The School of Human Ecology in Louisiana Tech University’s College of Education and Human Sciences is launching a new undergraduate certificate in Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), designed to prepare students for careers such as Registered Behavior Technicians. This certificate aims to address the increasing demand for trained professionals who support individuals with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental and behavioral needs.
“The Applied Behavioral Analysis Undergraduate Certificate was developed to meet a growing need within our community,” Dr. Matthew Thornton, director of the School of Human Ecology, said. “As more children are identified with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental challenges, the demand for high-quality ABA services has increased. This certificate creates a clear pathway for students to enter this vital field, equipping them with the skills needed to support children and families while strengthening the capacity of local services.”
Through coursework focused on the principles of behavior analysis, students will develop practical skills that can be applied in clinical, educational, and community-based settings.
For Kaitlyn Brown, adjunct professor in the School of Human Ecology, the addition of the certificate represents an opportunity to prepare students for meaningful careers.
“The rates of autism are increasingly high in our country, and providers who can render effective and ethical treatment are highly sought after,” Brown said. “Students of this program will be able to immediately serve this need in their communities. Children and young adults in Northwest Louisiana will feel the effect of having an increase in additional providers equipped to help improve the quality of their lives.”
The impact of the program extends beyond the classroom. According to DeAnna Morrow, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), ABA business owner, and Louisiana Tech alumna, the certificate will help future students enter the workforce with the knowledge and confidence needed to make a difference.
“This program represents a meaningful investment in preparing students with practical, evidence-based skills that are increasingly valuable across education, healthcare, human services, and community settings,” Morrow said. “For students in the human development and family sciences (HDFS) program, the ABA certificate provides an opportunity to build competencies in understanding behavior, teaching new skills, and supporting individuals with diverse needs. These are highly transferable skills that enhance graduates' ability to serve children, families, and communities in a wide variety of professional roles.”
As the demand for ABA professionals grows, the School of Human Ecology is committed to preparing students for careers that meet critical workforce needs while improving the quality of life for individuals and families across communities.
For more information, visit the ABA certificate program page or contact Dr. Matthew Thornton at mthornton@latech.edu.