The Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Online Graduate Program at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) is an Applied Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) approved Verified Course Sequence (VCS) that prepares candidates to use applied behavior analysis with cultural humility. The program emphasizes social justice while addressing issues and trends in service delivery.

The ABA certificate program includes 22 credits and 8 required courses that are completed fully online in a course sequence that spans four semesters. Students rotate through the course sequence in a cohort model. Students with a graduate degree may complete the stand-alone ABA certificate program. Students may also complete the ABA certificate as part of a graduate degree program.

Contact Us

For general information or questions about the program, contact applied-behavior-analysis@uwm.edu.

The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) has verified the curriculum 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

Program Requirements

Applied Behavior Analysis (Online) Academic Catalog Requirements

Becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)

Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) are board approved, graduate level practitioners who deliver behavior-analytic services in a variety of fields including education, psychology, social work, business, health care, and other human service industries. The process for becoming a behavior analyst requires the successful completion of required coursework, experience hours, and a culminating certification exam. The certification process is overseen by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) and the Behavior Analysis Certification Board (BACB). For details about becoming a BCBA, please see the following sites:

• Behavior Analysis Certification Board (BACB)
• Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI)
• UW Milwaukee VCS Information

Students may start the program in either summer or fall. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. It is recommended that students apply by May 15 for the summer cohort and by August 15 for the fall cohort.

Admission Criteria

• Graduate degree or concurrent enrollment in a graduate degree program.
• Personal statement.
• Transcripts.
• Resume/CV.
• Must have a minimum 2.75 cumulative undergraduate grade point average to be admitted in to a certificate program.

How are online classes delivered?

UWM uses Canvas as its learning management system. Courses use both synchronous and asynchronous instruction. Synchronous instruction is delivered using Microsoft Teams or Zoom along with other online instructional tools. When synchronous classes are held, they are scheduled to support the needs of full-time working professionals. Summer classes are staggered across two summer sessions.

What are the program costs?

Please see the One Stop Tuition & Fees webpage for more information.

Can I begin the program in either summer or fall?

Yes, students can begin the program in either the summer or fall semester. Classes are offered on a rotating basis so students can still complete the certificate program in four semesters. Summer 2023 classes begin on July 24, 2023. Fall 2023 classes begin on September 5, 2023. See the UWM Academic Calendar (PDF) for more information.

What if I want to take courses at a slower pace?

Courses can be taken at a slower pace. Please contact your program advisor at applied-behavior-analysis@uwm.edu for additional information.

Can the program be completed along with other academic degrees at UWM?

The program can be completed along with other academic degrees at UWM with the permission of the academic program’s advisors. Please contact the specific academic degree program for additional information.

Can I transfer credits from another institution?

UWM policy permits transfer credits as part of certificate and graduate degree programs. Prospective students should contact program coordinators to discuss the possibility of transferring credits into the program.

Do you offer practicum hours?

We offer practicum experiences that can be used for unrestricted experience hours. Students are expected to obtain their own restricted experience hours. For more information about experience hours, see the BCBA Handbook.

Do you offer BCBA test preparation?

We offer free BCBA test preparation to students who are actively enrolled in UWM’s applied behavior analysis program.

Can international students complete the BCBA Certificate?

Please see the BACB website for additional information. Advising appointments are available, if needed.