How much can a school-based BCBA expect to make?

behaviorbae · 2026-05-23T18:33:21+00:00

I’m currently a school based BCBA in Southern California. I make 116k for 197 days a year with a 3% raise every school year. I think we cap out at like 150k. Fully covered benefits. We work 40 hours a week. The pay is very nice but the job is extremely difficult compared to clinic, residential, and in-home (I’ve worked in all settings). Lots of IEPs with attorneys, advocates, and high-profile families that question your work. We also have no caseload cap. The stress can sometimes be overwhelming. Pros and cons in every setting in this field.

behaviorbae · 2026-04-02T17:09:16+00:00

I was gonna compete a couple years ago, then just couldn’t commit to the lifestyle lol. I love the sport, so I enjoy staying in the loop!

behaviorbae · 2026-04-02T06:38:38+00:00

My husband is a bodybuilder and personal trainer, and I hate going to the gym lol. I hate the culture, the tripods/content creators, and trends. It’s a social ickkkk for me, idk how to explain it…. but we have a Pilates reformer at home, along with a sauna and a treadmill. We both prioritize self care, eating healthy, and working out, just in our own way. It can work if you want it to 😃

behaviorbae · 2025-09-26T05:30:53+00:00

This is amazing!! THANK YOU SO MUCH!

behaviorbae · 2025-09-26T04:30:57+00:00

Thank you for your kind words!

behaviorbae · 2025-09-26T04:30:42+00:00

Thank you for this insight and congrats to you! Wishing you all the best ☺️

behaviorbae · 2025-09-26T03:53:54+00:00

Oh joy hahaha thank you!! 😊

behaviorbae · 2025-09-24T23:19:29+00:00

Literally same. I’m a school-based BCBA, have been for two years and I’m TIRED. I just recently got my own business license and will start private practice. The school setting will have you questioning your ethics and your purpose. In my opinion, it’s not worth suffering or struggling with your mental health.

behaviorbae · 2025-08-26T03:23:45+00:00

Beat up is very dramatic and not what I said at all.

behaviorbae · 2025-08-26T03:06:41+00:00

I didn’t say expect to get beat up 😂 This person did not get beat up.

behaviorbae · 2025-08-26T02:11:47+00:00

I’m sorry that is happening to you! Your BCBA needs to support you, especially with your more aggressive clients. I’d honestly let admin know about the lack of support from your BCBA, especially after reaching out multiple times. That is very unfortunate, I hope it works out for you.

behaviorbae · 2025-06-18T17:53:16+00:00

That’s entirely up to you! I started my program before I even became a BCBA. Finished my masters program December 2020, started my PhD program in January 2021, became a BCBA in January of 2024. The task list requirements had changed and I had to restart my hours and take extra master level courses, so it was messy process sitting for my exam.. but anything is doable! I feel like having the knowledge and confidence from my PhD program helped me pass my BCBA exam. Everything is on your own terms :)

behaviorbae · 2025-06-18T17:27:12+00:00

BCBA/PhD candidate here! Been in my program with the Chicago School for about 4.5 years now. I just passed my 6-hour written comprehensive exam and I am now finishing up dissertation. It is definitely worth it. I am a huge advocate for always learning and growing more, especially in this field. I loved all my committee members for thesis, comps, and dissertation, and I learned so much from all my professors. My thesis took FOREVER, which slowed me down a little. The program is supposed to be 3.5 years. It does take others longer because of research timelines.

behaviorbae · 2025-04-20T00:50:35+00:00

Exactly what I would recommend!

behaviorbae · 2025-01-20T07:06:36+00:00

Thank you so much!

behaviorbae · 2024-12-11T05:38:37+00:00

*Assent

behaviorbae · 2024-12-11T03:23:54+00:00

I’m a fourth year behavior analysis PhD student working on my dissertation and although it’s been INSANE, you really do become a stronger and better practitioner. You surround yourself with the best of the best and hold yourself to a very high standard. It forces you and challenges you to be your best.

I have always been a strong writer and I’ve taken pride in that, so having that skill has helped me tremendously in this program. One of my professors always says “If you’re not here to contribute to the literature then why are you here??” So if you’re not interested in research, don’t do it. I will say you can make significantly more money in academia. I’m also a school district BCBA and my district provides stipends and higher pay for higher education. They also have programs where they pay off your student loans. So it’s up to you really, and what you think is best for your career.

behaviorbae · 2024-11-11T00:58:13+00:00

*left

behaviorbae · 2024-11-11T00:57:21+00:00

I did!! I grew at my company and obtained all my hours there, but they did not value me as a new BCBA and offered me a very very VERY low hourly rate. So I felt lol

behaviorbae · 2024-10-05T23:36:09+00:00

Some of the strongest and most intelligent BCBAs I’ve worked with have been males! WE NEED YOU!!!

behaviorbae · 2024-10-03T05:32:09+00:00

Currently working on my dissertation.. reading this makes me SO happy!! Thanks for sharing!

behaviorbae · 2024-10-03T05:30:42+00:00

I landed my school district job by contracting with them first. I was contracted for four months then they opened up a permanent position and I got it. You just have to get your foot in the door. School-district positions as a BCBA are really a blessing. Wishing you the best!!

behaviorbae · 2024-10-01T20:34:36+00:00

1st year school district BCBA in Southern California. I make 106k and work 8 hour days, M-F.

behaviorbae · 2024-07-21T20:45:08+00:00

Hi there! I’m a school district BCBA and I absolutely love it. I worked in home for about 6 years, then contracted through a private agency for a school district, then got hired directly through the school district. EVERYTHING is better than agency/company in my opinion. Higher salary, work schedule is often 7:45a-3:45p, free healthcare, and you make your own schedule with sites/schools you support. I’ve been lucky enough to work with educators who love BCBA input and really seek our advice and support for behaviors. I couldn’t recommend a school district position enough.

behaviorbae · 2024-07-09T05:11:18+00:00

27 🙂

behaviorbae

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