Explore The Top Online ABA Degrees of 2025
ABA Degrees Online – Qualify to Become a BCBA® or BCaBA® On Your Own Schedule
Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
BS, MS and Grad Cert in Applied Behavior Analysis
MS in Applied Behavior Analysis
M.S. in Behavior Analysis
PROS
The only option on our list with BCaBA® preparation Fully 95% of graduates find employment or continue to a master’s program within 18 months A 3-week trial period lets you attend class at no cost and with no obligation Optional internship placement gives you a head-start on real-world practice experience Hosts student organizations like the Psychology Club and Autism Speaks UCONS
A big-name university that comes with higher tuition costs Admission can be denied on the basis of your Career Outcomes Survey
PROS
Faculty drawn from a range of disciplines in cognitive science and psychology Develops tools in creating and applying behavior intervention plans based on best practices 24/7 tech support and online tutorials for the learning management system School is ranked 2nd in the U.S. for employability of graduates among public universitiesCONS
No options for curriculum customization in ABA certificate Required organizational behavior management course not applicable to all areas of ABA practicePROS
12 to 1 student to faculty ratio One-to-one career advising through the Career Center Access to an alumni network of more than 20000 Flexible access on mobile - tablet - or desktop devices Offers clinical placement support No GRE requirement for admissionCONS
Costs are relatively high compared to other online ABA options Some synchronous course requirements reduce flexibility
PROS
Only fully-accredited program on the list No GRE required for admissions 9 to 1 student/faculty ratio Program may be completed in as little as 20 months Includes experiential learning componentCONS
Campus program BCBA® exam pass rate is 84% compared to 74% for graduates of the online program As an ABAI-accredited program it may be more expensive than other optionsWhy Choose an Online ABA Degree Over a Campus-Based Option?
Applied Behavior Analysis is a growing field with applications in autism treatment, education, corporate training, and behavioral health. An ABA degree online makes it accessible to pursue the education you need to earn BCBA® or BCaBA® certification on your schedule.
Key Benefits:
- Flexible Learning – Study at your own pace while balancing work and family commitments
- Accredited Programs – Access ABAI-verified course sequences that meet BACB® requirements
- Career Advancement – Gain credentials for independent practice and leadership roles
What to Consider When Selecting Online ABA Programs
Choosing the right online ABA program is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in your career journey. Not all programs are created equal, and the differences can significantly impact your educational experience, certification timeline, and career prospects. Here’s an in-depth look at what you need to evaluate:
1. BACB Alignment and Verification Status
The Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB®) maintains strict standards for coursework that qualifies graduates to sit for certification exams. Here’s what you need to know:
ABAI-Verified Course Sequences: The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) verifies course sequences that meet BACB® standards. This verification is your assurance that the program’s curriculum aligns with current certification requirements. Always verify that a program appears on the ABAI website’s verified course sequence list before enrolling.
Fifth Edition Task List Alignment: As of January 1, 2022, the BACB® requires coursework to align with the Fifth Edition Task List for BCBA® and BCaBA® certification. Your program must teach to these current standards. Older programs that haven’t updated their curriculum may leave gaps in your knowledge that become apparent during the certification exam.
Coursework Requirements: For BCBA® certification, you’ll need to complete specific graduate-level courses, including:
- Foundations of behavior analysis
- Concepts and principles of behavior analysis
- Experimental design and research methods
- Ethics for behavior analysts
- Specialized applications courses
Some programs bundle these into comprehensive courses, while others offer them separately. Understand how your program structures these requirements and whether the sequence allows you to begin supervised fieldwork early in your studies.
