Quick Answer
The ABAI Verified Course Sequence ended December 31, 2025. Three routes now satisfy Pathway 1 for BCBA certification: ABAI accreditation, ABAI recognition, and APBA accreditation, though APBA hasn’t accredited any programs yet. This directory lists all 76 currently qualifying programs by state, verified against ABAI records in August 2026.
For years, the Verified Course Sequence was the most practical tool a prospective ABA graduate student had. The concept was simple. The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) reviewed graduate course sequences and confirmed that specified coursework met the BACB’s content requirements for BCBA certification eligibility under Pathway 2. A VCS designation gave you advance evidence that the listed courses would count, though your eligibility still depended on your degree, your fieldwork, and everything else the BACB asks for.
Then it ended, and the replacement doesn’t work the same way at all.
This page does two things. It explains what actually changed and what each pathway now requires. Then it lists every ABA graduate program in the country that currently qualifies under Pathway 1, state by state, checked directly against ABAI’s accreditation and recognition records rather than against what schools say about themselves. Along the way we’ve pulled in what program faculty told us in our own interview series, including several who described building their curricula around a designation that no longer exists.
Assistant Professor and ABA Program Co-Director, National University
Dr. Crump co-directs National University’s applied behavior analysis program, where keeping coursework aligned with shifting BACB and ABAI standards is part of the job rather than an occasional project. When we interviewed her, she described continually restructuring courses to stay in compliance as the task list and standards changed, which is exactly the work the VCS sunset has now pushed onto every program in the country.
In This Guide
What Happened to the Verified Course Sequence?
In January 2023, ABAI and the BACB announced that the VCS system would sunset at the end of 2025. ABAI stopped accepting new VCS applications on January 1, 2025, and discontinued the system on December 31, 2025. From January 1, 2026, every Pathway 2 application requires a Coursework Attestation completed by a designated program contact.
One piece of that transition still matters and often gets missed. If a VCS Coordinator Coursework Attestation was submitted to the BACB before December 31, 2025, it can still support an application through December 31, 2026. If that describes you, you’re inside a window that closes at the end of this year.
The VCS solved a real problem while it lasted. Students researching programs had no easy way to tell whether a curriculum would satisfy the BACB, and the VCS gave them a clear signal: this program has been checked. At its peak, hundreds of course sequences carried the designation, and it became the working standard for how students and employers judged whether a master’s program in ABA was legitimate.
There was always a caveat. The VCS was a content-hour verification, not a quality review. It confirmed that a program covered the required topic areas for the minimum number of instructional hours. It didn’t evaluate faculty credentials, research output, clinical training quality, student outcomes, or exam pass rates. ABAI said so plainly on its own site: “The VCS status indicates that a training program offers the minimum coursework required for certification eligibility; it does not indicate any quality measures of the program.” The VCS told you a program met the floor. It said nothing about the ceiling.
How Central Was the VCS to How Programs Were Built?
Central enough that some programs were designed around it. When we interviewed faculty for our professor series, one program director described a graduate certificate whose requirements were the course sequence, and nothing beyond it.
Faculty Voice
“At NIU, the Certificate of Graduate Study in Behavior Analysis only requires individuals to complete the BCBA course sequence. Since the CGS requires no additional coursework, everyone who completes our VCS also completes the CGS.
Read that again with the sunset in mind. A whole credential, built so that finishing the verified sequence finished the certificate. That’s what “the VCS was the standard” meant in practice, and it’s why the sunset isn’t a paperwork change.
What Our Interview Series Shows About the VCS Era
Across the 61 program faculty in our ABA Professor Interview Series, 36 raised the Verified Course Sequence on their own when describing their programs. Only 5 mentioned ABAI accreditation. That’s our own interview pool rather than a survey of the profession, so treat it as a snapshot rather than a measurement. But it’s a striking one, and it comes from the people running the programs.
So why end something programs leaned on that heavily? Because ABA is maturing as a profession. Look at nursing, social work, or licensed counseling, where programmatic accreditation is the expectation rather than the exception. The field has been moving that way for years, and the VCS sunset accelerates it. The BACB has now set a hard date: from January 1, 2032, Pathway 1 will be the only eligibility route for BCBA certification.
That doesn’t mean Pathway 2 vanished. It didn’t. But how it works is different now.
What Does Pathway 2 Require Now?
Pathway 2 still exists and remains a valid route. It runs through December 31, 2031. What changed is how coursework gets verified in the meantime.
Instead of ABAI confirming a whole sequence upfront, each student now goes through the Pathway 2 Coursework Attestation. The university designates a full-time faculty member in the program’s department who holds active BCBA or BCBA-D certification as its Pathway 2 Program Contact. When you finish your coursework, that contact reviews your records and submits a formal attestation to the BACB.
One clarification, because a lot of coverage gets this wrong. Pathways 1 and 2 aren’t the only routes open right now. Pathways 3 and 4 remain available to qualifying applicants throughout 2026 and are discontinued on January 1, 2027. If you’re applying this year and you’ve been working from an older eligibility route, check the BACB’s requirements before you assume it’s gone.
Here’s how the two long-term pathways compare:
| Pathway 1 (Accreditation) | Pathway 2 (Attestation) | |
|---|---|---|
| What qualifies you | A qualifying degree from an ABAI-accredited, ABAI-recognized (Tier 1, 2a or 2b), or APBA-accredited program | A qualifying master’s degree plus behavior-analytic coursework attested by your university’s Program Contact |
| Who verifies | ABAI or APBA, independent of the university | Your own university’s Pathway 2 Program Contact |
| Can you check it before enrolling? | Yes. ABAI publishes both lists publicly | No. There’s no central directory of Pathway 2 programs |
| Valid through | Accredited programs continue past 2032. ABAI Tier 2a and 2b recognition stops qualifying after December 31, 2031 | December 31, 2031, then discontinued |
| 2027 requirements change | Handled through the accreditation review cycle, though programs and students still have to meet the rules in force when you apply | Programs must align coursework with the BACB’s 2027 BCBA Requirements by January 1, 2027 |
| After December 31, 2031 | Only ABAI-accredited or APBA-accredited degrees qualify | No longer available |
That third row is the one students feel. Under the VCS you could look up a program’s status before applying. Now a program can tell you its curriculum meets Pathway 2 requirements, and no independent body is confirming that upfront the way ABAI once did.
