BCBA master’s programs
BCBAs help people with behavioral conditions live happy, productive lives. Start your journey toward this fulfilling career by exploring the best online ABA master's programs.
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Why 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.
According to a 2022 Johns Hopkins research study, nearly 22% of U.S. children have a behavioral, emotional, or mental health disorder. Children and adults with behavioral disorders turn to board-certified behavior analysts (BCBAs) to diagnose and treat their conditions. These highly trained professionals help their clients lead better lives by performing assessments and creating custom-tailored treatment plans.
Learn what it takes to become a BCBA, and explore the best online applied behavior analysis (ABA) master's programs.
Browse BCBA programs online
What is a BCBA program?
A BCBA online master's program provides focused training in 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. Check to see if an online BCBA program provides placement assistance and if the assignments they do offer meet your career goals and set you up for opportunities in your specialty.
How much does a BCBA master's program cost?
A typical master's degree costs $10,000-$200,000 and takes 12-36 months to earn. You can keep your cost of attendance (COA) low by attending an in-state public university or applying to programs with . The best online ABA master's programs may award institutional scholarships or credit for relevant work experience.
Other opportunities to reduce your COA include institutional, private, and government grants. Your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) results can qualify you for federal . Federal loans may offer a better interest rate than private loans.
What can you do with a degree from an online BCBA program?
Online BCBA master's programs, especially those accredited by the Association of Behavioral Analysis International, meet the education requirements to prepare students to become BCBAs. Some programs may also help you meet your fieldwork requirements before graduation, decreasing the amount of time it takes to earn certification after graduation.
You can also pursue other careers with a master's degree in behavioral analysis, including roles in:
- 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.
Steps to become a BCBA
The Behavior Analyst Certification Board offers four pathways to become board-certified. However, the steps to become a BCBA usually include:
- A master's or doctoral degree in behavioral analysis
- Behavioral analytic coursework
- Supervised practical field work
- A passing score on the Behavior Analyst Certification Board examination
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 use, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors earned a median annual salary of $59,190 as of May 2024. Other possible career paths for BCBAs include social work and special education. Social workers earned a median annual salary of $61,330 in 2024, and special education teachers earned $64,270.
Some professionals in adjacent career paths, such as special education teachers and social workers, may need additional degrees and/or practical training.
Frequently asked questions
Last updated August 8, 2025