Downstate Expands ABA Program Amid Growing Workforce Demand

By Office of the President | Nov 3, 2026

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As demand for qualified behavior analysts continues to rise, faculty in the School of Health Professions (SOHP) are expanding opportunities for professionals entering this growing field.

This fall, we introduced a 21-credit Advanced Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) for professionals who hold a master’s degree or higher in a related field. The certificate builds on the Master of Science program established in 2024 under founding chair Jason C. Vladescu, Ph.D., BCBA-D, LBA(NY), NCSP. Recognized by the Association for Behavior Analysis International, Downstate’s ABA program is the only one based at an academic medical center in New York City.

Applied behavior analysis uses evidence-based strategies to help individuals with autism and other developmental or behavioral challenges develop communication, learning, and daily living skills. Its applications across healthcare, education, and community settings have contributed to growing demand for trained professionals.

According to the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, New York employers advertised nearly 5,000 positions requiring or preferring BCBA or BCBA-D certification in 2025, a 62 percent increase from the previous year. National demand increased 28 percent during the same period.

The new certificate can be completed in as few as three semesters and provides coursework toward professional certification and New York State licensure, subject to additional requirements.

The program is already demonstrating momentum. This fall, 18 students enrolled in the master’s program and six in the new certificate program, following the graduation of Downstate’s first two ABA master’s students in May 2026.

Dr. Vladescu, who joined Downstate in 2024, has authored more than 100 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters and written or edited four books. Under his leadership, the expanding program strengthens Downstate’s ability to prepare professionals for a field where specialized skills are increasingly needed.