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Applied Behavior Analysis
Bachelor of Science in Psychology
The Capella Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) helps you understand why people engage in certain behaviors and how to apply behavioral knowledge to help improve lives. Our program prepares you to assess behavior, collect and analyze data, identify areas for change, and develop and implement interventions for children and adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or other intellectual disabilities. This program includes a five-course sequence that has been verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) and meets the educational requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst® (BCaBA) examination.*
*Applicants must meet additional requirements to qualify.
Classes start December 1
Apply today with no application fee.
At a glance
- Online
- 8–13 General education courses
- 9–17 Elective courses
- 8 Core courses
- 6 Specialization courses
- 2 Capstone courses
- 180 Total credits (120 max transfer)
Reduce your tuition by $15,000
Enroll in a qualified program and apply for a $15,000 Capella Progress Reward, a scholarship to help fund select bachelor’s degrees. Eligibility rules apply. Books, supplies, course materials, equipment and other fees apply. Travel expenses related to residencies, practicum, etc., are not covered by the scholarship.
Explore applied behavior analysis courses
- This degree requires a total of 180 program credits
- You’ll need to complete 8–13 general education courses, 8 core courses and 9–17 elective courses, 6 specialization courses and 2 capstone courses
Show all descriptions
PSYC4003
Applied Behavior Analysis Research and Interventions
6 quarter credits
Learners examine research methods and designs used in applied behavior analysis. Learners conduct literature reviews to explore research-based practices in the field and practice selecting research- supported treatment designs. In particular, learners develop their knowledge and skills in designing single- subject experiments, identifying and selecting measurement systems, collecting and interpreting data, and conducting research with integrity. Learners must meet weekly via web conferencing for synchronous (live) group meetings with their course instructor. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or credit for prior learning. Prerequisite: PSYC4011 with a grade of "C" or higher.
6 quarter credits
PSYC4004
Applied Behavior Analysis Assessment
6 quarter credits
Learners apply knowledge gained in PSYC2001 to the assessment of challenging behaviors. Learners examine assessment techniques in applied behavior analysis and basic applications in applied behavior analysis. Learners apply assessment techniques based on theory and principles of applied behavior analysis. Learners also identify behaviors for change, select assessment techniques, and analyze outcomes of assessment results. Learners must meet weekly via web conferencing for synchronous (live) group meetings with their course instructor. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or credit for prior learning. Prerequisite: PSYC4003 with a grade of "C" or higher.
6 quarter credits
PSYC4005
Applied Behavior Analysis Behavior-Change Procedures and Interventions
6 quarter credits
Learners in this course develop skills related to behavior-change procedures. Learners select and implement intervention strategies to change clients' behavior through the practice of applied behavior analysis. Learners must meet weekly via web conferencing for synchronous (live) group meetings with their course instructor. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or credit for prior learning. Prerequisite(s): PSYC4004 with a grade of "C" or higher.
6 quarter credits
PSYC4011
Ethics for Assistant Behavior Analysts
6 quarter credits
Learners build foundational knowledge of ethical practices that guide professional behavior in the applied behavior analysis field. Learners develop a working knowledge of ethical principles and standards in the field by analyzing cases from an ethical perspective and applying ethical principles and standards to each case example. Learners also demonstrate their understanding of ethics as they develop multicultural competence in applied behavior analysis practice. Learners must meet weekly via web conferencing for synchronous (live) group meetings with their course instructor. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or credit for prior learning. Prerequisite: PSYC2001 or PSYC4001 with a grade of "C" or higher.
6 quarter credits
PSYC4016
Introduction to Organizational Behavior Management: Supervision and Performance Management
6 quarter credits
Learners are introduced to the application of behavior-analytic principles to organizational behavior. Learners apply evidenced-based supervision practices to the supervision of behavior-analytic programs. Learners set up a system to teach others how to carry out a treatment plan, assess performance issues, and ensure proper adherence to the implementation of behavior plans. Learners develop skills in how to apply compassionate approaches consistent with behavior-analytic principles in their supervisory practices. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or credit for prior learning. Prerequisite(s): PSYC4005 with a grade of "C" or higher.
6 quarter credits
What you’ll learn
This specialization provides you with a foundational knowledge of major competency areas in the applied behavior analysis field. The curriculum focuses on foundational behavior analysis theories, concepts and techniques, research methods and ethical standards to which professionals in the applied behavior analysis field must adhere.
The coursework prepares you to interpret research studies in applied behavior analysis, identify behavioral problems through assessment, select targeted behaviors for change and conduct consultations. You’ll also develop your ability to design, implement and evaluate culturally appropriate and ethical behavioral interventions under the supervision of a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA).
On successful completion of this program, you should be able to:
- Apply behavioral principles and concepts to design, sustain and evaluate behavioral interventions
- Evaluate findings of applied behavioral analysis research
- Investigate research-based findings in the development of behavioral treatment plans
- Apply professional, ethical and multicultural competence standards in behavioral intervention and consultation
- Communicate effectively in a manner that meets the expectations for psychology professionals
- Apply psychological content and skills to academic and career goals
Review the Capella career exploration guide to learn more about this program and career paths to explore.
Faculty spotlight
Julianne Lasley, EDD
Program Director, Applied Behavior Analysis
How much does the BS in Psychology cost?
The total cost of your degree will depend on academic performance, transfer credits, scholarships and other factors. See GuidedPath cost information below
A structured learning format with an active peer community and faculty guidance. We’ll set the schedule, you meet the deadlines.
