How to become a certified behavioral analyst

What does a certified behavioral analyst do?

Board Certified Behavioral Analysts support people with mental health and behavioral conditions. They often work closely with other members of their clients' support teams, such as family members and school personnel. Some BCBAs take a more supervisory role, primarily overseeing the work of assistants and technicians, while others prefer hands-on client work.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for behavioral counselors was $53,710 in May 2023.

Steps to become a certified behavioral analyst

To become a BCBA, you must follow a prescribed step-by-step process:

Step 1: Earn a bachelor's degree

The first step is to earn a bachelor's degree in psychology or a related field, such as applied behavior analysis or social work. Take a variety of courses in areas such as human behavior and behavioral psychology. Be sure that the program you choose is accredited both nationally and through an accrediting body such as the American Psychological Association.

Step 2: Earn a master's degree

To become a BCBA, you must earn a master's degree in applied behavior analysis or a related area of study.

Your program must be accredited by either the Association of Professional Behavior Analysts (APBA) or the Association of Behavior Analysts International (ABAI). An accredited program ensures that you meet the education requirements for certification.

Step 3: Gain supervised fieldwork experience

You must obtain either 2,000 hours of supervised fieldwork or 1,500 hours of concentrated supervised fieldwork after earning your master's degree.

All fieldwork must be conducted under an active BCBA or a registered psychologist with a behavioral and cognitive psychology certification and behavior analysis testing.

Step 4: Apply to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst

The next step is to gain your BCBA certification through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. Only fully certified behavioral analysts are permitted to practice without supervision or supervise assistants. To qualify, you must:

• Submit proof of your master's degree, including behavior-analytic coursework
• Show proof that you have completed your 2,000 hours of supervised fieldwork or 1,500 hours of concentrated supervised fieldwork

Step 5: Pass the BCBA certification exam

After you submit your application to become a BCBA, the Behavior Analyst Certification Board will issue you a determination indicating if your application is approved or not approved.

Once you receive your determination you will be invited to take the BCBA certification exam. You will have four hours to complete 185 multiple-choice questions, ten of which are not scored.

Step 6: Obtain your license (if required)

The last step is to obtain a license if required in your state. The licensure application and renewal process varies by state, so check with the relevant governing body for the latest information.