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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 January 8
Use the code MSFALL to waive the $50 application fee.
At a glance
- 100% Online
- 10–13 General education courses
- 9 Core courses
- 6 Specialization courses
- 2 Capstones
- 180 Total credits (120 max transfer)
Reduce your tuition by $15,000
Enroll in a qualified program and apply for a $15K Capella Progress Reward, a 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 10–13 general education courses, nine core courses and five specialization courses
| PSYC4001 |
Applied Behavior Analysis Foundations
In this course, learners gain an understanding of the applied behavior analysis field, including its history, purpose, and careers. Learners acquire foundational knowledge of the major applied behavior analysis theories, concepts, and terminology and apply that knowledge to the process of developing and evaluating behavioral interventions. Learners must meet weekly via web conferencing for synchronous (live) group meetings with their course instructor. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. |
6 quarter credits |
|---|---|---|
| PSYC4003 * |
Applied Behavior Analysis Research and Interventions
In this course, 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. Prerequisite(s): PSYC4002 with a grade of “C” or higher. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. |
6 quarter credits |
| PSYC4004 * |
Applied Behavior Analysis Assessment
In this course, learners apply knowledge gained in PSYC4001 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. Prerequisite(s): PSYC4003 with a grade of “C” or higher. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. |
6 quarter credits |
| PSYC4005 * |
Applied Behavior Analysis Behavior-Change Procedures and Interventions
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. Prerequisite(s): PSYC4004 with a grade of “C” or higher. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. |
6 quarter credits |
| PSYC4011 * |
Ethics for Assistant Behavior Analysts
Learners in this course 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. Prerequisite(s): PSYC4001 with a grade of “C” or higher. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. |
6 quarter credits |
| PSYC4016 * |
Introduction to Organizational Behavior Management: Supervision and Performance Management
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. Prerequisite(s): PSYC4005 with a grade of “C” or higher. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. |
6 quarter credits |
*Course has prerequisite(s). See catalog for details.
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
$38,905
AVERAGE TRANSFER CREDITS
$365 per 1000-2000 level credit $415 per 3000-4000 level credit, $150 resource kit fee, 180 total quarter credits, 120 max transfer credits
*This is only an estimate, effective July 10, 2023, and is subject to change. Your price will vary depending on your specialization, transfer credits, and tuition discounts. Books, supplies, and other fees are not included in this estimate. GuidedPath prices show the tuition you would pay if you brought in an average number of transfer credits or the maximum allowed transfer credits. New or recently revised program estimates are based on comparable programs.
Capella is committed to transparency in its tuition and pricing. In addition to tuition, you will be responsible for additional costs, which may include an application fee, travel expenses, and practicum costs. A resource kit fee of $50-$200, charged quarterly or per billing session, covers the cost of 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.
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See all our accreditations and recognitions.
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:
- PSY/ABA: 4001, 4002, 4003, 4004, and 4005
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:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Transcript of any reported GED
- A $50 nonrefundable application fee, required at the time of application, to cover transcript requests, transcript evaluation, and other administrative costs
- You must be at least 24 years old. This requirement may be waived for:
- Military applicants and veterans
- Applicants with 24 or more quarter credits of prior college or university coursework (transferable college coursework and/or credentials that map to preapproved Credit for Prior Learning opportunities may be considered toward the 24-credit minimum equivalency total)
- Applicants who do not have any credits eligible for transfer must successfully complete a university-approved reading and writing assessment; by evaluating your skills prior to your first course, Capella can more effectively provide resources to prepare you for a successful learning experience
- 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.
- PSYC4001 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
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
- Registered behavior technician
- Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA)
- Behavior analyst
- Behavior technician
- Behavior interventionist
Employment settings to explore
- Individual and family services
- Offices of other health practitioners
- Insurance carriers
- Nursing care facilities (skilled nursing facilities)
- Hospital
- K–12 public or private school
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