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Master of Science
Simmons's highly respected Behavior Analysis program prepares students for leadership roles in the implementation, evaluation, and administration of applied behavioral analytic principles and methods. Our innovative curriculum emphasizes contemporary research and the fusion of applied behavior analysis with other scientific fields. Coursework addresses topics such as behavioral assessment, descriptive analysis, demonstration of functional relations, measurement and intervention tactics, data display and interpretation, selection of target behaviors, verbal behaviors, and goals, family issues, legal and ethical issues, and crisis management.
The Simmons course sequence for the Master of Science in Behavior Analysis is approved by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board™ and meets the requirements for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst™ (BCBA) examination.
Collaborative Research
Students are actively engaged in professional research, teaming up with Simmons's nationally renowned faculty to implement, write, and publish research, and to present their work at national conferences and in peer-reviewed journals.
Recent research topics include:
- Learning to Ride: Pedaling Made Possible Through Positive Behavioral Interventions
- Constructed-Response Spelling and Literary Development: An Application in an Urban Classroom
- Task Analysis, Correspondence Training, and General Case Instruction for Teaching Personal Hygiene Skills
- The Effects of Word-Picture Associations on the Vocabulary Development of High School Students with Dyslexia
Degree Options
This 52-credit program leads to a Master of Science in Behavioral Education. Students also perform mentorship hours required to sit for the BCBA™ exam. Each program of study is individually designed in consultation with the program director and can be completed on a part-time basis or in two years of full-time study. Courses are typically offered in Friday/Saturday combinations and occasionally on weeknights.
Coursework
The master's program of study includes 11 courses and seminars, plus mentoring requirements.
