Behavioural Science Technician Program (C146)
Program Description
Leadership Claims
Preparing students to work in the field of behavioural science for more than 15 years.
All full-time program faculty are Board-Certified Behaviour Analysts (BCBAs), some of whom are alumni.
Program Overview
The Behavioural Science Technician diploma program will teach you how to use Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) to support meaningful changes in people's lives.
Full Description
The two-year Behavioral Science Technician (C146) diploma program will teach you the science of behavioral change, otherwise known as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). In this field of study, you will learn behavioral principles, practice assessment and intervention procedures, and develop professional skills to seek employment in a variety of workplaces (autism, mental health, gerontology, acquired brain injury, organizational behaviour management, sport, etc.)
Please note that this program does not teach counselling or "talk therapy."
The themes studied in the Behavioural Science Technician program include:
- behavioural theory
- behavioural assessment
- scientific method
- ethics and professionalism
- behavioural acquisition and reduction strategies
- general education with an emphasis on practical application in the field
The Behavioural Science Technician coursework and placement experiences will prepare you for direct implementation roles in a variety of settings.
If you elect to transfer to our Honours Bachelor of Behaviour Analysis (S303) degree program and/or continue your education in behaviour analysis, you may find employment opportunities with additional responsibilities.
Accelerated Program Option
If you already have a bachelor's degree with a major in psychology or a related discipline, you may qualify for our Behavioural Science Technician (Accelerated) (C156) program. This stream offers an intensive delivery of this two-year program leading to a diploma in less than one year.
To learn more about the work of a behavioural science technician, search the web using these keywords:
- behaviour analysis
- applied behaviour analysis
- intensive behavioural intervention
- operand conditioning
Alternatively, you can visit these industry-specific websites for more information on this field of study:
Your Field Education Options
The field placement component in this Behavioural Science Technician program will give you the opportunity to apply the theory you've learned in the classroom to a real-world environment.
Offered in semesters 2, 3 and 4, each field experience builds upon the previous one and provides exposure to a variety of work environments. The depth and breadth of these opportunities will enrich your overall learning experience and will allow you to start building a professional network within the sector. Field placements are unpaid and completed on a full-time basis.
George Brown faculty will work with you and our extensive network of community partners to secure you a placement.
NOTE: Field education may require travel due to the number of opportunities for appropriate placements within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). You may be required to travel to locations as far east as Oshawa, as far west as Burlington and as far north as Vaughan.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Educational Pathways
If you are a graduate of any approved two-year Ontario College Behavioural Science Technician program, including George Brown's (C146) program, with a GPA of 3.0 or higher, you will be eligible to enter the bridging pathway into the third year of the Honours Bachelor of Behaviour Analysis degree program (S303). For more information about this degree pathway, please email Program Co-ordinator Don Togade at Don.Togade@georgebrown.ca.
International students who have successfully completed the Behavioural Science Technician (C146) program may apply to the S303 Honours Bachelor of Behaviour Analysis (Year 3 Bridge) program stream by contacting Program Co-ordinator Don Togade at Don.Togade@georgebrown.ca.
Alumni Impact
We are immensely proud of the contributions of our alumni in Toronto and around the globe.
From Michelin-starred restaurants to major construction, entertainment, community and financial organizations, our graduates are truly making an impact across a range of industries.
Courses
Required Courses
Semester 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| BST 1003 | Behavioural Theory |
| BST 1007 | Behaviour Theory and Practice: Introduction to ABA |
| BST 1028 | Strategies for Student Success |
| COMM 2000 | Communicating Across Context* |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
Semester 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| BST 1029 | Developmental Disabilities in Ontario: Policy and Process |
| BST 1030 | Behaviour Theory and Practice: Behavioural Assessment |
| BST 1031 | Interpersonal and Group Skills |
| BST 1032 | Ethics and Professionalism |
| BST 2009 | Field Seminar I |
| BST 2014 | Field Placement I |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
Semester 3
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| BST 2027 | Field Seminar II |
| BST 2035 | Research Design and Statistics |
| BST 2036 | Behaviour Theory and Practice: Acquisition Strategies |
| BST 2037 | Behaviour Theory and Practice: Reduction Strategies |
| BST 2038 | Field Placement II |
| PSY 2017 | Abnormal Psychology |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
Semester 4
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| BST 2039 | Special Populations: Childhood Issues |
| BST 2040 | Special Populations: Acquired Brain Injury and Gerontology |
| BST 2041 | Behaviour Theory and Practice: Group-Based Interventions |
| BST 2042 | Field Seminar III |
| BST 2043 | Field Placement III |
*Based on the results of your placement test, you may be required to take COMM 1000 Introduction to College Communication before progressing to COMM 2000. COMM 1000 does not count as a course required for graduation, and you will be charged for this extra course. Please visit the Assessment Centre web page for more information.
