Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis

The William James College Master of Arts (MA) in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) can be taken on-campus or online. This program is geared to students who currently work or want to work in education, mental health, clinical, and other human-service settings, particularly with children, teens, and adults with autism and developmental disabilities.

The coursework will provide students with a foundation in the philosophy of behaviorism, the principles of learning theory, and behavior-analytic research methods. Over the course of the program, students will also be exposed to current and best practices in behavioral assessment, intervention, and evaluation.

Upon completion of the program requirements, students will meet the minimum licensure coursework set forth by the Association of Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) to take the exam to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Applicants will need to meet additional field education requirements before they can be deemed eligible for the exam. Contingent on passing the BCBA exam, students will also meet the requirements to become a Licensed Applied Behavior Analyst (LABA) in Massachusetts.

The MA in Applied Behavior Analysis at William James College has a reduced tuition rate compared to our othergraduate programs. The program has an optional Field Education component. There is also a Certificate option for individuals who already hold a graduate degree and are interested in extending their education to include training in Applied Behavior Analysis. Students can begin the program in the Fall or Spring.