Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Position yourself for in-demand roles in behavior analysis and therapy with CU Denver’s fully online ABA certificate.
CU Denver’s Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Graduate Certificate prepares professionals to follow best practices in ABA across various settings. This fully online program, taught by experienced BCBA instructors, meets coursework requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA) exam.
- Enhance your skills in working with individuals with special learning and behavioral needs.
- Eligible students can transition coursework toward CU Denver’s MA in Special Education.
- Gain a foundational understanding of ABA science, data interpretation, and organizational behavior management.
Applicants must independently accrue BCBA-supervised field experience hours as part of the certification process.
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Degree LevelGraduate Certificate -
School & CollegeSchool of Education & Human Development -
Total Credit Hours21 -
Class Type100% Online -
Time Commitment4 Semesters -
Start Term(s)Fall, Spring, Summer
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Program Overview
Enhance your ability to work with individuals with special learning and behavior needs by earning your post baccalaureate certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) from the University of Colorado Denver.
The Association for Behavior Analysis International has verified the CU Denver course sequence toward the coursework requirements for eligibility to take the Board-Certified Behavior Analyst® examination. Applicants need to meet additional requirements before they are deemed eligible to take the examination. For additional information on these requirements, please visit the Behavior Analyst Certification Board®’s website.
Students seeking their BCBA certification need to accrue their BCBA supervised field experience hours independently.
Coursework also counts toward an optional MA in Special Education at CU Denver. If you have already earned a master’s degree, this certificate will help you advance or diversify in your field.
Students build competencies in the science of ABA and advance their skills working with individuals with special needs.
Tuition Breakdown
| Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|
| $464* per credit | $464* per credit |
* Continuing Professional Education program - Fees are $14/credit.
Example Courses
The program consists of seven 3-credit courses.
Introduction to ABA and Terminology (SPED 5450)
This course covers the history and basics of ABA, including terminology, benefits, and ethical considerations for practicing as a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst.
ABA Data (SPED 5470)
This course covers data collection and interpretation, emphasizing data-driven decisions for behavior change based on functional relationships.
Introduction to Organizational Behavior Management (SPED 5481)
This course covers the basics of Organizational Behavior Management (OBM) in various settings, focusing on research and practice.
Career Outlook
Graduates of this program are prepared for roles such as:
- Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
- Special Education Specialist
- Behavioral Health Program Coordinator
Admissions
Candidates must hold a graduate degree (master’s degree or higher) from an accredited institution.
Applicants are required to submit:
- ABA Certificate application
- Current resume/CV
- Graduate degree-conferred transcripts
- Personal statement
Please note the Behavior Analyst Certification Board’s (BACB) global certification policies. Specific information regarding this policy can be found on the BACB’s website.
Tuition & Financial Aid
Investing in your future is a big decision. However, becoming a fully online student at CU Denver is a high-quality and affordable option for learners of all types.
Tuition and fees are approved by the Colorado Board of Regents and may change from those shown. Graduate student tuition rates are calculated per credit hour and assessed by course based on the graduate student tuition rates determined by each school and college.
Timeline
ABA certificate students complete a seven-course sequence of 3-credit hour, fully online courses taught by experienced BCBA instructors. Students may complete CU Denver’s ABA certificate online in four semesters. Accruing BCBA supervised fieldwork may take longer.
The seven courses (SPED 5450, SPED 5470, SPED 5471, SPED 5480, SPED 5481, SPED 5490, and SPED 5491) are offered in sequence.
Cohorts that begin with the first course (SPED 5450) start Summer 2025, Spring 2026, and Fall 2026.
Students seeking BCBA certification are responsible for understanding any changes to certification requirements that may occur during the course of their program.
Experience flexible, career-focused programs with CU Denver’s renowned quality—100% online—taught by expert faculty in engaging courses within a supportive community, all at an affordable tuition with financial aid and scholarships available.
Flexible, career-focused programs with the same CU Denver quality—100% online.
Expert faculty, engaging courses, and a supportive online community.
Affordable tuition with financial aid and scholarships for online students.
Take the Next Step
Ready to advance your career in behavior analysis? Take the first step toward earning your online degree by filling out the form above for more information or calling us at 303-860-5604.