Best Online Graduate Certificates in Applied Behavior Analysis

Interested in working with children and making a true difference in their lives? Earning a graduate certificate in applied behavior analysis can give you the education you need to work in schools and private practice, helping children develop coping skills and behavior modification techniques that will allow them to succeed in school and beyond. For many people, earning a graduate certificate in applied behavior analysis is a faster route to their desired degree path than earning their master’s degree in the same field. Here, we’ll explore what you can expect to learn in an applied behavior analysis graduate program, as well as what you need to know when it comes to gaining admission to the program of your choice. 

What Will I Learn in an Online Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate Program?

When you study applied behavior analysis, you’ll learn both how to analyze a child’s behavior and how to develop a behavior modification plan that allows you and the child to work together to create desired outcomes. In addition to the technical skills you’ll need to make a difference for your clients, you’ll also learn how to communicate effectively, utilize empathy to ensure that children feel seen and heard when you work together, and how to work with families to get the support you need for your clients to stay on track.

You’ll go through a number of classes while earning your applied behavior analysis graduate certificate online, including:

• Experimental design: As an applied behavior analyst, it’s key that you understand how to interpret research studies and use the information to inform your practice. By understanding how research studies are designed in the applied behavior analysis field, you’ll get the chance to use the latest research to develop effective behavior modification techniques with your clients.

• Principles of applied behavior analysis: In your core courses, you’ll get to learn more about the technical methods of applied behavior analysis, and you’ll get to spend time applying these concepts to real-life situations in preparation for working with clients.

• Behavior analytic assessment: In your assessment classes, you’ll learn how to observe your clients and identify behavior patterns. You’ll use this information to develop behavior modification plans, and you’ll learn how to go back and re-assess behaviors to understand whether your behavior modification plan is working effectively.

Usually, it takes about a year to complete a graduate certificate in applied behavioral analysis, but many online programs allow a graduate certificate to be completed in as early as six months. If you choose a part-time program, you may need more time to complete your course requirements. You may also need additional time to complete course requirements if you choose to participate in an internship or practicum opportunity.

Admissions Requirements for a Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis

The admission requirements for a graduate certificate program in applied behavior analysis differ from school to school. You’ll likely need to submit copies of your undergraduate transcripts. Your program may require a certain undergraduate GPA (usually 2.75 or higher). You may also need to include a personal statement explaining to the admissions board why you’re interested in a career in applied behavior analysis. In some cases, you may also need to sit down for an online interview with faculty members to determine whether you’re a good fit for the program.

List of Applied Behavior Analysis Grad Certificate Programs

Find an online or campus-based graduate certificate program in Applied Behavior Analysis today – our state-by-state listings make it easy to find a great program near you.

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Joel Gill

Joel Gill is a writer with a background in psychology. He earned his Bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of California, Berkeley, and has a deep interest in the human mind and behavior. Joel's writing often explores themes related to mental health, relationships, and personal growth. When he’s not writing, Joel enjoys cycling, meditation, and spending time with his family.