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Behavior Analysis
Doctor of Philosophy in Behavior Analysis

Help shape the future of behavior analysis as you grow as a leader in your field. Capella’s online PhD in Behavior Analysis builds on your BCBA® certification, providing advanced knowledge and research skills to help you prepare for leadership positions in academic, research or clinical environments. The competency-based program goes beyond theory: you’ll conduct research with the goal of improving the lives of individuals with behavioral needs and advancing the science of behavior analysis. Professionally aligned coursework, a dissertation, three virtual residencies and a comprehensive exam all combine to prepare you to apply for the BCBA-D® designation and take your career to the next level.

Real-world application and personalized support

A single scholar-practitioner faculty advisor will work with you throughout your doctoral journey as you take evidence-based practices from the courseroom and apply them in professional settings.

Comprehensive support from day one to graduation

Enrollment specialists, one-on-one academic advisors and faculty will guide you throughout the entire doctoral program, including your dissertation.

Become eligible to apply for BCBA-D

Successful completion of this PhD program and your dissertation qualifies you to apply for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral designation, a certification that may be required for leadership roles.

Classes start October 6

Apply today with no application fee.

At a glance

  • Online
  • 93 Quarter credits
  • 11 Core courses
  • 3 Elective courses
  • 3 Virtual residencies
  • 15 Max transfer credits
  • Comprehensive exam
  • Dissertation

Reduce your tuition up to $20,000

Enroll in a qualified program and apply for a $20K Capella Progress Reward scholarship to help fund your doctoral degree.

What can you do with a PhD in Behavior Analysis degree?

Your education can help you reach your personal and professional goals. Here are some of the jobs and employment settings to consider with a PhD in Behavior Analysis.

Related job titles to explore*

  • ABA program manager
  • ABA supervisor
  • Applied behavior analyst
  • Assistant/associate/full professor
  • Behavior consultant
  • Behavior intervention specialist
  • Behavior specialist
  • Behaviorist
  • Center director
  • Program director

Employment settings to explore*

  • Colleges, universities and professional schools
  • Elementary and secondary schools
  • Residential intellectual and developmental disability facilities
  • Services for the elderly and persons with disabilities
  • Other individual and family services

*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.

**Educational and professional requirements for faculty positions vary widely by employer. Understanding your target employers’ particular requirements is key in deciding on a doctoral program.