Below are answers to some frequently asked questions. For any additional questions, email Program Director, Jonathan Tarbox, PhD, BCBA-D, at jtarbox@usc.edu.  

  • Applying

    • Q: Do I need a bachelor’s degree in psychology to apply for the program?
    • A: No. It may be helpful, especially if you have had undergraduate coursework in behavior analysis, but it is not required. We seek applicants from a variety of backgrounds.
    • Q: Do you accept international students?
    • A: Yes! Part of our mission is to disseminate the highest quality graduate training in behavior analysis as broadly as possible around the world. We highly encourage applicants from regions that are underserved by ABA services to apply for admission.
    • Q: How many students will be accepted per year?
    • A: Admission is competitive and students will be accepted on the basis of qualifications and demonstrated readiness for graduate instruction.

    Program

    • Q: I’ve heard USC has a strong alumni community. What benefits will I have access to as a USC graduate?
    • A: As a graduate of USC, you will have access to numerous benefits, including career services, among others. See the Alumni page for more information.
    • Q: Is the program available online?
    • A: No. The program is 100% in-person, on-campus. We believe this format is the most effective way to deliver the highest quality graduate education in ABA.
    • Q: Will the program assist me in obtaining a practicum placement?
    • A: Yes. The program will assist students in obtaining a practicum placement at an organization providing top-quality ABA services.
    • Q: Can I do my practicum at the agency where I already work?
    • A: All practicum sites must be preapproved. If the agency where you work has not already been approved by the program, they can apply to become a preapproved site and will then be evaluated by the program for approval.

    Graduates

    • Q: After I graduate, can I work in a different state, other than California?
    • A: After you graduate from the program, you will take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) examination. After you receive your BCBA, you can work in any state in the country, as the BCBA credential is an international credential, recognized across the US and in many other countries. Some states require additional state-specific licensure, after obtaining the BCBA credential.
    • Q: What is the average salary of a new BCBA working in the private sector?
    • A: Salaries range considerably, depending on local costs of living and other variables. However, typical starting salaries in Southern California average from $60,000 to $75,000 per year.
    • Q: Do BCBAs only work with individuals with autism or are there other populations you can work with as well?
    • A: Somewhere around 80 to 90% of BCBAs work with individuals with autism but ABA is an evidence-based treatment approach for a variety of other populations and challenges, including behavior disorders, feeding disorders, residential and educational supports for children and adults with other developmental disorders, as well as behavioral approaches to regular education and performance management and consultation in business and industry.