Key Takeaways
- Colleges offering best online ABA degrees at the undergraduate level:
- Purdue Global
- Capella University
- University of Arizona Global Campus
- University of New Hampshire
- Mississippi State Online
- Mary Baldwin University
- Florida International University
- Central Methodist University
- Coursework and learning outcomes of online ABA degrees:
- Social, genetic, and cognitive factors in human development
- Autism disorder characteristics and behavioral insights
- Skills to collect and interpret data
- Using data for intervention plans
- Behavior change procedures
- Principles, ethics, and standardized rules in ABA practice
- Behavior assessment and improvement
- Online programs for a behavioral therapy degree are the best option for:
- Working adults
- Students far from campuses
- Students with limited commuting resources
- Those seeking faster degree completion
- Self-driven and motivated individuals
If you want to build a successful career as a Behavioral Therapist or in the Applied Behavior Analysis field, then you need to carefully pick a college major that aligns with the industry standards. There is a growing need for more ABA professionals, especially in dealing with autism cases. Therefore, a degree in an ABA-aligned program is a great step towards a meaningful career.
However, if you are a working adult with a busy schedule or don’t have ABA-offering colleges nearby, you can easily opt for online ABA degrees. The options may be limited at the undergraduate level, but there are still some excellent programs to check out.
In this guide, we provide you a list of top online ABA degrees that can prove to be pivotal for your ABA career. Find all the answers you are looking for in this guide!
Overview of Online ABA Degrees
| What are ABA degrees? | Bachelor’s programs aligned with the standards and frameworks of Applied Behavior Analysis, completed over a period of up to 4 years with ABA-aligned coursework |
| What are the core courses in online ABA degrees? |
|
| Average tuition cost per credit | $381.57 |
| Most expensive option | Florida International University (out-of-state): $648.87 per credit |
| Most affordable option | University of West Florida: $218.98 per credit |
What is an Online ABA Degree?
All online degrees at varying levels, such as master’s or bachelor’s are delivered to the students using virtual platforms and classrooms. Similarly, an online ABA degree at the bachelor’s level is also a self-paced, fully online academic program that lets students study at their own pace rather than being tied to fixed-schedule on-campus classes.
Moreover, these programs are aligned with the ABA standards and principles, making sure that the students are prepared for advanced certifications and professional work experience. Furthermore, an online degree in ABA offers various benefits and features, including:
- 100% online coursework with materials such as recorded lectures
- Flexibility to study from your home at your availability
- Thorough support for local placements for practicum experience
- Comprehensive preparation for certification exams such as BCaBA and BCBA
Additionally, the career outcomes of getting an online ABA degree are the same as any other conventional on-campus degree. Here are some popular job roles that you may be eligible for after getting an online ABA degree:
- Behavior technicians
- ABA therapists
- Special education teachers
However, you can also take advanced certifications to get supervisory or clinical roles, such as BAcBA and BCBA professionals. In addition to this, online ABA degrees also have accreditations that you should consider. The most important and recognized accreditation is by the Association of Behavior Analysis International, or for coursework that has a Verified Course Sequence (VCS).
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Top Online Undergraduate ABA Degrees
| College and Program Name | Tuition Cost | Average Duration |
| Purdue Global — Bachelor’s in Psychology in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) | $13,356 per academic year
(Source) |
3 to 4 years |
| Capella University — Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis | $38,920 for 45 months
(Source) |
Flexible, averages between 3 to 4 years |
| University of West Florida — Health Sciences, B.S. – Behavior Analysis | In-state: $218.98 per credit
Out-of-state: $648.37 per credit (source) |
2 years |
| University of Arizona Global Campus — Bachelor of Arts in Applied Behavioral Science | $460 per credit
(Source) |
4 years |
| University of New Hampshire — Applied Psychology: Applied Behavior Analysis Option (B.S.) | $330 per credit
16 credits per academic year (source) |
4 years |
| Mississippi State Online — Bachelor of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis | $435.75 per credit
(source) |
4 years |
| Mary Baldwin University — Applied Behavior Analysis & Autism Studies (BA) | Average cost of $22,173 per academic year
(Source) |
4 years |
| Florida International University — Bachelor of Arts in Psychology: Applied Behavior Analysis Track | In-state: $235.57 per credit
Out-of-state: $648.87 per credit (Source) |
4 years |
| Central Methodist University — Bachelor of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) | $275 per credit hour
(source) |
4 years |
Note: All tuition fee and information is as of December 2025.
Core Courses in Online ABA Degrees
When you are trying to pick a college major for your next big academic step, a huge part of the consideration is the coursework. The same applies to online ABA degrees, where the coursework is particularly designed and planned to provide students with specific learning outcomes that can aid their professional growth and careers.
To help you plan your college journey better, here is an informative overview of what you can expect when enrolled in online ABA degrees.
Developmental Psychology
Developmental psychology is an in-depth study of how human beings develop from birth to death. Moreover, this area of study covers multiple aspects of human development, including cognitive development, emotional, physical, and social development.
Furthermore, the coursework typically incorporates areas of interest, such as illness in adolescent development, and understanding the difference between typical and atypical behaviors. As behavior therapists, the students studying developmental psychology get to learn behavior improvement techniques, as well as assessing and identifying behavioral patterns.
Research Methodology
Since Applied Behavior Analysis is a scientific approach to behavioral therapy, it has immense focus on scientific research. Therefore, ABA degrees, be it online, on-campus, or at master’s or bachelor’s level, teach students about conducting scientific research. As a result of this course, students become equipped with the ability to conduct in-depth research, collect findings, and ensure evidence-based practices across the board.
Data Collection
ABA professionals, including RBTs and BCaBAs certified are in charge of recording and assessing behaviors, as they work on the front line with patients and clients. Therefore, having adept skills to not only record data properly but also ensure effective data organization is important. Moreover, data is very important for driving successful behavior interventions. Hence, ABA degrees online prepare students for practical work situations.
Principles of Applied Behavior Analysis
There are several principles and fundamental concepts surrounding ABA practices. Therefore, it is essential for students of ABA degrees to master the ABA principles and excel in their field. In the coursework for principles of ABA, students grasp in-depth concepts such as why and how certain behaviors occur. Moreover, learning about these principles, students turn into polished professionals who can use evidence-based and ethical behavior improvement practices.
Ethics in Applied Behavior Analysis
In any field related to psychology and human behavior, ethics are one of the largest concerns. There are many rules and standards governing professional ABA practices. So, courses focus on aspects such as ethical decision-making, client rights, privacy rights, and the ability to handle challenging situations. Teaching this in a behavioral therapy degree helps future professionals to maintain professionalism that are essential for BCaBA, BCBA, and RBT certification holders.
Single Case Research Methods
Bachelor’s degrees are a basic requirement for ABA certifications such as the BCaBA. This is because bachelor’s degrees teach students to design and implement single-case research methods through case study analysis in the coursework. From control tests to observations and alternative methods, students learn about visual representation of data, designing treatment plans, and monitoring behavioral developments.
Autism Spectrum Disorders
One of the most commonly occurring developmental disorders that RBT and BCaBA professionals encounter is autism. There are several layers to autism, such as a diverse spectrum, characteristics, and behavioral needs. Therefore, studying this at bachelor’s level is essential. Typically, autism-focused coursework ensures students learn about autism and its effect on human behavior and overall life. In addition, they get a better hang of particular characteristics, social factors, as well as the skill to design and implement intervention plans.
Comparison — Online VS On-Campus ABA Degrees
Are you confused whether or not an online ABA degree is a better choice than on-campus programs? In this section, find a thorough comparison of what online ABA degrees offer as compared to on-campus traditional degrees.
| Online ABA degrees | On-campus ABA degrees | |
| Average duration | Can take between 2 and 4 years, with the option to take accelerated tracks. | Typically ranges between 3.5 and 4 years, with little to no acceleration options |
| Cost | Tuition costs can be slightly higher per credit; however, there are no additional costs such as lab and technology fees, or housing allowance | Tuition costs can vary based on residency. Additional charges, such as lab fees and housing/meal allowance, can raise the total fee. |
| Convenience and flexibility | Highly flexible with self-paced learning, recorded lectures, and easy deadlines | A fixed schedule for courses and classes can make it less flexible |
| Practicum experience | Programs may arrange options like virtual labs and other fieldwork arrangements, but with limited availability | Hands-on experience with advanced labs, supervised fieldwork, and easy access through college partnerships |
| Learning materials | Extensive reliance on recorded lectures, online classes, digital assessments, and video conferences | Mix of various media including digital resources, seminars, in-person labs, group projects, and live demos |
| Tech and equipment needs | Heavy requirement of a laptop/computer, headphones, webcams, high-speed internet, and may require certain software and tools | Less requirement of independent equipment, with most facilities available on campus |
| Accessibility | Much more accessible and in-reach for students residing out of state or working full-time jobs | More locally concentrated group of students, with little but possible inclusion of international and out-of-state students |
| Employer perception | Definitely improving and becoming much more positive and accepting | Long-standing positive and accepting attitude |
| Best for |
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Explore ABA-aligned degrees on-campus
Bottom Line
In summary, there are some amazing colleges offering bachelor’s degrees in ABA fully online. These programs are fundamentally designed to not only offer convenience, but also ensure a faster degree completion so you can pursue your further career goals. Some amazing online ABA degrees are offered by schools such as Purdue Global, University of West Florida, and University of New Hampshire. Moreover, all these programs are focused on developing core skills and preparing you to excel in your exams for the BABC certifications. Overall, the feasibility of online degrees is a huge consideration, as they tend to cost less and are much more flexible than traditional programs. Good luck!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a BCaBA with an online degree in applied behavior analysis?
Yes, you can become a BCaBA with an online degree in ABA. However, the condition is that the bachelor’s degree must be aligned with ABA principles and framework, and prepare you for the examination that lets you get certified. Moreover, to become a BCaBA certified, a bachelor’s degree in relevant programs is a basic requirement, such as a bachelor’s in psychology, behavioral therapy, and education.
Are ABA degrees higher than RBT?
Yes, an ABA degree, whether online or on-campus, is higher than an RBT certification. Firstly, RBT, or Registered Behavioral Therapists ,are entry-level practitioners who work under the supervision of BCaBAs, with only 40-hours of training and no prior work experience.
On the other hand, ABA degrees, whether undergrad or graduate, are detailed 2 to 4-year-long programs that focus on developing core skills, knowledge, and ensuring hands-on practical skills too. Therefore, RBT certification is only the starting point, while a bachelor’s ABA degree is a full academic qualification that takes your career to the next level.
Can I become a BCBA online?
Essentially, the official BCBA certification exam must be taken in person at a registered testing center. However, you can certainly prepare for the exam and certification through online bachelor’s degrees as well as courses that are ABA-aligned. So, to become a BCBA online, start with simpler steps such as enrolling yourself in online ABA degrees relevant to your qualification level.
Are online ABA programs accredited?
One of the most sought-after accreditations for ABA programs is from the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) board. These programs in particular meet the standards of the BCBA and BCaBA certifications. While there are many colleges and programs accredited by the ABAI, there may be only a few for bachelor’s levels. However, you can also look for college/institute accreditations rather than program accreditations to broaden your choices. An accreditation makes any college or program credible, reliable, and validates its effectiveness.
What careers can I pursue with an online ABA degree?
According to the BLS, there is a projected growth of 17% between 2024 and 2034 for behavioral therapy professionals and practitioners. Some of the most popular career outcomes of an online bachelor’s degree in ABA, as suggested by the AppliedBehaviorAnalysisEdu.org are:
- Social worker
- Special ed teacher
- Clinical behavior analyst
- School counselor
- Life coach
- Research analysts