Understanding fieldwork requirements for certification
Overview of BACB credentials and their requirements
Education:
High school diploma or equivalent
Training:
40-hour RBT training
Competency Assessment:
Pass RBT competency assessment
Supervision:
Ongoing monthly supervision (5% minimum)
Education:
Bachelor's degree + coursework
Fieldwork Hours:
1,000 - 1,500 hours (depends on type)
Supervision:
5-20% depending on fieldwork type
Examination:
Pass BCaBA exam
Education:
Master's or Doctoral degree + coursework
Fieldwork Hours:
1,500 - 2,000 hours (depends on type)
Supervision:
5-20% depending on fieldwork type
Examination:
Pass BCBA exam
Total Hours: 1,500 (BCBA) or 1,000 (BCaBA)
Supervision: 5% minimum (75-100h)
Duration: Typically 12-18 months minimum
Total Hours: 1,000 (BCBA) or 1,300 (BCaBA)
Supervision: 10% minimum (100-130h)
Duration: Can be completed faster
Total Hours: 750 (BCBA) or 1,000 (BCaBA)
Supervision: 20% minimum (150-200h)
Duration: University-based programs
✓ Unrestricted Activities (60%+)
⚠ Restricted Activities (40% max)
Individual Supervision (50%+)
One-on-one contact between supervisor and supervisee. Allows for personalized feedback and skill development.
Group Supervision (50% max)
Maximum 10 participants. Useful for discussing general concepts and peer learning.
• At least 2 supervisory contacts must occur each month
• At least 1 contact must be synchronous (in-person or real-time virtual)
• Asynchronous methods (email, recorded feedback) can count for the 2nd contact
• Observation of the trainee with a client must occur at appropriate intervals
• Fieldwork must be completed over a minimum timeframe (varies by type)
• No more than 130 hours per month can count toward fieldwork
• Supervision cannot be "front-loaded" or "back-loaded"
• Must maintain consistent supervision throughout fieldwork period
To provide supervision for BCBA/BCaBA candidates, supervisors must:
System automatically calculates supervision percentages based on your fieldwork type
Dashboard shows whether you meet unrestricted, individual supervision, and monthly contact requirements
Export templates match BACB monthly verification and experience standards documentation
Built-in attestation process ensures both parties confirm compliance each month