Eligibility pathways
The routes to BCBA® certification. From 2027 there are two (accredited degree, or coursework); Pathway 2 ends in 2032.
What it means
A “pathway” is a route to qualify for the BCBA® exam. From January 1, 2027 there are two: Pathway 1 — a master’s or higher from an APBA-accredited or ABAI-accredited/recognized program — and Pathway 2 — a master’s in any field plus qualifying behavior-analytic coursework. Both require supervised fieldwork and the exam. The older Pathways 3 and 4 are discontinued in 2027, and Pathway 2 is set to end in 2032, leaving Pathway 1 as the only route.
Example
Someone with a master’s in an unrelated field who then completes behavior-analytic coursework qualifies under Pathway 2 (through 2031).
Where it trips people up
The fieldwork rules are the same no matter which pathway you use — the pathway only affects your degree and coursework. If you’re on Pathway 2, plan around its 2032 sunset.
Let the software track this for you
FieldworkABA applies these rules automatically as you log — the 60/40 ratio, supervision, and monthly checks, done in the background. Free for 14 days, no card.
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