[Skip to Content]

Online Certificate in Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis

The online graduate certificate in Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis is designed for bachelor’s degree holders with professional experience in a field related to autism, who want to better prepare to serve the learning community.

Offered by the College of Education and Human Development at the University of Louisville, the Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate aims to produce behavioral practitioners who are knowledgeable in their science, effective in their practice, ethical in their interactions and committed to bettering the lives of students with disabilities. In this program, you will learn to apply strategies and tactics grounded in the principles of behavioral science to a variety of contexts, with specific focus placed on the assessment and treatment of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

How Much Will I Pay?

Tuition & Aid    

This certificate qualifies for Title IV federal financial aid.

Highlights

  • Gain advanced knowledge in autism research and behavioral analysis approaches as they relate to skill development and the treatment of challenging behavior in children with ASD.
  • Learn from faculty comprised of instructors, researchers, and practitioners with a wealth of experience in the science and practice of behavior analysis.
  • Take advantage of the flexibility and convenience of 100% online classes.

100% ONLINE COURSES

Complete this program on your own time through fully online classes.

Learn More
21 CREDIT HOURS

Earn this specialized certificate in just 7 courses (21 credit hours).

Learn More
1 YEAR TO COMPLETE

Complete this certificate in just over a year.

Online learning video - Online Certificate in Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis

Autism is a complex disorder that creates a wide spectrum of communication and social-interaction impediments. The reported increase in the number of children with autism (1.47% nationwide) suggests a growing demand for qualified professionals who specialize in autism. The job outlook for the next decade indicates a substantial growth in the availability of positions for behavior analysts.

Outcomes

Earning your Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate better prepares you to meet this growing need and pursue job advancements in teaching, psychology, social work, speech pathology or healthcare. Careers may include:

  • Autism intervention specialist
  • Autism research coordinator
  • Behavioral intervention specialist
  • Behavior health clinician
  • Special education teacher

 


Preferred Application Deadline Term Start Date
August 1 Fall August
December 1 Spring January
April 1 Summer May/June

Note: We admit students on a rolling basis. The preferred deadlines help you complete the application process on time, be notified of acceptance and enroll before the term begins. We review applications as they become complete, and admit students for a specific term up to the day classes start. We recommend you work on and submit your complete application well in advance of the preferred deadline, as obtaining transcripts and other materials may take more time.


Steps to Apply

  1. Complete application for admission
  2. $40 non-refundable application fee
  3. Submit official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate work
  4. Submit 2 recommendation forms from faculty or supervisors familiar with your work
  5. Professional Goals Statement
  6. Resume

START YOUR APPLICATION     REQUEST INFORMATION


Admission Requirements

  • Master's degree from an accredited institution*
  • Minimum 2.75 cumulative GPA on 4.0 scale
  • Experience in a field related to autism / disabilities (e.g., special education, psychology, speech language pathology, occupational therapy, or social work). Waiver of this requirement is approved by the program director on a case-by-case basis.

*See the Graduate School Transfer of Credit Policy for more information.


Send all materials to:
Graduate Admissions
University of Louisville
2211 S. Brook Street
Louisville, KY 40292
gradadm@louisville.edu


If you live outside of the United States, be sure to view special requirements for international students.


For more information on the admission and application process, please contact our Online Learning Enrollment Counselor at 800.871.8635 or by email at online@louisville.edu.


Start Your Application

The online graduate certificate in Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis is a 21 credit hour program, which includes a midpoint assessment and an exit assessment.


Core Courses

Course List Credit Hours
EDSP 644 Applied Behavior Analysis 3
EDSP 650 Behavior Assessment 3
EDSP 654 Radical Behaviorism 3
EDSP 669 Single Case Research Methods and Designs 3
Midpoint Assessment
EDSP 546 Behavior Analytic Approach to Communication 3
EDSP 651 Professional and Ethical Practice of Applied Behavior Analysis 3
EDSP 671 Behavior Intervention 3
Exit Requirement
Total 21

Course Descriptions


    Featured Faculty



    View the full list of Special Education faculty here.



    • Will this program qualify me for BCBA certification?

      The graduate certificate in Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis prepares students to meet the requirements for certification and/or licensure. Candidates who intend to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification exam must also accumulate field work hours.

    • Will this certificate add credentials to my teaching certification?

      No, the graduate certificate in Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis prepares students to meet the requirements for certification and/or licensure to sit for the BCBA certification exam. This certificate is not intended to add credential hours toward your teaching certification.

      As a note, if you plan to pursue professional licensure or certification, you should first determine your state’s criteria for examination and licensure to see how/if our program meets those requirements prior to enrollment. You can learn more on our Disclosures tab

    • Do I need to have a bachelor's degree in a specific content area?

      Applicants for this program are required to have a master's degree in Special Education, Psychology, or Behavior Analysis from an accredited institution.

    • Are classes synchronous?

      No, the online Graduate Certificate in Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis program is designed to be fully asynchronous. This means that you can access course materials, participate in discussions, and complete assignments at a time that suits your schedule. Asynchronous learning offers greater flexibility for students who may have work, family, or other commitments.

    • Is financial aid available for this program?

      Yes, there is financial aid available for this program. You can learn more by visiting our Financial Aid tab on the Tuition page.