Frequently Asked Questions
What is a behavior analyst?
Behavior analysts, using behavior assessments and evidence-based interventions, improve the lives of people with behavioral issues and contribute to the overall well-being of a diverse range of communities. The Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) grants a widely recognized certification to individuals who pass the qualifying exam and meet all the requirements. The Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) is a graduate-level certification. BCBAs are independent practitioners and may also supervise technicians, assistant analysts and others who implement behavior-analytic interventions.
What can I do with a master’s in behavior analysis?
Behavior analysis professionals might work with children with autism, individuals with developmental disabilities or anyone in need of behavioral support in settings like schools, clinics and hospitals. After completing the program, graduates pursue a range of opportunities and may occupy roles as clinical directors or supervisors, organizational behavior management (OBM) specialists, applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapists, developmental specialists, private practice therapists and more.
How much do behavior analysts with a master’s degree make?
According to Lightcast Analytics, the national median salary for behavior analysts with a master’s degree is $75,000.
Can I attend part time? How long does it take to complete the program?
The program can be completed part time or full time. Students attending on a part-time schedule generally complete the program in two years.
How might I choose between the certificate and the master’s?
The certificate program is ideal for individuals who already hold a master’s degree but need additional educational credits to be eligible to sit for the BCBA exam and for professionals seeking behavioral analysis skills for their current careers. The online MEd in Behavior Analysis is designed for professionals who currently have or are working toward the experience requirements needed to sit for the BCBA exam.
What are the requirements to obtain a Board Certified Behavior Analyst certification?
In order to become certified, the Behavior Analyst Certification Board requires applicants to (1) meet certain eligibility requirements through education, experience or a mix of both and (2) apply for, take and pass the BCBA exam. Certification is maintained through continuing education, adherence to ethics requirements and recertifying every two years. Visit the BACB’s website for more information.
Do I need to have a teaching credential to apply to Lehigh’s behavior analysis master’s program?
A teaching credential is not required for the master’s program.
Can you become a BCBA without a master’s degree?
To become a BCBA, applicants must complete an Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) accredited program or similarly recognized behavior analysis degree program. Alternatively, applicants can complete a Verified Course Sequence. For more information on the BCBA exam, visit the BACB’s website.
Does this program fulfill the Behavior Analyst Certification Board course requirements for 2027?
Lehigh University’s College of Education has submitted a course sequence to meet the Behavior Analyst Certification Board course requirements for 2027. This is pending approval. We expect to receive approval by Summer 2024.
When is the application deadline?
You can find the next application deadline and start date on our admission page.
Are GRE or GMAT scores required to apply?
No, neither GRE nor GMAT scores are required to apply to our program.
How much does this program cost?
You can find a full summary of our program’s tuition and fees on our tuition and financial aid page.
Do you offer financial aid?
Yes! Financial aid is available for all graduate students — regardless of whether they study part time or full time, online or on campus. Students are encouraged to request federal and state financial aid by completing their FAFSA.
Students who hold a Pennsylvania teaching certification through the Pennsylvania Department of Education receive a 10% tuition discount. Lehigh University employees and their family members receive 100% tuition remission.
Lehigh University is also a Yellow Ribbon Program participant. Learn more on our veterans education benefits page. For more information about funding in general, you can visit our tuition and financial aid page.
What is your FAFSA code?
Our FAFSA code is 03289.
To learn more about the online MEd in Behavior Analysis at Lehigh University College of Education and download a brochure, please fill out the form. You can also talk one-on-one with an admissions coordinator directly by calling (866) 760-8978 (toll-free) or emailing us at edprograms@lehigh.edu.