Understanding the Cost and Value of the PennWestern ABA Program

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a field dedicated to understanding and improving human behavior. It's a discipline that seeks to address many of the problems people face each day as a result of human behavior. The Applied Behavior Analysis program at Penn State Harrisburg aims to improve socially important behavior through applied behavior analysis and to teach its students to do the same. This article delves into the specifics of the PennWestern ABA program, exploring its curriculum, accreditation, and cost, while also touching on the broader landscape of ABA programs and career prospects in Pennsylvania.

What is Applied Behavior Analysis?

Applied Behavior Analysis uses psychological principles to address complex behavior, promote socially acceptable behavior, and improve relationships. This methodology is commonly employed when working with adults and children who have developmental disabilities or autism, and it's a field where professionals seek to help individuals change their behavior to live happier and healthier lives.

Penn State Harrisburg Applied Behavior Analysis Program

The course of study in the ABA program is designed to give students the skills of a competent behavior analyst: in-depth understanding of applied behavioral technology, experimental analysis, methodology, and behavioral philosophy. The program admits about 15 students, full-time (9 credits/semester) or part-time (3-6 credits/semester), each academic year. Applying for admissions in the fall semester is recommended, although spring applicants are considered on a case-by-case basis. Admissions to the program is competitive, with preference for highly qualified applicants with demonstrated proficiency in academic (e.g., undergraduate) and clinical (e.g., related work experience) settings.

In-Person Learning

Being a behavior analyst is difficult work. There are few subjects more complex, more nuanced than understanding human behavior. Penn State Harrisburg believes an in-person, face-to-face educational format is the best way to prepare you to be an effective and highly competent professional.

Curriculum and Accreditation

The master’s degree program in Applied Behavior Analysis is accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) Accreditation Board. This accreditation meets the coursework and degree requirements for BACB® certification eligibility under Pathway 1.

Key Features

The Penn State Harrisburg ABA program offers several key features:

Includes at least 1,000 hours of Concentrated Supervised Fieldwork. Most students complete the entirety of the BACB fieldwork requirement (1,500 hours) before graduation, saving time and money.
A master’s project (e.g., empirical research) under faculty guidance and mentoring.
Flexibility: evening class times are designed to meet the needs of working professionals, as is full- or part-time enrollment.
Courses are "stacked": most semesters, students can attend three classes in just two evenings on campus.
Training from nationally-recognized experts in Applied Behavior Analysis.
Graduates are eligible for Pennsylvania licensure as a Behavior Specialist.
Opportunities to participate in research, labs, and conferences.
Be part of a vast network of supportive alumni, peers, and practicing behavior analysts.

Program Completion

Full-time students typically complete the program in about two years, perhaps with an additional semester to complete the master project. Graduates of the Penn State Harrisburg ABA program serve a wide range of individuals across a multitude of settings around the world. Many of our graduates take positions as behavior analysts serving individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Some of our graduates forge new paths and avenues for behavior analysis (e.g., training teachers and school support staff in behavioral interventions).

Cost Considerations

While specific tuition costs for the PennWestern ABA program weren't provided in the given text, comparing the costs of related programs can offer some insight. For instance, a Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies at PennWest costs $7,870 annually. Other bachelor's programs in related fields, such as pre-law studies, philosophy, or sociology with a pre-law focus, range from approximately $4,162 to $9,630 per year at different institutions. Keep in mind that tuition costs may vary significantly between undergraduate and graduate programs.

Bachelor of Arts in Pre-Law Studies: $4,162 annually
Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies at PennWest: $7,870 annually
Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy - Pre-law: $9,324 annually
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology - Pre-Law: $9,630 annually

Alternatives to PennWestern ABA Program

For those seeking alternative or additional educational paths in ABA, there are several options available. Students can become certified ABA practitioners by completing a verified course sequence as part of a bachelor’s degree program or separately for students who have already earned their degree. Additionally, a list of the top BCaBA online programs offering the coursework and/or practical experience required to earn the BCaBA certification has been created. These BCaBA programs online offer the course sequence verified by The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI).

Top BCaBA Online Programs

Here's a brief overview of some of the top BCaBA online programs:

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Ball State University: Offers a bachelor’s degree in ABA (Autism) with full and part-time program options. Net Price: $12,986. Pass Rate: 81.82%.
Troy University: Offers an online bachelor’s in psychology with a minor in applied behavior analysis. Net Price: $12,486. Pass Rate: 57.14%.
University of West Florida: Offers the BCaBA course sequence online, which can be completed as a stand-alone program or as part of the BS in Health Sciences. Net Price: $10,344. Pass Rate: 64.29%.
University of Colorado School of Education and Human Development: Features an online BCaBA program for educators and direct care workers. Net Price: $14,630. Pass Rate: 83.33%.
University of Virginia: Offers an applied behavior analysis certificate online program for students with a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Net Price: $20,401. Pass Rate: 100%.
Saint Joseph’s University: Offers a Bachelor’s in Autism Studies that includes the verified course sequence for the BCaBA exam. Net Price: $33,438. Pass Rate: 62.5%.
University of Hawaii at Manoa: Offers an online BCaBA program that aligns with the BACB 5th Edition Task List requirements. Net Price: $14,825. Pass Rate: N/A.
Mary Baldwin University: Offers an online ABA program featuring a BA in Autism Studies and ABA, the verified course sequence for BCaBA, and a Comprehensive Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Net Price: $17,525. Pass Rate: N/A.
Florida Tech: Offers a 12-month program that meets the Fourth Edition Task List BACB coursework requirements. Net Price: $24,297. Pass Rate: 74.82%.
Purdue Global: Offers an online bachelor’s in psychology in ABA. Net Price: $3,802. Pass Rate: 42.91%.
California State University Monterey Bay: Offers an online and hybrid program with the verified course sequence for BCaBA certification. Net Price: $6,085. Pass Rate: N/A.
Penn Western Global Online: Offers a unique program that includes certification as a Competent Learner Model Implementer. Net Price: $13,840. Pass Rate: N/A.
University of California Santa Barbara PaCE: Offers a BCaBA online professional certificate program. Net Price: $17,333. Pass Rate: N/A.
Central Methodist University: Offers an online bachelor’s degree in applied behavior analysis as well as the verified course sequence for students who have already obtained their bachelor’s degree. Net Price: $25,083. Pass Rate: N/A.

