One such highly sought-after certification in the field of ABA is the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification. Let’s review what it takes to become a BCBA, including educational and experience requirements, the BCBA exam, and the availability of online programs for aspiring professionals.
To become a BCBA, you must meet educational and experience requirements from the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). The first step is to obtain a master's degree in behavior analysis or an associated field. The coursework should cover certain areas outlined by the BACB, including ethics, research methods, and applied behavior analysis.
If you already have a master's degree in a related field, you may also be eligible to apply for the BCBA certification. But it is essential to ensure that completed coursework aligns with the BACB's content requirements. Some may choose to pursue a post-master's certificate program specifically designed to meet the coursework requirements for BCBA certification.
Once the educational requirements are met, you are eligible to begin accruing supervised fieldwork hours. This typically involves working under the supervision of an credentialed BCBA supervisor and gaining hands-on experience in conducting assessments, developing treatment plans, and implementing behavior intervention programs.
The board requires a minimum of 2,000 supervised fieldwork hours or 1,500 concentrated fieldwork hours. At least 60% of these hours must be activities that a BCBA would actually perform. These hours are referred to as “restricted hours.” Examples of these activities include:
BCBA Exam
After completing coursework and fieldwork hours, you are eligible to sit for the BCBA certification examination.
The exam covers a wide range of topics related to behavior analysis and requires a thorough understanding of the principles and techniques used in the field. It is essential to thoroughly prepare, as the exam is a comprehensive test of the individual's knowledge and skills in behavior analysis.
With the growing demand for BCBA certification, many universities and institutions now offer online programs specifically designed to meet the education requirements for becoming a board certified behavior analyst.
Online programs for BCBA certification typically include a combination of synchronous and asynchronous learning activities. Synchronous activities may involve live, online classes, virtual discussions, and group projects, while asynchronous activities may include pre-recorded lectures, readings, and individual assignments.
These online programs aim to provide a comprehensive education in behavior analysis and prepare you for the BCBA certification examination.
When considering an online program for BCBA certification, it is essential to ensure that the program has been verified by the Association of Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) and meets the educational requirements outlined for BCBA certification. Additionally, you should carefully review the program's curriculum, faculty credentials, and student support services to ensure that you receive a high-quality education and adequate preparation for the BCBA certification process.
Becoming a board certified behavior analyst involves completing specific educational and experience requirements, passing the BCBA certification examination, and meeting the standards set forth by the BACB.
By following the steps outlined for becoming a BCBA, you can embark on a rewarding and fulfilling career in the field of applied behavior analysis.