Does Your Degree Have to Say “Applied Behavior Analysis”?
No. What the BACB cares about is whether the coursework covers the required content, not what the diploma is called. A behavior-analytic sequence can sit inside a differently named degree, which is how a lot of programs are actually structured.
Faculty Voice
“Our recent BCBA graduates have found jobs in school, university, laboratory, community, clinic, and consultation settings. Our BCBA course sequence fits nicely within our School Psychology or Experimental Psychology graduate programs, so we can work with a wide variety of student interests and help them to get where they want to go.
Worth knowing that a program can be entirely legitimate and still not appear in the directory below. LSU Shreveport’s master’s in ABA states that it has earned Pathway 2 Program designation, which means it has an authorized Program Contact and offers coursework built to satisfy Pathway 2. That’s a real route to the exam. It isn’t accreditation, and the BACB doesn’t treat it as a program-level quality credential, which is why it isn’t listed here.
Why an Accredited Program Is the Safer Bet
Pathway 1 is the cleaner option for students who want certainty. Earn a qualifying degree from an ABAI-accredited or ABAI-recognized program, or an APBA-accredited program, and the degree itself satisfies both the degree requirement and the coursework requirement. No separate attestation, no content-hour audit, no Program Contact to track down.
A note on APBA, since it’s the newest piece. APBA opened its accreditation applications on January 20, 2026 and will post accredited programs publicly once there are any. As of August 2026 there aren’t, so every program in the directory below reaches Pathway 1 through ABAI. APBA accreditation is currently available only for master’s programs in the United States and Canada, and its board isn’t yet recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, though APBA says it built its requirements with that goal in mind. Check APBA directly before you enroll anywhere, because that will change.
ABAI classifies programs in tiers:
| Tier | Designation | Degree Types Covered | Qualifies for Pathway 1 Through |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | ABAI-Accredited | All degree levels | Program-specific accreditation periods, continuing past 2032 |
| Tier 2a | ABAI-Recognized | Master’s and doctoral programs | December 31, 2031 |
| Tier 2b | ABAI-Recognized | Bachelor’s and undergraduate programs, which route to BCaBA rather than BCBA | December 31, 2031 |
Here’s the piece many students haven’t caught yet. From January 1, 2032, BCBA applicants must use Pathway 1, and only ABAI-accredited or APBA-accredited degrees will qualify. Tier 2a and 2b recognition alone won’t be enough. So accreditation and recognition aren’t interchangeable even though both satisfy Pathway 1 today.
Two more dates worth knowing. From January 1, 2027, applicants must meet the BACB’s revised 2027 BCBA Requirements, which cover degree, coursework, supervised fieldwork, continuing education, and ongoing supervision. And from January 1, 2029, a Pathway 1 applicant’s master’s degree must be equivalent to a US master’s degree, a rule aimed mainly at internationally trained applicants.
Who Does the Work of Keeping Up With Changing Standards?
Under Pathway 1, the accreditation review cycle carries most of it. Under Pathway 2, the program does, student by student, and the January 2027 deadline is the next test of that. Faculty who run programs describe it as continuous rather than periodic.
“We are focused on maintaining high academic rigor, ethical and practical decision making and research in the field of ABA. We are quickly growing. We continually update and structure our courses to ensure that we are aligned and are in compliance with the BACB and ABAI current Tasklist/Standards.”
Dr. Sharlyn Crump, EdD, BCBA & Dr. Dina Pacis, EdD · National University · Read the National University Q&A →
When a program is accredited, that alignment work is checked by someone other than the program itself. That’s the difference.
How Should You Read the Directory Below?
The directory lists programs that currently satisfy Pathway 1. Because APBA hasn’t accredited any programs yet, that means it’s an ABAI list: 59 separately accredited programs at 36 US institutions, plus 17 recognized programs at 16 institutions. Universities often hold several separate accreditations, so the program count runs higher than the institution count.
Each state shows two categories where they apply.
ABAI-Accredited (Tier 1) is the highest designation, with program-specific periods that continue past 2032. If you want maximum certainty about eligibility regardless of when you graduate, this is the strongest choice.
ABAI-Recognized (Tier 2a and 2b) programs have completed ABAI’s recognition process and satisfy Pathway 1 today. They’re quality programs with a peer-reviewed designation. If you’ll graduate and apply before 2032, they’re fully viable.
Why We List Accreditation Dates
Because they can matter to you directly. The BACB requires that your transcript show the qualifying degree was conferred during the period the program was accredited. A program whose term expires partway through your degree is a question worth asking about before you enrol, not after. Most programs renew without difficulty, and a lapse is rare, but the date is the thing that makes the question askable.
Accreditation is also program-specific and format-specific. ABAI states plainly that accreditation of a degree program doesn’t extend to all campuses or formats where that degree is offered. A university can hold accreditation for its on-campus master’s and not its online one, and several on this page do exactly that. Confirm your exact program, campus, and format before enrolling.
Why Do So Many States Show Nothing?
Because 21 states and the District of Columbia have no ABAI-accredited or recognized ABA graduate program based within them. That’s 22 of 51 jurisdictions, or 43%, and it’s a direct consequence of how new the accreditation-first era is.
