What Can You Do With An Applied Behavior Analysis Degree for 2025?

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Someone with an Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) degree may wonder what career options are available in 2025 and whether the field offers financial stability. With salaries ranging from $38,000 to $117,500 per year, the potential for a rewarding career exists, but understanding the best paths requires careful research.

Our team has provided expert career planning guidance for over ten years, using only credible sources to ensure accurate, up-to-date information. This article explores the most promising ABA career opportunities, salary expectations, and industry trends, helping readers make informed decisions about their professional future.

Key Things You Should Know About Careers with an Applied Behavior Analysis Degree

Graduates with an Applied Behavior Analysis degree can work in various settings, including healthcare, education, social services, and corporate environments. Common roles include behavior analysts, therapists, consultants, and educators.
ZipRecruiter reports that annual salaries for ABA professionals range from $38,000 to $117,500, depending on experience, location, and specialization. Demand for ABA professionals continues to rise, leading to strong career growth opportunities.
ABA skills are valuable in schools (helping students with autism and special needs), mental health clinics (supporting individuals with behavioral disorders), and businesses (improving workplace performance and training programs).
Many roles require certification, such as the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) credential. State licensure requirements may also apply, depending on the job location.
More than 11,943 behavior analysts are employed in the United States, and the demand for professionals in this field continues to grow.

Top 10 Careers You Can Pursue With an Applied Behavior Analysis Degree in 2025
What are the highest-paying jobs for ABA graduates?
Do you need a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification to work in ABA?
How long does it take to become a certified behavior analyst?
Can you work in ABA with just a bachelor’s degree?
What’s the difference between a psychology and an ABA degree?
How can I choose the right online ABA degree program?
What are the costs and financial aid options for an ABA degree?
What additional certifications can enhance ABA career prospects?
Can ABA Professionals Enhance Their Practice by Integrating Counseling Skills?
Should ABA Professionals Consider Obtaining a Counseling License?
What Challenges Do ABA Professionals Commonly Face?
Can an Accelerated Degree Program Boost ABA Career Growth?
Can a PsyD Degree Expand ABA Career Opportunities?
How Can ABA Professionals Advance Their Careers?
Are there accredited online ABA degree programs?
Do ABA degree programs require internships or supervised practice?
What industries hire Applied Behavior Analysts?
What are the latest trends in Applied Behavior Analysis?
Other Things You Should Know About Careers with an Applied Behavior Analysis Degree

Top 10 Careers You Can Pursue With an Applied Behavior Analysis Degree in 2025

1. Program Manager

Program Managers oversee multiple projects within an organization, ensuring they align with strategic goals. They manage budgets, timelines, and resources while leading teams to achieve successful outcomes.

Average Annual Salary: $152,649

2. School Psychologist

School Psychologists assess students’ mental health and learning needs, providing counseling and intervention strategies to enhance academic and emotional success. They collaborate with educators and parents to create supportive learning environments.

Average Annual Salary: $98,896

3. Project Coordinator

Project Coordinators assist in planning, executing, and completing projects by managing schedules, resources, and communication among team members. They help ensure projects stay on track, meet objectives, and stay within budget.

Average Annual Salary: $63,842

4. Counselor

Counselors provide guidance and support to individuals facing personal challenges, mental health concerns, or life transitions. They use therapeutic techniques to help clients develop coping strategies and improve their emotional well-being.

Average Annual Salary: $60,881

5. Program Coordinator

Program Coordinators oversee specific programs within organizations, ensuring they are implemented effectively and meet objectives. They evaluate program success, manage reporting, and serve as liaisons between stakeholders.

Average Annual Salary: $54,966

6. Mental Health Therapist

Mental Health Therapists provide therapy to individuals struggling with emotional or psychological issues. They use various therapeutic techniques to help clients build coping skills, improve their mental health, and enhance their quality of life.

Average Annual Salary: $74,129

7. Substance Abuse Counselor

Substance Abuse Counselors help individuals recover from drug or alcohol addiction by providing counseling and support. They facilitate rehabilitation programs, lead support groups, and develop treatment plans to promote long-term recovery.

