Master of Science in Behavior Analysis

The Master of Science in Behavior Analysis is a hybrid program that prepares students as basic or applied scientist-practitioners in research and applied settings. At the same time, the program 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

M.S. in Behavior Analysis

Our Mission

ABAI Accreditation Board: accredited master's program logo

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. 

The master of science in behavior analysis at Salem State University is accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) Accreditation Board. For more information, see the ABAI-accredited programs’ website and the student outcomes for programs website. 

Program Features 

  • Flexible pacing options: A course sequence that makes it possible for full-time professionals to complete a master’s degree in as few as two years. 

  • Individualized programs of study: Tailored to your unique professional goals, with options for supervised experience, directed study, or master’s thesis. 

  • Operant laboratory: Unique opportunities to conduct experiments in our operant laboratory under the guidance of faculty mentors. 

  • Internationally renowned faculty: Faculty focus on growing your knowledge  in experimental and applied behavior analysis with an emphasis on how to translate research into practice. 

  • Graduate assistantships: Opportunities to apply for graduate assistantships, grants, and scholarships. 

Awards and Recognition

#4 in New England — College Factual ranks us among the top 10 ABA programs in the region, ahead of several long-established institutions (including Endicott), and just behind programs offering a Ph.D.

#12 in the Nation for Value — DegreeChoices.com names us one of the 20 best ABA master’s programs in the U.S., recognizing our exceptional return on investment.

Certification and Licensure

Our accredited program meets the educational degree requirements to apply to the BACB  to take examinations related to becoming a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA; see information about pass rates*). Eligibility requirements are determined by the BACB, and may include additional requirements, such as supervision hours, etc. Applied students in the program are expected to complete their supervision hours during their course of study. 

*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. 

Curriculum 

The program consists of 39 credits. These credits include seminars, required experience in the applied field or research laboratory, and options to complete a directed study and capstone thesis or an equivalent practical application project. 

Our program is designed to take students from their entry point to completion of the program in a way that is consistent with their goals and objectives. Each student completes a personalized Plan of Study to follow in consultation with the program coordinator to facilitate goal setting and how to complete the program in two years (full-time) or three years (part-time). 

SAMPLE COURSES**

  • PSY 725 Applied Behavior Analysis I 

  • PSY 825 Behavioral Assessment 

  • PSY 830 Small N Research Design & Analysis 

  • PSY 840 Legal, Ethical, and Professional Issues in ABA 

**Subject to change; accurate for the 2025-2026 academic year. 

Careers 

Behavior analysis is a growing and high-demand field. Massachusetts ranked second in the nation for demand for behavior analysts in 2024. Demand for professionals with BCBA or BCBA-D certification continues to rise annually, with a 47% increase in job postings from 2023 to 2024.*** 

Practitioners may be employed by hospitals, clinics, social service agencies, schools, and other related organizations. Our applied alumni have worked with populations of children and adults with autism and other developmental disabilities. Behavior analysts may 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. In Massachusetts, the average salary is $78,528, ranging between $68,484 and $84,549. 

***Source: BACB, US Employment Demand for Behavior Analysts: 2010-2024 

Take the Next Step

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Contact Us

Want to learn more about the behavior analysis program? Contact the program coordinator, Kenneth Jacobs.

For admissions-related questions, please contact graduate admissions. 

Graduate Admissions

978.542.6200
Monday-Friday, 8:30 am-5 pm
331 Lafayette St.
Second Floor,
Salem, MA 01970
Mailing Address:
352 Lafayette St.
Salem, MA 01970
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