Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate
Program Overview
Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate
The University of Missouri-St. Louis (UMSL) offers a graduate certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) that equips students to assist individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders and other disabilities or behavioral issues. This 34-credit-hour program is available 100% online and includes field assignments and internships to provide hands-on experience.
Program Overview
The ABA graduate certificate program at UMSL is designed for behavioral health practitioners, human services providers, and educators who want to expand their skill set and knowledge in ABA principles. The program focuses on strategies for observing individuals in select environments, conducting behavioral assessments, analyzing data to develop a plan of action, and collaborating with teachers and parents to encourage progress.
Board Certified Behavior Analyst Certification
UMSL's graduate certificate in ABA fulfills all course work and field requirements to sit for the National Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) exam and obtain BCBA certification. The program has been approved by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) and is accepted by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc. (BACB).
To become a BCBA, a candidate must:
- Have a master's or doctoral degree from an accredited institution
- Complete and pass course work outlined by the Fifth Edition Task List
- Complete practical fieldwork in applied behavior analysis following all requirements established by the BACB
- Pass the BCBA exam
The ABA certificate program at UMSL helps students complete BCBA requirements 2 and 3. Students who have yet to fulfill requirement 1 are encouraged to enroll in UMSL's online master of science in applied behavior analysis.
Program Type and Format
The ABA graduate certificate program is a graduate-level program offered 100% online. The program consists of 34 credit hours and includes fully online courses and field assignments.
Outcomes and Career Outlook
The demand for part- and full-time BCBAs is growing, with an estimated 20,000 new jobs in Missouri, Illinois, and Kansas over the upcoming decade. Schools, human services agencies, and corporations are seeking professionals with ABA skills to support individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders and other disabilities.
UMSL's online ABA certificate program:
- Expands students' perspective on observing, analyzing, and understanding behavioral issues
- Prepares students to assist children and adults living with Autism Spectrum Disorders, brain injuries, and other disabilities in school, agency, healthcare, and rehabilitative contexts
- Equips students to guide students and patients toward behavioral success
- Explores the science, evidence-based practices, and methods behind learning new and changing maladaptive behaviors
- Trains students to develop and implement intervention strategies and instruct others in ABA principles
- Enhances students' existing career in education, counseling, social work, or human services to assist and support a wider range of individuals
Admission Requirements
Applicants must meet the general graduate admission requirements of the Graduate School. In addition to these requirements, the following apply:
- An undergraduate degree with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
- Letter of Intent/Statement of Purpose (1-2 pages)
- One Letter of Reference
Plan of Study
The program consists of 34 credit hours and includes fully online courses and field assignments. Students are responsible for reviewing the UMSL state authorizations page to see if this program is offered in their state throughout their program and to review the licensure or certification requirements for the state in which they reside.
College of Education
The UMSL College of Education transforms lives by shaping the educational landscape in the St. Louis region, advancing educator quality and professional development in Missouri, and being recognized nationally as a leader of vital research and as a hub of innovation. The college offers a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum that prepares teacher candidates to be highly successful educators. Students complete a year-long practicum experience in a local school or in one of the college's dozens of area Studio Schools located throughout the region.