Applied Behavior Analysis and the BCaBA

The BCaBA is a credential for those with a bachelor's degree who work, or would like to work, in fields where the research-based principles of learning are applied to improve socially significant behavior. Wherever there's a need for new behaviors, to increase or reduce existing behaviors, or to teach specific behaviors in specific situations, applied behavior analysis is often the most effective approach. Applied behavior analysts provide services to individuals and groups in all kinds of settings including families, schools, business and industry, hospitals, group homes, mental health agencies, and wherever intensive behavioral training or consultation are required. It's also the best type of training for people who work with animals. And for those who wish to pursue an advanced degree, training in behavior analysis provides exceptional preparation.

Employment prospects for applied behavior analysts are excellent. The demand is high and the supply is low. As an example, applied behavior analysis has proven to be the most effective treatment for individuals with autism. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it is estimated that approximately 1 in 110 children are diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. This supply/demand imbalance means that applied behavior analysts are often paid more than other treatment providers with comparable levels of training.

In most situations a BCaBA works under supervision by a masters-level Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). According to the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, a BCaBA may conduct descriptive behavioral assessments, interpret results, design and oversee interventions in cases similar to those encountered during training, teach others to carry out interventions, and assist a BCBA with the design and delivery of instruction in behavior analysis.

Requirements for the BCaBA

Candidates for the BCaBA must complete three courses in the principles and applications of behavior analysis. The table below shows the availability of the three required courses in the Houston area. Additional requirements include 1000 hours of supervised fieldwork and passing the qualifying examination. In other words, simply passing the coursework does NOT permit a student to claim the BCaBA credential. More information is available from the Behavior Analyst Certification Board.

Required courses at UHCL

These courses are not restricted to students seeking BCaBA certification. If you're simply interested in learning more about the principles of behavior and their applications, you may register for these courses. We strongly encourage students to register for the courses in sequence; however, it is possible for students to register for Learning and Applied Behavior Analysis I in the same semester.

If you're interested in taking these courses...

Students who are currently enrolled at the university offering the desired course are probably familiar with procedures to register for the course.

Students who are not currently enrolled at the university offering the desired course must be admitted to that university and then must register for the course. Various admissions options are available, depending on one's current circumstances and intentions. Following is more information about each university's procedures:

UHCL
On the Admissions web page, click on Apply Now, then on Apply Online Now! Complete the online application, indicating your interest in the undergraduate program and whether you intend to be a transient student (currently enrolled elsewhere, planning to transfer UHCL credit back to the home institution) or a non-degree seeking undergraduate student. You must submit transcripts of previous college work before registering for courses, so the application must be completed early enough for transcripts to arrive at UHCL.

Questions about admission and registration: Email Ann Hinojosa at hinojosa@uhcl.edu

Questions about courses and BCaBA program: Email Dr. Jennifer Fritz at fritzj@uhcl.edu

Short URL for this page is: http://hsh.uhcl.edu/BCaBA