Salem State University ABA Programs

Salem State University’s Master of Science in Behavior Analysis program ranks among the nation’s best ABA programs. Some sources place it #4 in New England, ahead of several 20-year-old institutions like Endicott College and just behind universities offering doctoral degrees. The program’s value speaks for itself – other places rank it #12 in the Nation for Value and lists it among America’s top 20 ABA master’s programs.

The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) Accreditation Board has fully accredited the program. ABAI sets and implements educational standards in behavior analysis, and their seal confirms Salem State’s excellence in education and industry compliance.

The program helps people create better lives through behavior analysis. Students get opportunities to research and apply behavior analysis in their chosen fields. Graduates can work in experimental and applied behavior analysis, thanks to a curriculum that meets all certification and licensure requirements for behavior analysts.

The program focuses on these essential goals:

• Building creative and critical thinking abilities
• Applying field concepts, principles, and procedures
• Preparing behavioral scientists for research or doctoral studies
• Training applied behavior analysts to work in settings of all sizes to solve behavioral challenges

Graduates leave with essential knowledge and skills for professional behavior analysis work. The program’s structure helps students combine science with practice to solve ground problems for different populations. Many students either pursue advanced degrees or start their professional careers right away.

Salem State prepares students who can tackle behavioral challenges in any setting while building strong theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

What ABA programs does Salem State University offer?

Salem State University offers several behavior analysis education paths that match your career goals and academic background. Students can choose from multiple program options to build their career in this expanding field.

The Master of Science in Behavior Analysis program is their premier offering with 39 total credits. This hybrid program has 30 credits of core coursework that covers behavioral principles of learning, applied behavior analysis, experimental analysis, behavioral assessment, research design, ethical issues, conceptual issues, and organizational behavior. Students can complete either a thesis or practical applications in research (PAIR) as their 6-credit capstone experience. The program coordinator helps select 3 credits of electives to complete the degree.

The university’s Combined BS/MS Program in Behavior Analysis helps undergraduate students speed up their education journey. Qualified students can earn both degrees in just five years. Students need a minimum 3.25 cumulative GPA and grades of B or better in specific prerequisite courses to qualify. The program reduces total time and cost by a lot since up to 24 graduate credits count toward the undergraduate degree.

Professionals who already hold a master’s degree in psychology, education, behavior analysis, or related fields can pursue the Post-Master’s Applied Behavioral Analysis Certificate. Students must complete six courses and supervised practical experience. The Behavior Analyst Certification Board verifies this course sequence, which prepares students to pursue board certification.

These programs excel through their blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application. Graduates meet educational requirements to take Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) examinations. This expertise allows them to work in schools, mental health facilities, behavioral intervention programs, group homes, rehabilitation centers, and nursing environments.

The program’s quality and value shine through its achievements. It ranks among just 28 accredited master’s programs nationwide and is Massachusetts’ only public state university with full accreditation. Students pursuing certification complete 1500 supervision hours and present their research at a conference before graduation. This thorough preparation ensures their success in professional practice.

Accreditation

Salem State University’s Master of Science in Behavior Analysis program has earned prestigious accreditation from the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) Accreditation Board. The 2022 recognition shows the program meets strict professional standards without serious issues. Students can rely on this accreditation’s quality assurance through December 31, 2026.

This accreditation stands out as Salem State’s program is among only 28 accredited master’s programs in the United States. The program’s status as Massachusetts’ only fully accredited public state university demonstrates its steadfast dedication to excellence in behavior analysis education.

ABAI Accreditation Board plays a vital role by creating and implementing standards for behavior analysis educational programs. Their detailed evaluation process will give a high-quality curriculum and teaching standards. This accreditation offers valuable benefits to students who plan careers in behavior analysis.

Students gain a major advantage from ABAI-accredited programs. Since January 1, 2022, these programs meet all degree and coursework requirements for Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification applications through Pathway 1. Graduates can now move through the certification process smoothly.

The program’s success shows in its student achievements. Salem State graduates’ examination pass rates are a big deal as it means that they surpass the national average consistently. While yearly pass rates vary, students receive excellent preparation throughout the program.

The program’s curriculum and requirements help students prepare for licensure as applied behavior analysts in Massachusetts. This complete program lines up with its mission “to use behavior analysis to inspire solutions that lead to a more rewarding life” and “to prepare students for professional roles in experimental and applied behavior analysis”.

Accreditation means more than just a formal title – it confirms the program delivers on its promise. Students get opportunities to research and apply behavior analysis in their chosen fields. Massachusetts students looking into ABA master’s programs can trust Salem State’s proven quality and excellence.

Tuition

Paying for your ABA degree at Salem State University is a vital part of planning your education. The university sets different tuition rates based on whether you’re an in-state or out-of-state student.