2. Supervised Fieldwork and Practicum Support
This is often the most challenging aspect of online ABA programs, and insufficient support here can significantly delay your certification:
Understanding the Hour Requirements:
- BCBA® requires 2,000 hours of supervised independent fieldwork or 1,500 hours of concentrated fieldwork, both of which must be completed over a minimum of 12 months
- BCaBA® requires 1,300 hours of supervised fieldwork OR 1,000 hours of focused supervision
Finding Qualified Supervisors: You’ll need supervision from a qualified BCBA® who meets BACB® supervisor requirements. The best online ABA programs offer:
- Extensive networks of pre-approved supervisors across multiple states
- Placement assistance services that connect you with fieldwork sites
- Resources for students who need to secure supervision independently
- Group supervision options that reduce costs while meeting requirements
Questions to Ask Programs:
- How many students successfully secure supervision within 3 months of starting fieldwork?
- Do you have established relationships with agencies in my state?
- What happens if I can’t find a supervisor? Do you provide backup options?
- Are there additional fees for practicum placement services?
- Do you offer any supervision directly through the program?
Fieldwork Site Requirements: Your supervision must occur in a setting where you’re implementing behavior-analytic services. Common sites include autism treatment centers, schools, clinics, hospitals, or private practices. Some programs have partnerships with national ABA provider chains, which can simplify placement significantly.
3. Program Format and Time Commitment
The structure of your online ABA program will directly impact your ability to balance education with work and life responsibilities:
Synchronous vs. Asynchronous Learning:
- Synchronous programs require attendance at scheduled online class sessions. This provides real-time interaction with faculty and peers but demands schedule flexibility. Typical evening or weekend sessions are designed to accommodate working professionals.
- Asynchronous programs allow you to complete coursework on your own schedule within weekly or module-based deadlines. This offers maximum flexibility but requires strong self-discipline and time management.
- Hybrid formats combine both approaches, often with recorded lectures plus occasional live sessions for discussion or case consultations.
Full-Time vs. Part-Time Tracks:
- Full-time programs: Typically 2 years for a master’s degree, with 9-12 credits per semester. Expect 20-30 hours of coursework and fieldwork per week.
- Part-time programs: Usually 3-4 years to complete, with 3-6 credits per semester. More manageable alongside full-time employment, but it extends your timeline to certification.
Cohort vs. Rolling Enrollment: Cohort models enroll all students together and progress through coursework as a group, fostering community but offering less flexibility. Rolling enrollment allows you to start at multiple points throughout the year and take breaks if needed, but you may feel more isolated.
Realistic Time Investment: Plan for approximately 10 hours of study per week per 3-credit course. Add 10-20 hours of supervised fieldwork per week. Many students underestimate this commitment, so it is essential to discuss expectations with your employer and family before starting.
4. Faculty Credentials and Support
Your faculty’s expertise and accessibility significantly impact your learning experience:
Look for:
- Credentialed faculty: Professors who hold BCBA-D® (doctoral-level behavior analyst) certification bring both academic rigor and real-world practice experience
- Active practitioners: Faculty who maintain active clinical practices stay current with field developments and can share relevant case examples
- Research productivity: Faculty who publish in peer-reviewed journals contribute to the field and expose students to cutting-edge developments
- Teaching experience in online formats: Not all excellent clinicians are excellent online educators – look for faculty trained in distance education pedagogy
Student Support Services:
- What are typical response times to student questions?
- Are office hours available via video conference?
- Do you offer academic advising tailored explicitly to online students?
- Is there tutoring or supplemental instruction available?
- What technical support is provided for online platform issues?
5. Accreditation and Program Quality Indicators
Regional Accreditation: Ensure the university holds regional accreditation from recognized bodies, such as WASC, HLC, SACSCOC, or MSCHE. This affects your ability to:
- Transfer credits to other institutions
- Qualify for federal financial aid
- Meet employer education requirements
- Pursue doctoral studies later
Programmatic Accreditation: Although not required, some ABA programs pursue specialized accreditation from ABAI or similar organizations. This provides an additional quality benchmark.
BACB® Exam Pass Rates: Request first-time pass rates for the last 3 years. According to BACB® published data, average pass rates for first-time BCBA® exam takers from verified programs are typically in the 75-90% range. Be cautious of programs that won’t share this data or have rates below 60%.
