Applied Behavior Analysis
Bachelor of Science in Psychology
Evidence-based therapy can be a key to helping those with behavioral challenges. You can learn to make a real impact in this field with Capella’s online Bachelor of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis. The program covers the latest research, guiding you to explore behavioral assessment and develop effective interventions for people with autism and other issues. Through two capstone projects, you’ll apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, honing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Our competency-based curriculum is aligned with current professional standards and includes an ABAI-verified five-course sequence that meets specific educational requirements for the Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst® (BCaBA) examination.* To help you succeed, we offer industry-leading test-prep software into the coursework.
*Applicants must meet additional requirements to qualify.
It is important to understand all education and individual requirements for licensing. Capella University cannot guarantee licensure, certification or endorsement. State regulations vary regarding professional licensure. Not all programs are offered to residents of every state due to regulatory requirements. It is your responsibility to understand and comply with requirements for your state.
At a glance
- Online
- 8–13 General education courses
- 10–19 Elective courses
- 6 Core courses
- 6 Specialization courses
- 2 Capstone courses
- 180 Total credits (120 max transfer)
Reduce your tuition up to $15,000
Enroll in a qualified program and apply for a $15K Capella Progress Reward scholarship to help fund your bachelor's degree.
Explore applied behavior analysis courses
- This degree requires a total of 180 program credits
- You’ll need to complete 8 to 13 general education courses, 6 core courses, 10 to 19 elective courses, 6 specialization courses, and 2 capstone courses
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
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
- $375 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 7, 2025, and is subject to change.
Capella is committed to transparency in tuition and pricing. You will be responsible for costs in addition to tuition, which may include your resource kit, travel expenses and practicum costs.
Your tuition amount will vary depending on your unique circumstances such as your program specialization, transfer credits and any applicable tuition discounts. Books, course materials, supplies, equipment and other expenses are not included. Tuition estimates shown for the GuidedPath learning format depend on the number of credits accepted for transfer.
New or recently revised program estimates are based on comparable programs. Review program-specific fee amounts in our University Catalog.
Get the details
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.
Connect with an enrollment specialist to further discuss the cost of the program and explore your eligibility for scholarships and discounts.
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 age 24, as well as those over age 24 who have no transfer credits, may be required to 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.
State enrollment restrictions
Capella University is not accepting applications into the BS in Psychology, Applied Behavior Analysis program from residents of the states and/or territories listed below who intend to seek professional license or certification in the restricted state.
Current students who relocate to the following states or territories may not be able to complete site-based learning or other program requirements, fulfill residency requirements, or obtain professional licensure or certification in the state or territory: NY.
Get licensure details or contact an enrollment specialist for more information.
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.
It is important to understand all education and individual requirements for licensing. Capella University cannot guarantee licensure, certification or endorsement. State regulations vary regarding professional licensure. Not all programs are offered to residents of every state due to regulatory requirements. It is your responsibility to understand and comply with requirements for your state.
Capella University is not accepting applications into the BS in Psychology, Applied Behavior Analysis program from residents of the states and/or territories listed below who intend to seek professional license or certification in the restricted state.
Current students who relocate to the following states or territories may not be able to complete site-based learning or other program requirements, fulfill residency requirements, or obtain professional licensure or certification in the state or territory: NY.
Get licensure details or contact an enrollment specialist for more information.
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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