Salem State’s Master of Science in Behavior Analysis program belongs to Price Group 2 in the university’s tuition structure. Students from Massachusetts will pay $140.00 per credit for tuition. Course fees add $370.20 per credit, and a capital improvement fee costs $19.50 per credit. This brings the total to $529.70 per credit. Students from other states pay $230.00 per credit for tuition, $378.10 for course fees, and the same $19.50 capital improvement fee. Their total comes to $627.60 per credit.

Graduate students typically take 9 credits each semester. Massachusetts residents should budget about $4,767.30 per semester, while out-of-state students need around $5,648.40. A full academic year with fall and spring semesters costs Massachusetts residents approximately $9,534.60. Out-of-state students should plan for about $11,296.80.

The direct educational costs tell only part of the story. Students need to plan for extra expenses too. Annual commuter parking costs $20, and non-matriculated students pay $20 yearly for records fees. Lab or clinical fees range from $15 to $500 depending on your courses.

New students pay a one-time matriculation fee of $275. International students should factor in an extra $375 fee each semester, which adds up to $750 per year.

Salem State provides several financial aid options to help with these expenses. The Tomorrow’s Teachers Scholarship Program stands out as a great example. This program helps address teacher shortages in Massachusetts by offering up to $25,000 yearly, depending on available funds.

Students can use these scholarship funds for many expenses. The money covers tuition, fees, room and board, books, supplies, transportation, childcare, and personal costs. Undergraduate students receive funding for up to 4 years or 8 semesters. Post-baccalaureate students get support for up to 3 semesters.

Salem State works hard to keep tuition affordable while delivering quality education in applied behavior analysis. Rates might change, so make sure to check current costs while applying.

Admissions

Students seeking admission to ABA programs at Salem State University must meet specific academic requirements. The Graduate Admissions Office handles all applications from their location at 331 Lafayette Street in Salem, Massachusetts.

The Master of Science in Behavior Analysis program requires applicants to have an undergraduate degree in a related field. A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is mandatory. Students’ academic records should show completion of research methods, statistics, general psychology, and at least one course in experimental or applied behavior analysis. Field experience can replace the behavior analysis course requirement.

The university accepts applications on a rolling basis until the deadline. Applicants usually receive decisions within 3-4 weeks after completing their application. Applications close one month before each semester begins.

Students from institutions outside the United States need a transcript evaluation from Salem State’s approved agencies. The MS in Behavior Analysis program welcomes international students with F or J status.

The combined program needs a resume, statement of interest, and three recommendation letters.

What sets Salem State University apart?

Salem State University’s ABA program stands out with its academic excellence and dedication to student success, offering key advantages over its competitors.

The program’s exceptional examination performance goes beyond impressive rankings. Students consistently achieve certification exam pass rates that exceed the national average. This shows the high-quality instruction and how well students learn to handle professional certification.

Salem State takes a different approach by emphasizing multicultural and intercultural competency. Students from different cultural backgrounds face fewer barriers to graduate education. The program welcomes people from varied neuro, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. This creates a rich learning environment where different points of view help students better understand behavior analysis principles.

The program gives students flexibility through two capstone paths:

• Thesis Option – Perfect for students who want to pursue doctoral studies or research-focused careers
• Research in Practice (PAIR) Option – Best suited for students seeking certification and licensure for immediate professional practice

Students can shape their education based on career goals without sacrificing academic quality. The curriculum combines theory with hands-on practice, preparing graduates to tackle real-life challenges.

The program’s blend of science and practice makes it unique. Students develop detailed approaches to solving real-life problems with people of all backgrounds. This science-practitioner model helps graduates gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills – qualities that employers value more than ever.

The program’s design lets every student research and apply behavior analysis in their chosen field. These individual-specific experiences prepare them for immediate professional roles and set them up for long-term career growth.

Next steps

Want to start your ABA experience at Salem State University? A few simple steps will take you from application to enrollment.

You need to submit your application through Salem State’s online portal. The university reviews applications as they come in and typically makes decisions within 3-4 weeks. Here are the key deadlines for domestic applicants:

• Spring (January start): December
• Summer (May start): April
• Fall (September start): July

International students should note these earlier deadlines:

• Spring: November
• Summer: March
• Fall: July

Admitted undergraduate students who want to join the Combined BS/MS (4+1) Behavior Analysis program should contact Jeremy Bubier in the School of Graduate Studies to get an application. Students must maintain a 3.25 GPA and meet specific course prerequisites.

Your next step is to plan for supervised fieldwork requirements. You’ll need to find a program-approved site and supervisor in your first semester. This supervision is vital to complete the 1,500 hours needed for certification eligibility.

The application process offers several options:

• Join Salem State’s email list to get information
• Meet with counselors at graduate admissions events virtually or in person
• Reach out to the Graduate Admissions Office at 331 Lafayette St, Salem, MA 01970

Early applications give you an edge in this competitive field. Quick action will help you succeed in Salem State’s distinguished ABA program.