Best Online Master’s in Behavioral Psychology

At the core of behavior psychology, also called behaviorism, rests the assumption that all behavior results from emotions, thoughts, and beliefs derived from external stimuli. Psychology professionals in this field observe human behavior, identify negative behaviors, and work with clients and patients to replace them with positive alternatives.

Behavior analysis professionals treat negative behaviors through clinical techniques like desensitization, exposure and response therapy, applied behavior analysis, and modeling.

An online master’s in behavior analysis comprises roughly two years of coursework. Individuals develop assessment and intervention skills to use behavioral concepts and theories with patients during a behavior analysis master’s degree,

Designed for students with bachelor’s degrees in psychology or related fields, a master’s degree in behavior analysis focuses on assessing human behavior as it relates to external stimuli. Online programs blend practicum requirements and didactic coursework. Graduate programs in behavior analysis typically emphasize specific therapeutic techniques and research addressing human behavior.

Practicing counselors who want to advance their knowledge and training in behaviorism might benefit from a graduate degree in behavior analysis. A master’s degree also serves as a step along the path to a doctoral degree in the discipline.

Behavior analysis coursework in an online master’s program explores principles and theories of human behavior, foundations of social and emotional development, and evidence-based practice in counseling. Students also take classes in qualitative and quantitative analysis to develop their research skills. Practical requirements accompany a thesis or capstone project in most programs.

Behavior analysis programs may offer specialized coursework in areas such as:

Each online master’s in behavior analysis program varies in specific coursework, but general classes remain consistent across curricula. Standard courses build foundational knowledge of psychology concepts and develop observational and analytical skills.

Prospective enrollees should consider several factors to identify their ideal online psychology master’s program, including program length, flexibility, and overall cost. Learners also need to fully understand all research and practical requirements before applying to a behavior analysis program. Additional considerations include reputability, transfer credit options, and program format.

Accreditation status ensures a program’s overall quality. Learners should research if they can transfer in coursework from previous degrees or receive credit for work experience. Prospective enrollees can also contact schools to determine if their program uses asynchronous, synchronous, or hybrid classes.

Colleges and universities in the United States generally maintain national or regional accreditation. Accreditation status confirms a school’s educational standards and the overall quality of its programs.

Alongside regional and national accreditation, individual programs may hold additional accreditation through a professional body geared toward a specific discipline. The American Psychological Association accredits psychology programs, while Association for Behavior Analysis International accredits behavior analysis programs.

Careers for individuals with master’s degrees in behavior analysis span several industries and sectors. Therapists, school counselors, and mental health professionals rank among the most common jobs, but with a degree in behavior analysis, students can also find opportunities in business, social work, and teaching.

A degree in behavior analysis equips learners with knowledge and skills to work as human resource managers, child and family social workers, and marketing professionals. Graduates can also teach or pursue careers in research at educational institutions, government agencies, and corporate entities. Master’s degree-holders can also go on to earn doctorates in psychology to find work as psychologists or in academia.

Median Annual Salary (2020): $82,180

Psychologists explore social, emotional, and cognitive processes and behavior by observing individuals and communities. They meet with patients and clients in clinical settings or carry out observational research to gather information. These professionals also develop treatments and plans to address issues and disorders. Psychologists can specialize in developmental psychology, forensic psychology, or rehabilitation psychology.

A psychologist needs a minimum of a doctoral degree. Clinical psychologists need licensure from their state of residence.

Median Annual Salary (2020): $58,120

School counselors work with children and adolescents to help them develop social and academic skills. They visit classrooms to observe behavior, coordinate with teachers and school administrators about issues and behaviors, and collaborate with families to determine student needs and limitations.

School counselors may work at elementary, middle, or high schools. High school counselors typically guide students about career options and other post-graduation strategies. A school counselor typically needs at least a master’s degree and a license or certification issued by their state. Some states also require a certificate in education.

Median Annual Salary (2020): $47,660

Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors evaluate patients and clients to determine treatments for health, addiction, and mental health disorders.

Substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors may work with individuals or groups to help them through treatment, modify their behaviors, and manage the stresses and expectations of their personal and professional relationships. Mental health counselors often meet with individuals, families, and couples to focus on specific conditions such as depression and anxiety.

Most counselors have master’s degrees at minimum, and substance abuse and mental health counselors working in private practice must be licensed within their state.

Social workers, mental health counselors, marriage and family therapists, and behavioral psychologists typically need licenses to practice. Licensure requirements vary by state, but often include an accredited degree, supervised practicum hours, and an exam.

Mental health professionals who earn licensure in one state before moving to another state can apply for reciprocity, depending on the state. They may need to meet additional professional requirements before practicing in their new location.

Some behavior analysis professionals, such as board-certified behavior analysts or certified autism specialists, need certification to practice. Requirements vary by specialty but typically include direct clinical hours, continuing education credits, and an examination. Students should research the credentialing options and requirements for their intended career paths.

Professional organizations for behavior analysis graduates open doors to individuals at all stages of their educational and professional careers. Students can join a professional organization to gain insight into the field of behavior analysis, receive mentorship, and find career guidance.

Professional organizations also help members stay up-to-date on developments in behavior analysis, encourage collaborations, and provide continuing education and professional development programs.