Saint Louis University's applied behavior analysis (ABA) certificate program involves the application of behavioral principles to produce socially significant changes in behavior. The curriculum includes seven 3-credit courses, with the option to complete ï¬ve 2- or 3-credit practicum courses.

About
- Graduates will be able to assess relevant behavior analysis literature/scholarly contributions.
- Graduates will be able to apply behavioral theories, practices, policies, or research methodologies.
- Graduates will be able to apply knowledge from applied behavior analysis to address problems in broader contexts.
- Graduates will be able to articulate applied behavior analysis explanations/arguments to a disciplinary/professional audience in both written and oral formats.
- Graduates will be able to evidence scholarly/professional integrity (ethics) in behavior analysis.
Requirements
Entry Requirements
- Completed application
- Undergraduate degree (most successful applicants have an undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 or better)
- Official transcript from a degree-granting institution
- Statement of purpose (about 500 words)
- Resume or curriculum vitae
- External reference recommendations (encouraged but not required)
Upon admission, a new student must successfully complete a virtual meeting with their academic coach to be enrolled in first term coursework.
• Academic records, in English translation, of students who have undertaken postsecondary studies outside the United States must include the courses taken and/or lectures attended, practical laboratory work, the maximum and minimum grades attainable, the grades earned or the results of all end-of-term examinations, and any honors or degrees received. WES and ECE transcripts are accepted.
English Requirements
- PTEMin 54
- IELTSMin 6.5
- TOEFLMin 80
Career
Saint Louis University's applied behavior analysis (ABA) certificate program involves the application of behavioral principles to produce socially significant changes in behavior. The curriculum includes seven 3-credit courses, with the option to complete ï¬ve 2- or 3-credit practicum courses.
SLU's ABA certificate program is offered in full-time and part-time formats, and requires 21 credits, as follows:
- Principles and Concepts in Behavior Analysis
- Measurement and Experimental Design
- Behavioral Assessment
- Behavior Change and Processes
- Behavior Change and Ethics
- Supervision and Organizational Behavior Management
- Philosophy of Behavioral Science
Student Handbook Field Education Policy and Procedures Manual
Successful applicants should possess a& master's degree from an accredited college or university.
It is recommended that students have taken prior coursework in applied behavior analysis or have independently studied ABA texts.
Application Requirements
- Application form and fee of $65
- Transcript(s)
- Two letters of recommendation (one academic, one professional)
- One academic letter of recommendation from a professor who has evaluated your academic performance in the classroom.
- One professional letter of recommendation from a supervisor who has evaluated your work in the ï¬eld or related volunteer experience.
- If you have been out of school for five or more years you may submit two professional letters.
- If you are entering the program directly from an undergraduate program you may submit two academic letters.
- R©sum©
- Interview (May be requested)
- Professional statement
All admission policies and requirements for domestic students apply to international students. International students must also meet the following additional requirements:
- Demonstrate English Language Proficiency
- Financial documents are required to complete an application for admission and be reviewed for admission and merit scholarships.
- Proof of financial support that must include:
- A letter of financial support from the person(s) or sponsoring agency funding the student's time at Saint Louis University
- A letter from the sponsor's bank verifying that the funds are available and will be so for the duration of the student's study at the University
- Academic records, in English translation, of students who have undertaken postsecondary studies outside the United States must include:
- Courses taken and/or lectures attended
- Practical laboratory work
- The maximum and minimum grades attainable
- The grades earned or the results of all end-of-term examinations
- Any honors or degrees received.
WES and ECE transcripts are accepted.
All applicants must apply by Aug. 1.
Review Process
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. As soon as an application is complete, it is reviewed.
Admission decisions are based upon overall application. Clinical experience in behavior analysis, potential or demonstrated leadership, and some background in research are important factors that are taken into consideration.
We recognize that when choosing to continue your education, cost can be a concern. To help ease that decision, we have identified the following financial aid resources.
All incoming students should complete the application for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). A step-by-step guide to submitting your FAFSA is available online.
Saint Louis University Student Financial Services provides a Graduate Financial Aid Handbook that outlines the process of financing your graduate education. The following links to resources in Saint Louis University Student Financial Services may also be helpful:
- Graduate Loan Options
- Confirming Your Award
- Paying Your Bill and Payment Plans
Certificate students are not eligible for scholarships or graduate assistantships.
Fee Information
How to Apply
Step 1: Accept or decline your admission
If you applied using SLU’s online graduate application, you can notify us about your decision to accept or decline your admission by logging in and clicking on “Manage Your Account.” From there, you can access the decision form.
If you’ve used a third-party, centralized application to apply — such as SOPHAS for public health programs or CASPA for physician administration programs — you’ll need to email us directly at [email protected] with your decision.
Step 2: Set up your SLU Net ID
Follow these step-by-step instructions to set up your SLU Net ID.
Step 3: Log into MySLU
Log into mySLU at auth.slu.edu. Use your SLU Net ID and SLU Net Password, then click "Login." Click on the "Tools" tab to find links to systems, such as Banner Self-Service and other SLU applications and systems.
When logging in for the first time, you will be directed to set up your multi-factor authentication. You will need to log in upon completing that process.
Step 4: Check with your academic department
Contact your department in order to receive enrollment directions, important dates and other information specific to your graduate program. You can also check the University calendar.
Step 5: Read the Saint Louis University Graduate Catalog
Step 6: Submit your immunization and health insurance forms
If you decide to attend SLU, you will need to submit your immunization records and health history. You will also need to submit a health plan enrollment/waiver form.
Step 7: Visit parking and card services to obtain your SLU ID card
You’ll use your SLU ID card to access student services and campus buildings such as the library. Make sure to bring a photo ID, along with a copy of your class schedule.

United States of America, Saint Louis