If you’re in one of those states, you aren’t stuck. Six accredited programs are delivered fully online. We’ve named them in each empty state below, with their dates. One caveat: online doesn’t automatically mean available everywhere. State authorization rules, fieldwork placement, and institutional enrollment policies all vary, so confirm with the program that it can enrol someone in your state.
What About Programs That Have Applied but Aren’t Approved Yet?
They’re in a separate table further down. As of August 2026 there are 14 US programs in ABAI’s accreditation queue and 55 in its recognition queue, which are two different processes with different standards. We’ve kept both out of the state listings on purpose, because none of them satisfies Pathway 1 right now. ABAI is explicit that eligibility doesn’t denote recognition or accredited status, and a program under review for initial recognition isn’t recognized until a decision lands.
For a student choosing today, a pending application on its own confers nothing. Do check whether a pending program separately holds ABAI recognition already, since a few are accredited at one degree level while applying at another.
Qualifying Programs by State
Accreditation and recognition status verified directly against ABAI records in August 2026. Each entry shows the program exactly as ABAI registers it, its delivery format, and the date its current term expires. Programs are listed only if they satisfy Pathway 1 today.
Graduate Programs by State
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- District of Columbia
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
Alabama
ABAI-Accredited Programs
- M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2028.
- MS in Applied Behavior Analysis (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2028.
ABAI-Recognized Programs
University of Alabama in Huntsville
- M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis (Online). Recognition through December 31, 2027.
Alaska
ABAI-Accredited Programs
University of Alaska Anchorage
- MS in Clinical Psychology, Applied Behavior Analysis Track (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2030.
- BA/BS in Psychology, Concentration in Behavior Analysis (hybrid). Accredited through December 31, 2029.
Arizona
No ABAI-accredited or ABAI-recognized ABA program is based in Arizona as of August 2026. Six accredited programs are delivered fully online and don’t care where you live: St. Cloud State University (accredited through 2031), Ohio State University, the University of Kansas and Simmons University (all through 2030), and The Chicago School and Regis College (both through 2027). Recognized online programs include the University of Alabama in Huntsville, Daemen University, SUNY Downstate, the University of Oregon, and the University of Washington. Any Arizona programs currently applying to ABAI appear in the application pipeline table below.
Arkansas
No ABAI-accredited or ABAI-recognized ABA program is based in Arkansas as of August 2026. Six accredited programs are delivered fully online and don’t care where you live: St. Cloud State University (accredited through 2031), Ohio State University, the University of Kansas and Simmons University (all through 2030), and The Chicago School and Regis College (both through 2027). Recognized online programs include the University of Alabama in Huntsville, Daemen University, SUNY Downstate, the University of Oregon, and the University of Washington. Any Arkansas programs currently applying to ABAI appear in the application pipeline table below.
California
ABAI-Accredited Programs
California State University, Los Angeles
- MS in Applied Behavior Analysis (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2030.
California State University, Sacramento
- M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2031.
Colorado
No ABAI-accredited or ABAI-recognized ABA program is based in Colorado as of August 2026. Six accredited programs are delivered fully online and don’t care where you live: St. Cloud State University (accredited through 2031), Ohio State University, the University of Kansas and Simmons University (all through 2030), and The Chicago School and Regis College (both through 2027). Recognized online programs include the University of Alabama in Huntsville, Daemen University, SUNY Downstate, the University of Oregon, and the University of Washington. Any Colorado programs currently applying to ABAI appear in the application pipeline table below.
Connecticut
ABAI-Accredited Programs
Eastern Connecticut State University
- B.S. in Psychology, Concentration in Behavior Analysis (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2032.
Delaware
No ABAI-accredited or ABAI-recognized ABA program is based in Delaware as of August 2026. Six accredited programs are delivered fully online and don’t care where you live: St. Cloud State University (accredited through 2031), Ohio State University, the University of Kansas and Simmons University (all through 2030), and The Chicago School and Regis College (both through 2027). Recognized online programs include the University of Alabama in Huntsville, Daemen University, SUNY Downstate, the University of Oregon, and the University of Washington. Any Delaware programs currently applying to ABAI appear in the application pipeline table below.
District of Columbia
No ABAI-accredited or ABAI-recognized ABA program is based in District of Columbia as of August 2026. Six accredited programs are delivered fully online and don’t care where you live: St. Cloud State University (accredited through 2031), Ohio State University, the University of Kansas and Simmons University (all through 2030), and The Chicago School and Regis College (both through 2027). Recognized online programs include the University of Alabama in Huntsville, Daemen University, SUNY Downstate, the University of Oregon, and the University of Washington. Any District of Columbia programs currently applying to ABAI appear in the application pipeline table below.
Florida
ABAI-Accredited Programs
Florida Institute of Technology
- PhD in Behavior Analysis, Melbourne campus (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2029.
- MS in Applied Behavior Analysis, Organizational Behavior Management, and ABA/OBM, Melbourne campus (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2029.
- MS in Applied Behavior Analysis, Orlando campus (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2029.
- BA in Applied Behavior Analysis, Melbourne campus (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2029. Initial accreditation rather than a renewal.
Florida International University
- MS in Psychology, Behavior Analysis Major (hybrid). Accredited through December 31, 2027. Provisional accreditation, not full. ABAI noted the program needs improvements to student outcomes.
Florida State University, Panama City
- MS in Psychology with a Specialty in Applied Behavior Analysis (on-campus, Panama City and Tallahassee link-classroom). Accredited through December 31, 2029.
- MA in Applied Behavior Analysis and Clinical Science (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2031.
- Ph.D. in Psychology, Specialization in Behavior Analysis (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2031.
- M.S. in Psychology, Specialization in Behavior Analysis (PhD admits only). Accredited through December 31, 2031. Open only to students already admitted to the accredited doctoral program, so you can’t apply to it directly.
