Outstanding ABA Master’s Programs Near Boston: Accreditation, Practicum Sites & More
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is one of the most evidence-based and in-demand fields in psychology and education today. From supporting children on the autism spectrum to managing behavior in schools, hospitals, and behavioral health centers, ABA professionals are playing an increasingly vital role in improving quality of life across the lifespan.
Boston, Massachusetts is one of the best regions in the country to train as a behavior analyst. With a high density of research universities, world-renowned medical centers, and a robust network of ABA clinics and service providers, prospective students have access to top-tier training, mentorship, and job placement opportunities.
In this article, you'll learn:
- What to look for in a quality ABA master's program near Boston
- Where to gain hands-on practicum experience in the region
- What the curriculum and admissions typically include
- How to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Applied Behavior Analyst (LABA) in Massachusetts
- Tips for choosing the right program for your goals
2026 Best Master's in Applied Behavior Analysis Programs Near Boston
Endicott College
Beverly, MA - Private 4-year - endicott.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis
Online Learning - Visit Website
Endicott College's 40-credit Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis is delivered entirely online, preparing students for BCBA certification without requiring the GRE. The accelerated 27-month curriculum includes six concentration options such as Autism and Organizational Behavior Management, with a per-credit tuition of $682. Rolling admissions and three annual start dates offer flexibility, while courses emphasize behavioral science, research methods, and ethical practices. This program is ideal for professionals seeking advanced skills in diverse settings, and it includes free exam test prep to support certification readiness.
- 100% online or hybrid format
- 40 total credits required
- $682 per credit hour
- 27 months to complete
- No GRE required
- Multiple concentration options
- Meets BCBA exam requirements
- Rolling admissions
- Free exam test prep course
- Experienced adjunct faculty
Master's - Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis
Concentration: Autism - Online Learning - Visit Website
Focusing on Autism, Endicott College's online or hybrid Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis delves into ABA principles specific to autism spectrum disorders. The 40-credit program prepares students for the BCBA exam, covering behavior assessment, intervention strategies, and ethical applications in educational and therapeutic contexts. No GRE is required, and rolling admissions with three start dates per year provide accessibility. A one-time $1,000 fee covers online tools, ensuring graduates gain practical skills to effectively support individuals with autism in various environments.
- 40 credits required.
- Online or hybrid format.
- No GRE required.
- Rolling admissions.
- BCBA exam preparation.
- Focus on autism spectrum disorders.
- One-time $1,000 fee.
- Practical skills emphasis.
- Three start dates annually.
- Ethical practices covered.
Master's - Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis
Concentration: Organizational Behavior Management - Online Learning - Visit Website
Endicott College's Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis with an Organizational Behavior Management concentration applies ABA techniques to enhance performance in business and clinical settings. This 27-month online program requires 40 credits at $682 per credit and prepares students for the BCBA exam without a GRE requirement. Courses in performance management and applied projects equip professionals to improve organizational outcomes, offering flexibility for working individuals. Ideal for those aiming to drive change in workplaces, the program emphasizes real-world applications and ethical practices.
- Online program
- 27 months completion
- $682 per credit
- BCBA exam prep
- Organizational focus
- Flexible for professionals
- Performance management courses
- Applied projects included
- Business and clinical applications
- 40 credits required
Simmons University
Boston, MA - Private 4-year - simmons.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Behavior Analysis
Campus Based - Visit Website
Simmons University's campus-based Master of Science in Behavior Analysis is an ABAI-accredited program designed to prepare students for the BCBA® exam, with a notable 89% first-attempt pass rate in 2023. This part-time program features evening classes, making it ideal for working professionals, and requires 40 credits focused on behavioral assessment, ethics, and research methods. Scholarships up to $20,000 are available for qualified applicants, and admission does not require an entrance exam, relying instead on a $75 fee, online application, resume, statement of purpose, two letters of recommendation, and official transcripts.
- ABAI accredited program.
- 89% BCBA® exam pass rate.
- Part-time, evening classes.
- Scholarships up to $20,000.
- 40 credits required.
- Campus-based learning.
- Focus on ABA principles.
- Prepares for BCBA® certification.
- Rigorous, practice-based curriculum.
- Supports working students.
Master's - Master of Science in Behavior Analysis
Online Learning - Visit Website
Simmons University's online Master of Science in Behavior Analysis offers a 20-month, ABAI-verified curriculum that includes a thesis and hands-on practicum, requiring 40 credits total. The program achieved a 74% first-time BCBA® exam pass rate in 2023, exceeding the national average, and emphasizes practical skills in behavior assessment and communication. Faculty with real-world experience provide support in securing practicum sites. No entrance exam is required for admission, making it accessible for aspiring behavior analysts seeking flexibility in an online format.
