2024 Best Online PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis [Doctorate Guide]

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A PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis combines the study of behavior with techniques that can help you understand, predict, and offer remediation for behaviors.

Best Online PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis

This degree program allows you to exercise your observational skills and then apply analytics to complete a thorough assessment that explores possible causes and recommendations.

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Read on to learn more about how applied behavior analysis PhD programs can help you advance your professional career path.

Online PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis Programs

Behavior Analyst discussing mood disorder with her patient

Those who earn their Doctor of Philosophy in Applied Behavior Analysis have many options when it comes to selecting a concentration or future career path.

For example, some students of ABA PhD programs choose to focus on areas such as:

  • Developmental disabilities
  • Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
  • Family issues
  • Language and speech development
  • Mood disorders
  • Forensic behavior analysis

Some professionals prefer to work in a clinical setting, actively participating and engaging with patients and their families. Others might work on the experimental side of applied behavior analysis, working to create theories and intervention opportunities that could be implemented in the future.

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Those who complete Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) doctorate programs can become eligible to apply for their BCBA-D designation. This designation indicates that they have completed doctorate-level education in the field. BCBA-D programs often involve selecting a concentrated path of study that can build on your graduate work.

Some schools require BCBA certification as a prerequisite for admissions, allowing graduate students to build upon their foundation in behavior analysis. When examining applied behavior analysis PhD programs, you may wish to select a school that offers a curriculum that can enhance your current skills and professional goals.

ABA Careers & Salaries

ABA Careers & Salaries

Those who graduate from ABA PhD programs may have a range of opportunities available to them. This variety is usually enhanced by any specialty or concentration studied throughout their program.

Many of those who earn their PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis continue with a career in clinical behavior analysis, working as psychologists, therapists, or counselors. Some work in experimental fields or pursue independent research and teaching positions at universities.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, here are various career paths associated with the study of applied behavior analysis.

Careers Annual Median Salaries
Chief Executives $179,520
Industrial-Organizational Psychologists $105,310
Psychologists, All Other $102,900
Postsecondary Teachers $79,640
Clinical, Counseling, and School Psychologists $79,510
Speech-Language Pathologists $79,060
Special Education Teachers $61,820
School and Career Counselors and Advisors $60,510
Social Workers $50,390
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors $48,520

Some of the above career paths require specialized training or licensing. The positions you qualify for can depend on a number of factors, such as your prior experience, degree concentration, and professional credentials.

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Professionals in this field have the opportunity to apply their knowledge of behavior patterns and causation in a number of industries. Some choose to work one-on-one with patients, while others go on to work in laboratory settings, in education, or in corporate areas.

Applied Behavior Analysis PhD Curriculum & Courses

Student taking Applied Behavior Analysis PhD

Applied behavior analysis PhD programs offer their own unique curriculum, but the coursework is designed to help engage your skills in basic and applied research, observation, and application of theory.

Example courses include:

  • Intervention for Developmental Disabilities: This course allows you to focus on creating programs and plans that can assist those living with developmental disabilities.
  • Historical Theories of Behaviorism: In this course, you’ll learn how various theories have been developed over time, and you’ll cover popular misconceptions about behaviorism.
  • Language Development and Verbal Behavior: You’ll learn how behavior is linked to language use and speech.
  • Behavior and Culture: This course allows you to examine how cultural values may impact behavior.
  • Forensic Behavior Analysis: In this course, you’re encouraged to consider criminal behaviors to create a profile, teach valuable negotiation tactics, or anticipate future behaviors.
  • Research Design and Methods in ABA: Much of the behavior analysis process relies on basic and applied research skills, and this course prepares you for conducting independent research in a credible manner.
  • Experimental Design and Analysis: The ethical and credible design of your experiments will be taught in this course.
  • Legal and Ethical Issues in ABA: This course covers the legal and ethical concerns and practices in the field of applied behavior analysis.
  • Behavior and Economics: Behavior patterns and analysis also impact consumers and corporations, and this course provides insight into these activities.
  • Behavior Analysis for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): This course concentrates on ASD because various chronic conditions and disorders offer unique challenges and methods of study.

