Top Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Ph.D. Programs

Q: Can you get a Ph.D. in applied behavior analysis online?

Yes, several colleges and universities offer quality online Ph.D. programs in applied behavior analysis. These institutions include Endicott College, Simmons University, The Chicago School, and Cambridge College. Before you apply to an ABA Ph.D. program, however, ensure it is accredited by the ABAI Accreditation Board.

Q: How long does it take to get a Ph.D. in applied behavior analysis?

Applied behavior analysis Ph.D. programs typically take 3-4 years for full-time students to complete. Part-time students may spend 5-7 years earning their degrees. You'll gain extensive ABA research and clinical practice training, learning how to help people manage and modify complex behavioral patterns. These programs also involve advanced coursework, clinical internships, and written dissertations.

Q: What can you do with a Ph.D. in applied behavior analysis?

Applied behavior analysis is a diverse field. With a Ph.D., you can pursue various career paths in clinical practice, academia, government, research, or private practice. Otherwise, you can accept leadership positions, such as clinical director of an ABA program, and work in healthcare or educational environments.

Q: What do you need to get into a Ph.D. program in applied behavior analysis?

To get into a Ph.D. program in applied behavior analysis, you'll need a master's degree in behavior analysis or a related field. You'll need to submit all official college transcripts, ideally with at least a 3.0 GPA. Other admissions requirements can include letters of recommendation, a scholarly writing sample, GRE scores, a statement of interest or admissions essay, a resume or CV, and interviews.

A Ph.D. in applied behavior analysis (ABA) can lead to leadership roles. Explore the top ABA Ph.D. programs to find the right fit for you.

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Updated May 2, 2025

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If you have a master’s degree in behavior analysis or a related field, you can pursue a Ph.D. in applied behavior analysis (ABA), which can be helpful in pursuing several different careers.

In an ABA Ph.D. program, you’ll learn behavioral principles and research methods to help people modify their behavior or change unwanted habits. You can then pursue leadership positions like clinical supervisor or program director of ABA programs.

Alternatively, you can pursue an academic career as a higher-education professor or researcher.

In this guide, we’ll explore the top Ph.D. programs in applied behavior analysis.

ABA Ph.D. Highlights

A Ph.D. in applied behavior analysis can lead to leadership roles in clinical practice and higher education.
Applied behavior analysis Ph.D. programs take between three to four years to complete, requiring 48-60 credits.
Tuition for these programs costs around $16,000 per year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).
The top ABA Ph.D. programs are accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) Accreditation Board.

Source: NCES and BestColleges

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In this Article

Top ABA Ph.D. Programs

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.

How We Rank Schools

At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.

We use datasets from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools and our methodologies. This list is from 2022. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology.

Caldwell University

Caldwell, NJ4 yearCampus + Online

$17,910

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$17,910

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

93%

Acceptance Rate

21%

Online Enrollment

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,020
Out of State | $1,020

Credits to Graduate
90

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Association for Behavior Analysis International

The Ph.D. program in applied behavior analysis at Caldwell University is designed to help students reach their professional goals. Graduates go on to work in developmental services, special education, mental health, and academia in the applied behavior analysis field. Students complete the required coursework, an applied practicum, and dissertation research to complete their degree.

Learners work closely with Caldwell's Center for Autism and Applied Behavior Analyst. Led by faculty, the Center provides assessment and intervention services for autistic people.

To enroll, all applicants must have a bachelor's degree or higher, a GPA of 3.6 or higher, and a satisfactory score on the Miller Analogies Test (MAT).

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$33,990

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$33,990

Retention Rate

79%

Students Enrolled

2,206

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$17,910

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$17,910

Caldwell University

Caldwell, NJ4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$17,910

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$17,910

Acceptance Rate

93%

Online Enrollment

21%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$33,990

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$33,990

Retention Rate

79%

Students Enrolled

2,206

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,020
Out of State | $1,020

Credits to Graduate
90

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Association for Behavior Analysis International

Learners work closely with Caldwell's Center for Autism and Applied Behavior Analyst. Led by faculty, the Center provides assessment and intervention services for autistic people.

To enroll, all applicants must have a bachelor's degree or higher, a GPA of 3.6 or higher, and a satisfactory score on the Miller Analogies Test (MAT).

