Master of Science in Behavior Analysis

The master of science in behavior analysis program prepares students as basic or applied scientists in research and applied settings. At the same time, it provides a strong foundation in theoretical, conceptual, and empirical concepts. Students can acquire the core knowledge and skill set needed to work in the competitive field of behavior analysis and to consider further study beyond the master’s level.

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Program Requirements
Title

M.S. in Behavior Analysis

Our Mission

To use behavior analysis to inspire solutions that lead to a more rewarding life. To create educational opportunities for every student to research and apply behavior analysis in their chosen field. To prepare students for professional roles in experimental and applied behavior analysis with a curriculum that meets the course content requirements for eligibility for both certification and licensure as a behavior analyst, and experiences that allow students to blend science and practice into their approach to solving real-world problems for a variety of populations, and to pursue higher degrees.

Awards and Recognition

Salem State's MS in Behavior Analysis program was recently ranked in the top 10 applied behavior analysis programs, both in Massachusetts and across the United States.

Program Overview

The full master’s program curriculum consists of 37.5 credits, which includes nine required seminars, an exam review course, and options for supervised experience, directed study, or master’s thesis. Learn more about program requirements and courses. Students applying to the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) for certification are expected to meet additional requirements and should consult with the BACB directly concerning eligibility. Students are also encouraged to review the official program handbook for additional program details. 

Program highlights include:

  • Individualized programs of study tailored to your unique professional goals
  • Internationally-renowned faculty focused on growing your knowledge base with their expertise in quantitative and experimental psychology, behavioral assessment of complex thinking skills, and translation of knowledge from research to applied settings
  • Unique opportunities to conduct experiments in our operant laboratory under the guidance of faculty mentors
  • All students complete a master’s project or thesis under the supervision of program faculty
  • A course sequence that makes it possible for full-time professionals to complete a master’s degree in as few as two years

Certification and Licensure

VCS--ABAI Verified Course Sequence graphic

Our program includes a course sequence that has been verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI: See information about verified course sequences) to meet the educational coursework requirements to apply to the BACB to apply to take examinations related to Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA; see information about pass rates*). Eligibility requirements are determined by the BACB. 

*Disclaimer: Pass-rate data are not published for sequences with fewer than six first-time candidates in a single year or for sequences within their first four years of operation.

The program is also designed according to the current requirements for licensure in Massachusetts. Licensure requirements for applied behavior analysts are subject to change, so students should consult directly with the state licensure office regarding requirements.

Careers

Behavior analysis is a growing and high demand field in which practitioners may be employed by hospitals, clinics, social service agencies, schools, and other related areas. Examples of the populations served and areas of application include children and adults with development delays; veteran and military populations; deaf populations; and additional groups and interventions. Behavior analysts can also conduct research for organizations, companies, and institutions of higher learning; pursue administrative positions within ABA organizations; or serve as consultants to government and non-government institutions.

According to the Association of Professional Behavior Analysts, the median pay behavior analysts is approximately $60,000 per year.* Graduates of our program have secured positions at Melmark New England, Futures Behavior Therapy Center, Hopeful Journeys Educational Center, SEEM Collaborative, May Center School for Autism and Developmental Disabilities, and a variety of public schools.

*Source: APBA 2009 Professional Employment Survey Results

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