Average Annual Salary: $58,650

8. Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Licensed Mental Health Counselors work with individuals experiencing mental health challenges, offering therapy in one-on-one or group settings. They assess client needs, develop treatment plans, and provide emotional support to improve mental well-being.

Average Annual Salary: $76,930

9. Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)

BCBAs assess behavior and implement interventions based on Applied Behavior Analysis principles. They primarily work with individuals with developmental or behavioral challenges, helping them build essential life skills and improve daily functioning.

Average Annual Salary: $73,950

10. Occupational Therapist

Occupational Therapists help individuals regain or develop essential skills needed for daily living and work. They create personalized treatment plans to improve mobility, independence, and overall quality of life for people with injuries or disabilities.

Average Annual Salary: $100,989

What are the highest-paying jobs for ABA graduates?

Graduates with an Applied Behavior Analysis degree can access some of the highest-paying degrees in the behavioral health field, particularly in roles that require advanced certifications, leadership positions, or specialized skills.

For instance, a Behavioral Health Director manages daily operations and makes key program decisions in mental health care, earning between $84,500 and $127,000 annually. Their role includes developing services to improve client well-being, supervising staff, and working with agencies to maintain high-quality care.

In comparison, a Behavioral Psychologist, with a salary range of $60,000 to $116,500, diagnoses and treats patients with behavioral health conditions using various therapeutic approaches.

Meanwhile, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) earns between $74,000 and $90,500 annually. Those interested in this career path can pursue BCBA certification online, allowing them to meet certification requirements while maintaining flexibility in their education.

BCBAs use data-driven strategies to address behavioral challenges, particularly in individuals with autism or emotional difficulties, by analyzing behaviors and implementing customized treatment plans.

Meanwhile, the chart below shows the behavior analyst wage gap by race:

Do you need a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification to work in ABA?

An ABA career often requires a Board Certified Behavior Analyst certification, especially for roles involving client interaction and treatment planning. While some ABA positions do not require certification, earning a BCBA significantly enhances job prospects. In behavioral health settings, BCBA certification is often essential for clinical roles and leadership positions. Similarly, professionals pursuing legal careers can benefit from ABA-approved paralegal programs, which provide recognized training and credentials.

How long does it take to become a certified behavior analyst?

Earning a Board Certified Behavior Analyst certification typically takes six to eight years. The process begins with a four-year bachelor's degree, followed by about two years of graduate studies in a related field. Candidates must also complete 1,500 to 2,000 hours of supervised fieldwork, which can take 12 to 18 months, depending on the program and individual progress. This path requires commitment, as it combines academic coursework with hands-on experience.

Can you work in ABA with just a bachelor’s degree?

You can work in Applied Behavior Analysis with a bachelor's degree. Graduates can take on roles like Assistant Applied Behavior Analyst or earn the Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) certification, which is widely recognized in the field. This certification allows professionals to help implement behavior analysis strategies under a BCBA's supervision.

However, advancing to higher-level positions, such as becoming a BCBA, requires a master’s degree and additional certification. Many aspiring professionals choose BCBA master's programs online, which offer flexible learning options while meeting the necessary coursework and fieldwork requirements for certification.

The chart below shows the most common behavior analyst educational attainment:

What’s the difference between a psychology and an ABA degree?

A psychology degree and an Applied Behavior Analysis degree differ in focus, coursework, career paths, and licensing requirements. For example, those wondering, What can you do with a master's in clinical psychology? will find opportunities in mental health counseling, research, and therapeutic interventions, whereas an ABA degree focuses more on behavior modification and intervention strategies, particularly for individuals with developmental and behavioral challenges. Below is the breakdown of the key differences between these two fields:

Focus and Scope

Psychology Degree: Covers a broad range of topics related to human behavior, mental processes, and emotional well-being. It includes subfields like clinical, cognitive, developmental, and social psychology. Programs emphasize theoretical concepts and research methods.
Applied Behavior Analysis Degree: Specializes in behavior modification techniques based on behavioral principles. It focuses on assessing and changing behaviors, particularly in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental conditions.

