edX Online

About the program

  • 78% BCBA® Exam First Time Pass Rate:

    In 2024, 78% of online students passed the exam on the first attempt, compared to the national first attempt pass rate of 54%.Footnote 2 The Online MS in Behavior Analysis degree program outcome data are reported annually.

  • Practicum Courses:

    Across two practicum courses, students will plan, carry out, analyze the outcomes, write up, and defend a thesis research project under the supervision of their Thesis Committee.

  • Leader in the Field:

    Simmons Department of Behavior Analysis has been a leader in behavior analytic education for more than 27 years. Learners who graduate from this program become part of an ongoing legacy.

Rigorous curriculum

Through our rigorous curriculum, students learn about the science of behavior, including the basic principles of behavior, behavior change methodology, functional assessment and analysis, evidence-based instructional methods, experimental research design, and verbal behavior. Students work with their faculty advisor to develop, conduct, and analyze outcomes of a thesis research project. Through this process, students become scientist-practitioners, preparing them for a wide variety of career options post-graduation.

This program has been designed to meet the BACB® BCBA® Certification Pathway 2 coursework requirements. Applicants will need to meet additional requirements to qualify for BCBA® Certification.

Featured courses include:

  • Behavioral Assessment:

    Learn how to conduct a functional behavioral assessment including planning, taking data, interpreting data, composing narrative reports, and establishing rapport with clients.

  • Methodologies for Behavior Change I:

    Study the foundational procedures and protocols to accelerate and decelerate behavior changes in clients.

  • Verbal Behavior:

    Explore research on and practical applications of the analysis of verbal behavior.

Ready to advance your career?

Experiential Learning: Practicum

Students complete two, 4-credit Practicum courses, and must complete a minimum of 90 supervised practicum experiential learning hours to graduate. During practicum, students work with their Thesis Committee Chair to develop, conduct, analyze outcomes, write up, and defend a thesis research project. Through this process, students become scientist-practitioners, equipping them for clinical and research roles post-graduation