Applied Behavioral Analysis (Cert)

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Applied Behavioral Analysis Certificate

The purpose of the Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) certificate is to prepare professionals to work with children with autism spectrum disorder. Students will learn about research-based interventions that can improve daily living skills, academic performance, communication skills, and decrease maladaptive behaviors associated with autism spectrum disorder. Students will develop specific knowledge about: 1) the curriculum and administrative procedures of ABA assessments; 2) how to use data to create, implement, and sustain effective treatment plans; and 3) how to effectively communicate the goals of the plan with individuals diagnosed with autism and their families. Graduates will be able to develop intervention plans based on the principles and technology of applied behavioral analysis to re-engineer the environmental variables that will enhance, reduce, and maintain behaviors and skills that contribute to improved learning and quality of life for children with autism spectrum disorder.

The certificate program provides the required course content for students who aim to sit for the examinations for national certification as a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst, administered by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). However, students who complete this certificate program will also need to participate in a supervised practicum experience as outlined by the BACB requirements to sit for the exam. The practicum experience is not provided as part of this certificate program.

Program Requirements

Total number of required credit hours: 18 credit hours

Required Courses

Public Professional Licensure Disclosure

As a member of the State Authorizations Reciprocity Agreement, the University of Virginia (UVA) is authorized to provide curriculum in a distance learning environment to students located in all states in the United States except for California. (34 CFR 668.43(a)(6)& 34 CFR 668.72(n)).

Upon completion of the Applied Behavioral Analysis Certificate at the UVA School of Education and Human Development, graduates may be eligible for initial professional licensure in another U.S. state by applying to the licensing board or agency in that state.

Please visit the University’s state authorization web pages to make an informed decision regarding which states’ educational requirements for initial licensure are met by this program. (668.43(a)(5) (v)(A) - (C))

Enrolled students who change their current (or mailing) address to a state other than Virginia should update this information immediately in the Student Information System as it may impact their ability to complete internship, practicum, or clinical hours, use Title IV funds, or meet licensure or certification requirements in the new state. (34 CFR 668.402).