- B.S. in Psychology, Specialization in Behavior Analysis (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2031.
- MS in Applied Behavior Analysis (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2028.
Georgia
ABAI-Recognized Programs
- M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis (On-Campus). Recognition through December 31, 2027.
Hawaii
No ABAI-accredited or ABAI-recognized ABA program is based in Hawaii as of August 2026. Six accredited programs are delivered fully online and don’t care where you live: St. Cloud State University (accredited through 2031), Ohio State University, the University of Kansas and Simmons University (all through 2030), and The Chicago School and Regis College (both through 2027). Recognized online programs include the University of Alabama in Huntsville, Daemen University, SUNY Downstate, the University of Oregon, and the University of Washington. Any Hawaii programs currently applying to ABAI appear in the application pipeline table below.
Idaho
No ABAI-accredited or ABAI-recognized ABA program is based in Idaho as of August 2026. Six accredited programs are delivered fully online and don’t care where you live: St. Cloud State University (accredited through 2031), Ohio State University, the University of Kansas and Simmons University (all through 2030), and The Chicago School and Regis College (both through 2027). Recognized online programs include the University of Alabama in Huntsville, Daemen University, SUNY Downstate, the University of Oregon, and the University of Washington. Any Idaho programs currently applying to ABAI appear in the application pipeline table below.
Illinois
ABAI-Accredited Programs
Southern Illinois University Carbondale
- MS in Behavior Analysis and Therapy (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2028.
- MS in Applied Behavior Analysis, Chicago Campus (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2027.
- MS in Applied Behavior Analysis, Dallas Campus (hybrid). Accredited through December 31, 2027. Initial accreditation rather than a renewal.
- MS in Applied Behavior Analysis, Online (online). Accredited through December 31, 2027.
Indiana
No ABAI-accredited or ABAI-recognized ABA program is based in Indiana as of August 2026. Six accredited programs are delivered fully online and don’t care where you live: St. Cloud State University (accredited through 2031), Ohio State University, the University of Kansas and Simmons University (all through 2030), and The Chicago School and Regis College (both through 2027). Recognized online programs include the University of Alabama in Huntsville, Daemen University, SUNY Downstate, the University of Oregon, and the University of Washington. Any Indiana programs currently applying to ABAI appear in the application pipeline table below.
Iowa
ABAI-Recognized Programs
- M.A. in Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis (Hybrid). Recognition through December 31, 2028.
Kansas
ABAI-Accredited Programs
- PhD in Behavioral Psychology (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2032.
- MA in Applied Behavioral Science (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2032.
- MA in Applied Behavioral Science (online). Accredited through December 31, 2030.
Kentucky
No ABAI-accredited or ABAI-recognized ABA program is based in Kentucky as of August 2026. Six accredited programs are delivered fully online and don’t care where you live: St. Cloud State University (accredited through 2031), Ohio State University, the University of Kansas and Simmons University (all through 2030), and The Chicago School and Regis College (both through 2027). Recognized online programs include the University of Alabama in Huntsville, Daemen University, SUNY Downstate, the University of Oregon, and the University of Washington. Any Kentucky programs currently applying to ABAI appear in the application pipeline table below.
Louisiana
ABAI-Accredited Programs
- MA in Psychology with a Concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2027.
ABAI-Recognized Programs
- Ph.D. in Psychology, Concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis (On-Campus). Recognition through December 31, 2027.
Maine
No ABAI-accredited or ABAI-recognized ABA program is based in Maine as of August 2026. Six accredited programs are delivered fully online and don’t care where you live: St. Cloud State University (accredited through 2031), Ohio State University, the University of Kansas and Simmons University (all through 2030), and The Chicago School and Regis College (both through 2027). Recognized online programs include the University of Alabama in Huntsville, Daemen University, SUNY Downstate, the University of Oregon, and the University of Washington. Any Maine programs currently applying to ABAI appear in the application pipeline table below.
Maryland
ABAI-Accredited Programs
University of Maryland, Baltimore County
- MA in Human Services Psychology (ABA track). Accredited through December 31, 2032.
ABAI-Recognized Programs
- M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis (On-Campus/Online). Recognition through December 31, 2028.
Massachusetts
ABAI-Accredited Programs
- MS in Applied Behavior Analysis (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2029.
- MS in Applied Behavior Analysis (online). Accredited through December 31, 2027. Initial accreditation rather than a renewal.
- MS in Behavior Analysis (hybrid). Accredited through December 31, 2026. A re-accreditation application has been under review since March 2026. ABAI keeps a program accredited throughout that process.
- MS in Behavior Analysis (on-campus, also EdS). Accredited through December 31, 2028.
- MS in Behavior Analysis (online). Accredited through December 31, 2030.
ABAI-Recognized Programs
- M.A. in Applied Behavior Analysis (Hybrid). Recognition through December 31, 2028.
Michigan
ABAI-Accredited Programs
- PhD in Behavior Analysis (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2032.
- MA in Behavior Analysis (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2032.
ABAI-Recognized Programs
- M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis. Recognition through December 31, 2027.
Minnesota
ABAI-Accredited Programs
- MS in Applied Behavior Analysis (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2031.
- MS in Applied Behavior Analysis (online). Accredited through December 31, 2031.
ABAI-Recognized Programs
University of Minnesota, Twin Cities
- M.A. in Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis (On-Campus). Recognition through December 31, 2028.
Mississippi
No ABAI-accredited or ABAI-recognized ABA program is based in Mississippi as of August 2026. Six accredited programs are delivered fully online and don’t care where you live: St. Cloud State University (accredited through 2031), Ohio State University, the University of Kansas and Simmons University (all through 2030), and The Chicago School and Regis College (both through 2027). Recognized online programs include the University of Alabama in Huntsville, Daemen University, SUNY Downstate, the University of Oregon, and the University of Washington. Any Mississippi programs currently applying to ABAI appear in the application pipeline table below.
