Global's Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Applied Behavior Analysis is an ABAI-verified program that prepares students for BCaBA certification. The curriculum covers in-demand topics like exceptional needs children, screening and assessment, ABA ethics, and program design and evaluation, alongside courses on autism spectrum disorders and personality development.
Purdue reports that 95% of graduates in its online ABA bachelor’s were employed or enrolled in advanced education within 18 months of completion. The applied behavioral analysis program offers flexible online study formats and accelerated master’s degree options in areas like ABA, psychology, criminal justice, and education, where motivated students can save time and money by simultaneously earning bachelor’s and master’s.
- Format: Online
- Tuition Cost: $66,780 (180 credits @ $371 each)
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
3. Florida International University
The Online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with an ABA Track from Florida International University is tailored to aspiring behavioral analysts. Students learn vital topics such as experimental behavior analysis, core ABA principles, assessment and intervention, scientific research methods, and more while preparing for the BCaBA certification exam.
FIU’s online bachelor’s in applied behavior analysis features affordable tuition fees, especially for Florida residents, and a massive catalog of online courses and courses to specialize your college education further. U.S. News & World Report ranks FIU as a top online bachelor’s in psychology among public universities.
- Format: Online
- Tuition Cost:
- Florida Resident: $28,268.40 (120 credits @ $235.57 each)
- Out-of-State: $77,864.40 (120 credits @ $648.87 each)
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
4. Capella University
Capella University’s B.S. in Psychology with a Specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis teaches students desirable skills in ABA research and interventions, assessment techniques, behavior-change procedures, ethical standards, and how to apply behavior-analytic principles to organizational behavior.
Graduates of the ABA bachelor’s program are prepared to take the Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) exam and pursue various careers such as behavior interventionist, behavioral health consultant, and behavioral specialist. Capella features a low tuition price for all U.S. residents and a generous transfer policy of up to 120 credits out of the 180 in this program.
- Format: Online
- Tuition Cost: Varies
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
5. Troy University
The B.S. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Behavior Analysis from Troy University provides the expertise to help people with autism and other developmental delays. The ABA minor meets the education requirements to become a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst, featuring valuable coursework in advanced treatments and interventions for autism spectrum disorders, lifespan development, ABA consulting, single-subject research, and more.
Troy University prides itself on offering a psychology degree steeped in both theory and practice. Students in the ABA program have access to two optional practicum courses where they can apply their skills working directly with clients in the community.
- Format: Online or On-Campus
- Tuition Cost:
- Alabama Resident: $48,960 (120 credits @ $408 each)
- Out-of-State: $97,920 (120 credits @ $816 each)
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Jobs You Can Get with an Online Bachelor's in ABA
Graduates of a bachelor's degree in applied behavioral analysis can pursue a range of interesting careers in healthcare, psychology, business, and criminal justice.
Popular jobs you can get with an ABA bachelor's degree include:
Applied Behavior Analysis Therapist
Also called Behavioral Technicians, ABA therapists design and implement behavior reduction and skill acquisition plans for individuals with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities. ABA therapists often work in a one-on-one setting with autistic children.- Median Salary: $44,399
Training & Development Manager
Typically found in the corporate world, these professionals are responsible for developing employee training and optimization programs. Applied behavior analysis skills can be wielded to design and manage intervention plans that help employees overcome behavioral issues that impact performance.- Median Salary: $129,688
Behavior Analyst Assistant
Behavior analyst assistants work under the supervision of a board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA) to implement behavior intervention plans, collect client data, and evaluate and report on progress.- Median Salary: $53,667
Education Consultant
Graduates with an ABA Bachelor's degree and some practical experience can find good work in the education space as consultants. Education consultants work in conjunction with schools and other organizations to develop behavior management plans and applied behavior strategies to achieve scholastic goals.- Median Salary: $106,401
Correctional Treatment Specialists
These professionals work in correctional institutions to provide counseling, treatment, and rehabilitation services to inmates and parolees. Correctional treatment specialists use skills in applied behavioral analysis to design behavioral modification plans that help deter repeat offenses.- Median Salary: $46,191
Average salaries for ABA professionals courtesy of Salary.com.
Continuing Education Options for ABA Bachelor Graduates
After completing your Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in applied behavior analysis, you can pursue various advanced degrees in this field.
Popular graduate and post-graduate programs in applied behavior analysis include: