Applied Behavior Analysis is transitioning to programs only at the master’s level. Beginning spring 2021, students will not be able to choose ABA as a certificate-level program. Learn more about our ABA master’s programs.
The Graduate Certificate Program in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) was developed in response to the increasing demand for professionals who are trained to design, implement, and supervise behavior analytic programs for individuals with autism and related disabilities. The ABA program at Michigan State University will provide working professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to address this international void. Through a combination of the coursework and an independent fieldwork experience, students will meet the requirements for taking the exam to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst.
Students will learn to be a behavior analyst
The aim of the Graduate Certificate in ABA Program is to prepare students as scientist practitioners who can use behavior analysis to solve problems of human importance. Students will learn to conduct descriptive and systematic behavioral assessments, including functional analyses, and provide behavior analytic interpretations of the results. Students will learn to administer and supervise behavior analytic interventions, including educational programs for a variety of students with and without disabilities and to analyze the effectiveness of their educational and behavioral programs.
Admissions requirement
Candidates must have a minimum 3.0 GPA in their undergraduate degree program. The BCBA credential requires a master’s degree. Students who are applying to the graduate certificate program and are not completing a concurrent master’s or doctoral program must already have a master’s degree from an accredited university. Please see the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc.® requirements for details about acceptable degrees.
Program Structure
The Graduate Certificate Program in ABA includes 6 courses that can be completed over 2 academic years. Students will work with an advisor to take the proper courses in the designated sequence. Students completing the endorsement in autism spectrum disorders can complete the ABA Program with 3 additional courses and in 1 additional academic year. Students seeking a PhD at MSU should speak with advising faculty about incorporating the ABA sequence into their doctoral program.
Read the course descriptions and learn about the program faculty
More Information
For more information about applying to the program please contact Mellissa Davis (davisme@msu.edu) or to learn more about the program, contact Matthew Brodhead (mtb@msu.edu).