Missouri
ABAI-Accredited Programs
University of Missouri, Columbia
- MS in Applied Behavior Analysis (hybrid). Accredited through December 31, 2027.
ABAI-Recognized Programs
- M.A. in Applied Behavior Analysis. Recognition through December 31, 2027.
Montana
ABAI-Accredited Programs
Montana State University Billings
- MS in Special Education, Advanced Studies, Applied Behavior Analysis (online). Accredited through December 31, 2026. On moratorium and not accepting new students since April 24, 2024. ABAI extended accreditation for the moratorium’s duration so enrolled students finish under an accredited program, but the program is closed to new applicants. The graduate ABA certificate is also on moratorium.
Nebraska
ABAI-Accredited Programs
- PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2031.
Nevada
ABAI-Accredited Programs
- PhD in Behavior Analysis (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2027.
- MS in Behavior Analysis (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2027.
- MS in Behavior Analysis, Global Institute for Behavior Analysis (online) Re-accreditation deferred. ABAI voted in 2026 to defer for one year, citing concerns about fiscal and faculty resources and adherence to thesis-equivalent requirements. The program stays accredited during the deferral, and ABAI publishes no expiry date for it at present.
- BS in Psychology, Behavior Science (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2030.
ABAI-Recognized Programs
- M.Ed. in Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis Sub-Plan (Online). Recognition through December 31, 2028.
New Hampshire
No ABAI-accredited or ABAI-recognized ABA program is based in New Hampshire as of August 2026. Six accredited programs are delivered fully online and don’t care where you live: St. Cloud State University (accredited through 2031), Ohio State University, the University of Kansas and Simmons University (all through 2030), and The Chicago School and Regis College (both through 2027). Recognized online programs include the University of Alabama in Huntsville, Daemen University, SUNY Downstate, the University of Oregon, and the University of Washington. Any New Hampshire programs currently applying to ABAI appear in the application pipeline table below.
New Jersey
ABAI-Accredited Programs
- PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2029.
- MA in Applied Behavior Analysis (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2029.
New Mexico
No ABAI-accredited or ABAI-recognized ABA program is based in New Mexico as of August 2026. Six accredited programs are delivered fully online and don’t care where you live: St. Cloud State University (accredited through 2031), Ohio State University, the University of Kansas and Simmons University (all through 2030), and The Chicago School and Regis College (both through 2027). Recognized online programs include the University of Alabama in Huntsville, Daemen University, SUNY Downstate, the University of Oregon, and the University of Washington. Any New Mexico programs currently applying to ABAI appear in the application pipeline table below.
New York
ABAI-Accredited Programs
Teachers College, Columbia University
- PhD in Special Education: Applied Behavior Analysis (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2030.
- MA in Teaching Students with Disabilities: Applied Behavior Analysis (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2030.
ABAI-Recognized Programs
- M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis (Online). Recognition through December 31, 2027.
State University of New York Downstate Health Sciences University
- M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis (Online). Recognition through December 31, 2027. Provisional recognition.
- M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis (On-Campus/Online). Recognition through December 31, 2028. Provisional recognition.
North Carolina
ABAI-Accredited Programs
University of North Carolina Wilmington
- PhD in Psychology with a Concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2028.
- MS in Psychology with a Concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2028.
North Dakota
No ABAI-accredited or ABAI-recognized ABA program is based in North Dakota as of August 2026. Six accredited programs are delivered fully online and don’t care where you live: St. Cloud State University (accredited through 2031), Ohio State University, the University of Kansas and Simmons University (all through 2030), and The Chicago School and Regis College (both through 2027). Recognized online programs include the University of Alabama in Huntsville, Daemen University, SUNY Downstate, the University of Oregon, and the University of Washington. Any North Dakota programs currently applying to ABAI appear in the application pipeline table below.
Ohio
ABAI-Accredited Programs
- PhD in Educational Studies, Special Education – Applied Behavior Analysis (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2030.
- MA in Educational Studies, Special Education – Applied Behavior Analysis (online). Accredited through December 31, 2030.
Oklahoma
No ABAI-accredited or ABAI-recognized ABA program is based in Oklahoma as of August 2026. Six accredited programs are delivered fully online and don’t care where you live: St. Cloud State University (accredited through 2031), Ohio State University, the University of Kansas and Simmons University (all through 2030), and The Chicago School and Regis College (both through 2027). Recognized online programs include the University of Alabama in Huntsville, Daemen University, SUNY Downstate, the University of Oregon, and the University of Washington. Any Oklahoma programs currently applying to ABAI appear in the application pipeline table below.
Oregon
ABAI-Recognized Programs
- M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis (Online). Recognition through December 31, 2028.
Pennsylvania
ABAI-Accredited Programs
Pennsylvania State University, Harrisburg
- M.A. in Applied Behavior Analysis (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2027. Initial accreditation rather than a renewal.
Rhode Island
ABAI-Accredited Programs
- MS in Behavior Analysis (on-campus, evening classes in Newport). Accredited through December 31, 2029.
South Carolina
No ABAI-accredited or ABAI-recognized ABA program is based in South Carolina as of August 2026. Six accredited programs are delivered fully online and don’t care where you live: St. Cloud State University (accredited through 2031), Ohio State University, the University of Kansas and Simmons University (all through 2030), and The Chicago School and Regis College (both through 2027). Recognized online programs include the University of Alabama in Huntsville, Daemen University, SUNY Downstate, the University of Oregon, and the University of Washington. Any South Carolina programs currently applying to ABAI appear in the application pipeline table below.
South Dakota
No ABAI-accredited or ABAI-recognized ABA program is based in South Dakota as of August 2026. Six accredited programs are delivered fully online and don’t care where you live: St. Cloud State University (accredited through 2031), Ohio State University, the University of Kansas and Simmons University (all through 2030), and The Chicago School and Regis College (both through 2027). Recognized online programs include the University of Alabama in Huntsville, Daemen University, SUNY Downstate, the University of Oregon, and the University of Washington. Any South Dakota programs currently applying to ABAI appear in the application pipeline table below.
Tennessee
No ABAI-accredited or ABAI-recognized ABA program is based in Tennessee as of August 2026. Six accredited programs are delivered fully online and don’t care where you live: St. Cloud State University (accredited through 2031), Ohio State University, the University of Kansas and Simmons University (all through 2030), and The Chicago School and Regis College (both through 2027). Recognized online programs include the University of Alabama in Huntsville, Daemen University, SUNY Downstate, the University of Oregon, and the University of Washington. Any Tennessee programs currently applying to ABAI appear in the application pipeline table below.
Texas
ABAI-Accredited Programs
University of Houston, Clear Lake
- MA in Behavior Analysis (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2032.
- MS in Behavior Analysis (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2028.
University of Texas at San Antonio
- MS in Behavior Analysis (on-campus, evening classes at the Downtown Campus). Accredited through December 31, 2028.
Utah
No ABAI-accredited or ABAI-recognized ABA program is based in Utah as of August 2026. Six accredited programs are delivered fully online and don’t care where you live: St. Cloud State University (accredited through 2031), Ohio State University, the University of Kansas and Simmons University (all through 2030), and The Chicago School and Regis College (both through 2027). Recognized online programs include the University of Alabama in Huntsville, Daemen University, SUNY Downstate, the University of Oregon, and the University of Washington. Any Utah programs currently applying to ABAI appear in the application pipeline table below.
Vermont
No ABAI-accredited or ABAI-recognized ABA program is based in Vermont as of August 2026. Six accredited programs are delivered fully online and don’t care where you live: St. Cloud State University (accredited through 2031), Ohio State University, the University of Kansas and Simmons University (all through 2030), and The Chicago School and Regis College (both through 2027). Recognized online programs include the University of Alabama in Huntsville, Daemen University, SUNY Downstate, the University of Oregon, and the University of Washington. Any Vermont programs currently applying to ABAI appear in the application pipeline table below.
Virginia
ABAI-Recognized Programs
- M.A. in Psychological Sciences, Concentration in Behavior Analysis. Recognition through December 31, 2028.
Washington
ABAI-Recognized Programs
- M.Ed. in Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis (On-Campus). Recognition through December 31, 2027.
- M.Ed. in Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis (Online). Recognition through December 31, 2027.
West Virginia
ABAI-Accredited Programs
- Ph.D. in Psychology with a Specialization in Behavior Analysis (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2031.
- MS in Psychology: Behavior Analysis (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2030. Open only to students already admitted to the accredited doctoral program, so you can’t apply to it directly.
- Undergraduate Certificate in Behavior Analysis (on-campus). Accredited through December 31, 2030.
Wisconsin
No ABAI-accredited or ABAI-recognized ABA program is based in Wisconsin as of August 2026. Six accredited programs are delivered fully online and don’t care where you live: St. Cloud State University (accredited through 2031), Ohio State University, the University of Kansas and Simmons University (all through 2030), and The Chicago School and Regis College (both through 2027). Recognized online programs include the University of Alabama in Huntsville, Daemen University, SUNY Downstate, the University of Oregon, and the University of Washington. Any Wisconsin programs currently applying to ABAI appear in the application pipeline table below.
Wyoming
No ABAI-accredited or ABAI-recognized ABA program is based in Wyoming as of August 2026. Six accredited programs are delivered fully online and don’t care where you live: St. Cloud State University (accredited through 2031), Ohio State University, the University of Kansas and Simmons University (all through 2030), and The Chicago School and Regis College (both through 2027). Recognized online programs include the University of Alabama in Huntsville, Daemen University, SUNY Downstate, the University of Oregon, and the University of Washington. Any Wyoming programs currently applying to ABAI appear in the application pipeline table below.
Programs in ABAI’s Application Pipeline
Here’s every US program currently somewhere in ABAI’s accreditation or recognition queue, as of August 2026. None of these satisfies Pathway 1 today. ABAI states plainly that eligibility doesn’t denote recognition or accredited status, and that a program under review for initial recognition isn’t recognized until a decision lands. For a student choosing right now, a program in this table and a program that never applied are in the same position. Both leave you on Pathway 2 attestation.
We list them because they’re useful for planning, not because they qualify. Statuses change often, so check ABAI’s own directory before you rely on any row here.
Eligible to apply means ABAI found the program eligible to submit an application. Under review means the application is in the review or site-visit process, or awaiting a Board decision.
