In the ever-evolving landscape of behavioral science, Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA) stand at the forefront, transforming lives with their expertise. For those in the Badger State aiming to embark on this impactful journey, Wisconsin offers many online and in-person BCBA programs designed to produce the next generation of experts.
These programs not only offer rigorous academic training but also fuse real-world experiences to ensure you are well-equipped. Dive into this guide to explore some of the popular BCBA programs Wisconsin has to offer and set your first footstep towards a promising career.
BCBA (ABA) Programs in Wisconsin
Listed below are some of the popular schools offering BCBA programs in Wisconsin:
Marquette University
Behavior analysis focuses on how environmental factors shape behavior. AtMarquette University, the Master of Science (MS) in Behavior Analysis program offers training in both research and practice, with an emphasis on assisting individuals with intellectual and developmental challenges.
Those enrolled in Marquette will fulfill both coursework and practicum requirements, paving the way to take the examination to becomea Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).
The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI)has verified the coursework requirements of this program for eligibility to take the BCBA examination.
Throughout the MS program, you will undergo intensive coursework, benefit from research guidance, hone a specialization, and participate in robust practicum training. The program aims to produce behavior analysts who can:
At Marquette, you will have the freedom to shape your educational journey to align with your career aspirations. You can opt for a path more geared towards research or hands-on professional practice.
Training options allow you to specialize in designing intervention programs for:
Marquette takes pride in its roster of globally acclaimed behavior analysis experts, including Drs. Stephanie Hood, Tiffany Kodak, Jeffrey Tiger, and Douglas Woods. At Marquette, you won’t just attend your lectures but also receive hands-on training and research mentorship. Upon entering the MS program, you will paired with one of these esteemed faculty mentors who will guide you as your academic adviser throughout your journey.
University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee
The University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee (UWM)offers the Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Certificate. This program gears up professionals to become behavior analysts who assist those with behavioral health challenges. The ABAI has verified the coursework requirements of this program for eligibility to take the BCBA examination.
The ABA certificate program is a 22-credit, online program made up of 8 core courses, spread out over four semesters. Students move through the courses together in groups, known as cohorts. If you already have a graduate degree, you can opt for just the ABA certificate. Alternatively, you can take the ABA certificate alongside a graduate degree program.
During the program, you will learn how to assist individuals with disabilities in adapting their skills and behavior across different situations. The program teaches you different ways to manage situations to prevent undesirable behaviors.
You will also learn to pinpoint behaviors that need adjustment, set clear goals, anticipate outcomes, and track changes and progress. In essence, the program equips you with skills to guide individuals with disabilities away from harmful behaviors.
Some of the courses that you will take include:
It’s important to note that finishing this program doesn’t automatically make you a board-certified behavior analyst. To earn that title, you need to complete supervised fieldwork hours on your own and pass the BCBA exam. These steps, including the exam, are carried out outside the university’s program. The Behavior Analysis Certification Board and the Association for Behavior Analysis International oversee these certifications, not the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee.
If you choose the ABA Certificate without enrolling in another graduate program at the same time, you get four years from your first certificate class to wrap up the certificate requirements. Plus, you need to maintain a minimum average grade of 3.00 in the ABA Certificate courses at UWM.
Admission requirements for this program include:
National University
National Universityoffers a Master’s program in Applied Behavioral Analysis for students like you, who want to help individuals with Autism and other unique behavioral needs. This program prepares you to take the BCBA exam.
To get your master’s degree in ABA from NU, you need to complete 45 quarter units of graduate work. You can transfer up to 4.5 units from other schools if you took those classes within the last seven years and haven’t used them for another degree. This program is available in both online and in-person formats.
At NU, you will work with faculty who are also experts in the field and have the opportunity to take advantage of their real-world insights. The program is highly individualized and focused on the student learning experience.
Here’s a look at some of the classes you will be taking:
By the end of the program, you will be able to:
As part of the program, you will also complete a research-based capstone project, and upon completion of the program, NU will help place you in an appropriate internship program.
Some of the positions this program can prepare you for include:
University of Dayton
Your choices for this program are flexible. Dayton provides two ABA master’s tracks, each with its ABAI-verified course sequence:
Here’s a glimpse of what awaits you:
University of Dayton’s ABA master’s program is an Academic Partner withthe Behavioral Health Center of Excellence (BHCOE). The relationship with BHCOE means you will benefit from a wide array of resources. Whether it’s supervised fieldwork or specialized training, the support is there.
The capstone project will be your opportunity to demonstrate mastery in applied behavior analysis. Whether individually or with a team, you will conduct a research-based case study in a clinical or educational setting. This hands-on project goes hand-in-hand with your on-ground fieldwork.
Here’s what you need to apply:
University of Wisconsin – Whitewater
The University of Wisconsin – Whitewateroffers a 21-credit online Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis. This is perfect if you are interested in helping people with unique learning needs or behaviors.
If you have finished your undergraduate studies, especially in areas like education, this program will teach you how to plan and use ABA strategies. You will be able to work with people who haveAutism Spectrum Disorderand other challenges.
To enroll in this program, you should have a bachelor’s degree from a recognized college or university.
Is BCBA a Stressful Job?
Becoming a BCBA can be a rewarding career, but like many professions, it can also come with its set of challenges and stressors. The level of stress can vary based on your temperament, work setting, support systems, and other factors. Here are some reasons why a BCBA might find their job stressful:
That said, many BCBAs find the work highly fulfilling, especially when they see positive changes in the individuals they serve. Having a strong support system, setting clear boundaries, seeking supervision or mentorship, and practicing self-care can help manage the stresses associated with the job.
How Do I Become a BCBA in Wisconsin?
To become a BCBA in Wisconsin, you must meet the following requirements:
How Much Does a BCBA Make in Wisconsin?
As of October 2024, the average salary for a BCBA in Wisconsinis $105,967 per year. More experienced and top earning BCBAs working in Wisconsin make wellover $140,000 per year.
