Applied Behavior Analysis Careers
Applied Behavior Analysis careers focus on the reinforcement of positive behavior to enact long term behavior change.
As an Applied Behavior Analyst, you would create and implement interventions that address social concerns within different populations and settings.
Applied Behavior Analysts work with clients with developmental disorders such as autism, as well as anxiety, various mental illnesses and addictive behaviors.
If you are interested in working with children or with people with behavioral challenges, this is a fulfilling field with high demand.
Learn about successful psychology graduates working in ABA by clicking the links below.
Jamie Josephs
Behavioral Therapist, Center for Autism and Related Disorders
How she became a Behavioral Therapist
Interested in a career in applied behavior analysis? Check out our resources below.
RBT
As a Registered Behavior Technician, you would practice under the supervision of a BCaBA, BCBA, or BCBA-D and are in charge of implementing the actual behavioral-analysis services.
Recommended classes:
- PSY 344 - Directed Child Study
- PSY 420 - Analysis of Behavior
- PSB 510 - Basic Principles Exp Analysis
Typical salary: $35,000 per year
Requirements:
- High school diploma or GED
- Click here to see the RBT Requirements
- Click here to find the board certification application
BCaBA
As a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst, you would practice under the supervision of a BCBA or BCBA-D and could both design and implement behavioral-analysis services.
Recommended classes:
- PSY 344 - Directed Child Study
- PSY 420 - Analysis of Behavior
- PSB 510 - Basic Principles Exp Analysis
Typical salary: $40,000 - $75,000 per year
Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in any discipline
- Click here to find the BCaBA requirements
- Click here to find the board certification application
BCBA
As a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, you could practice independently and could both design and implement behavioral-analysis services.
Recommended classes:
- PSY 344 - Directed Child Study
- PSY 420 - Analysis of Behavior
- PSB 510 - Basic Principles Exp Analysis
Typical salary: $75,000 - $100,000 per year
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in psychology or a closely related field
- 2-year masters degree in Psychology, Behavior Analysis, or Education
- MSABA Program
- Click here for our tips on preparing for graduate school
- Click here to find the BCBA requirements
- Click here for the board certification application
BCBA-D
A doctoral-level BCBA performs similar functions to a BCBA. The additional education can be a competitive advantage in the job market, but this does require more time in school.
Recommended classes:
- PSY 344 - Directed Child Study
- PSY 420 - Analysis of Behavior
- PSB 510 - Basic Principles Exp Analysis
Typical salary: $100,000+ per year
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in psychology or a closely related field
- 5-year doctoral degree from an accredited or qualifying institution
- Some doctoral programs require a 2-year masters degree in Psychology, Behavior Analysis, or Education, others allow you to earn a masters along the way
- Click here to find the BCBA-D requirements
- Click here to find the board certification application
- Click here for our tips on preparing for graduate school