Columbia University

New York, NY4 yearCampus + Online

$47,600

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$47,600

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

Acceptance Rate

Online Enrollment

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,913
Out of State | $1,913

Credits to Graduate
75

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Association for Behavior Analysis International Accreditation Board

Columbia University's doctorate in applied behavior analysis program focuses on research in four core areas: effective classroom practices, language/verbal development interventions, observational learning, and systems-wide scientific approaches to education. Coursework covers applications of research and how to properly generate new research.

Applicants are required to submit an online application with a statement of purpose, resume, transcripts, two letters of recommendation, a writing sample, and a $65 application fee. All applicants must already hold an MA in applied behavior analysis from an accredited CABAS university.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$57,763

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$57,763

Retention Rate

99%

Students Enrolled

31,456

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$47,600

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$47,600

Columbia University

New York, NY4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$47,600

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$47,600

Acceptance Rate

Online Enrollment

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$57,763

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$57,763

Retention Rate

99%

Students Enrolled

31,456

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,913
Out of State | $1,913

Credits to Graduate
75

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Association for Behavior Analysis International Accreditation Board

Emory University

Atlanta, GA4 yearCampus

$42,800

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$42,800

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

16%

Acceptance Rate

10%

Online Enrollment

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Semester
In State | $22,900
Out of State | $22,900

Credits to Graduate
54

Program Information
N/A

Emory's Ph.D. in behavioral, social, and health education sciences is provided through the Laney Graduate School. The program is designed to prepare students to identify, analyze, and intervene on public health issues. Enrollees can design and implement their own research study on a topic of their choosing.

It is recommended that all applicants hold a master's in the public health field. Those without a relevant master's degree are required to take additional core classes. Application requirements include letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a resume.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$53,070

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$53,070

Retention Rate

95%

Students Enrolled

14,415

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$42,800

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$42,800

Emory University

Atlanta, GA4 yearCampus

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$42,800

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$42,800

Acceptance Rate

16%

Online Enrollment

10%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$53,070

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$53,070

Retention Rate

95%

Students Enrolled

14,415

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Semester
In State | $22,900
Out of State | $22,900

Credits to Graduate
54

Program Information
N/A

Endicott College

Beverly, MA4 yearCampus + Online

$12,555

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$12,555

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

69%

Acceptance Rate

41%

Online Enrollment

100% Online | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $932
Out of State | $932

Credits to Graduate
60

Program Information
N/A

The Ph.D. in applied behavior analysis at Endicott College is a research-based program that prepares students to work as professors, scientist-practitioners, and public policy professionals. Students participate in 60 total semester hours: 30 hours of coursework and 30 hours of research and clinical immersion.

Students must hold an MA in applied behavior analysis. An active BCBA certificate is also recommended prior to enrollment. The program takes an average of three years to complete and has no residency requirement.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$33,304

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$33,304

Retention Rate

86%

Students Enrolled

4,741

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$12,555

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$12,555

Endicott College

Beverly, MA4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$12,555

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$12,555

Acceptance Rate

69%

Online Enrollment

41%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$33,304

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$33,304

Retention Rate

86%

Students Enrolled

4,741

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

100% Online | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $932
Out of State | $932

Credits to Graduate
60

Program Information
N/A

Florida Institute of Technology

Melbourne, FL4 yearCampus + Online

$22,338

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$22,338

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

66%

Acceptance Rate

10%

Online Enrollment

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Year
In State | $30,300
Out of State | $30,300

Credits to Graduate
48

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Association for Behavior Analysis International

Based in Melbourne, the Ph.D. in behavior analysis from the Florida Institute of Technology is a flexible program designed for full-time working professionals who are looking to advance their careers in applied behavioral sciences.

Students can specialize in clinical applications of behavior analysis or organizational behavior management. The curriculum includes courses on radical behaviorism and statistical research methods. Students must also complete 12 credit hours of fieldwork.

