Behavioural Science Technician Program (Accelerated) (C156)
Program Description
Leadership Claims
This intensive one-year diploma program is unique in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
Program Overview
The Behavioural Science Technician (Accelerated) one-year intensive program will prepare you to use applied behaviour analysis (ABA) and behavioural intervention to work with a variety of populations, including those with developmental disabilities, acquired brain injury, gerontology and behavioural disorders. Apply to this accelerated stream if you have a bachelor's degree in psychology or a related field.
Full Description
The Behavioural Science Technician (Accelerated) (C156) one-year intensive diploma program will teach you the specialized skills and expertise you need to work with various populations such as autism, mental health and developmental disorders. Apply to this stream if you have a bachelor's degree with a major in psychology or a related discipline. NOTE: You must have completed an Introduction to Psychology and one other psychology-related course to be eligible.
The themes in this program include:
- principles of behaviour (e.g., operant conditioning)
- intervention methods including discrete trial training
- program development
- ethics and professionalism
- diversity and working with various populations such as autism, mental health, developmental disabilities, acquired brain injury, etc.
- relevant legislation
Note: You may be required to travel for your field education due to the number of opportunities for appropriate placements within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). You may be placed in locations as far east as Oshawa, as far west as Burlington and as far north as Vaughan.
Note: This program does not teach counselling or "talk therapy." Treatment plans are typically prescriptive and data-driven.
What to Expect in this Science-Based Program:
- a heavy workload
- frequent use of complex, scientific terminology
- learning activities that require the ability to read and analyze scientific journal articles
Recommended Skills and Aptitudes:
- advanced-level English skills required
- caring
- tenacious
- analytic
- detail-oriented
Your Field Education Options
This accelerated Behavioural Science Technician program offers two intensive seven-week field placements.
The first is in the winter semester (January/February placement) and the second is in the spring semester (May/June placement).
Placements will be conducted with a variety of populations and agencies whose clients could have autism, mental health issues, acquired brain injury, developmental disabilities, behavioural concerns or issues related to aging. Partner agencies are located across southern Ontario.
Note that many graduates receive offers of employment based on their placements experiences.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Courses
Required Courses
Semester 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| BST 1003 | Behavioural Theory |
| BST 1030 | Behaviour Theory and Practice: Behavioural Assessment |
| BST 1032 | Ethics and Professionalism |
| BST 1037 | Behaviour Theory and Practice: Introduction to ABA |
| BST 2002 | Research Design |
Semester 3
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| BST 2027 | Field Seminar II |
| BST 2036 | Behaviour Theory and Practice: Acquisition Strategies |
| BST 2037 | Behaviour Theory and Practice: Reduction Strategies |
| BST 2038 | Field Placement II |
| BST 2041 | Behaviour Theory and Practice: Group-Based Interventions |
| BST 2044 | ABA Application to Special Populations |
Semester 4
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| BST 2042 | Field Seminar III |
| BST 2043 | Field Placement III |
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate demonstrates the ability to:
- Implement effective behaviour analytic intervention strategies based on the science of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) in order to increase desired behaviours, teach new skills and decrease contextually problematic behaviours.
- Integrate background information and knowledge of special populations into therapeutic practice, in order to develop behavioural interventions using a behaviour analytic approach.
- Communicate with various stakeholders the behaviour analytic principles, processes and concepts central to the interventions being provided in order to enhance quality of service.
- Compile measurements of behaviour in accordance with the ONTABA standards of practice and the Behavior Analyst Certification Board's Guidelines for Responsible conduct in order to conduct behavioural assessments and develop behavioural interventions.
- Apply systems thinking to behavioural processes related to socially significant behaviour change in order to ensure the sustainability of behaviour change programs that increase an individual’s quality of life.
- Adhere to federal, provincial and professional policies and regulations associated with the ethical practice of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) among various populations or service sectors.
- Apply input gained from collaboration with stakeholders (including individuals, family members and community members) and professionals in the field of service into effective client service intervention.
- Develop a reflective practice, using professional development and self-care strategies to enhance professional competence.
- Develop client-centred behavioural intervention plans that account for individuals’ rights, needs, goals and their social and community context.
- Integrate the conceptual and philosophical underpinnings of behaviour analysis into a comprehensive case formulation of human behaviour to assist in the assessment, design and implementation of behaviour change programs.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
International Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the three semesters of the program starting in Fall 2024. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2025 and at later dates. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
** Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first three semesters of programs starting in Fall 2025. Tuition fees are subject to board approval. Material, student service and ancillary fees are estimated based on prior years. All fees are subject to change without notice. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
Admission Requirements
- Completion of a three-year or four-year Bachelor of Arts
English Language Proficiency
Applicants with international transcripts who do not provide English proficiency test results must test at the college level in the George Brown College English assessment to be considered for admission.
