Behavior Analysis, Master of Science

Our program includes a course sequence that has been approved by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) to meet the educational coursework requirements to apply to the BACB to take examinations related to Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) or Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). The full program curriculum consists or 37.5 credits. Students applying to the BACB for certification are expected to meet additional requirements and should consult with the BACB directly concerning eligibility.

Students who complete the MS program are also eligible to apply 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.

Admission Requirements

Specific additional admission requirements for Master of Science in Behavior Analysis

Traditional entry into the full master’s program from the undergraduate degree, will require a completed undergraduate degree in a related field with a minimum GPA of 3.0, Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Miller Analogies Test (MAT) scores, completion of a research methods and statistics course, General Psychology, and at least one course in either experimental or applied behavior analysis(or experience working in the field).
Entry from the existing post-baccalaureate ABA certificate program would require that the applicant be matriculated in that program, and successfully complete at least 3 or the 5 courses in the program at time of application to the full master’s program. Those who are matriculated in the post-bachelor’s program must meet the program requirements of an undergraduate degree in a related area with a minimum 3.25 GPA, and have either 6 months experience or a university internship in a setting that utilizes applied behavior analysis interventions. This option is for students who perform well in the field and in class, but may not necessarily test well on standardized tests.

Program Requirements

Upon acceptance into the program, you will complete a tentative Plan of Study in consultation with the program coordinator. You must request that any transfer credits be considered at this time. PLEASE NOTE THAT NO MORE THAN THREE COURSES TAKEN AT SALEM STATE UNIVERSITY BEFORE ADMISSION CAN BE COUNTED TOWARDS THIS PROGRAM. You should meet regularly with the program coordinator to discuss your progress and revise your plan of study as needed.

Curriculum

Major required (core) courses (28.5 credits)

Capstone Experience (6 credits)

Option 1: Thesis
PSY 899 - Psychology Masters Thesis I
PSY 999 - Psychology Masters Thesis II
OR

Option 2: Research in Practice
PSY 898 - Practical Application in Research I
PSY 998 - Practical Application in Research II

Electives

At least 3 credits from one of the following:

Additional Program Requirements

All students with the stated goal of working as a certified or licensed behavior analyst must provide evidence of completed supervision hours prior to graduating and must secure an appropriate placement/position by their second semester in the program.

All students are required to present at a local, regional, or national conference.

Total Credits: 37.5

Note: students may also opt to complete a project or thesis with the approval of the program coordinator.