Coursework

Psychology Degree: Students take courses in abnormal psychology, social psychology, cognitive processes, and human development. Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) programs include more humanities and social sciences, while Bachelor of Science (B.S.) programs emphasize scientific and mathematical coursework.
Applied Behavior Analysis Degree: Coursework is centered on applied behavior analysis principles, ethics, assessment methods, and intervention strategies. Students learn to design and implement behavior modification plans using evidence-based techniques.

Career Paths

Psychology Degree: Graduates can work in mental health services, counseling, social work, human resources, or research. Many positions require advanced degrees or certifications.
Applied Behavior Analysis Degree: Graduates often become Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) or work in behavioral intervention roles, primarily in clinical or educational settings, supporting individuals with ASD and other behavioral challenges.

Licensing and Certification

Psychology Degree: Becoming a licensed psychologist typically requires a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) and supervised clinical experience.
Applied Behavior Analysis Degree: To work as a BCBA, candidates must earn at least a master’s degree in ABA or a related field, complete supervised experience hours, and pass the BCBA exam.

How can I choose the right online ABA degree program?

Evaluating an ABA degree program requires a focus on accreditation, curriculum rigor, and career support. Prospective students should verify that the program meets recognized standards and aligns with certification requirements. Comparing student success metrics, such as job placement rates and career advancement, is also essential for making an informed decision. Detailed research on academic quality and industry reputation can be effectively conducted by reviewing recent rankings and testimonials available from sources like online applied behavior analysis programs.

What are the costs and financial aid options for an ABA degree?

When evaluating ABA degree programs, prospective students should consider not only tuition but also supplemental expenses such as fees for materials and technology. Many accredited programs provide transparent cost breakdowns and offer flexible financial aid options including scholarships, grants, and work-study programs to help offset these expenses. Detailed comparisons of program fees and available funding resources can lead to more informed financial planning and educational choices. Additionally, considering complementary credentials may diversify career opportunities; for instance, exploring MFT online programs can offer an alternative pathway in behavioral health with competitive tuition rates and versatile learning formats.

What additional certifications can enhance ABA career prospects?

ABA professionals may differentiate themselves by obtaining additional credentials that validate specialized expertise in targeted practice areas. Credentials such as a substance abuse counselor degree can expand service offerings into addiction treatment and broaden career opportunities in multidisciplinary settings. Evaluating the accreditation, curriculum rigor, and career relevance of these certifications ensures that they effectively complement core ABA competencies and support long-term professional growth.

Can ABA Professionals Enhance Their Practice by Integrating Counseling Skills?

Integrating counseling techniques with ABA strategies can broaden a practitioner’s treatment scope and improve client outcomes. By combining structured behavior analysis with personalized counseling approaches, professionals are better equipped to address complex client needs. Pursuing additional credentials through continued education, such as exploring affordable online counseling programs, enables practitioners to adopt this interdisciplinary methodology efficiently while ensuring compliance with industry standards.

Should ABA Professionals Consider Obtaining a Counseling License?

Expanding practice by obtaining a counseling license can broaden professional expertise and client services without overlapping core ABA competencies. A licensed counseling credential permits ABA professionals to offer integrated therapeutic strategies, addressing both behavioral and emotional challenges with a more comprehensive approach. This dual qualification can lead to diverse career opportunities and potentially higher earnings, as it deepens client trust and service versatility. Professionals seeking insight into credential pathways may review the fastest way to become a counselor for targeted guidance.

What Challenges Do ABA Professionals Commonly Face?

ABA professionals often confront multifaceted challenges that require continuous adaptation and improvement. They must navigate complex regulatory standards and ethical considerations while meeting diverse client needs in dynamic environments. Balancing data-driven interventions with individualized care demands sophisticated case management and collaborative efforts with other healthcare professionals. Moreover, professionals may encounter obstacles in integrating emerging technologies and interdisciplinary approaches, which can sometimes lead to gaps in service delivery. Expanding expertise through complementary education, such as Christian counseling master's programs, can offer enhanced perspectives for addressing these challenges effectively.