Graduate Outcomes:
- What percentage of graduates complete certification within 6 months of graduation?
- What percentage of secure employment in behavior analysis can be achieved within 12 months?
- Do alums work in diverse settings or primarily in one type of organization?
6. Cost, Financial Aid, and Return on Investment
Understanding Total Costs: Tuition is just one component of the overall cost. Consider:
- Per-credit costs: Master’s programs range from $400 to $1,200 per credit hour—a typical 60-credit program costs between $24,000 and $72,000 in tuition alone.
- Fees: Technology fees, practicum fees, graduation fees, and other charges can add $2,000-$5,000 to total costs
- Supervision costs: If your employer doesn’t provide free supervision, expect $75-$150 per supervision hour. With 2,000 fieldwork hours requiring approximately 150-250 supervision hours, this can cost roughly $11,250 to $22,500, depending on the hourly supervision fee and required hours
- Exam and certification fees: BCBA® exam application costs $245, and certification renewal every two years costs $215
- Books and materials: Budget $500-$1,500 over the program duration
Financial Aid Options:
- Federal aid: Complete the FAFSA to access federal loans, grants (for eligible students), and work-study
- Employer tuition benefits: Many ABA providers and schools offer tuition reimbursement or assistance for employees pursuing certification
- Scholarships: Look for ABA-specific scholarships from organizations like ABAI, state behavior analysis associations, and the program itself
- Graduate assistantships: Some online programs offer remote research or teaching assistantships that include tuition waivers
- Payment plans: Most schools offer interest-free monthly payment plans that improve cash flow
ROI Considerations: BCBA®s earn median salaries of $65,000 to $85,000, depending on the region and experience, with significant growth potential. BCaBA®s typically earn between $40,000 and $55,000. Consider your debt-to-income ratio when selecting programs – aim to keep total educational debt below 1.5 times your expected starting salary.
7. Program Flexibility and Life Circumstances
Leave of Absence Policies: Life happens. Understand the program’s policies for:
- Taking a semester off without withdrawing
- Medical or family leave accommodations
- How long can you remain enrolled without continuous attendance
- Whether the fieldwork hours earned before a leave remain valid
Transfer Credit Options: If you’ve completed relevant graduate coursework elsewhere, many programs accept up to 6-12 transfer credits, potentially saving time and money. Ensure the program evaluates transfer credits before enrollment.
Multiple Specialization Tracks: Some programs offer concentrations in specific populations (e.g., autism, developmental disabilities, organizational behavior) or settings (e.g., schools, clinical, research). Consider whether specialized training aligns with your career goals.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online ABA Degrees
What types of online ABA degrees are available, and which one is right for me?
The pathway you choose depends on your current educational level, career goals, and the BACB certification you’re pursuing. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown:
Master’s Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis (MA or MS in ABA): This is the most common pathway to BCBA® certification. These programs typically require 45-60 graduate credits, completed over 2-3 years, and include both coursework and supervised fieldwork. You’ll need a bachelor’s degree in any field to apply, though some programs require specific prerequisite courses in psychology or statistics. This is your only option if you don’t already have a master’s degree and want to become a BCBA®.
Master’s Degree in Psychology with ABA Emphasis: Some programs offer master’s degrees in psychology, education, or related fields that embed the required ABA coursework within a broader curriculum. These can be ideal if you want flexibility in your career options or may work in settings that prefer a psychology degree. Ensure the ABA coursework is ABAI-verified.
Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis: If you already have a master’s or doctoral degree in psychology, education, social work, or a related field, you can add ABA credentials through a graduate certificate. These programs typically consist of 18-24 credits and last 1-2 years. This is the most cost-effective option for professionals who already have advanced degrees but need the specific coursework for BCBA® eligibility. Note: Your existing degree must meet BACB® requirements for coursework at the graduate level.