Applicants must have completed an MA in applied behavior analysis and hold an active BCBA certificate.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$41,720

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$41,720

Retention Rate

79%

Students Enrolled

6,022

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$22,338

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$22,338

Florida Institute of Technology

Melbourne, FL4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$22,338

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$22,338

Acceptance Rate

66%

Online Enrollment

10%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$41,720

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$41,720

Retention Rate

79%

Students Enrolled

6,022

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Year
In State | $30,300
Out of State | $30,300

Credits to Graduate
48

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Association for Behavior Analysis International

Applicants must have completed an MA in applied behavior analysis and hold an active BCBA certificate.

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA4 yearCampus

$48,008

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$48,008

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

Acceptance Rate

18%

Online Enrollment

100% On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Academic Year
In State | $52,456
Out of State | $52,456

Credits to Graduate
64

Program Information
N/A

Students interested in pursuing a Ph.D. in applied behavior analysis at Harvard University should enroll in the population health sciences doctoral program and choose social and behavioral sciences as their concentration. This program includes a broad range of coursework that covers social, political, and historical factors that influence behavioral health. Harvard also provides students with a program mentor based on their interests.

A previous graduate degree is not required for this program, but applicants must possess a bachelor's degree and have completed coursework in statistics and quantitative methods. GRE scores are not required for admission.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$47,730

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$47,730

Retention Rate

97%

Students Enrolled

31,655

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$48,008

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$48,008

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA4 yearCampus

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$48,008

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$48,008

Acceptance Rate

Online Enrollment

18%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$47,730

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$47,730

Retention Rate

97%

Students Enrolled

31,655

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

100% On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Academic Year
In State | $52,456
Out of State | $52,456

Credits to Graduate
64

Program Information
N/A

Simmons University

Boston, MA4 yearCampus + Online

$21,654

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$21,654

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

73%

Acceptance Rate

55%

Online Enrollment

100% Online | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,135
Out of State | $1,135

Credits to Graduate
48

Program Information
N/A

The Simmons University Ph.D. in behavior analysis is a 100% online program of live classes designed to train students to make contributions to the scientific community of behavior analysis. The program is ideal for distance learners who are looking to develop research skills to design, conduct, and interpret experimental research.

Students are enrolled in lab meetings with faculty and get to pick between concentrations such as conditioned reinforcement, the analysis of verbal behavior, and behavioral medicine. Candidates must already hold an MA in behavioral science and a BCBA certification or significant coursework in the field.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$40,850

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$40,850

Retention Rate

83%

Students Enrolled

6,535

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$21,654

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$21,654

Simmons University

Boston, MA4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$21,654

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$21,654

Acceptance Rate

73%

Online Enrollment

55%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$40,850

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$40,850

Retention Rate

83%

Students Enrolled

6,535

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

100% Online | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,135
Out of State | $1,135

Credits to Graduate
48

Program Information
N/A

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

Los Angeles, CA4 yearCampus + Online

$21,564

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$21,564

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

13%

Acceptance Rate

82%

Online Enrollment

Hybrid | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,622
Out of State | $1,622

Credits to Graduate
58

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Association for Behavior Analysis International Accreditation Board

The Ph.D. in applied behavior analysis (ABA) program at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology is a flexible, hybrid course of study that takes either three or five years to complete. Graduates learn evidence-based practices in the areas of experimental analysis of behavior, applied behavior analysis, and radical behaviorism.

Applicants must possess a master's degree with a GPA of at least 3.0.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$10,992

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$10,992

Retention Rate

N/A

Students Enrolled

2,999

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$21,564

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$21,564

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

Los Angeles, CA4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$21,564

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$21,564

Acceptance Rate

13%

Online Enrollment

82%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$10,992

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$10,992

Retention Rate

N/A

Students Enrolled

2,999

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Hybrid | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,622
Out of State | $1,622

Credits to Graduate
58

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Association for Behavior Analysis International Accreditation Board

Applicants must possess a master's degree with a GPA of at least 3.0.

University of Washington

Seattle, WA4 yearCampus + Online

$18,198

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$32,439

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

52%

Acceptance Rate

Online Enrollment

Hybrid | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Quarter
In State | $6,174
Out of State | $11,128

Credits to Graduate
N/A

Program Information
N/A

Within the doctoral program in special education at UW, students have the option to specialize in applied behavior analysis. Coursework emphasizes collaboration and equips students to implement structural change in the field. Students design and conduct research with experienced faculty and have the opportunity to supervise master's degree students in their practicums.

