In response to a growing national demand for highly trained professionals in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Western New England University (WNE) offers both a Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis and a PhD in Behavior Analysis, preparing graduates for impactful careers across clinical, educational, and research settings.
According to recent data from the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), job postings requiring or preferring BCBA or BCBA-D certification have soared, rising from just 789 in 2010 to more than 103,000 in 2024—a staggering 13,000% increase in just 15 years. This rapid growth reflects the vital need for ABA professionals who can serve individuals with autism, developmental disabilities, and behavioral health challenges.
The demand is backed by compelling data: According to the CDC’s latest surveillance report, an estimated 1 in 36 children in the U.S. has been identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), up from 1 in 150 in the year 2000. As diagnoses increase, so too does the need for highly skilled behavior analysts who can design and deliver evidence-based interventions that improve quality of life and developmental outcomes.
“Students in the Western New England University Behavior Analysis programs receive exceptional academic, practical, and research training with leading experts in the field. Our well-rounded programs prepare students to design, implement, and evaluate evidence-based interventions and to contribute to the growing research base for ABA interventions,” said Rachel Thompson, PhD, BCBA-D, Professor of Psychology and Director of Behavior Analysis Graduate Programs. “Our graduates are moving the field forward in clinical leadership roles, faculty positions, and through their research contributions.”
One of the most compelling indicators of the program’s strength is its consistently high first-time pass rate on the BACB certification exam, which exceeds the national average year after year. This success speaks to the exceptional quality of instruction, faculty support, and applied training WNE students receive.
WNE’s graduate programs are further distinguished by a unique partnership with The New England Center for Children (NECC)—a global leader in autism education and research. This collaboration provides students with real-world clinical experience and applied research opportunities, especially in working with children and adults with autism and complex behavioral needs. NECC provides full funding for WNE’s MS in Applied Behavior Analysis program and generous tuition support for the PhD in Behavior Analysis.
The MS in Applied Behavior Analysis prepares students to meet the coursework and supervision requirements for BCBA certification and Massachusetts licensure. The PhD in BA builds on that foundation with advanced training in research, supervision, and leadership in both clinical and academic settings. Courses in both programs are offered onsite at the NECC school in Southborough.
As the demand for qualified behavior analysts continues to grow—particularly in underserved areas—WNE graduates are uniquely equipped to lead with skill, empathy, and evidence-based expertise.
For more information, visit:
MS in ABA: wne.edu/academics/graduate/ms-applied-behavior-analysis.cfm
PhD in BA: wne.edu/academics/graduate/phd-applied-behavior-analysis.cfm
