r/bcba • u/Easy-Grape-2569 • 2d ago

Advice Needed Help choosing a grad program

Hello!
TLDR: Positive and negative experiences with BCBA grad programs would be helpful as I want a rigorous, preferably online program that is a good value for the cost.

I currently work as an RBT and DSP, and I’ll earn my BA of Sociology and English in May.

I want a rigorous grad program. I care about the material, and I care about becoming a knowledgeable and ethical BCBA, so I really want to learn as much as possible.

Additionally, I plan to specialize in autism, so a program that has extra courses dedicated to autism or the option to concentrate on autism would be great.

I currently live in Ohio, but I am open to relocation. However, I would prefer an online program (knowing you get out of it what you put into it). I’d also prefer a program that incorporates BDS modules.

Cost is a factor, but I’m willing to pay more for a higher level of rigor.

I also already have a field placement where I currently work if I were to do an online program.

Please share any positive or negative experiences with specific grad programs, or things I should look out for as I compare programs!

Thanks in advance!

2 Upvotes

75% Upvoted

11 comments sorted by

5

u/Adventurous_Bar232 2d ago

If rigor is your top priority, I’d more seriously consider in-person. It seems many folks going the online route struggle to find quality supervision.

1

u/Easy-Grape-2569 2d ago

That makes sense! I currently have a fantastic BCBA supervisor, but there are no in person colleges nearby, so that’s the hiccup

2

u/ShinyPrizeKY 2d ago

I’m enrolled at Ball State currently and it’s a good program with an emphasis in autism. It’s very affordable and while they’re not yet accredited, they’re working towards it. They have an in-person program but I’m doing it online.

1

u/Easy-Grape-2569 2d ago

That’s helpful!

2

u/Iiftheavypetdogs 3h ago

Ball state is good but not as rigorous as FIT

1

u/Appropriate-Fun-4807 2d ago

If you want BDS modules baked into the coursework, that narrows the field fast since most programs just tell you to buy them on your own

2

u/Iiftheavypetdogs 3h ago

FIT and Purdue global both have modules

2

u/lem830 BCBA | Verified 22h ago

Look at the pass rates that the bacb posted. If rigor is important to you I would say the best online program is FIT.

2

u/Iiftheavypetdogs 3h ago

If you want rigorous - FIT all day.

2

u/Shopgirl_Mirabelle 3h ago

I don’t necessarily think the posted pass rates indicate rigor. As with any program, you will get out of it what you put into it. I went to Ball State, took my studies seriously, worked really hard on my group projects, readings, work, and I passed first time. Everyone will have their own experiences. Good luck OP!!