Find out more about English proficiency requirements.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit the Transfer Guide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
Special Requirements
Clinical Pre-placement Health Form requirements and program policy
- Upon confirmation of acceptance into this program, students must meet and complete all the mandatory Pre-placement requirements for this program. It will take up to eight to 10 weeks to complete.
- Students will need to process and provide proof of their medical records (TDAP shot, MMR, Varicella, Hep B blood test reports/titres and Two-Step TB Skin Test) and proof of clear Vulnerable Sector Check renewed every year. These requirements must be submitted by the program specific deadline to ParaMed Placement Pass website.
- COVID-19 vaccination: Public Health recommends that people working with young children and other vulnerable communities be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. As such, students who are not fully vaccinated against COVID-19 may not be able to complete the required field placement component of their program in the regularly scheduled time frame.
- The health policies and non-academic requirements are designed to protect clients and vulnerable populations whom students will engage in practice. Students who do not comply with the program’s health policy and non-academic requirements, or who do not submit all required documentation by deadlines established by the program will be excluded from the clinical practicum. Exclusion from clinical practicum for any reason may jeopardize students' academic standing and successful completion of this program.
- All costs, service fees and fines associated with the overall health requirements are the responsibility of the student. To download the mandatory Pre-placement health form and for more details, go to the Clinical Pre-placement website.
Vulnerable Sector Check requirements and program policy (renew every year)
- In compliance with the requirements of our placement partners, all students in this program are required to have a Vulnerable Sector Check completed, and this check must be renewed every year before entering into field or clinical placement.
- The Vulnerable Sector Check process typically takes two to three months, but under some circumstances can take four to eight months. This is required to protect the clientele of our placement partner agencies, who are considered "vulnerable persons" under the law.
- Students are responsible for ensuring that the Vulnerable Sector Check covers appropriateness for "individuals being employed and/or volunteering who will be working with vulnerable person(s)”.
- Students are required to keep the original copy of their Vulnerable Sector Check.
- Students who are unable to provide a "clear" vulnerable sector check may not be able to start their field or clinical placement and therefore may be unable to complete the program. Students who are not eligible to attend their practice placement due to a "not clear" status will jeopardize their progress in the program.
- Failure to meet the requirements for field placement will prevent students from completing the program and/or securing employment. The fees for the vulnerable sector check vary and must be paid by the student. For more information, please visit Clinical Pre-placement website.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
Contact Us
Call the George Brown School of Health and Wellness at 416-415-5000, ext. 2367 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. or E-mail hwprograms@georgebrown.ca
For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Behavioural Science Technician Program (Accelerated) (C156)
Program Description
Leadership Claims
This intensive one-year diploma program is unique in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
Program Overview
The Behavioural Science Technician (Accelerated) one-year intensive program is designed for students who have a bachelor's degree in psychology or a related field. In this accelerated diploma program, you will study applied behaviour analysis (ABA) and behavioural intervention as it relates to a variety of populations, including those with developmental disabilities, acquired brain injury, gerontology and behavioural disorders.
Full Description
The Behavioural Science Technician (Accelerated) (C156) one-year intensive diploma program is designed for students who have a bachelor's degree with a major in psychology or a related discipline. You must have completed an Introduction to Psychology and one other psychology-related course to apply.
As a student in this program, you will study applied behaviour analysis (ABA) and behavioural intervention.
The themes in the program include:
- behavioural theory and application
- program development
- scientific method
- ethics and professionalism
- diversity
- general education with an emphasis on practical application in the field
Practicum and course work are often related to developmental disabilities, acquired brain injury, gerontology and behavioural disorders.
Note: Travel may be required for field education due to the number of opportunities for appropriate placements within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Students may be placed in locations as far east as Oshawa, as far west as Burlington and as far north as Vaughan.
ABAI VERIFIED COURSE SEQUENCE
The Association for Behavior Analysis International has verified the following courses toward the coursework requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst® examination. Applicants will need to meet additional requirements before they can be deemed eligible to take the examination. View ABAI approved course sequence.
Your Field Education Options
This accelerated Behavioural Science Technician program offers two intensive field placements in semester 3 (January placement) and semester 4 (May/June placement).
Each placement is seven weeks long. You can expect to be with the field partner four days per week off-site (approximately 7.5 hours per day) and in class on-site at George Brown on the fifth day. The in-class day will allow you the opportunity to reflect on your placement experience and help you connect classroom theory with the work you are doing off-site.