- 20-month program
- ABAI verified course sequence
- No GRE required
- 74% first-time BCBA® pass rate
- 40 credits plus thesis
- Hands-on practicum
- Faculty with practical experience
- Support in finding practicum sites
- Online format
- Prepares for BCBA® exam
Northeastern University
Boston, MA - Private 4-year - northeastern.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Northeastern University's Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis is a hybrid program blending online flexibility with in-person instruction, ideal for working professionals. It fulfills Behavior Analyst Certification Board coursework requirements for BCBA certification eligibility. The curriculum includes seven core behavior analysis courses and three clinical procedure courses, with optional supervised fieldwork and a professional portfolio capstone. Admission requires a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 minimum GPA; related work experience is beneficial but not mandatory. No entrance exam is required. Drawing on 45 years of ABA instruction experience, this program prepares graduates to support individuals with autism and other behavioral needs.
- Hybrid program format.
- Meets BACB coursework requirements.
- Optional supervised fieldwork.
- 45-year history in ABA instruction.
- Flexible online courses.
- Professional portfolio capstone.
- Bachelor's degree required.
- 3.0 minimum GPA for admission.
- Related work experience a plus.
- Prepares for BCBA certification.
University of Massachusetts-Lowell
Lowell, MA - Public 4-Year - uml.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Studies
Concentration: Applied Behavior Analysis - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Massachusetts-Lowell's Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Studies with an Applied Behavior Analysis concentration is a hybrid program blending online and on-campus courses. It offers flexible part-time and full-time options, requiring 39 credits and providing supervised hours for BCBA certification preparation. Emphasizing practical skills, research opportunities, and ethical standards with a diversity and inclusion focus, this STEM-designated degree does not require the GRE for admission. Financial aid is available, and the program is military-friendly, preparing graduates for competitive roles in various settings.
- Hybrid program delivery.
- No GRE required.
- STEM designated degree.
- Financial aid available.
- BCBA certification prep.
- 39-credit master's degree.
- Flexible scheduling options.
- Diversity and inclusion focus.
- Research opportunities available.
- Practical fieldwork experience.
Master's - Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Studies
Concentration: Autism Studies - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
At the University of Massachusetts-Lowell, the Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Studies with an Autism Studies concentration is a hybrid program that combines online and on-campus learning for flexibility. Full-time students can finish in two years through a 39-credit curriculum that includes supervised fieldwork and options for a thesis or capstone. Focused on cultural responsiveness and DEIB principles, it integrates applied and translational research without requiring the GRE. Scholarships and financial aid enhance affordability, supporting career advancement in developmental disabilities, and it is military-friendly with BCBA exam preparation.
- Flexible hybrid program.
- No GRE required.
- STEM-designated degree.
- 39-credit curriculum.
- Scholarships available.
- Full-time in two years.
- Supervised fieldwork opportunities.
- Specialize in ABA or Autism Studies.
- Late afternoon/evening courses.
- Prepares for BCBA certification.
Salem State University
Salem, MA - Public 4-Year - salemstate.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Behavior Analysis
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Salem State University's Master of Science in Behavior Analysis is a hybrid program that combines online coursework with in-person components, offering flexibility for working professionals. Accredited by ABAI, it fulfills educational requirements for BACB certification and Massachusetts licensure. The 39-credit curriculum emphasizes practical skills through operant laboratory research and a master's project or thesis, guided by internationally-renowned faculty. Students can tailor their studies to individual goals and complete the degree in as few as two years. The program does not require an entrance exam. Graduates enter high-demand careers in hospitals, schools, and social service agencies, with median pay around $60,000.
- Hybrid program format
- ABAI accredited
- 39 credit curriculum
- Individualized study plans
- Internationally-renowned faculty
- Operant laboratory research
- Master’s project or thesis
- Two-year completion possible
- Meets BACB certification requirements
- Designed for Massachusetts licensure
What to Look for in an ABA Master's Program
Not all ABA programs are created equal. Whether you're planning to work in autism intervention, behavioral medicine, or school-based behavioral support, you'll want a program that offers a strong academic foundation and real-world experience.
Key Features of Strong ABA Programs
| Feature | Why It Matters |
| BACB VCS Approval | Required to qualify for the BCBA exam |
| Practicum or Fieldwork Integration | Helps you complete required supervised hours during the program |
| Faculty with BCBA-D or PhD | Ensures instruction from credentialed experts in the field |
| Local Clinical Partnerships | Makes it easier to find quality placements |
| Format Options | Full-time, part-time, or hybrid delivery options may support your schedule |
Before enrolling, confirm that the program includes a BACB-approved Verified Course Sequence (VCS), which is required to sit for the BCBA exam.
Practicum & Fieldwork Opportunities Near Boston
To qualify for the BCBA exam, students must complete between 1,500 and 2,000 supervised experience hours (depending on the model). Boston is uniquely well-suited for this because of its dense network of clinical ABA providers, research institutions, and public school districts.
