How to become a behavioral analyst?

To become a behavioral analyst, you need to have a bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, child development, special education, or a closely related field, as well as be a board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA). You also need at least a year of experience working with the specific population or in the particular field in which you want to work. For example, to work as a behavior analyst focused on spectrum disorders, an undergraduate internship working with children with autism is helpful. Good skills to have for the profession include patience, empathy, excellent verbal and written communication, and analytical thinking.