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate for BCaBA®: These programs are designed for students with bachelor’s degrees who want to become Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analysts. BCaBA®s work under BCBA® supervision and have a more limited scope of practice. This can be a good entry point into the field if you’re unsure about committing to a master’s program, as many BCaBA®s later pursue BCBA® certification. Programs typically require 135-180 hours of coursework plus supervised fieldwork.
PhD or PsyD with an ABA Concentration: For those interested in research, academia, or clinical psychology with a focus on ABA expertise, doctoral programs are available. These are typically 4-7 years and prepare you for BCBA-D® certification, the highest credential in the field.
Choosing Your Path:
- If you have no graduate degree and want to practice independently → Master’s in ABA
- If you have a master’s in a related field → Graduate Certificate
- If you want to enter the field quickly with a bachelor’s degree and then pursue a master’s degree later, consider obtaining a BCaBA® Certificate.
- If you want to conduct research or teach at the university level → PhD/PsyD
How do online ABA courses compare to on-campus programs in terms of quality and outcomes?
This is one of the most common concerns for prospective students, and the research provides reassuring answers:
Academic Rigor and Curriculum: Online ABA degree programs adhere to the exact BACB coursework requirements as on-campus programs. They must cover the same content areas, meet the same verification standards, and prepare students for the same certification exams. The modality differs, but the learning objectives remain the same.
Learning Outcomes: Multiple studies comparing online and traditional graduate education show no significant differences in knowledge acquisition, critical thinking skills, or professional competency when programs are well-designed. Many online ABA programs report BCBA® exam pass rates comparable to or exceeding their on-campus counterparts (typically 75-90% first-attempt pass rates).
What’s Different (and What’s Not):
- Lecture delivery: Online programs utilize video lectures, interactive modules, and discussion boards, rather than physical classrooms. Most students find they can pause, rewind, and review content more easily online.
- Practical skills training: Both formats require hands-on supervised fieldwork in real clinical settings. You’ll complete the same number of supervised hours regardless of whether your coursework is online or in-person.
- Faculty interaction: Online programs offer office hours via video conference, email communication, and discussion forums. Some students report more access to professors online than they experienced in large on-campus programs.
- Peer collaboration: Online programs utilize breakout rooms, group projects, and discussion boards to facilitate peer interaction. While different from in-person socialization, many students develop strong professional networks through online programs.
Potential Advantages of Online ABA Degree Programs:
- Access to specialized faculty regardless of geography
- Ability to complete fieldwork in your home community, where you may have established professional relationships
- Learning with diverse cohorts from across the country/world
- The development of technology skills is increasingly important in modern practice
- Ability to continue working full-time during your studies
Potential Challenges:
- Requires strong self-motivation and time management
- Need reliable internet access and appropriate technology
- May feel isolated if you don’t actively engage with the cohort
- Securing local supervision can be challenging in rural areas without program support
Employer and Certification Board Perspective: The BACB® does not require disclosure of course modality (online vs. on-campus) for eligibility, but transcripts must reflect BACB®-verified content regardless of format. Employers are increasingly recognizing online degrees as equivalent to traditional programs, especially those from well-established universities.
Can I work full-time while earning my ABA degree online?
Yes, most online ABA students work while studying, but success requires realistic planning:
The Reality of Balancing Work and Study in Your Online ABA Program:
The majority of online ABA students work full-time during their studies – this is actually one of the primary reasons people choose online programs. However, your experience will vary significantly based on:
- Your job’s flexibility: If you work in an ABA-related role (RBT®, teacher, therapist), you may be able to count some work hours toward fieldwork requirements, dramatically improving feasibility. If your job is unrelated to ABA, you’ll need to add 10-20 hours of fieldwork weekly on top of your work and coursework.
- Part-time vs. full-time enrollment: Full-time graduate programs (9+ credits per semester) typically require 25-35 hours of coursework and fieldwork per week. Most working professionals choose part-time enrollment (3-6 credits), which extends their program to 3-4 years, making the weekly commitment manageable (15-20 hours for everything combined).
