The number of autism diagnoses among children in the U.S. has skyrocketed in recent decades. In 2022, about one in 31 children aged eight years old had a diagnosed autism spectrum disorder, according to the most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In 2000, it was one in 150. 

Not surprisingly, the demand for professionals with the skills to provide therapy to individuals with autism is also increasing. One such skill is applied behavior analysis (ABA).  

What exactly is ABA, and how can individuals interested in helping others through its use acquire the necessary skills and expertise? One way is through an advanced degree program, such as a master’s in ABA. 

What Is Applied Behavior Analysis? 

Before we answer the question, “What is an ABA degree?” in detail, let’s explore applied behavior analysis as a concept.  

ABA is a research-based behavior therapy that examines how behavior works and how the environment affects it. It focuses on treating individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities and can offer improvements in the following areas: 

• Academic performance 

• Attention 

• Focus 

• Language and communication skills 

• Memory 

• Social skills 

• Performance of daily activities 

Professionals who use ABA may select different approaches and settings to tailor the therapy to meet the individual needs of those they assist.  

For example, they might use the antecedent-behavior-consequence approach, which explores the causes and results of particular behaviors. They might also incorporate positive reinforcement into their work, offering a reward when the person receiving assistance exhibits the desired behavior. Additionally, the therapy may be delivered in one-on-one, at-home sessions or in group sessions in public settings, including schools.  

The surgeon general and the American Psychological Association consider this therapy an evidence-based practice, indicating that research demonstrates its effectiveness in improving outcomes. 

ABA Degree: Definition 

An ABA degree program teaches students how to use applied behavioral analysis to assist individuals who need help managing their behaviors. Students may study ABA at the undergraduate or graduate level, with some institutions offering the option of beginning master’s work during the final year of their bachelor’s degree program. Doctoral degree options are also available. 

An ABA degree generally focuses on ABA concepts and the use of ABA in a professional setting, with an emphasis on the following: 

• Theoretical foundations 

• Ethical practice 

• Practical applications 

Graduates of ABA degree programs often work for employers such as clinics, community organizations, hospitals and schools. 

Master’s in ABA Degree: What Is It? 

Graduate ABA degree programs can help prepare students for board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA) certification from the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. This certification allows graduates to pursue careers as independent professionals who practice behavior analysis.  

The Association for Behavior Analysis International, which accredits degree programs, recommends a specific course sequence for students pursuing an ABA degree. To earn a master’s degree in applied behavior analysis, students generally follow a two-year curriculum covering topics ranging from foundational ABA principles to research and practice.  

Among the courses that students can typically take are those dealing with trauma-informed care, educational assessment, and special education-related law. The second year of an ABA degree program usually includes opportunities to work with a faculty supervisor to complete a practicum or gain fieldwork experience. 

ABA Degree: Benefits 

Those investigating ABA and what an ABA degree is need to also consider the many benefits this field of study can offer. The expertise it provides, for example, can open the door to rewarding and in-demand job opportunities that can change lives.  

Below are some key benefits of an ABA degree. 

Helping Others 

For many professionals, earning an ABA degree is a path toward a meaningful and satisfying career. ABA can be effective in helping individuals overcome behavioral issues, improve skills, and enhance their lives.  

Professional Certification 

Many graduate ABA degree programs allow students to start work toward BCBA certification, which requires master’s-level education and experience. With this certification, graduates may pursue professional roles focused on ABA practice, supervision, teaching, or research. 

Career Opportunities 

An ABA degree can be the pathway to in-demand careers in several areas. Among the roles that an ABA degree can prepare students for are the following: 

• Board-certified behavior analyst: Assesses clients and designs treatment plans, offering therapy to address their specific concerns 

• Counselor: Assists those facing challenges, from behavioral disorders to depression 

• Psychological assistant: Helps psychologists provide patient care, including assessing conditions and offering therapy 

• Social worker: Works with individuals and groups to help them prevent and cope with everyday problems 

Payscale reports that the median annual salary for board-certified behavior analysts is about $75,000. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports a median annual salary of about $59,000 for substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health counselors. Additionally, those groups of counselors can expect to see 19 percent job growth between 2023 and 2033, according to the BLS — almost five times faster than the average growth projected for all jobs during that period. 

Prepare for a Fast-Growing and Fulfilling Career 

ABA is an in-demand, evidence-based therapy, and an ABA degree is what individuals interested in an ABA-focused career often pursue. Such a degree can provide a pathway to professional certification, an in-demand career and personal fulfillment. 

SEMO Online’s Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis program can help you gain the knowledge and experience you need to seek professional certification from the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. The program is also a verified course sequence by the Association for Behavior Analysis International. Students in some bachelor’s programs can begin their graduate work while still undergraduates. 

Explore how SEMO Online can help you pursue your career goals. 

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Sources: 
Association for Behavior Analysis International, Higher Education 
Autism Speaks, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) 
Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Board Certified Behavior Analyst 
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Data and Statistics on Autism Spectrum Disorder 
Indeed, “How to Become a Psychological Assistant” 
Payscale, Salary for Certification: BACB Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)  
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Psychologists 
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Social Workers 
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Substance Abuse, Behavior Disorder and Mental Health Counselors