Applicants must have been admitted to the special education Ph.D. program at UW, hold Board Certification in Behavior Analysis, have two years of work experience, and be able to enroll full time.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$10,370

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$37,071

Retention Rate

95%

Students Enrolled

47,576

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$18,198

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$32,439

University of Washington

Seattle, WA4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$18,198

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$32,439

Acceptance Rate

52%

Online Enrollment

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$10,370

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$37,071

Retention Rate

95%

Students Enrolled

47,576

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Hybrid | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Quarter
In State | $6,174
Out of State | $11,128

Credits to Graduate
N/A

Program Information
N/A

Applicants must have been admitted to the special education Ph.D. program at UW, hold Board Certification in Behavior Analysis, have two years of work experience, and be able to enroll full time.

Western Michigan University

Kalamazoo, MI4 yearCampus + Online

$16,360

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$30,432

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

80%

Acceptance Rate

28%

Online Enrollment

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $731
Out of State | $1,096

Credits to Graduate
73

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Association for Behavior Analysis International

The doctoral degree program in behavior analysis at Western Michigan University allows students to complete coursework and participate in research and applied experiences to prepare for a career in behavior analysis. The program is designed to train the next generation of teachers and researchers in an academic setting. Graduates go on to apply for positions in human services organizations and within the behavioral health industry.

To enroll, students need a minimum of 79 hours in related coursework and a B grade average. They must also possess an M.A in a related field.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$12,094

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$15,118

Retention Rate

78%

Students Enrolled

21,470

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$16,360

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$30,432

Western Michigan University

Kalamazoo, MI4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$16,360

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$30,432

Acceptance Rate

80%

Online Enrollment

28%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$12,094

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$15,118

Retention Rate

78%

Students Enrolled

21,470

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $731
Out of State | $1,096

Credits to Graduate
73

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Association for Behavior Analysis International

To enroll, students need a minimum of 79 hours in related coursework and a B grade average. They must also possess an M.A in a related field.

Why You Should Get a Ph.D. in Applied Behavior Analysis

Career Advancement: Ph.D.-holders can qualify for leadership roles like clinical director, research scientist, and college or university professor.
BCBA-D Designation: You can only qualify for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral (BCBA-D) designation if you have a Ph.D. in applied behavior analysis.
More Money: Since a doctoral degree qualifies you for advanced leadership roles, you can improve your earning potential once you graduate from your ABA Ph.D. program.
Research Opportunities: A Ph.D. is a research-heavy degree program, so you’ll have opportunities to contribute original research to the ABA field.

Benefits of Getting a Ph.D. in Applied Behavior Analysis Online

In BestColleges’ 2024 Online Education Trends Report, out of the more than 100 online psychology, education, and social sciences students and graduates we surveyed, 100% said they would recommend online education to others.
In that same report, 92% of the online psychology, education, and social sciences students and graduates we surveyed said that earning an online degree has had or will have a positive return on investment.
Additionally, 85% of the online psychology, education, and social sciences students and graduates we surveyed said they think an online learning environment is equal to or better than learning on campus.

Curious what courses you'll take online? Check out our psychology program guide

How to Choose the Best ABA Ph.D. Program for You

Before you apply to an applied behavior analysis Ph.D. program, carefully consider its cost, length, application requirements, and accreditation status. These factors will influence your academic and professional journeys.

“Choose a program that is accredited and will meet all your needs for licensure,” says Megan Pietrucha, Psy.D. and licensed clinical psychologist in Illinois. “Check with the licensing board in your state to research requirements and use this as a guideline for choosing a program.”

How Much Does an Online Ph.D. in Psychology Cost?

Online Healthcare Bachelor’s Degrees

Ph.D. (Online)

Avg. Tuition & Fees

$16,265

Psy.D. (Online)

Avg. Tuition & Fees

$8,248

Source: NCES PowerStats

An online Ph.D. in psychology program, which includes applied behavior analysis programs, costs an average of $16,265 in tuition and fees per year, according to 2020 NCES data. An online Psy.D. program, however, only costs an average of $8,248 in tuition and fees per year, per the NCES. Keep in mind that these tuition rates can vary significantly depending on the school.