- Program structure: Asynchronous programs offer more flexibility to study during evenings, weekends, or breaks. Synchronous programs with scheduled class times may conflict with work schedules.
- Employer support: Some employers offer schedule flexibility, tuition reimbursement, or on-the-job supervision that makes combining work and school much easier.
Realistic Time Commitments in an Online ABA Program:
- One 3-credit course: 10-15 hours per week for readings, assignments, and participation
- Two 3-credit courses: 20-25 hours per week
- Supervised fieldwork: Minimum 10-20 hours per week (can often overlap with work for those in ABA positions)
- Exam preparation: Add 10+ hours weekly in the months before the BCBA® exam
Strategies for Success in Your ABA Degree Online:
- Front-load your weekends: Many working students dedicate Saturday mornings or Sunday afternoons to intensive study
- Use lunch breaks: Watch lectures or complete readings during work breaks
- Negotiate with employers: Some employers allow employees to dedicate work time to studies, primarily if obtaining BCBA® certification benefits the organization
- Build in buffer time: Start programs when work is less demanding, not during busy seasons
- Create a family support plan: Discuss expectations with family about reduced availability during high-stress periods (finals, major projects)
- Take breaks when needed: It’s better to take a semester off than to fail courses or burn out
When Working Full-Time May Not Be Advisable:
- You’re in a demanding job with frequent overtime or travel
- Your work is unrelated to ABA, and you’ll need to find separate fieldwork placements
- You’re also managing significant family responsibilities (young children, caretaking)
- You’ve historically struggled with time management or self-directed learning
In these cases, consider part-time work, scaling back to part-time enrollment, or taking an education leave if financially feasible.
What’s the difference between BCBA® and BCaBA® certification, and how does it affect my program choice?
Understanding these two credentials is essential for choosing the right educational pathway:
BCBA® (Board Certified Behavior Analyst):
- Education Required: Master’s degree or higher in behavior analysis, education, or psychology with verified coursework meeting BACB® requirements
- Supervised Experience: 2,000 hours of independent fieldwork OR 1,500 hours of concentrated fieldwork, both requiring a minimum of 12 months to complete
- Scope of Practice: Can practice independently, design behavior intervention plans, supervise BCaBA®s and RBT®s, and operate private practices
- Average Salary: $65,000-$85,000 (varies significantly by region and experience)
- Career Ceiling: Can advance to clinical director, program director, or executive positions; can start consulting businesses
- Timeline: Typically 2.5-4 years from bachelor’s degree to certification
BCaBA® (Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst):
- Education Required: Bachelor’s degree with verified coursework meeting BACB® requirements (can be completed through a post-baccalaureate certificate)
- Supervised Experience: 1,300 hours of supervised fieldwork OR 1,000 hours of concentrated supervision
- Scope of Practice: Must work under BCBA® supervision; can implement behavior plans but cannot design them independently; cannot supervise other BCaBA®s
- Average Salary: $40,000-$55,000
- Career Ceiling: Limited to practitioner roles; advancement requires obtaining BCBA®
- Timeline: Typically 1-2 years from bachelor’s degree to certification
How This Affects Program Selection:
If you’re pursuing BCBA®, you need:
- A master’s degree program (MA/MS in ABA or related field with verified coursework), OR
- A graduate certificate if you already have a qualifying master’s/doctoral degree
If you’re pursuing BCaBA®, you need:
- A bachelor’s degree (in any field), PLUS
- Verified ABA coursework (typically through a post-baccalaureate certificate program)
The BCaBA®-to-BCBA® Pipeline:
Many professionals start as BCaBA®s and later pursue BCBA® certification. This staged approach has advantages:
- Enter the field and start earning sooner (1-2 years vs. 3-4 years)
- Test whether you enjoy ABA work before committing to a master’s degree
- Work as a BCaBA® while completing your master’s (many employers offer tuition assistance)
- Some fieldwork hours from BCaBA® certification may count toward BCBA® requirements
However, consider:
- You’ll eventually need to complete a master’s degree for BCBA®, which means more total time and money invested in education
- BCaBA® scope of practice is limited – you can’t practice independently or advance to leadership without BCBA®
- If you’re sure about an ABA career and can commit to the complete master’s program, going directly to BCBA® is more efficient.
