BCBA master's programs
Explore online BCBA programs and advance your goal of becoming a board certified behavior analyst. Research career paths, earning potential, and more.
See all psychology master's programsWhy earn a BCBA master's program online?
Specialized, impactful knowledge
A master's in behavioral analysis equips learners with specialized skills to understand and modify behavior, leading to improved outcomes for individuals and families.
Preparation for BCBA certification
A master's degree is the minimum degree required to become a BCBA.
Flexibility and savings potential
An online BCBA program may offer you a wider selection of schools, scheduling flexibility, and opportunities to save on tuition, relocation, transportation, and parking costs. Online programs also support a school-life balance.
You can follow multiple paths to become a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA), but they all involve earning at least a master's degree. Explore educational programs that can help you meet BCBA eligibility requirements.
Browse BCBA programs online
What is a BCBA program?
A BCBA online master's program provides focused training in behavioral psychology and advanced behavior analysis practices. Each program has its own unique learning objectives, but many curricula focus on analytical and intervention techniques for neurodivergent individuals and people with neurodevelopmental conditions.
Some programs maintain a strong or exclusive focus on building hard skills for helping people with behavioral conditions. Others also teach students how to train the caregivers, educators, and other professionals who interact with people managing behavioral conditions.
You can also pursue concentrations in many behavioral analysis subfields, including:
- Autism spectrum disorder
- Developmental disabilities
- Organizational behavior management
Credit requirements vary, but they usually fall in the range of 40-60 credits. Compared to most other master's programs, this is intensive, but you can usually graduate in 2-3 years by following a full-time study schedule.
Many online BCBA programs include field training experiences, such as clinical internships. You'll need to complete these components in person, even if all your other coursework is remote. You can check to see if an online BCBA program provides placement assistance.
What can you do with a degree from an online BCBA program?
Online BCBA programs can help you meet the academic requirements for becoming a board certified behavior analyst. The typical path to BCBA certification includes:
- A master's or doctoral degree in behavioral analysis
- Supervised applied behavior analysis field training
- Passing the Behavior Analyst Certification Board examination
You can also pursue other careers with a master's degree in behavioral analysis, including roles in:
- Behavioral counseling
- Social work
- Special education
Notably, some online BCBA programs also cover animal behavior. You can seek a specialization in this area if a career in animal therapy interests you.
How much can you make with a degree from a BCBA master's program?
Your earning potential with an online BCBA degree will vary, depending on the professional role you pursue and whether you go on to complete your board certification. Additional factors that can impact your earning power include your location, experience level, and local labor market demand.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors earn a median annual salary of $53,710. Other possible career paths for BCBAs include social workers and special education teachers who earn median annual salaries of $58,380 and $65,910, respectively.
Some adjacent career paths, such as special education teachers and social workers, may require additional degrees and/or practical training.