| Institution | State | Program | Level | Seeking | Status | Applied |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| California State University, Fresno | CA | M.A. in Applied Behavior Analysis | Master’s | Accreditation | Under review | Jan 2026 |
| The Chicago School, SoCal Campus | CA | M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis (hybrid) | Master’s | Accreditation | Under review | May 2026 |
| The Chicago School, DC Campus | DC | M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis (hybrid) | Master’s | Accreditation | Under review | May 2026 |
| Savannah State University | GA | Behavior Analysis | Bachelor’s | Accreditation | Eligible to apply | Jun 2019 |
| University of Massachusetts Lowell | MA | M.S. in ABA and Autism Studies, ABA Option (hybrid) | Master’s | Accreditation | Under review | Feb 2026 |
| Western New England University | MA | M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis | Master’s | Accreditation | Eligible to apply | Feb 2026 |
| Saint Louis University | MO | M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis | Master’s | Accreditation | Eligible to apply | Jul 2026 |
| Rowan University | NJ | M.A. in Applied Behavior Analysis | Master’s | Accreditation | Eligible to apply | Feb 2023 |
| Hunter College | NY | M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis (hybrid) | Master’s | Accreditation | Under review | Mar 2026 |
| University of North Carolina Wilmington | NC | Undergraduate Concentration in Behavior Analysis | Bachelor’s | Accreditation | Eligible to apply | Jun 2025 |
| Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine | PA | M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis (hybrid) | Master’s | Accreditation | Under review | Jun 2026 |
| Temple University | PA | M.Ed. in Applied Behavior Analysis | Master’s | Accreditation | Under review | Apr 2026 |
| Middle Tennessee State University | TN | M.A. in Psychology, Applied Research and Methodology | Master’s | Accreditation | Eligible to apply | Jun 2026 |
| Texas State University | TX | M.Ed. in Special Education, Concentration in ABA | Master’s | Accreditation | Eligible to apply | Apr 2022 |
| University of Alaska Anchorage | AK | Undergraduate Minor in Psychology | Bachelor’s | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Jan 2024 |
| Arizona State University | AZ | M.S. in Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis | Master’s | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Sep 2025 |
| University of Colorado Denver | CO | M.A. in Special Education, Concentration in ABA | Master’s | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Sep 2025 |
| University of Saint Joseph | CT | M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis | Master’s | Recognition | Under review | Dec 2025 |
| Florida National University | FL | B.S. in Psychology with a Concentration in ABA | Bachelor’s | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Jan 2026 |
| Jose Maria Vargas University | FL | M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis | Master’s | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Jul 2026 |
| Miami Regional University | FL | B.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis | Bachelor’s | Recognition | Eligible to apply | May 2025 |
| University of South Florida | FL | M.A. in Applied Behavior Analysis (online) | Master’s | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Apr 2025 |
| University of West Florida | FL | M.S. in Behavior Analysis | Master’s | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Dec 2025 |
| University of Georgia | GA | M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis | Master’s | Recognition | Under review | Oct 2025 |
| Dordt University | IA | M.Ed. in Special Education, Specialization in ABA | Master’s | Recognition | Under review | May 2025 |
| Loyola University Chicago | IL | M.Ed. in Applied Behavior Analysis | Master’s | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Jan 2026 |
| Northern Illinois University | IL | M.S. in Education, Specializing in Behavior Analysis | Master’s | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Jan 2024 |
| Purdue University | IN | M.S.Ed. in Applied Behavior Analysis | Master’s | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Jan 2026 |
| Purdue University | IN | M.S.Ed. in Applied Behavior Analysis (online) | Master’s | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Jan 2026 |
| Eastern Kentucky University | KY | M.S. in General Psychology, ABA Concentration | Master’s | Recognition | Under review | Dec 2024 |
| Westfield State University | MA | M.A. in Applied Behavior Analysis | Master’s | Recognition | Under review | Aug 2026 |
| Eastern Michigan University | MI | M.S. in Psychology, Clinical Behavioral | Master’s | Recognition | Under review | Mar 2026 |
| Oakland University | MI | M.Ed. in Special Education, Concentration in ABA | Master’s | Recognition | Under review | Sep 2025 |
| University of Michigan Dearborn | MI | M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis | Master’s | Recognition | Under review | Dec 2025 |
| Capella University | MN | M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis | Master’s | Recognition | Under review | Mar 2026 |
| Truman State University | MO | M.A. in Disability Studies, Applied Behavior Analysis | Master’s | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Oct 2025 |
| Washington University in St. Louis | MO | M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis | Master’s | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Feb 2026 |
| University of North Carolina Charlotte | NC | M.Ed. in Special Education and Child Development, ABA | Master’s | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Jan 2026 |
| University of North Dakota | ND | M.S. in Special Education with ABA Emphasis | Master’s | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Aug 2022 |
| University of Nebraska Omaha / UNMC Munroe-Meyer Institute | NE | M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis | Master’s | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Jan 2023 |
| Georgian Court University | NJ | M.A. in Behavior Analysis | Master’s | Recognition | Under review | Sep 2024 |
| University of New Mexico | NM | M.A. in Special Education, Concentration in Behavior Analysis | Master’s | Recognition | Under review | Jun 2026 |
| University of Nevada, Las Vegas | NV | M.Ed. in Special Education with an Emphasis in ABA | Master’s | Recognition | Under review | Dec 2025 |
| University of Nevada, Reno | NV | Global Institute for Behavior Analysis, graduate course sequence | Graduate non-degree | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Sep 2022 |
| University of Nevada, Reno | NV | Global Institute for Behavior Analysis, undergraduate course sequence | Undergraduate non-degree | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Sep 2022 |
| Long Island University (Post Campus) | NY | M.A. in Behavior Analysis | Master’s | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Mar 2022 |
| Russell Sage College | NY | M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism | Master’s | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Nov 2022 |
| St. Joseph’s University, New York | NY | M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis | Master’s | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Oct 2025 |
| SUNY Buffalo State University | NY | M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis | Master’s | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Mar 2026 |
| SUNY Upstate Medical University | NY | M.S. in Behavior Analysis Studies | Master’s | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Jan 2026 |