Can an Accelerated Degree Program Boost ABA Career Growth?

For professionals seeking to diversify their expertise and accelerate their path to leadership roles, integrating an accelerated educational pathway can provide tangible benefits. This approach can complement core ABA training by delivering a condensed curriculum that reinforces theoretical frameworks and practical techniques in related domains. Exploring programs like a fast psychology degree may offer a streamlined route to advanced competencies, enabling quicker skill acquisition and enhancing opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration within the behavioral health field.

Can a PsyD Degree Expand ABA Career Opportunities?

Graduates seeking to broaden their clinical expertise may consider integrating a PsyD with their ABA background. A PsyD focuses on clinical practice, refining diagnostic skills and fostering a holistic approach to client care without overlapping core ABA competencies. This advanced degree can augment behavioral intervention strategies with a deeper understanding of psychological frameworks, thereby enhancing service delivery in diverse settings. For professionals evaluating such educational enhancements, reviewing APA-accredited PsyD programs can provide insight into the clinical benefits of a multidisciplinary approach.

How Can ABA Professionals Advance Their Careers?

ABA professionals can strategically progress their careers by actively seeking leadership roles, engaging in multidisciplinary collaborations, and pursuing advanced certifications that complement core ABA expertise. Demonstrating initiative through targeted professional development, such as specialized workshops or targeted continuing education, not only enhances technical proficiency but also strengthens professional networks. Furthermore, exploring opportunities in adjacent fields—like augmenting ABA credentials with programs such as CACREP-accredited online master's counseling programs—can broaden service capabilities and improve long-term career prospects.

Do ABA degree programs require internships or supervised practice?

Applied Behavior Analysis degree programs typically require internships or supervised practice to ensure students gain the field experience needed for BCBA certification.

Key Requirements for Supervised Practice

Fieldwork Hours: Candidates must complete 1,500 to 2,000 hours of supervised fieldwork, depending on their chosen certification pathway. These hours include direct supervision and interactions with a qualified supervisor.
Supervision Structure: Supervised practice involves four to six supervisory meetings per month, with a portion of the required hours completed under direct supervision.
Types of Experience: Students can fulfill supervision requirements through internships, practicums, or independent fieldwork. Internships contribute to the total required hours but are not the only option.
Integration with Academic Programs: Many ABA programs incorporate supervised fieldwork into coursework, allowing students to gain practical experience while completing their degrees. This hands-on training helps them apply theoretical concepts in real-world settings.
Certification Preparation: Completing supervised practice is essential for BCBA exam eligibility, ensuring graduates develop the skills needed to work effectively as behavior analysts.

How many credits are required to graduate from ABA programs?

What industries hire Applied Behavior Analysts?

Applied Behavior Analysts (ABAs) work in diverse industries, using their expertise to understand and modify behavior. The main sectors employing ABAs include:

Top Industries for Applied Behavior Analysts

Health Care (29%): ABAs work in hospitals, clinics, and residential care facilities, developing treatment plans and providing therapy for individuals with developmental disabilities or behavioral challenges.
Education (21%): ABAs support students in public and private schools by conducting cognitive assessments, offering counseling, and working as special education teachers or support staff.
Social Assistance/Non-Profits (9%): Many ABAs work in community organizations and nonprofits that assist individuals with behavioral challenges.
Government Agencies (8%): Local, state, and federal agencies hire ABAs for mental health services and public health programs.
Corporate Sector/Professional (20%): Large companies employ ABAs as industrial-organizational psychologists to improve employee performance and workplace well-being.

The chart below shows the behavior analyst jobs by sector:

What are the latest trends in Applied Behavior Analysis?

The field of Applied Behavior Analysis continues to evolve in 2025, driven by advancements in technology, changing societal views, and emerging research. The ABA market, currently valued at $7.97 billion, is projected to reach $9.96 billion by 2030. Here are the key trends shaping ABA therapy this year:

Technological Integration

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are revolutionizing ABA therapy. These tools create immersive environments where clients can practice social skills and behavioral strategies in a controlled setting. This approach increases engagement and improves therapy outcomes.