For example, Cambridge College charges $51,648 for a 48-credit applied behavior analysis Ph.D. program with a specialization in autism intervention. By contrast, Caldwell University charges $1,123 per credit for its 90-credit applied behavior analysis Ph.D. program, of which 63 credits are required courses and 27 credits are electives.

Keep in mind that financial aid can reduce tuition rates. You can get financial aid, including grants and scholarships, by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year you’re in school.

Find Financial Aid for Your ABA Ph.D. Program

Your Guide to the FAFSA

Your Guide to College Loans

Financial Aid Guide for Graduate Students

How Long Does It Take to Get a Ph.D. in Applied Behavior Analysis?

Typical # of Credits

48-60 Credits

Typical Program Length

3-4 Years

ABA Ph.D. programs typically take 3-4 years to complete and require around 48-60 credits. For example, Endicott College’s online ABA Ph.D. program requires students to earn 60 credits, designed to be completed in a minimum of three years.

By contrast, Simmons University offers an online 48-credit Ph.D. in behavior analysis program that you can complete in four years as a full-time student.

ABA Ph.D. Program Application Requirements

Here are some common application requirements for Ph.D. programs in applied behavior analysis:

Application and fee
Bachelor’s degree
Master’s degree
Official transcripts with a minimum GPA of 3.0
Resume or CV
Letters of recommendation
Application essay
GRE scores (if required)
Scholarly writing sample
Interview

Accreditation for an ABA Ph.D. Program

Your ABA Ph.D. program should be accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) Accreditation Board.

Each doctoral program accredited by the ABAI Accreditation Board has gone through a rigorous review process that ensures it meets the agency’s requirements for accreditation.

You can visit the ABAI’s website to find accredited ABA programs. You can also visit the websites of your desired programs or contact them directly to learn about their programmatic accreditation statuses.

Ask an Expert: How Important Is Psychology Accreditation?

“Accreditation (especially ABAI accreditation or VCS approval) isn’t mandatory, but it’s highly recommended if you want to sit for the BCBA exam or work in states with strict licensing rules”

―Megan Pietrucha, Psy.D.

What Can You Do With an ABA Ph.D.?

Once you earn your Ph.D. in applied behavior analysis, you can pursue a range of leadership roles in the field. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), related roles include psychologist, mental health counselor, marriage and family therapist, and school counselor.

According to the BLS, employment for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors is projected to grow by 4% from 2023 to 2033, which is as fast as the average projected job growth rate for all occupations. By contrast, employment for marriage and family therapists and mental health counselors is projected to grow significantly faster (16% and 19%, respectively) than the average rate during the same time period, per the BLS.

Popular ABA Ph.D. Jobs
Job	Median Annual Salary (May 2024)	Description
Psychologists	$94,310	Studies human thinking and behavior and helps people cope with mental health conditions
Substance Use, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors	$59,190	Diagnoses mental health conditions and provides counseling or psychotherapy
Marriage and Family Therapists	63,780	Helps individuals, couples, and families navigate relationship challenges
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors	$65,140	Counsels students on academic, personal, and professional challenges

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

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Is an ABA Ph.D. Worth It?

A Ph.D. in applied behavior analysis can be worth the effort and resources if you want a high-level leadership role, whether you want a clinical, academic, or research career. Additionally, once you graduate, you’ll be eligible for the BCBA-D designation.

You can find flexibility in online, hybrid, and self-paced programs that allow you to study remotely. To determine the return on investment of your degree, compare the cost of your ABA Ph.D. program against the salary you hope to earn once you graduate.

Also, consider the time investment. On average, these programs take between three and four years to complete for full-time students, while part-time students may spend between five and seven years in their programs.

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Do you need a Ph.D. to be a behavioral psychologist?

Yes, according to the American Psychological Association (APA), you’ll need a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) and licensure to call yourself a psychologist. This includes behavioral psychologists, who practice applied behavior analysis.

Can you get a Ph.D. in applied behavior analysis online?

How long does it take to get a Ph.D. in applied behavior analysis?

What can you do with a Ph.D. in applied behavior analysis?

What do you need to get into a Ph.D. program in applied behavior analysis?

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