Placements will be conducted with a variety of populations and agencies whose clients could have autism, mental health issues, acquired brain injury, developmental disabilities, behavioural concerns or issues related to aging. Partner agencies are located across the GTA, and students may be required to travel.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Courses
Required Courses
SEMESTER 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| BST 1003 | Behavioural Theory |
| BST 1037 | Behaviour Theory and Practice: Introduction to ABA |
| BST 1030 | Behaviour Theory and Practice: Behavioural Assessment |
| BST 1032 | Ethics and Professionalism |
| BST 2002 | Research Design |
SEMESTER 3
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| BST 2036 | Behaviour Theory and Practice: Acquisition Strategies |
| BST 2037 | Behaviour Theory and Practice: Reduction Strategies |
| BST 2041 | Behaviour Theory and Practice: Group-Based Interventions |
| BST 2044 | ABA Application to Special Populations |
| BST 2027 | Field Seminar II |
| BST 2038 | Field Placement II |
SEMESTER 4
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| BST 2042 | Field Seminar III |
| BST 2043 | Field Placement III |
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate demonstrates the ability to:
- Implement effective behaviour analytic intervention strategies based on the science of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) in order to increase desired behaviours, teach new skills and decrease contextually problematic behaviours.
- Integrate background information and knowledge of special populations into therapeutic practice, in order to develop behavioural interventions using a behaviour analytic approach.
- Communicate with various stakeholders the behaviour analytic principles, processes and concepts central to the interventions being provided in order to enhance quality of service.
- Compile measurements of behaviour in accordance with the ONTABA standards of practice and the Behavior Analyst Certification Board's Guidelines for Responsible conduct in order to conduct behavioural assessments and develop behavioural interventions.
- Apply systems thinking to behavioural processes related to socially significant behaviour change in order to ensure the sustainability of behaviour change programs that increase an individual’s quality of life.
- Adhere to federal, provincial and professional policies and regulations associated with the ethical practice of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) among various populations or service sectors.
- Apply input gained from collaboration with stakeholders (including individuals, family members and community members) and professionals in the field of service into effective client service intervention.
- Develop a reflective practice, using professional development and self-care strategies to enhance professional competence.
- Develop client-centred behavioural intervention plans that account for individuals’ rights, needs, goals and their social and community context.
- Integrate the conceptual and philosophical underpinnings of behaviour analysis into a comprehensive case formulation of human behaviour to assist in the assessment, design and implementation of behaviour change programs.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
International Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the three semesters of the program starting in Fall 2023. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2024 and at later dates. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
** Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first three semesters of programs starting in Fall 2024. Tuition fees are subject to board approval. Material, student service and ancillary fees are estimated based on prior years. All fees are subject to change without notice. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
Admission Requirements
- Completion of a three-year or four-year Bachelor of Arts
English Language Proficiency
Applicants with international transcripts who do not provide English proficiency test results must test at the college level in the George Brown College English assessment to be considered for admission.
Find out more about English proficiency requirements.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit the Transfer Guide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
Special Requirements
Clinical Pre-placement Health Form requirements and program policy
- Upon confirmation of acceptance into this program, students must meet and complete all the mandatory Pre-placement requirements for this program. It will take up to 8 to 10 weeks to complete.
- Students will need to process and provide proof of their medical records (TDAP shot, MMR, Varicella, Hep B blood test reports/titres and Two-Step TB Skin Test) and proof of clear Vulnerable Sector Check renewed every year. These requirements must be submitted by the program specific deadline to ParaMed Placement Pass website.
- COVID-19 vaccination: Public Health recommends that people working with young children and other vulnerable communities be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. As such, students who are not fully vaccinated against COVID-19 may not be able to complete the required field placement component of their program in the regularly scheduled time frame.
- The health policies and non-academic requirements are designed to protect clients and vulnerable populations whom students will engage in practice. Students who do not comply with the program’s health policy and non-academic requirements, or who do not submit all required documentation by deadlines established by the program will be excluded from the clinical practicum. Exclusion from clinical practicum for any reason may jeopardize students' academic standing and successful completion of this program.
- All costs, service fees and fines associated with the overall health requirements are the responsibility of the student. To download the mandatory Pre-placement health form and for more details, go to the Clinical Pre-placement website.
Vulnerable Sector Check requirements and program policy (renew every year)
- In compliance with the requirements of our placement partners, all students in this program are required to have a Vulnerable Sector Check completed, and this check must be renewed every year before entering into field or clinical placement.
- The Vulnerable Sector Check process typically takes two to three months, but under some circumstances can take four to eight months. This is required to protect the clientele of our placement partner agencies, who are considered "vulnerable persons" under the law.
- Students are responsible for ensuring that the Vulnerable Sector Check covers appropriateness for "individuals being employed and/or volunteering who will be working with vulnerable person(s)”.
- Students are required to keep the original copy of their Vulnerable Sector Check.
- Students who are unable to provide a "clear" vulnerable sector check may not be able to start their field or clinical placement and therefore may be unable to complete the program. Students who are not eligible to attend their practice placement due to a "not clear" status will jeopardize their progress in the program.
- Failure to meet the requirements for field placement will prevent students from completing the program and/or securing employment. The fees for the vulnerable sector check vary and must be paid by the student. For more information, please visit Clinical Pre-placement website.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
Contact Us
Call the George Brown School of Health and Wellness at 416-415-5000, ext. 2367 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. or E-mail hwprograms@georgebrown.ca
For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