Common Fieldwork Settings Near Boston:
- Private autism clinics
- In-home ABA service providers
- School districts with behavior support services
- Hospitals and outpatient neurodevelopmental clinics
- Behavioral consultation firms
- University-affiliated research and training centers
Examples of Local Practicum Sites:
- May Institute
- The New England Center for Children (NECC)
- Boston Children's Hospital – Autism Spectrum Center
- Melmark New England
- Behavioral Concepts, Inc.
- Lurie Center for Autism at MGH
These settings offer experience across a variety of client populations, including children with autism, adults with intellectual disabilities, and individuals with co-occurring mental health needs.
ABA Master’s Degree Admissions & Curriculum Overview
Admissions criteria may vary slightly by institution, but most ABA master's programs share similar expectations.
Typical Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree (often in psychology, education, or a related field)
- Minimum undergraduate GPA (usually 3.0 or higher)
- Resume or CV
- Statement of purpose
- 2–3 letters of recommendation
- GRE scores (often optional)
Sample ABA Curriculum Overview
| Core Area | Example Courses |
| Behavior Assessment | Functional Behavior Assessment, Behavioral Measurement |
| Intervention Design | Verbal Behavior, Reinforcement Systems, Skill Acquisition |
| Ethics & Professionalism | BACB Ethics Code, Supervision and Leadership |
| Research Methods | Single-Subject Design, Behavioral Data Analysis |
| Practicum / Supervised Fieldwork | ABA Practicum I–IV or external fieldwork support |
Programs typically span 36–48 credit hours and can be completed in about 2 years full-time or 3–4 years part-time.
Looking for other programs? Check out psychology schools in Massachusetts.
Can I Complete an ABA Master's Program Online in Massachusetts?
Yes, there are several BACB-approved online ABA master's programs that serve students in Massachusetts. These programs offer coursework in a fully online or hybrid format, allowing flexibility for working professionals or students who don't live near a university campus.
However, fieldwork must still be completed in person under the supervision of a qualified BCBA. Some programs will help you secure local placements in the Boston area, while others may expect you to arrange your own.
Key Considerations for Online ABA Programs:
- Ensure the program has a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by the BACB
- Confirm the program allows you to complete supervised fieldwork in Massachusetts
- Make sure your fieldwork supervisor meets BACB standards and holds current BCBA certification
- Check that the program meets Massachusetts LABA licensure requirements
ABA Licensure & Certification in Massachusetts
After completing your master's degree and required supervised experience, you'll pursue two credentials:
1. Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
- Pass the national exam administered by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB).
- Requires completion of BACB-approved coursework and supervised fieldwork.
2. Licensed Applied Behavior Analyst (LABA)
- Apply for licensure through the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Allied Mental Health and Human Services Professionals.
- Requires proof of BCBA certification and additional state-specific documentation.
Path to Practice in Massachusetts:
- Complete BACB-approved master's degree
- Accumulate required supervised hours
- Pass the BCBA exam
- Apply for Massachusetts LABA license
- Maintain credentials through continuing education
Massachusetts has one of the strictest state licensure systems for ABA, ensuring high standards for practitioner competence and supervision.
Tips for Choosing the Right ABA Program in the Boston Area
Selecting a program goes beyond rankings—it's about fit, flexibility, and future opportunities.
Questions to Ask Before Enrolling:
- Is practicum placement included or student-arranged?
- Who will supervise my fieldwork hours, and are they credentialed?
- Does the program offer opportunities for research, publishing, or conference attendance?
- What is the BCBA exam pass rate for recent graduates?
- Are there part-time or hybrid formats for working professionals?
Additional Tips:
- Choose a program with strong ties to local service providers for easier fieldwork.
- Explore financial aid, grants, or employer tuition reimbursement.
- Look for schools with a solid reputation for BCBA exam prep and post-grad job placement.
Boston's vibrant ABA ecosystem makes it one of the most promising places to pursue a master's degree in Applied Behavior Analysis. With access to accredited programs, diverse practicum settings, and strong employer demand, students in the Boston area are well-positioned for long-term success in this growing field.
Whether you're a recent graduate or a professional looking to specialize, be sure to choose an ABA program that offers both academic rigor and regional support. The right fit can set you up not only for BCBA certification, but also for a meaningful career improving lives through behavior science.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Do all ABA master's programs include fieldwork hours?
A: Not necessarily. Some programs provide embedded practicum experiences, while others expect students to arrange external field placements independently.
Q: What's the difference between BCBA and LABA?
A: BCBA is a national certification from the BACB. LABA is a state licensure required to legally practice in Massachusetts.
Q: Can I work while completing an ABA program?
A: Yes. Many programs offer evening, part-time, or hybrid formats to accommodate working professionals.
Q: How long does it take to become a BCBA?
A: Most students complete coursework and supervised hours in 2–3 years, depending on their pace and whether they are enrolled full- or part-time.
5. Are online ABA programs accepted in Massachusetts?
Yes, if they are BACB-approved and meet Massachusetts LABA licensure requirements, including in-state supervision.
