--- title: Online ABA Coursework date: 2022-06-29T16:17:00-05:00 author: Jordan Eshelman canonical_url: "https://www.dordt.edu/aba" section: Landing Pages --- # Online ABA Coursework ![A student taking notes while sitting in a lab.](https://d3evso2dxyohou.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/i-x6R84ZV-X3.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=50&h=43&f=webp&c=0adaace3&v=859ada65a5c2775b6ed6d6a00bd97c1509bd7fd380859ca29cba58b47c5ae53c) ![]() ## Online Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Coursework The ABA course at Dordt University is built around the central idea that every person is a beloved image-bearer of God, worthy of an education that helps them use their gifts fully. Students will learn to identify target behaviors, enact plans for improvement, and measure the results to guide future efforts. **Those who complete the courses will be equipped to help their students and families thrive.** This coursework fulfills behavior analytic coursework requirements established by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® (BACB®). Applicants must meet additional BACB requirements for certification. Costs to complete Dordt's BCBA coursework: - **Tuition:** 21 credits at $395/credit = $8,295 - **Technology Fee:** $100 - **Total cost:** $8,395 *2025-2026 tuition prices shown. Prices subject to change.* ![](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==) ![An BCBA at Dordt's Thrive Center for ABA works one-on-one with a child](https://d3evso2dxyohou.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/2021-01-19_000084crop.jpg?mode=fit&pos=center-center&w=50&h=50&c=0adcf608&v=28b977212ff2a54f133883d4a404d426ddf1a7f7335823f1f0127e4f79909cfd) ![]() ### Take the next step [Apply now](https://www.dordt.edu/admissions-and-aid/apply-now) ## OVERVIEW The **100% online** coursework included the following courses: ### Foundations of Applied Behavior Analysis SPED 611 - 3 Credits *This course introduces students to the science of applied behavior analysis (ABA) and the principles supporting this scientific study of behavior. In this course, we will explore the history and development of the field of behavior analysis. We will also consider the fundamental principles of science that apply to ABA, as they do to all areas of science. We will identify the defining characteristics of ABA and explore the underlying philosophy specific to behavior analysis. We will then consider how this philosophy aligns with our own worldview.* ### Concepts and Principles of ABA SPED 612 - 3 Credits *In this course, we will define basic concepts that form the basis for applied behavior analysis (ABA). A major focus of this course is understanding the role of the environment on behavior. We will consider principles of behavior such as reinforcement and punishment and the relationship between these principles and their related behavior change tactics. We will also explore the role of motivation and rules in shaping behavior.* ### Experimental Design and Interpretation of Data SPED 613 - 3 Credits *This course will focus on competencies needed to measure a behavior of interest and to determine the effects of various environmental arrangements on the target behavior. Factors influencing selection of a measurement system will be explored including the need for a system that is accurate, reliable, and valid. The defining features, advantages, and uses of single-subject experimental design will be considered. There will be an emphasis on developing skills in graphing of behavioral data and in interpreting data provided in graphed form.* ### Behavior Assessment SPED 616 - 3 Credits *This course will build on the foundation of concepts and principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) developed in previous courses. We will consider the topics of determining whether an individual has a need for ABA services, assessing an individual’s strengths and needs, and prioritizing behavior-change goals. A major focus of the course will be on conducting a functional analysis of problem behavior and interpretation of functional assessment data. We will also consider various methods for conducting a preference assessment.* ### Professional Ethics for the BCBA SPED 620 - 3 credits *This course explores ethical dilemmas that can arise in the professional life of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Our focus will be on the general role of a code of ethics in the work of various professionals and the specific guidance provided by the Professional and Ethical Compliance Code for Behavior Analysts. We will explore various scenarios and consider how the BCBA should act in each situation based on the Ethical Code.* ### Personnel Supervision and Organizational Management SPED 621 - 3 credits *In this course, we will explore how the principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA) can speak to improving the way we supervise and manage personnel. This course will help you develop competencies in establishing clear performance goals and expectations, conducting staff training, and monitoring and assessing staff performance. We will discuss how to use a functional assessment approach to address variables affecting staff performance. We will also consider the reasons for using ABA based supervision strategies in terms of safety, productivity, and client outcomes.* ### Methods and Procedures for Learning and Behavior Intervention SPED 622 - 3 credits *This course addresses principles of learning and behavior change and explores a variety of strategies that can be used with individuals based on evidenced based practices including the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Topics covered in this course include reinforcement and punishment procedures, prompting, motivating operations, modeling, shaping, chaining, verbal behavior, extinction, token economies, group contingencies, and self-management strategies. We will also identify procedures that can promote generalization and maintenance.* ## FAQs ### How long does it take to complete Dordt's BCBA coursework? The coursework can be completed in two years. A typical plan of study includes one or two courses per semester. ### How many credits is the BCBA coursework? The program is 21 credits. ### Is Dordt's BCBA course sequence 100% online? Yes, all courses are **100% online**. No travel or on-campus residency is required. ### Are the courses for synchronous or asynchronous? Most of the coursework is asynchronous, meaning you can do it when it works best for you, whether that's before breakfast, after dinner, or sometime in between. Some components will be synchronous and require joining in for an interactive dialogue at a set time. ## Tuition and Fees Costs to complete Dordt's BCBA coursework: - **Tuition:** 21 credits at $395/credit = $8,295 - **Technology Fee:** $100 - **Total cost:** $8,395 *2025-2026 tuition prices shown. Prices subject to change.* ![](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==) ![A picture of a student explaining his project](https://d3evso2dxyohou.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/2021-22/2022-04-28_000212.jpg?mode=fit&pos=center-center&w=50&h=50&c=6f209be2&v=eca331ce3aeaddc6031c9f84da82b2c9c8cf82dc0a6954b678298155f8763791)