Build on your bachelor’s degree and prepare for a rewarding career supporting individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. This six-course, 100% online certificate program is ideal for graduates in education, psychology, human development, health and related fields, as well as Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) ready to advance. Completing this post-baccalaureate certificate puts you on the path to become a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA), an entry-level role in high demand across Texas and the nation. 

At a Glance

• Format: 100% online
• Completion time: Typically, one year
• Semester start: Fall
• Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree in a related field (education, psychology, human development, health or similar) from an accredited institution

Program Overview 

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) focuses on evidence-based strategies that promote positive behavior change and help people build communication, social and daily living skills. With rising autism diagnoses, the need for ABA-trained professionals continues to grow in Texas and across the nation. This ABA Certificate provides a strong foundation in this rewarding field, helping you advance professionally and prepare to pursue certification as an Assistant Behavior Analyst. 

What You’ll Learn

In this certificate program, you’ll gain a strong foundation in applied behavior analysis, including:

• The science of behavior
• How to analyze the factors that influence behavior and identify patterns through data collection
• Evidence-based techniques to modify behavior effectively
• How to apply behavior analysis techniques to diverse populations
• How to navigate complex situations with professional integrity 

Career Pathways

The ABA minor prepares you to pursue certification as a Board-Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst. BCaBAs work in clinics, schools, hospitals and other settings to help address behavioral challenges and improve clients’ quality of life. You may help conduct assessments, support behavior intervention plans, and train parents, teachers and others to support consistent implementation of strategies.

This program is also a strong next step for Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) who want to advance into greater responsibility and higher-level ABA positions.

The ABA skills you gain are also valuable in related fields such as education, counseling, speech-language pathology, and physical or occupational therapy.

Coursework

This certificate requires the following six courses — all offered online:

• SPEC 3370: Foundations of Applied Behavior Analysis  
• SPEC 3371: Applied Behavior Analysis Behavior Assessment & Intervention I
• SPEC 3372: Applied Behavior Analysis Behavior Assessment & Intervention II
• SPEC 3373: Methods in Applied Behavior Analysis
• SPEC 4374: Organizational Behavior Management
• SPEC 4375: Ethics in Applied Behavior Analysis  

Certification

This certificate fulfills the coursework required to pursue certification as a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA). To complete the credential, you will need supervised field hours and must pass the certification exam. While a practicum is not included in the program, faculty can help you explore local options for earning field hours. See the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) for the certification process.

How to Apply

To apply for this certificate program, please visit Post-Baccalaureate Admissions. You will apply to the University of Houston as a transfer student. If you have questions about ABA, please email the Department of Educational Leadership & Policy Studies at delps@cougarnet.uh.edu.