- Based on the quarter system; 1–3 courses per 10-week quarter
- 1 semester credit = 1.5 quarter credits
- Weekly assignments and courseroom discussions
- Pay for what you take, price varies by courseload or quarter
$24,900
MAX TRANSFER CREDITS
$38,640
AVERAGE TRANSFER CREDITS
$69,754
NO TRANSFER CREDITS
$365 per 1000-2000 level credit $415 per 3000-4000 level credit, $150 resource kit, 180 total quarter credits, 120 max transfer credits
*This is only an estimate, effective July 8, 2024, and is subject to change. Your tuition amount will vary depending on your unique circumstances, such as your program specialization, transfer credits and any applicable tuition discounts. This estimate does not include the cost of books, course materials, supplies, equipment and other expenses. Tuition estimates shown for the GuidedPath learning format depend on the number of credits accepted for transfer. New or recently revised program tuition estimates are based on comparable programs.
Capella is committed to transparency in tuition and pricing. You will be responsible for costs in addition to tuition, which may include travel expenses and practicum costs. You will be charged $50-$200 each quarter or billing session for your resource kit, which includes required books, software and other course materials. Click here to review program-specific fee amounts in our University Catalog.
Find out more about financing and payment options to help you complete your program. Federal aid also is available to help manage the costs of higher education. Learn more about financing your education.
Get the details
Connect with an enrollment counselor to further discuss the cost of the program and explore your eligibility for scholarships and discounts.
*Alumni Outcomes Survey, 2022–2023
Are there scholarships available for bachelor’s degrees?
Your education is an investment in your future. There are more ways to save than you might think.
*Eligibility rules apply. Books, supplies, course materials, equipment and other fees apply. Travel expenses related to residencies, practicum, etc., are not covered by the scholarship.
Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Accreditation and recognitions provide evidence that we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability.
See all our accreditations and recognitions.
The Association for Behavior Analysis International has verified the following courses (PSYC4001, PSYC4011, PSYC4003, PSYC4004, PSYC4005, PSYC4016) toward the coursework requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst® examination. Applicants will need to meet additional eligibility requirements and demonstrate they reside in an authorized country before they can be deemed eligible to take the examination.
What are the BS in Psychology admission requirements?
Applicants to the BS in Psychology, Applied Behavior Analysis program must provide the following information for admission:
- Admission application – no application fee required
- High school diploma or equivalent
- A transcript of any reported GED
- 4.5 credits eligible for transfer. See Sophia Admissions Pathways as an option to obtain credits.
- Applicants under the age of 24 must also submit a high school transcript verifying graduation
- A valid, government-issued form of photo identification
SAT and ACT are not required for admission.
International student requirements
If you live outside the U.S. or aren’t a U.S. citizen, you may be considered an international student.
To meet the requirements for Capella admission, you must:
- Earn the minimum score on an acceptable test for proof of English proficiency
- Attend an internationally recognized institution
- Provide transcripts for evaluation
Learn more about international student admissions.
What support does Capella offer online students?
Meet your faculty
Our distinguished faculty members are industry leaders, bringing real-world relevance into the courseroom to enrich your education and career.
Julianne Lasley, EdD, BCBA-D
Program Director
Dana Reinecke, PhD, BCBA-D
Assistant Program Director
Lisa Sabato, MS, BCBA
Core Faculty
Support to reach the finish line
Our programs are designed to meet the unique needs of a bachelor’s student. We’ve structured the experience in manageable pieces to help you earn your degree with support from faculty, staff and online resources.
Preparing for licensure
It is important to understand all educational and individual requirements for licensing. Capella University cannot guarantee licensure, certification, or endorsement. State regulations vary regarding professional licensure. It is your responsibility to understand and comply with requirements for your state.
Professionally aligned, ABAI Verified
The Association for Behavior Analysis International has verified the following courses toward the coursework requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® or Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst® examination. Applicants will need to meet additional requirements before they can be deemed eligible to take the examination.
- PSYC2001 Applied Behavior Analysis Foundations
- PSYC4003 Applied Behavior Analysis Research and Interventions
- PSYC4004 Applied Behavior Analysis Assessment
- PSYC4005 Applied Behavior Analysis Behavior-Change Procedures and Interventions
- PSYC4011 Ethics for Assistant Behavior Analysts
- PSYC4016 Introduction to Organizational Behavior Management: Supervision and Performance Management
Pass-rate data are not published for sequences with fewer than six first-time candidates in a single year or for sequences within their first four years of operation.
What can you do with a BS in Applied Behavior Analysis degree?
Your education can help you reach your professional and personal goals. While Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific career outcome, such as a job title, promotion or salary increase, we encourage you to explore potential jobs and employment settings. Here are some ideas and examples for a graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Applied Behavior Analysis.
Job titles to explore
- Behavior interventionist
- Behavioral health consultant
- Behavioral specialist
Employment settings to explore
- Child and youth services
- Elementary and secondary schools
- Other individual and family services
- Residential intellectual and developmental disability facilities
- All other outpatient care centers
*These are examples intended to serve as a general guide. Some positions may prefer or even require previous experience, licensure, certifications and/or other designations along with a degree. Because many factors determine what position an individual may attain, Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific job title, a promotion, salary increase or other career outcome. We encourage you to research requirements for your job target and career goals.
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