BCBA Certification and Career Opportunities

To become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), a master’s degree is typically required. The BCBA® exam is a pivotal assessment within the field of ABA therapy. It serves as a benchmark for individuals seeking certification as behavior analysts, reflecting their competence and proficiency in applying ABA principles effectively and ethically.

BCBA Exam Overview

The BCBA® exam evaluates candidates on their knowledge of ABA concepts, principles, and techniques. This comprehensive assessment covers a diverse array of topics, including behavior assessment, intervention strategies, data analysis, ethical considerations, and professional conduct. To be eligible for the exam, candidates must earn a master’s degree or above in behavior analysis or in a similar field like psychology or education and satisfy specific, graduate-level coursework in behavior analysis. Additionally, candidates must complete a specified number of supervised experience hours.

Learning Resources

People often learn how to pass the BCBA exam through a combination of formal education, specialized exam preparation resources, and hands-on experience. A significant portion of the BCBA exam content is covered in formal coursework, including behavior assessment, intervention strategies, ethical considerations, and research methodologies. There also are numerous resources available specifically designed to help candidates prepare for the BCBA exam, which include practice questions.

Job Outlook and Salary in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania has had legislation requiring health insurance companies to support ABA as a therapy for children with autism since 2008 when Act 62 became law. This made autism-related services, including ABA covered by private health insurance, CHIP (the Children’s Health Insurance Program), or Medicaid. Later, in 2022, House Bill 19 amended the 1985 Medical Practice Act to define requirements for behavior analysts and required licensing for behavior analysts. There has been a steady increase in demand for ABA therapists in Pennsylvania. The demand for BCBAs increased 12.8% between 2022 and 2023, from 2,206 in 2022 to 2,489 in 2023. According to Zip Recruiter, the average salary in Pennsylvania for a BCBA trained therapist is $80,945 ($39/hour). The salary does range from market to market.

BCBA Course Sequence

The BCBA course sequence includes 21 credit hours across seven courses in ABA. There are a range of programs available for students who want to earn a master’s degree or graduate certificate in ABA and the BCBA credential. Programs include online and on campus options. Online Master’s programs provide flexibility and the ability to learn the content necessary to become a BCBA while managing work and family.

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Pennsylvania Programs

In Pennsylvania, Arcadia University, Drexel University, Eastern University, Lehigh University, Slippery Rock University, Saint Joseph’s University, Temple University, the University of Scranton, and York College all have online options for a full master’s degree and ABA coursework.

Pennsylvania Hybrid Options

Pennsylvania has three hybrid options for students who want to earn a master’s along with the ABA coursework.

Pennsylvania Certificate Options

Pennsylvania has a variety of options for students who already have a master’s degree and want to earn the BCBA credential.

Program Overviews

Arcadia University: The M.Ed in ABA prepares students to take the BCBA exam within coursework in special education. Students can also earn an Online Graduate Certificate in Autism.
Drexel University: This program provides students with the BCBA coursework and courses to apply for Pennsylvania’s teaching certification in special education.
Eastern University: The MA in Counseling prepares students to be licensed counselors in Pennsylvania. Students take the BCBA course sequence as part of the counseling coursework.
Lehigh University: Students complete the BCBA course sequence. The program is designed for professionals who are working both towards a master’s degree and the BCBA credential.
Slippery Rock University: The MS in ABA is offered entirely online. It is designed for students who have experience in education and are interested in becoming BCBA certified.
Saint Joseph’s University: The M.Ed in Special Education with an ABA concentration provides the BCBA course sequence through online courses.
Temple University: The MS.Ed in ABA includes the BCBA course sequence, with some hours towards the supervised fieldwork.
The University of Scranton: The University of Scranton’s master’s program is built around the BCBA course sequence with a focus on designing and delivering effective behavior interventions for individuals with autism and developmental disabilities.
York College of Pennsylvania: Students in the M.Ed program choose an emphasis, such as ABA. Within the 33 credit hour Master’s in Special Education program, students complete the BCBA course sequence along with core and capstone coursework.

Considerations for Prospective Students

When selecting an ABA program, it's essential to consider factors beyond just the cost. Accreditation, curriculum, faculty expertise, fieldwork opportunities, and program format (online, on-campus, or hybrid) all play crucial roles in shaping the educational experience and career readiness of graduates.

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