| John Carroll University | OH | M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis | Master’s | Recognition | Under review | Jun 2026 |
| University of Central Oklahoma | OK | M.S. in Behavior Analysis | Master’s | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Mar 2026 |
| Arcadia University | PA | M.Ed. in Applied Behavior Analysis | Master’s | Recognition | Eligible to apply | May 2022 |
| Arcadia University | PA | Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis | Graduate non-degree | Recognition | Eligible to apply | May 2022 |
| Drexel University | PA | M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis (online) | Master’s | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Apr 2025 |
| Mercyhurst University | PA | M.S. in Special Education, Concentration in ABA | Master’s | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Jun 2025 |
| Slippery Rock University | PA | M.Ed. in Special Education with a Concentration in ABA | Master’s | Recognition | Under review | Aug 2024 |
| Augustana University | SD | M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis | Master’s | Recognition | Under review | Feb 2026 |
| Lipscomb University | TN | M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis | Master’s | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Jul 2022 |
| Tennessee Technological University | TN | M.A. in Curriculum and Instruction, Concentration in ABA | Master’s | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Apr 2024 |
| Tennessee Technological University | TN | Ed.S. in Curriculum and Instruction, Concentration in ABA | Graduate equivalent | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Apr 2024 |
| University of Memphis | TN | M.S. in Instruction and Curriculum Leadership, Concentration in ABA | Master’s | Recognition | Under review | Nov 2025 |
| University of Memphis | TN | Ed.D. in Applied Behavior Analysis | Doctoral | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Apr 2025 |
| University of Houston, Victoria | TX | M.Ed. in Special Education, Concentration in ABA | Master’s | Recognition | Under review | Jan 2025 |
| University of Utah | UT | M.Ed. in Special Education with an Emphasis in ABA | Master’s | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Aug 2025 |
| University of Utah | UT | M.S. in Special Education with an Emphasis in ABA | Master’s | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Aug 2025 |
| Utah Valley University | UT | M.Ed. in Applied Behavior Analysis | Master’s | Recognition | Eligible to apply | Apr 2023 |
| George Mason University | VA | M.Ed. in Special Education with a Concentration in Behavior Analysis | Master’s | Recognition | Under review | Jul 2026 |
| Shenandoah University | VA | M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis | Master’s | Recognition | Eligible to apply | May 2024 |
| Purdue University Global | IN | B.S. in Psychology in Applied Behavior Analysis (online) | Bachelor’s | Recognition | Self-reported as pursuing, not listed by ABAI | — |
| Purdue University Global | IN | M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis (online) | Master’s | Recognition | Self-reported as pursuing, not listed by ABAI | — |
A note on the last two rows. Purdue University Global states on its own program pages that both its bachelor’s and master’s in applied behavior analysis are pursuing recognition through ABAI’s Tiered Model, and adds that pursuit of recognition doesn’t denote recognition status. Neither program appears in ABAI’s public list of recognition applications as of August 2026. Purdue Global is a separate institution from Purdue University in West Lafayette, which does appear above.
Frequently Asked Questions
What replaced the Verified Course Sequence?
Two different things, depending on which pathway you use. Under Pathway 1, accreditation or recognition does the work: your degree from a qualifying program satisfies both the degree and coursework requirements on its own. Under Pathway 2, your university’s designated Program Contact reviews your records and submits a Coursework Attestation to the BACB after you finish. The old course-by-course review against a published VCS list no longer exists for new applications.
Does ABAI accreditation expire, and does that affect me?
Yes, and it can. ABAI grants accreditation for a set term, usually three to seven years, and programs reapply before it lapses. What matters for you is that the BACB requires your transcript to show your degree was conferred during a period when the program was accredited. Most programs renew without incident, but if a program’s current term ends partway through your studies, that’s a fair question to put to the program director before you enrol. We’ve listed every current expiry date above so you can ask it.
Can I still become a BCBA through a program that isn’t accredited?
Until December 31, 2031, yes, through Pathway 2. Your program needs an authorized Pathway 2 Program Contact who can attest that your coursework meets the requirements. Plenty of strong programs operate this way and there’s nothing second-rate about them. From January 1, 2032, that route closes and only degrees from ABAI-accredited or APBA-accredited programs will qualify.
Are there accredited ABA programs I can do entirely online?
Six, as of August 2026: St. Cloud State University, Ohio State University, the University of Kansas, Simmons University, The Chicago School, and Regis College. Several ABAI-recognized programs are online too. One caution worth taking seriously: accreditation is format-specific, so a university’s online program isn’t automatically covered by its on-campus accreditation. Several universities on this page hold one and not the other. Check that the specific format you’re enrolling in is the accredited one, and confirm the program can enrol students in your state.
What actually changes in 2032?
Pathway 1 becomes the only route to BCBA certification, and the bar rises within it. Right now, ABAI accreditation, ABAI recognition at Tier 2a or 2b, and APBA accreditation all satisfy Pathway 1. From January 1, 2032, only accredited programs count. Recognition alone won’t be enough. If you’re starting a degree now you’ll almost certainly apply well before then, but it’s the reason accreditation is the more durable choice.
Key Takeaways
- The VCS is gone. ABAI discontinued it on December 31, 2025. If you hold a VCS Coordinator Coursework Attestation submitted before that date, you can still use it through December 31, 2026.
- Pathway 1 has three routes, not one. ABAI accreditation, ABAI recognition, and APBA accreditation all qualify. APBA opened applications in January 2026 and hasn’t accredited any programs yet, so every program listed here reaches Pathway 1 through ABAI.
- Four pathways are open in 2026. Pathways 3 and 4 are discontinued on January 1, 2027, and Pathway 2 runs until December 31, 2031.
- Accreditation and recognition aren’t the same thing. Both satisfy Pathway 1 today. Only accreditation survives the January 1, 2032 change.
- Accreditation is program-specific and format-specific. A university can hold it for the on-campus degree and not the online one. Several on this page do.
- Your degree has to be conferred while the program is accredited. That’s why every expiry date is listed above.
- Twenty-one states and DC have no qualifying program based in them. Six accredited programs run fully online, so location doesn’t have to decide it for you.
- A pending application confers nothing. Sixty-nine US programs sit in ABAI’s accreditation or recognition queues. None of them satisfies Pathway 1 today.
Ready to find the right ABA program for you? Compare accredited and recognized programs by state, format, and degree level, then check which ones are open to students where you live.
