Where to Find CEUs for Behavior Analysts

As a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), keeping up with continuing education requirements is more than a credentialing necessity—it’s an opportunity to stay current with the latest research, expand your clinical skills, and connect with a community of professionals dedicated to improving lives through applied behavior analysis (ABA). Whether you’re working in schools, clinics, or private practice, finding quality BCBA CEUs (Continuing Education Units) can be easy if you know where to look. Below, we’ll explore the best places to find CEUs for behavior analysts, what to look for in a provider, and some strategies for getting the most value out of your continuing education.

Understanding CEUs and Why They Matter

CEUs are required for maintaining your BCBA certification through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). Every renewal cycle, BCBAs must complete a specific number of CEUs, which include both general and ethics-focused credits. These requirements ensure practitioners continue developing their professional competence and remain informed about evolving ethical standards, research findings, and applied methodologies.

Beyond compliance, CEUs play a critical role in professional growth. They help you stay inspired, refine your practice, and explore emerging areas in the field—like telehealth, acceptance and commitment training, or supervision best practices. When you treat CEUs as more than a checkbox, they become a powerful tool for long-term success.

Types of CEU Opportunities Available

Before diving into where to find BCBA CEUs, it’s important to understand the different formats available. Each offers unique advantages depending on your schedule, learning style, and budget.

1. Live Webinars and Conferences:
These real-time sessions often feature expert presenters and allow participants to ask questions and engage in discussions. Many national and regional conferences offer CEUs, and attending them can also provide valuable networking opportunities.

2. On-Demand Courses:
For busy professionals, pre-recorded courses can be accessed anytime and completed at your own pace. Many CEU providers host large libraries of courses, allowing you to tailor your learning path to your interests.

3. Workshops and In-Person Training:
In-person CEUs are ideal for hands-on learning and practice-based skills. Workshops may cover specialized topics like functional analysis or behavioral skills training, often including live demonstrations and small-group activities.

4. University Courses:
Graduate-level ABA courses or post-certification programs often qualify for CEUs. This option is particularly valuable for those interested in advanced topics or research-based content.

5. BACB-Authorized Providers:
Some organizations are approved directly by the BACB to provide continuing education. These providers adhere to BACB quality standards, ensuring your CEUs meet certification requirements.

Top Places to Find BCBA CEUs

There are numerous reputable sources for CEUs across the ABA field. Here are some of the best options for finding credible and engaging continuing education opportunities:

1. Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB):
The BACB website itself lists guidelines for CEU requirements and often links to approved continuing education providers. Reviewing this list ensures that your CEUs count toward renewal.

2. ABAI (Association for Behavior Analysis International):
The ABAI is one of the most respected organizations in the field, offering a wide variety of conferences, workshops, and online courses. Members gain access to discounted CEUs and professional development resources.

3. Behavior University:
Known for its user-friendly online platform, Behavior University offers a range of affordable and high-quality CEU courses. Topics include ethics, supervision, and applied research updates, all presented by experienced BCBAs.

4. Relias Learning:
Relias provides comprehensive online training for behavior analysts and allied health professionals. Their courses are BACB-approved, making them a convenient and reliable choice for obtaining CEUs.

5. Operant Coffee Club and Other Podcast-Based CEUs:
Podcasts have become a creative and accessible way to earn CEUs. Programs like Operant Coffee Club and Behavioral Observations offer audio-based learning experiences that can be paired with short quizzes to earn credits.

6. Universities and ABA Graduate Programs:
Many universities with ABA departments offer CEU workshops or continuing education certificates. Institutions like the University of Florida, Western Michigan University, and Simmons University host regular CEU events featuring expert speakers.

7. Professional Conferences:
Conferences such as ABAI’s annual meeting, regional ABA chapter conferences, and specialized events like the Verbal Behavior Conference or the California ABA Conference offer a wealth of CEUs. Attending these not only fulfills requirements but also helps you stay connected to new research and trends.

8. Local and Regional ABA Organizations:
State-level ABA associations often host monthly meetings, workshops, and webinars where members can earn CEUs at a lower cost. Joining your local ABA chapter is one of the most cost-effective ways to stay current.

How to Choose the Right CEU Provider

Not all CEU opportunities are created equal. When evaluating your options, consider the following factors to ensure quality and compliance:

Accreditation and BACB Approval:
Always verify that the provider is BACB-approved or that the event lists a BACB number for CEU credits. Without proper accreditation, your hours may not count toward your renewal.

Relevance to Your Practice:
Choose topics that align with your professional goals or areas where you’d like to grow. If you work primarily in school settings, for example, CEUs on classroom management or autism interventions might be most beneficial.

Presenter Credentials:
Look for CEUs taught by experienced BCBAs or researchers with a strong background in the topic. Credible instructors ensure the information is both accurate and applicable.

Format and Accessibility:
Consider your schedule and learning style. On-demand courses are ideal for flexibility, while live sessions may be better for those who prefer interaction.

Ethics and Supervision Requirements:
The BACB mandates specific CEUs for ethics and supervision. Make sure your selected provider offers sessions that meet those specialized requirements.

Free and Low-Cost Options for BCBA CEUs

While some CEU opportunities can be pricey, there are several affordable—and even free—options available. Many organizations provide complimentary CEUs through webinars, online conferences, or professional memberships.

Free Sources Include:

• BACB Webinars: The BACB occasionally hosts free webinars focused on ethics, supervision, and compliance updates.
• The Behavioral Observations Podcast: Occasionally offers free CEUs through sponsored events or short surveys.
• ABAI Chapter Events: Regional ABA chapters often provide discounted or free CEUs for members.
• University Partnerships: Some universities host public research presentations or panel discussions that qualify for CEUs.

Additionally, if you’re part of a large organization or clinic, ask your employer if they offer internal CEU opportunities. Many companies bring in guest speakers or provide subscriptions to online CEU platforms as part of professional development benefits.

Maximizing the Value of Your CEUs

Earning CEUs should be more than a formality—it’s a chance to strengthen your skills and advance your career. Here are a few tips to make the most of your BCBA CEUs:

Plan Ahead:
Review your CEU requirements early in your renewal cycle so you can space out your learning and avoid last-minute scrambles.

Keep Records Organized:
Document all your CEUs with certificates, receipts, and completion dates. Many analysts use digital folders or spreadsheets to track progress.

Diversify Your Learning:
Mix up your CEU sources to stay engaged. Attend a live workshop one month, then explore an on-demand course the next.

Network and Collaborate:
Live CEU events are great opportunities to connect with peers, discuss case studies, and exchange ideas. Networking can lead to mentorship or even new career opportunities.

Reflect and Apply:
After completing a CEU, take time to reflect on how you can integrate what you’ve learned into your practice. Practical application enhances retention and makes continuing education more meaningful.

The Future of Continuing Education in ABA

As technology continues to advance, the landscape of continuing education for behavior analysts is evolving rapidly. Virtual conferences, microlearning modules, and interactive simulations are making CEUs more engaging and accessible than ever. In the future, we can expect greater integration of data-driven learning tools, allowing BCBAs to personalize their professional development based on areas of strength and improvement.

Final Thoughts

Finding CEUs for behavior analysts doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the growing number of online platforms, regional associations, and innovative learning formats, obtaining your BCBA CEUs can be both convenient and rewarding. The key is to focus on quality, relevance, and applicability. By approaching continuing education with curiosity and purpose, you’ll not only meet your certification requirements but also grow as a practitioner, deepen your expertise, and continue making a meaningful impact in the field of applied behavior analysis.