A career as a board-certified behavior analyst (BCBAs) may be right for you if you are interested in promoting positive behavioral changes among children or adults with autism, developmental disabilities, or brain injuries.
The expertise of a BCBA is integral to improving lives through evidence-based techniques like Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Keep reading to learn more about what a BCBA career looks like, career specialties, what education is required, employment demand, and the pros and cons of being a BCBA.
What a BCBA Does
A BCBA is a certified professional who designs and implements behavior change programs. They lead teams of Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) and other specialists to deliver high-quality, individualized services rooted in the principles of behavioral science.
BCBA Specialities
There are many specialized career paths that you can take as a certified BCBA. Based on data from BACB, the most common specialties are:
- Autism Spectrum Disorders: 82.11%
- Education: 6.75%
- Clinical Behavior Analysis: 4.92%
- Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities: 2.59%
- Behavioral Pediatrics: 1.27%
What Education is Required to Become a BCBA
Aspiring BCBAs must earn at least a master’s degree from an accredited behavior analysis program or complete the required coursework through a Verified Course Sequence (VCS).
Additionally, certification requires the accumulation of 1,500 to 2,000 hours of supervised fieldwork under a certified BCBA, and the ability to pass the BCBA certification exam administered by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB).
Less common pathways to a BCBA certification are available for individuals with these qualifications: full-time faculty experience in behavior analysis, or doctoral degree-holders in education, psychology, or behavior analysis.
FACT: Board certified behavior analysts make an average annual salary of $74,000, with the highest earners making over $90,000.
Future Employment Outlook
This field is booming nationwide. Employment of behavior analysts is projected to grow around 22% over the next decade, far outpacing the average for other careers. From 2010 to 2018, demand surged by nearly 1,942%, with a sharp jump of 127% from 2017 to 2018.
ARIZONA-SPECIFIC HIGHLIGHT: The need for BCBAs in the state rose 58% between 2023 and 2024. At the same time, there are only about 1,600 certified behavioral analysts statewide, averaging roughly 800 clients per BCBA.
Pros and Cons of a BCBA Career
Pros
- High Demand and Job Security — With rapid growth and rising need, BCBA roles are highly sought-after.
- Rewarding Impact — You’ll coach families, drive meaningful change, and see progress firsthand.
- Flexible Pathways — BCBAs can work in schools, clinics, homes, telehealth, and more.
- Competitive Salaries — National averages hover in the mid $70k to mid $80k range; in Arizona, experienced BCBAs can earn up to around $102,765
- Professional Growth — The field fosters advancement into leadership, consultation, and specialized clinical roles.
Cons
- Rigorous Training Requirements — The need to complete graduate coursework and ample supervised fieldwork ensures only committed professionals succeed.
- Emotional Intensity — Working with high-needs populations can be challenging—but also deeply fulfilling for those motivated by impact.
- Competitive Markets in Urban Centers — While cities like Phoenix or Tucson may draw more applicants, demand remains strong statewide.
Work at ABA Connections in Arizona
If you’re searching for BCBA jobs in Arizona and wondering how to become a BCBA or explore ABA therapy careers, ABA Connections is a perfect place to grow. We’re committed to fostering professionals who make a real difference.
There are exciting career opportunities for BCBAs, RBTs, and other support roles at ABA Connections. Contact us at info@aba-connections.com for more information.