Becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) offers an opportunity to make a positive impact in the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities such as autism spectrum disorder, behavioral health needs, and mental health challenges. As a master’s-level independent practitioner, a BCBA applies the principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA) to help individuals improve their behavior and quality of life. If you are considering this career, Penn State World Campus offers online pathways to help prepare you to sit for the 5th Edition BCBA certification exam, the qualifying board examination to become a BCBA.
What Exactly Is a BCBA?
A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) is a professional who is credentialed by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc.® (BACB®). They are certified to utilize behavior analysis techniques to help individuals with various developmental, behavioral, and mental health needs. Through their use of experimental design, research methods, and behavioral interventions, BCBAs can work with clients to help them improve their skills and reduce problematic behaviors.
After satisfying course work requirements, completing supervised fieldwork requirements, and passing the qualifying exam, BCBAs can begin to practice independently. Additionally, as a graduate-level professional, a BCBA can provide supervision for Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analysts® (BCaBAs®) and Registered Behavior Technicians® (RBTs®), which both serve as supportive roles in applied behavior analysis techniques.
Growing Need for BCBAs
The demand for Board Certified Behavior Analysts is increasing, especially in educational and behavioral health services settings where employment opportunities are projected to grow over the next several years. This is due to the increasing recognition of the effectiveness of applied behavior analysis and the growing number of behavioral disorder diagnoses. BCBAs are highly regarded as experts in behavior analysis, and they are often employed in schools, clinics, hospitals, and private practice to best serve these populations by conducting assessments and developing interventional plans. The constantly evolving field provides BCBAs with the chance to continue practicing and to develop new skills throughout their dynamic and rewarding careers.
The Penn State World Campus Path
Penn State World Campus offers a 33-credit Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Special Education with an emphasis in applied behavior analysis, which can help prepare you to sit for the 5th Edition Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc. (BACB) exam. This graduate degree program is designed for individuals who want to become a BCBA, as it meets the course work requirements for BCBA certification.
The M.Ed. program is accredited by the BACB and is offered entirely online, making it accessible to students nationwide and internationally as well as those who are working professionals. Students can complete course work at their own pace, allowing them to balance their studies with work or other personal commitments.
The program’s seven-course sequence is based on the BACB’s 5th Edition Task List, which went into effect in January 2022. The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) has verified the seven courses specific to the ABA emphasis toward the course work requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst examination (BCBA exam).
Courses comprehensively cover topics including single-case research, current issues in special education, foundations of ABA, concepts and principles of ABA, assessments of behavior in contexts, behavioral change procedures and management, and ethical considerations for special education populations. Through completion of this course work, students will have a thorough understanding of applied behavior analysis.
The courses in the M.Ed. in Special Education program are not designed to lead to initial teacher certification in any state; however, they may help you renew or maintain your existing certification if you are already a certified teacher.
For individuals who already hold a relevant graduate degree, Penn State World Campus offers a 21-credit Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis. This certificate program focuses on the course work requirements needed to meet the BCBA certification standards and will help you prepare for the BCBA exam.
In addition to completion of specified course work and the requirement of a graduate degree in a relevant field (i.e., master’s or doctoral), supervised fieldwork experience is also necessary to qualify to take the BCBA certification exam.
Pass the BCBA Exam
After completing your course work and supervised fieldwork hours, you must apply to and pass the BCBA exam. This board exam will assess your knowledge of behavior analysis and your ability to apply the principles in various settings. To pass the BCBA exam, you will need to demonstrate proficiency in a range of topics, including assessment, intervention, ethics, and experimental design.
Maintain BCBA Certification and Complete Continuing Education
Once you pass the BCBA exam and earn your certification, you must continue practicing and meeting the maintenance requirements, which are determined by the BACB. This includes submitting a recertification application and completing continuing education to stay current with the latest developments in the field. You must also adhere to the BACB’s ethical guidelines and engage in professional development activities to maintain your certification.
Take the Next Step
Whether you want to pursue a master’s degree or graduate certificate to prepare to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, our team is ready to work with you to discuss the next steps to help you on your path.