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Prepare to make a lasting impact in your community as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®), with an online MS degree in behavior analysis from the Department of Behavior Analysis at Simmons University.
ABAI Verified
ABAI Verified Course SequenceFootnote 1
14%
14% Increase in demand for BCBA®s or BCBA-D®s in the US from 2022 to 2023Footnote 2
20
Months to complete full time
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In 2023, 74% of online students passed the exam on the first attempt, compared to the national first attempt pass rate of 56%.Footnote 3
Across two practicum courses, students will complete experiential learning activities and projects to develop clinical and research skills. Students will also complete a thesis research project.
Simmons has been a leader in the field of behavior analysis for more than 20 years. Learners who graduate from this program become part of an ongoing legacy.
Simmons University was founded in 1899 with one mission: to help learners build successful careers and lead meaningful lives. This mission continues with the online Master of Science in Behavior Analysis program. Today, learners across the country can train to become effective clinicians with Simmons, and pay it forward by making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Tuition and fees are subject to change and may increase each academic year. Tuition does not include student fees, technology platform licensing, or support services. Learners are also responsible for travel and accommodation costs related to any in-person immersions or residentials.
Technology and services powered by 2U, Inc., the parent company of edX.
The 40-credit BehaviorAnalysis@Simmons curriculum explores the science behind behavior analytic principles and teaches learners how to apply them to a wide array of real-world applications. Simmons’ renowned faculty go beyond teaching strategies for behavior change — they teach students the science of behavior, training them to become data-based designers and evaluators of behavior change programs. Learners graduate prepared to continue their fieldwork experience, in order to take the exam and practice in a variety of settings.
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.
Featured courses include:
Learn how to conduct a functional behavioral assessment including planning, taking data, interpreting data, composing narrative reports, and establishing rapport with clients.
Study the foundational procedures and protocols to accelerate and decelerate behavior changes in clients.
Explore research on and practical applications of the analysis of verbal behavior.
BehaviorAnalysis@Simmons applicants must hold a four-year bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university, and be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. To complete an application, you will need to submit:
Online application
Current résumé
One essay
Official transcripts
Two letters of recommendation
TOEFL scores (if applicable)
GRE scores (optional)
Our rigorous, practice-based curriculum prepares students to lead the implementation, evaluation, and administration of applied behavior analytic principles and methods. Our curriculum and course sequence are verified by the Association of Behavior Analysis International
Learners complete two, 4-credit Practicum courses, and must complete 90 behavior analytic experience hours 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 will complete a thesis research project.