Interested in becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)? You’re not alone. With demand for behavior analysts growing rapidly across education, healthcare, and behavioral health, many professionals are asking: How do I become a BCBA?

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know — from education to certification — and explain how Taylor Prime Solutions can support your journey.

✅ Step 1: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

Before you can apply for any BCBA-related programs, you’ll need to complete a bachelor’s degree in psychology, education, social work, or a related field.

This step forms the foundation of your clinical knowledge and helps prepare you for graduate-level behavior analysis coursework.

✅ Step 2: Complete a Graduate Degree in ABA or a Related Field

To become a BCBA, you must hold a graduate degree (master’s or higher) in one of the following:

• Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

• Education

• Psychology or related field

You must also complete an ABAI-accredited or verified course sequence approved by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® (BACB®).

📌 Online programs are available for working professionals — including hybrid and part-time formats.

✅ Step 3: Complete Supervised Fieldwork Hours

You’ll need 1,500–2,000 hours of supervised fieldwork, depending on whether you pursue:

• Supervised Fieldwork: 2,000 hours (standard track)

• Concentrated Supervised Fieldwork: 1,500 hours (more intensive supervision)

This must be done under a qualified BCBA supervisor following the BACB’s Fieldwork Requirements.

💡 Looking for supervision support? Ask us about finding a qualified BCBA to mentor you.

✅ Step 4: Apply for and Pass the BCBA Certification Exam

Once coursework and fieldwork are complete, you’ll submit your application through the BACB website and schedule your exam through Pearson VUE.

The BCBA exam includes:

• 160 multiple choice questions

• Based on the 5th Edition Task List

• Covers ethics, intervention, assessment, measurement, and more

Pass rates vary, so be sure to prep thoroughly using official BCBA mock exams and study guides.

✅ Step 5: Obtain State Licensure (if applicable)

Many U.S. states require additional licensure for BCBAs to legally practice. Requirements vary but often include:

• Background checks

• Ethics exams

• Application fees

• Annual or biannual license renewals

📌 Check your state’s behavior analyst licensing board for specific requirements.

🎯 Step 6: Launch Your Career as a BCBA

As a certified and licensed BCBA, you’ll be qualified to work in:

• Schools and special education programs

• Autism centers and ABA clinics

• In-home and telehealth-based therapy services

• Hospitals and behavioral health organizations

• Government agencies or correctional facilities

Opportunities exist for both employment and private practice — with flexible options like remote work or supervision roles.

💼 How Taylor Prime Solutions Supports Future and New BCBAs

At Taylor Prime Solutions, we don’t just work with established providers — we support the next generation of BCBAs too. Here’s how:

• Help finding supervision opportunities or partnering practices

• Guidance on insurance credentialing and billing once you’re certified

• Resources on ABA authorizations, documentation, and compliance

• Tools to launch your practice or contract as an independent provider

Call us today at 844-TAYLOR-9 (844-829-5679)
 Message us online
 Send us an email