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Behavioral Analyst

What To Learn

High School

What high school courses should you take if you're interested in this career? Get your answers from the Human Services cluster Counseling and Mental Health Services pathway.

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Additional Information

Plan for school, school and more school. Although you can get a job with a bachelor's degree, the best career options are awarded to people with their master's and doctorates.

Many states require practicing psychologists to have at least a master's degree. If you plan to hang out your shingle and counsel, make sure you have the proper state licenses and certifications.

Scott Martin is a Washington-based social worker and behavioral analyst. Martin, who has his master's in social work, advises future behavioral analysts to get their master's degree. "There are job opportunities for bachelor's-level workers, but the pay isn't that great. You'd better plan on at least getting your master's and maybe even your doctorate," advises Martin.

Your education won't stop once you have that degree. "You'll have to really keep up on research studies, read journal articles and attend seminars. Don't stop your education because you're out of school."

Behavioral analyst Tannis Antonio understands the value of continuing education. "I have a PhD in criminal justice. I read, talk to groups and take in as many seminars and lectures as I can find time for," she says.

Sound like a lot of school? Her career is very demanding and requires professional, expert skills. "I decided to focus my career on youth and families in crisis while working with adult offenders. I quickly realized that in order for my work to have significant impact, treatment priorities had to be with youths."