Behavior Analysis (MS or EdS)
Description
Simmons University's Behavior Analysis program prepares students for leadership roles in the implementation, evaluation, and administration of behavior analytic principles and methods. Our rigorous curriculum focuses on the science of behavior, behavior analytic research methods, and broad applications across a wide range of clinical and research areas. Throughout the degree program, you’ll become scientist-practitioners, developing an in-depth understanding of the basic principles of behavior, assessment and behavior change methodologies, evidence-based instruction, and professional and research ethics.
Students have two degree options – the Educational Specialist (EdS) and the Master of Science (MS). The EdS degree program is an advanced graduate degree that provides a student who currently holds a master’s degree with an area of educational specialization. The MS degree program meets the educational needs of an individual who holds a bachelor’s degree and is seeking a master’s degree. To earn either the MS or EdS degree, students must complete 40 credits and a thesis research project, which is completed during Practicum courses.
To prepare for Practicum, students must begin working by the end of the first semester; we provide support to help students find an appropriate site.
The MS degree in Behavior Analysis in the campus-based program and in the online program are both accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International Accreditation Board.
The degree and coursework in each program meet the requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® examination under Pathway 1 (accredited program). Applicants will need to meet additional eligibility requirements and demonstrate they reside in an authorized country before they can be deemed eligible to take the examination.
Learning Outcomes
- Students acquire and demonstrate complex and sophisticated behavior analytic skills that prepare them for clinical practice.
- The curriculum meets the Behavior Analyst Certification Board’s® degree and coursework requirements to apply for the BCBA® exam.
- The campus-based and the online master's degree programs are both accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International Accreditation Board.
- The curriculum includes experiential learning courses to develop clinical and research skills.
- Students plan, implement, write, and defend a thesis research project under the supervision of core faculty.
Requirements for entry into program
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. All grade point averages are considered, but a B (3.0) average or higher is preferred.
It is desirable that applicants have a balanced liberal arts education on the undergraduate level with evidence of successful completion of natural science courses. Additionally, the Admission Committee looks for relevant experience and a commitment to the science and profession of behavior analysis and its values.
Delivery Modes Available
The Behavior Analysis Master’s degree is offered at the Simmons campus and online.
Degree Requirements
Credits
The MS and EdS degrees in Behavior Analysis require 40 credits and students must complete Practicum experiential learning courses for 2 terms and a thesis research project to be eligible to graduate.
Required Didactic Courses
Please note that courses in the above and the following two tables are labeled BEHV for campus-based courses and BEHVO for online courses.
Required Experiential Learning Courses
Optional Elective Courses
Practicum
Students complete two 4-credit Practicum courses (8 credits, total) during the 4th and 5th semester of the program to meet the experiential learning requirements to graduate. Students must secure a practicum site that satisfies the program standards and the ABAI accreditation standards for experiential learning. The practicum site and site supervisors are vetted and approved by Simmons University faculty, at the discretion of the faculty, before a student may begin Practicum.
Students must complete 90 behavior analytic supervised experience hours within the practicum courses to be eligible to graduate. Students meet weekly with their practicum instructor, and complete experiential learning activities and projects to develop clinical and research skills. Across the two Practicum courses, students plan, carry out, write up, and defend a thesis research project under the supervision of core faculty.
Prior to registering for Practicum courses, students complete a 0-credit Practicum Orientation course during term 3 of the program. The Orientation helps prepare students for the Practicum experience and familiarizes students with program requirements.
Licensure, certification, etc.
This program is intended to lead to coursework and degree eligibility for the BCBA® examination under Pathway 1 (accredited program). It is not an individual certificate or license. Some, but not all, states license behavior analysts, with the name of license and requirements varying by state. Specific state licenses may be more applicable and/or require additional standards. Exam eligibility, licensure requirements, and appropriate pathways are subject to change and may differ based on individual student backgrounds, including coursework taken outside the scope of the program. Students should do their own due diligence and determine the appropriate pathway and license type for themselves.