Many doctorate programs allow graduate students to focus on areas of study that complement their dissertation. You may want to review each school’s offerings to coordinate your concentration with a suitable program.

Doctorate in ABA Admissions Requirements

Woman looking at requirements list for PhD in ABA

Each school will have their own admissions requirements for their ABA PhD programs, so it’s beneficial idea to review your prospective school’s admissions page.

Here are some common criteria:

  • GRE or GMAT scores (only some schools require them)
  • Transcripts for all graduate-level work
  • Master’s degree in a related field
  • Current Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification
  • Personal statement

You may also be asked to provide a professional resume, a copy of your master’s degree thesis, and letters of recommendation.

ABA Doctoral Programs Accreditation

University offering ABA Doctoral Programs

When selecting an ABA doctoral program for your path of study, you may wish to provide extra consideration to schools that have received regional accreditation. You can verify a prospective school’s accreditation status through the US Department of Education’s website.

Since BCBA doctorate programs are connected with professional membership, selecting a school that is fully accredited is often a requirement. There are many additional advantages to selecting a program that has been noted for its educational excellence.

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For instance, federal financial aid is often tied to these programs, and employers are often more interested in candidates who have a degree from an accredited institution.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Financial Aid for PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis

For those who may want assistance in paying for their PhD in Behavior Analysis program, there are several possibilities to explore.

Completing the FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid, can determine your eligibility for need-based financial assistance. If you are currently working in the field, your employer might offer tuition assistance or reimbursement programs. Professional organizations may also offer grants for those continuing their education in this field.

You can also check with your prospective school to see if they have scholarship, assistantship, or fellowship opportunities that you qualify for. Depending on your proposed field of study, you could have educational grants available to you as well.

What Can You Do with a PhD in Behavior Analysis?

Behavior Analyst in a session with a teenager

A PhD in Behavior Analysis can lead to a number of opportunities. Some PhD graduates work directly with people who want assistance in understanding their behavioral situations. Many professionals work to help individuals understand and remedy unwanted behaviors.

Others choose to use their expertise to assist law enforcement in understanding and evaluating criminal behavior patterns. Behavior analysis is also becoming more prevalent in the corporate world, with analysts working to understand and predict consumer habits. Some PhD holders go on to pursue positions in research and academia.

How Long Is a PhD in ABA Online?

Two students taking PhD in ABA Online

Many BCBA doctorate programs take approximately 3 to 5 years to complete with full-time study. A program’s length is based on the number of credit hours required as well as the time required to complete a dissertation.

If you select a doctorate program that does not require a dissertation, you may be able to complete the program in 3 years with full-time study and year-round enrollment. This is one of the fastest online psychology degrees offered.

Many PhD online degree programs require a dissertation or practical work in your area of concentration, which could increase the amount of time it takes to complete the program.

How Much Can You Make with a PhD in ABA?

School Psychologist counseling a student with his parent

Your potential for earning can vary, depending on the direction you choose to go with your PhD in ABA. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that most substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors make between $30,870 and $77,980.

You might earn considerably more if you specialize in a role related to speech development and pathology or psychology. Speech-language pathologists tend to make between $51,310 and $125,560 each year. The median salaries for special education teachers and psychologists are $61,820 and $81,040, respectively (Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Holding a PhD could increase your overall earning potential, but each of these numbers can fluctuate depending on your region, specialty, and place of employment.

What’s the Difference Between a PsyD vs. PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis?

There are many similarities in the subject matter covered by a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Applied Behavior Analysis and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Applied Behavior Analysis program. The differences mainly lie in the focus of each program.

PhD in ABA PsyD in ABA
  • Is a research-based program
  • Often reviews statistics and analysis of experiments
  • Applies theories to real-world behavioral situations
  • Is a clinically-based program
  • Focuses specifically on the practice of psychology
  • Applies behaviorism to a wide range of psychological fields

PsyD degrees are often based on practical clinical experience and may not require a dissertation.

Is a Doctorate in Applied Behavior Analysis Worth It?