Hybrid Care Models

ABA therapy is shifting toward hybrid care models that combine in-person and virtual sessions, making services more accessible, especially for families in remote areas. This flexible approach broadens service reach and adapts to different client needs. By alternating between in-person and telehealth visits, hybrid care ensures thorough assessments and personalized follow-ups based on each individual's circumstances.

Increased Focus on Anxiety Treatment

ABA techniques are increasingly used to treat anxiety disorders as mental health concerns continue to rise worldwide. A March 2023 KFF Journal article, citing the Census Bureau’s Household Pulse Survey, reported that nearly 50% of adults aged 18-24 experienced symptoms of anxiety and depression. This marks a significant increase compared to about one-third of the overall adult population. Therapists are adapting ABA methods to help individuals develop effective coping strategies and behavioral interventions tailored to their specific anxiety-related challenges.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Careers with an Applied Behavior Analysis Degree

Working as an ABA therapist has been a meaningful experience. Helping clients develop important life skills and become more independent has been rewarding. The mix of structured strategies and personal interactions makes the job engaging. – Jessica

Having an ABA degree allowed me to support children while building my career. The field offers steady opportunities for growth and learning, making it a solid and fulfilling career choice. – Gilbert

Becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) has been a positive step in my career. With the growing demand for ABA professionals, I appreciate the opportunity to help individuals improve their daily lives. – Christine

Other Things You Should Know About Careers with an Applied Behavior Analysis Degree

What are the 7 rules of ABA?

The seven dimensions of ABA serve as fundamental principles that ensure interventions are effective, measurable, and individualized. These dimensions provide a structured approach to behavior analysis.

Applied: Focuses on behaviors that are meaningful and socially significant, directly improving an individual’s quality of life.
Behavioral: Targets observable and measurable behaviors, ensuring progress can be tracked.
Analytic: Uses data and experimental methods to establish a clear connection between interventions and behavior changes.
Technological: Describes interventions in precise, replicable terms to maintain consistency in practice.
Conceptually Systematic: Ensures that ABA strategies align with established behavioral principles and scientific research.
Effective: Measures success by meaningful improvements in behavior that positively impact the individual.
Generality: Promotes long-lasting behavior changes that apply across different settings and situations.

Who can benefit from ABA?

ABA is widely used to support individuals with developmental and behavioral challenges. It helps improve essential skills and promotes positive behavior changes.

Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): ABA is commonly used to help children and adults with ASD develop communication, social, and daily living skills.
Children with Developmental Delays: ABA techniques assist children in learning important life skills, improving their overall development.
Individuals with Behavioral Disorders: Those struggling with aggressive behaviors or self-injury can benefit from ABA’s reinforcement-based strategies.
Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities: ABA helps individuals build independence by teaching social, adaptive, and functional skills.
Families and Caregivers: ABA provides practical strategies for managing behaviors, and creating a more structured and supportive home environment.
Educational Settings: Teachers use ABA methods to enhance learning experiences and support students with special needs.

What is the scope of applied behavior analysis?

Applied Behavior Analysis has a broad impact across multiple fields, including healthcare, education, and organizational management. Its focus on empirical research and evidence-based practices makes it a powerful tool for promoting meaningful behavior change in diverse populations.

What skills do you need to become a behavior analyst?

Becoming a behavior analyst requires a combination of analytical, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills to ensure effective client outcomes. Here are the key skills needed for success in the field:

Assessment Skills: Ability to conduct thorough evaluations using various tools to analyze client behavior and track progress.
Treatment Planning: Proficiency in designing individualized intervention plans based on client needs and behavioral goals.
Data Analysis: Strong skills in collecting, interpreting, and applying data to adjust treatment strategies and measure effectiveness.
Communication Skills: Clear and effective communication with clients, families, and professionals to ensure collaboration and understanding.
Empathy and Compassion: A supportive approach that considers clients' emotions and perspectives, building trust and enhancing therapy success.