Online Master of Science in Behavior Analysis
Prepare to Work in the Field of Behavior Analysis
Thesis Research Project
20 Month
Master’s Program
No GRE Scores
Required
BehaviorAnalysis@Simmons, the online Master of Science in Behavior Analysis program from Simmons University, prepares students for research and clinical roles in the field of behavior analysis.
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.
In 2024, 78% of online students passed the exam on the first attempt, compared to the national first attempt pass rate of 54%.1 The Online MS in Behavior Analysis degree program outcome data are reported annually.
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.
Prepare to Work in the Field of Behavior Analysis
Apply for our next cohort today
Rigorous Curriculum
Our curriculum prepares students to apply behavior analysis principles. The Practicum experiential learning component of the program teaches students research ethics and methods as they develop, implement, and analyze outcomes of their thesis research project under guidance of their thesis research committee. Learn more about Simmons’ experiential learning component.
The BehaviorAnalysis@Simmons coursework 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.
Students can finish the program in 20 months! Students will complete a total of 40 credits and a thesis research project, which is completed during Practicum courses. To prepare for Practicum, students must begin working in a behavior analytic worksite for a minimum of 5 hours per week by the end of the first semester. The worksite must meet the department requirements for behavior analytic activities and appropriate supervision provided by the worksite. We provide support to help students find an appropriate worksite.
2
Practicum Courses
Featured Courses
Verbal Behavior
Explore research on and practical applications of the analysis of verbal behavior.
Methodologies for Behavior Change I
Study the foundational procedures and protocols to accelerate and decelerate behavior changes in clients.
Applying to BehaviorAnalysis@Simmons
Simmons University evaluates candidates by their ability, aptitude, and promise for academic success in the program and beyond. Individuals who are interested in the online behavior analysis program should first review the application requirements and deadlines. Please see this page for additional program disclosures.
Get Started
The final deadline for the May 2026 cohort is March 24, 2026.
The Department of Behavior Analysis Mission Statement
- To make the philosophy, theory, and science of behavior analysis explicable and accessible to individuals in an optimal position to affect meaningful educational, social, and behavioral changes
- To generate and publish innovative research by fusing behavior analysis with relevant findings from other scientific disciplines
- To include, whenever possible students as authors on presentations and publications
- To demonstrate how behavior analysis can influence the breadth and depth of issues centered on the human condition
- To prepare students to pass the Behavior Analysis Certification Board’s examination to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst
About Simmons University Online
Simmons University was founded in 1899 with the mission of helping students to lead meaningful lives and build successful careers. In 2012, Simmons decided to bring that mission online by offering graduate programs that provide students with the same supportive and welcoming learning environment as on campus.
Renowned Faculty
The BehaviorAnalysis@Simmons faculty is made up of educators, practitioners, and researchers who bring diverse experiences to the classroom. They are dedicated teachers committed to excellence and take pride in preparing their students to become the next generation of effective behavior analysts.
Career Outlook for Behavior Analysts
The job market demand for BCBAs® is growing rapidly.
The BA@Simmons Online master’s degree in behavior analysis from Simmons University was designed to meet the BACB® BCBA® Certification Pathway 2 coursework requirements. Applicants will need to meet additional requirements to qualify for BCBA® Certification.
Earn Your Master’s Online and Prepare to Work in the Field of Behavior Analysis
- BACB® University Pass Rates 2024 ↩︎
- Behavior Analyst Certification Board. (2025). US employment demand for behavior analysts 2010 – 2024. Retrieved July 1, 2025.. ↩︎