Certification Guidance
Earning a certification in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is an important step toward a career in the field. Whether you're starting as an RBT, advancing to a BCaBA, or becoming a BCBA, each certification has its own requirements and responsibilities. This guide provides a high-level overview of what each certification involves and the general steps to obtain it. However, the process includes additional details like coursework, fieldwork, and ethics requirements.
Registered Behavior Technician (RBT)
Entry-Level Paraprofessional in Behavior Analysis
The RBT certification is a paraprofessional credential in behavior analysis. RBTs assist in delivering behavior-analytic services under the close, ongoing supervision of a BCBA, BCaBA, or other qualified professional. They are primarily responsible for implementing behavior plans and interventions designed by their supervisors to improve clients' socially significant behaviors.
To obtain RBT certification, candidates must:
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Age and Education: Be at least 18 years old and possess a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent.
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Training: Complete a 40-hour training program covering the RBT Task List, ethics, and other relevant topics.
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Assessment: Successfully pass the RBT Initial Competency Assessment, demonstrating proficiency in core RBT skills.
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Examination: Pass the RBT certification examination.
Maintaining the RBT certification requires ongoing supervision and adherence to the RBT Ethics Code.
Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA)
Undergraduate-Level Certification in Behavior Analysis
The BCaBA certification is an undergraduate-level credential for professionals in behavior analysis. BCaBAs can provide behavior-analytic services and supervise the work of RBTs, but they must operate under the supervision of a BCBA. Their role includes conducting descriptive behavioral assessments, interpreting data, and designing ethical and effective behavior-analytic interventions.
To become a BCaBA, applicants must:
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Education: Hold a minimum of a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
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Coursework: Complete approved coursework in behavior analysis.
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Fieldwork: Accumulate supervised fieldwork hours as specified by the BACB guidelines.
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Examination: Pass the BCaBA certification examination.
BCaBAs are responsible for maintaining their certification through ongoing supervision and adherence to ethical standards.
Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
Graduate-Level Certification in Behavior Analysis
The BCBA certification is a graduate-level credential in behavior analysis. BCBAs are independent practitioners who provide behavior-analytic services and supervise the work of RBTs and BCaBAs. They are qualified to conduct descriptive and systematic behavioral assessments, including functional analyses, and design, implement, and supervise behavior-analytic interventions.
Requirements for BCBA certification include:
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Education: Obtain a master's or doctoral degree in behavior analysis, education, or psychology from an accredited institution.
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Coursework: Complete graduate-level coursework in behavior analysis that meets BACB standards.
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Fieldwork: Accumulate supervised fieldwork hours as outlined by the BACB.
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Examination: Pass the BCBA certification examination.
BCBAs must adhere to the BACB's ethical guidelines and engage in ongoing professional development to maintain their certification.
