salemstate.edu/graduate
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Salem State University’s MS Behavior Analysis program uniquely prepares students for careers as applied behavior analysts or basic scientists in a variety of settings. Our program provides a strong foundation in theoretical, conceptual and empirically based concepts that are essential for scientist-practitioners. Students can acquire not only the core knowledge and skill set needed to work in the competitive field of behavior analysis, but also develop the soft skills necessary to succeed.
ACCREDITATION AND CURRICULUM: PREPARING FUTURE BEHAVIOR ANALYSTS
The MS behavior analysis program is fully accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) Accreditation Board. The program consists of 39 credits, which includes seminars, required experience in the applied field or lab, and options for directed study and capstone thesis or equivalent practical application project. As an accredited program, students meet the educational requirements to later apply to the BACB to take examinations related to becoming a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and to apply for licensure in the state of Massachusetts.1
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
CAREERS
The field of behavior analysis is a growing and high-demand field. Practitioners may be employed by hospitals, clinical, social service agencies, schools, and other related organizations. Our applied alumni have worked with populations such as children and adults with developmental delays; veteran and military populations; deaf populations; traumatic brain injury, and those on the autism spectrum. 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.
1 Students planning to apply to the BACB for certification, or for state licensure, are expected to meet additional requirements and should consult directly with those organizations regarding requirements.
WHAT SETS OUR PROGRAM APART
• Individualized plan of study tailored to your unique professional goals
• Faculty focus on growing your knowledge base and skill set in areas related to their expertise in experimental or applied areas and how to translate between research and applications
• Unique opportunities to conduct research under the guidance of faculty mentors.
• Capstone requirement has the option of a committee-based thesis or a more structured practical application in research thesis-equivalent course
• Graduates have successfully secured positions at local and regional centers and schools as behavior analysts. Others have fulfilled their goal to move onto doctoral degree programs.
• High quality program where it is possible to complete your degree as a full-time professional in as few as two years
• Guiding principles in our program include the respect for quality of life, communication and outcomes that lead to a more rewarding life. Respect for diversity (including neurodiversity), inclusion, and equity in all areas is fundamental.
COST
For Massachusetts residents, each credit costs $514.20,* which includes tuition and fees. For non-Massachusetts residents, each credit costs $609.30.* The program is 39 credits. For assistance funding your graduate education, options such as financial aid, graduate assistantships, employer reimbursement and tuition remission, and veteran’s benefits may be available.
*Tuition and fees subject to change.
ADMISSION
Transcripts should indicate that the applicant has completed the following courses: General Psychology; one course in either operant or respondent conditioning, or in applied behavior analysis; and a course in either research methods or statistics. Courses taken in operant or respondent conditioning can be satisfied with at least 6 months in an applied setting under the direct supervision of a BCBA. However, the other coursework cannot be substituted.
Professional letters of recommendation are preferred from (in order of preference): (a) professors; (b) behavior analysts; or (c) supervisors in related professions.
Our master of science program prepares students as basic scientists or practitioners in a variety of settings. Offering individualized programs of study tailored to unique professional goals, students may focus on experimental analysis of behavior (EAB), applied behavior analysis (ABA), or a combination of both. Current student research areas include: Use of technology in gradual behavior change, impulsivity and choice-making in human and animal populations, gradual change procedures, complex human behavior, and applications to larger social issues.
Program Coordinator: Darlene Crone-Todd, PhD, BCBA-D, LABA
Email: dcronetodd@salemstate.edu
Phone for appointment: 978.542.6323
Apply: salemstate.edu/apply
Financial Aid: salemstate.edu/finaid
Email: gradadmissions@salemstate.edu
Phone: 978.542.6200
For accommodations and access information, visit salemstate.edu/access.