Career Considerations:
BCBA® certification offers significantly greater career flexibility, earning potential, and advancement opportunities. However, BCaBA® can be an excellent entry point if you:
- Are uncertain whether ABA is the right career fit
- Need to start earning quickly and can’t dedicate 2-3 years to full graduate studies
- Work for an employer who will support your later pursuit of BCBA® while employed as a BCaBA®
- Want to work in the field while raising young children or managing other significant life commitments, then pursue BCBA® later.
How long does it take to complete an online ABA degree and become certified?
The timeline varies significantly based on your starting point, enrollment status, and the rate at which you complete fieldwork. Here’s what to expect:
For BCBA® Certification Starting with a Bachelor’s Degree:
Full-Time Path (2.5-3 years total):
- Year 1: Complete 24-30 graduate credits of coursework, begin supervised fieldwork
- Year 2: Complete the remaining 24-30 credits, continue accumulating fieldwork hours
- Months 25-30: Finish final fieldwork hours if needed, prepare for exam
- Month 30-36: Pass BCBA® exam and apply for certification
Part-Time Path (3.5-5 years total):
- Years 1-3: Complete 6-9 credits per year while working, and accumulate fieldwork hours simultaneously
- Year 4: Finish coursework and complete remaining fieldwork hours
- Year 4-5: Exam preparation and certification
Accelerated Path (2-2.5 years if starting fieldwork early): Some programs allow students to begin supervised fieldwork after completing introductory coursework, but BACB® rules require concurrent enrollment in or completion of qualifying coursework during fieldwork. If you can complete fieldwork hours while finishing coursework, you may finish the entire process in as little as 24-30 months.
For BCBA® Certification with an Existing Master’s Degree (Graduate Certificate):
18-30 months:
- Months 1-12: Complete required ABA graduate certificate coursework (18-24 credits)
- Months 1-24: Simultaneously accumulate 1,500-2,000 supervised fieldwork hours (minimum 12 months required)
- Months 18-30: Pass BCBA® exam
This is the fastest path for those who already have graduate degrees, as you’re adding only the specific ABA coursework rather than completing an entire master’s program.
For BCaBA® Certification:
12-24 months:
- Months 1-12: Complete post-baccalaureate certificate (135-180 hours of coursework)
- Months 1-18: Accumulate 1,000-1,300 supervised fieldwork hours
- Months 12-24: Pass BCaBA® exam
Factors That Speed Up or Slow Down Your Timeline:
Things that accelerate certification:
- Working in an ABA setting where employment hours count toward fieldwork
- Having an employer who provides free supervision
- Programs that allow early fieldwork start
- Taking heavier course loads (if manageable)
- Having flexible work schedules to dedicate more weekly hours to fieldwork
- Passing the BCBA® exam on the first attempt (75-85% do)
Common delays:
- Difficulty finding qualified supervisors (can add 3-6 months to your timeline)
- Needing to retake the BCBA® exam (each attempt requires a 45-90 day waiting period)
- Life events requiring semester breaks or reduced course loads
- Changing programs or having transfer credits not entirely accepted
- Working in non-ABA settings requires separate fieldwork arrangements
- BACB® application processing and verification (allow 4-6 weeks before you can schedule your exam)
Realistic Planning Advice:
When planning your timeline, add 3-6 months as a buffer. Few students complete their tasks within the minimum possible time due to real-world complications. A realistic timeline for someone working full-time and pursuing a BCBA® is 3-4 years, from starting coursework to passing the exam. This isn’t a failure – it’s the norm for working professionals.
