Simmons University's online PhD in Behavior Analysis program trains students to conduct experimental research and make significant contributions to the field. The program offers a flexible schedule, hands-on learning through lab meetings, and opportunities for collaboration with faculty and peers. Graduates are eligible for the BCBA-D® credential and are prepared for careers in research, education, and clinical work.

Degree Overview:

The PhD in Behavior Analysis program at Simmons University is a 48-credit program designed to train and position qualified behavior analysts to make significant contributions to the science and practice of behavior analysis. The program is offered fully online with live classes, providing access to students across the country. The program focuses on developing skills required to design, conduct, and interpret experimental research. Students are immersed in faculty research through lab meetings and have opportunities to conduct and publish their own research.

Outline:

• Program Structure: The program requires 48 semester hours of coursework, including six (6) cognate courses, three (3) special topics courses, and twelve (12) dissertation lab credits, in addition to writing and defending a dissertation.
Students can enroll on a full- or part-time basis and can start in the fall, spring, or summer semesters.
• Course Schedule: The program is self-paced, and most students work full-time while taking two classes per semester (generally a course and a lab enrollment).
Students can graduate in 4-7 years.
• Cognate Courses:
• DABA634 Group Design and Statistical Analysis (4 credits)
• DABA630 Experimental Analysis of Behavior (4 credits)
• DABA633 Advanced Single Subject Design (4 credits)
• DABA601 History of Behavior Analysis (4 credits)
• DABA632 Diversity and Advanced Professional Practice Issues for Behavior Analysts (4 credits)
• DABA640 Dissemination (4 credits)
• DABA690 Dissertation (1 credit)
• DABA699 Dissertation Extension (0 credits)
• Special Topics Courses:
• DABA661 Complex Stimulus Control (4 credits)
• DABA610 Verbal Behavior (4 credits)
• DABA662 Behavioral Analysis in Higher Education (4 credits)
• DABA660 Organizational Behavior Management and Consultation (4 credits)
• DABA625 Advanced Functional Assessment & Analysis (4 credits)

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including online lectures, discussions, and group projects.
• Faculty: The program is taught by a team of nationally renowned faculty members who are experts in their fields.
• Unique Approaches: The program emphasizes hands-on learning through lab meetings and research opportunities.
Students are also encouraged to collaborate with faculty and peers on research projects.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths: Graduates of the program are prepared for a variety of careers in behavior analysis, including:
• Research
• Education
• Academia
• Advocacy
• Clinical work
• Opportunities: Graduates are eligible to apply for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst - Doctoral® (BCBA-D®) credential.
• Outcomes: Graduates have assumed impactful leadership roles in a variety of settings.

Other:

• Collaboration: The program benefits from decades-long professional collaboration between behavior analysis department faculty and discipline-specific clinical and research organizations in New England and beyond.
• Clinical Research: Prominent clinical and research groups in the field welcome the opportunity to collaborate in clinical research with Behavior Analysis PhD students.
• Teaching Experience: Students have the opportunity to gain experience in the field of academia by working as Simmons University Department of Behavior Analysis teacher’s assistants, course instructors, and tutors for the Master of Science (MS) and Educational Specialist (EdS) degree programs in behavior analysis.
• Lab Meetings: Each faculty member hosts a weekly lab meeting where students discuss research progress, problems, and insights.
Methodologies of behavior analytic research and important experimental results from behavior analytic literature are also discussed.

Simmons University

Overview:

Simmons University is a private university located in Boston, Massachusetts. It is known for its focus on women's leadership and its commitment to social justice. The university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including online options, and is recognized for its real-world learning opportunities and integrated career advising.

Services Offered:

Simmons University provides a variety of services to its students, including:

Academic Advising:

Customized support throughout the academic journey, from first-year advising to career guidance.

Campus Dining:

A variety of dining options on campus.

Community Engagement:

Opportunities for students to engage in social justice initiatives and community service.

Student Support & Resources:

A range of resources to support student success, including academic support, counseling, and health services.

Library:

Access to a comprehensive library with extensive resources.

Athletics:

A variety of athletic programs and opportunities for students to participate in sports.

Events:

A calendar of events and activities for students to participate in.

Student Life and Campus Experience:

Simmons University offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can expect:

A small college feel:

A close-knit campus community with a focus on student support and engagement.

A dynamic city location:

Located in the heart of Boston, students have access to a wealth of cultural, historical, and professional opportunities.

Real-world learning opportunities:

Students gain practical experience through internships, research, and creative projects.

A commitment to inclusivity:

A welcoming and supportive environment for students from diverse backgrounds.

Key Reasons to Study There:

Real-world learning:

Students gain practical experience through internships, research, and creative projects.

Integrated career advising:

Customized support throughout the academic journey, from first-year advising to career guidance.

Accelerated graduate programs:

Shorten the time to a graduate degree with accelerated undergraduate to graduate programs.

Location in Boston:

Access to a wealth of cultural, historical, and professional opportunities.

Commitment to social justice:

A focus on women's leadership and social justice initiatives.

Academic Programs:

Simmons University offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate programs:

A variety of majors and minors in fields such as business, health sciences, humanities, and social sciences.

Graduate programs:

Master's and doctoral programs in fields such as business, education, health sciences, law, and social work.

Online programs:

A range of online undergraduate and graduate programs for adult learners.

Other:

Simmons University has been recognized with the 2024 Carnegie Elective Classification for Leadership for Public Purpose, which acknowledges its commitment to leadership and the collective public good. The university also has a strong alumni network and offers a variety of resources for alumni to stay connected.