Strengthen your job prospects with a minor that prepares you to support individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. Completing the program puts you on the path to become a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BcABA), an entry-level role that’s in demand across Texas. This six-course, 100% online minor works well with several majors:

• communication sciences and disorders
• health/public health
• human development and family sciences
• psychology
• sociology
• teaching and learning

At a Glance

• Format: 100% online
• Completion time: Six courses (18 credit hours)
• Semester start: Fall (ideal start: junior year)
• Eligibility: Open to UH undergraduates in related majors

Program Overview 

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) focuses on evidence-based strategies that promote positive behavior change and help people build communication, social and daily living skills. With rising autism diagnoses, the need for ABA-trained professionals continues to grow in Texas and across the nation. The ABA minor gives you a solid introduction to this growing field, preparing you for rewarding careers that make a real difference in the lives of children and families. 

What You’ll Learn

In this minor, you’ll gain a strong foundation in applied behavior analysis, including:

• The science of behavior
• How to analyze the factors that influence behavior and identify patterns through data collection
• Evidence-based techniques to modify behavior effectively
• How to apply behavior analysis techniques to diverse populations
• How to navigate complex situations with professional integrity 

Career Pathways

The ABA minor prepares you to pursue certification as a Board-Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst. BCaBAs work in clinics, schools, hospitals and other settings to help address behavioral challenges and improve clients’ quality of life. You may help conduct assessments, support behavior intervention plans, and train parents, teachers and others to support consistent implementation of strategies. 

The ABA skills you gain are also valuable in related fields such as education, counseling, speech-language pathology, and physical or occupational therapy. 

Coursework 

This minor requires the following six courses — all offered online:

• SPEC 3370: Foundations of Applied Behavior Analysis  
• SPEC 3371: Applied Behavior Analysis Behavior Assessment & Intervention I
• SPEC 3372: Applied Behavior Analysis Behavior Assessment & Intervention II
• SPEC 3373: Methods in Applied Behavior Analysis
• SPEC 4374: Organizational Behavior Management
• SPEC 4375: Ethics in Applied Behavior Analysis  

Certification

This minor fulfills the coursework required to pursue certification as a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA). To complete the credential, you will need supervised field hours and must pass the certification exam. While a practicum is not included in the minor, faculty can help you explore local options for earning field hours. See the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) for the detailed process.

How to Apply

To apply for this program, please schedule an appointment via Navigate to meet with an advisor in the College of Education about the applied behavior analysis (ABA) minor. If you have questions about ABA, please email the Department of Educational Leadership & Policy Studies at delps@cougarnet.uh.edu.