Will I be able to secure the necessary supervision hours if I’m studying online?
This is the most significant practical challenge for online ABA students, but it’s absolutely manageable with the right approach and program support:
Understanding Supervision Requirements:
BCBA® candidates need ongoing supervision from a qualified BCBA® throughout their fieldwork. Specifically:
- Independent fieldwork: 2,000 hours over a minimum of 12 months, with at least 5% (100 hours) of supervision, including at least one supervision contact per month
- Concentrated fieldwork: 1,500 hours over a minimum of 12 months, with 10% (150 hours) of supervision, including at least two supervision contacts per month
BCaBA® requirements are proportionally similar. Supervision must include observation of your work, feedback, and case review.
Where Online Students Find Supervision:
1. Current Employer: The ideal scenario is working for an organization that employs BCBA®s who can provide supervision. Common settings include:
- Autism treatment centers and ABA clinics
- School districts (special education departments)
- Hospitals and medical centers
- Residential treatment facilities
- Private practice groups
Approximately 60% of online ABA students secure supervision through current or new employment in ABA-related roles.
2. University Program Networks: Strong online programs maintain relationships with ABA providers nationwide and can facilitate placements. Ask prospective programs:
- How many established supervision sites do you have in my state?
- What percentage of students secure placements through program connections?
- Do you offer supervision matching services?
3. Independent Contracting: You can arrange to contract with a BCBA® for supervision while you volunteer or work in a relevant setting. This typically costs $75-$150 per hour of supervision. Some students find this through:
- Local behavior analysis associations
- BACB® registry of certificants (searchable by location)
- University program alum networks
- Professional networking on LinkedIn or Facebook groups
4. Program-Provided Supervision: A growing number of online programs directly provide remote supervision for students’ local fieldwork activities. This is often the most seamless option.
Strategies for Success in Securing Supervision:
Before starting your program:
- Research ABA providers in your area and their supervision policies
- Connect with local BCBA®s through state behavior analysis associations
- If working in a related field, ask your employer about supervision availability before enrolling
- Choose programs with strong practicum support in your geographic region
Early in your program:
- Begin supervision search during your first semester, not when you’re ready for fieldwork
- Attend your state’s behavior analysis conference to network with potential supervisors
- Consider changing jobs to an organization that provides supervision if your current employer can’t
- Be flexible about fieldwork settings – don’t limit yourself to just one population or setting
If you’re struggling to find supervision:
- Expand your geographic search radius – some students drive 30-60 minutes to fieldwork sites
- Consider volunteering or part-time work to access supervision rather than holding out for paid positions
- Explore teletherapy companies that provide remote supervision for remote services
- Talk to your program’s practicum coordinator – they often have unpublished resources
- Join online communities for ABA students where supervision leads are frequently shared
Geographic Considerations:
Urban and suburban areas typically have abundant supervision opportunities through autism treatment centers and schools. Rural areas can be more challenging, but options include:
- School districts (nearly every area has schools serving students with disabilities)
- Regional hospitals or mental health centers
- Starting your own small practice under remote BCBA® supervision
- Remote supervision for telehealth service delivery (increasingly accepted)
Financial Considerations:
Ideally, supervision is provided free of charge through employment. If you must pay for supervision:
- Costs typically total $11,250-$22,500 over the whole supervision period, depending on hourly rates and required hours
- Some programs include supervision costs in tuition
- Payment plans are often available
- This is a legitimate education expense that may qualify for loans or employer reimbursement.
Bottom Line: While securing supervision requires effort and planning, the vast majority of online ABA students complete their fieldwork requirements. The key is to choose a program with strong practicum support, start your search early, and remain flexible about settings and arrangements. Programs with poor practicum support leave students struggling – this is why practicum support should be a top consideration when selecting an online ABA program.