Man getting PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis online

Yes, a doctorate in applied behavior analysis is worth it for many professionals. There are many potential fields of study for those who pursue their doctorate in applied behavior analysis. This means that students can often tailor their program to suit their skills, interests, and desired career path.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, community and social service occupations are expected to see 12% job growth over the next ten years. While many are familiar with the clinical applications of behaviorism, some professionals choose to use their degree in educational, corporate, or even criminal justice fields.

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Earning your doctorate in applied behavior analysis could help you take your professional career to the next level beyond a master’s degree by enhancing and building upon your current skills.

Universities Offering Online Doctorate in Applied Behavior Analysis Degree Program

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer online degree programs or those in a hybrid format.

Arizona State University

Arizona State University

Arizona State University offers an online program for a Doctor of Behavioral Health with a Clinical concentration. The program consists of 18 classes that are each 7.5 weeks long. Coursework includes both synchronous and asynchronous components so students can have live discussions with classmates while maintaining scheduling flexibility.

Arizona State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Capella University

Capella University

Capella University’s Doctor of Philosophy in Behavior Analysis can be earned online. The program requires the completion of 93 quarter credits of coursework and a dissertation. Courses include Single-Subject Research Design Methods, Behaviorism, Experimental Analysis of Behavior, Education and Teaching in Applied Behavior Analysis, and more. Students must also pass a comprehensive exam to graduate.

Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Endicott College

Endicott College

Endicott College offers a PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis. This is a synchronous online program with new cohorts starting each fall. Students are given opportunities to participate in research and clinical immersion experiences. The program can typically be finished in 3 years. Graduates often pursue professional research opportunities or teaching careers after graduating.

Endicott College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Florida Institute of Technology

Florida Institute of Technology

The Florida Institute of Technology offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Behavior Analysis. Students in the program are given opportunities to conduct research and gain clinical experience at the Scott Center for Autism Treatment on campus at Florida Tech. Professors work alongside students and provide one-on-one attention.

Florida Institute of Technology is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Simmons University

Simmons University

Simmons University’s PhD in Behavior Analysis requires the completion of 48 credits. The program is available both on campus and online, and the online classes include live meetings. Students have opportunities to collaborate on research with faculty, studying such topics as verbal behavior, behavioral medicine, conditioned reinforcement, and more.

Simmons University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology offers an online program for a PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis. The program can typically be completed in 3 years and is intended for full-time students. Coursework includes Critical Analysis of Research in Verbal Behavior, Supervision and Consulting in ABA, Experimental Analysis of Behavior, and more.

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.

University of Nevada – Reno

University of Nevada Reno

The University of Nevada—Reno offers a PhD in Behavior Analysis. The program is fully on campus and requires the completion of 89 credits of coursework. The curriculum includes studies in behaviorist philosophies, research methodology, and how to apply behavioral principles in a variety of settings. Students must also participate in practicums and conduct research.

The University of Nevada – Reno is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

University of South Florida

University of South Florida

The University of South Florida offers a PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis. Students in the program take classes on campus with a cohort and must complete a dissertation to graduate. Coursework includes Experimental Analysis of Behavior 1 and 2, Conceptual Foundations of Behavior Analysis, College Teaching Seminar, and more.

The University of South Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Walden University

Walden University

Walden University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Behavioral Health Leadership. Six optional specializations are available: Healthcare Management, Health Psychology, Industrial and Organizational Psychology, International Practice, Public Health, and Teaching. Each specialization requires an additional three courses in addition to the general program. Students are also required to participate in two in-person residencies.

Walden is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Getting Your Doctoral Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis Online

Woman taking ABA PhD degree online

Earning an ABA PhD online could be your next step toward advancing your knowledge and career in this growing field.

There are a variety of ABA opportunities in the areas of clinical work, education, intervention, criminal justice, and even the corporate sector.

It’s beneficial to carefully consider your concentration. It could influence your dissertation topic, your specialized skill sets, and your professional qualifications. You can start exploring accredited schools today to find the BCBA doctoral program that’s right for you.

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Jason Collins
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Jason earned his bachelor's degree in English Literature from Loyola Marymount University with a minor in history. A life-long learner with a love of philosophy, history, and science, Jason works in professional development, career enrichment, and improved business practices.