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 Behaviour 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 first two semesters of programs 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 two 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.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Each year we award over $2 million dollars in scholarships, awards and bursaries to first-year students. Check out our financial aid web pages for ways to pay for college and the full list of available scholarships, awards and bursaries.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information. This program is available for funding through our partnership with Passage, who provide student loans to qualified international student applicants. To find out more about this opportunity, and if you may qualify, visit our Passage page.
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
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and of the selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- Grade 12 English (C or U)
Note: Although not required for admission purposes, one of the following courses is recommended for your success in the program.
- Grade 11 Math (M or U) or Grade 12 (C or U)
AND
- Science - One course from this list: Biology, Grade 12 (U) or Grade 11 (C or U); Chemistry, Grade 12 (C or U) or Grade 11 (U); Physics, Grade 12 (C or U) or Grade 11 (U)
** Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice, and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Students will be expected to engage with technology on a regular basis. George Brown requires the use of the learning management system (Brightspace); word processing, presentation and data/graphing software; and other programs/apps.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit the Transfer Guide for more information.
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 six months. 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 six months)
- 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 six months 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
International Students
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
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.
Behavioural Science Technician Program (C146)
Program Description
Leadership Claims
Preparing students to work in the field of behavioural science for more than 15 years.
All full-time program faculty are Board-Certified Behaviour Analysts (BCBAs), some of whom are alumni.
Program Overview
The Behavioural Science Technician diploma program will teach you how to use Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) to support meaningful changes in people's lives.
Full Description
The two-year Behavioural Science Technician (C146) diploma program will teach you the science of behavioural change, otherwise known as Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA). In this field of study, students will learn behavioural principles, practice assessment and intervention procedures, and develop professional skills to seek employment in a variety of workplaces (autism, mental health, gerontology, acquired brain injury, organizational behaviour management, sport, etc.)
Please note that this program does not teach counselling or "talk therapy."
The themes studied in the Behavioural Science Technician program include:
- behavioural theory
- behavioural assessment
- scientific method
- ethics and professionalism
- behavioural acquisition and reduction strategies
- general education with an emphasis on practical application in the field
The Behavioural Science Technician coursework and placement experiences prepare students for direct implementation roles in a variety of settings.
Students who elect to transfer to our degree program and/or continue their education in behaviour analysis may find employment opportunities with additional responsibilities.
For applicants who have a bachelor's degree with a major in psychology or a related discipline, we offer an intensive delivery of this program [Behavioural Science Technician (Accelerated) (C156)] leading to a diploma in less than one year.
To learn more about the work of a behavioural science technician, search the web using these keywords:
- behaviour analysis
- applied behaviour analysis
- intensive behavioural intervention
- operant conditioning
Alternatively, you can visit these industry-specific websites for more information on this field of study:
Your Field Education Options
The field placement component in this Behavioural Science Technician program will give you the opportunity to apply the theory you've learned in the classroom to a real-world environment.
Offered in semesters 2, 3 and 4, each field experience builds upon the previous one and provides exposure to a variety of work environments. The depth and breadth of these opportunities not only enrich your overall learning experience but will allow you to start building your own professional network within the sector. Field placements are unpaid and completed on a full-time basis.
George Brown faculty will work with you and our extensive network of community partners to secure you a placement.
NOTE: Field education may require travel due to the number of opportunities for appropriate placements within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). You may be required to travel to locations as far east as Oshawa, as far west as Burlington and as far north as Vaughan.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Educational Pathways
Graduates of any approved two-year Ontario College Behavioural Science Technician program (C146) with a GPA of 3.0 or higher will be eligible to enter the bridging pathway into the third year of the Honours Bachelor of Behaviour Analysis degree program (S303). For more information about this degree pathway, please email Program Co-ordinator Don Togade at Don.Togade@georgebrown.ca.
International students who have successfully completed the Behavioural Science Technician (C146) program may apply to the S303 Honours Bachelor of Behaviour Analysis (Year 3 Bridge) program stream by contacting Program Co-ordinator Don Togade at Don.Togade@georgebrown.ca.
Alumni Impact
We are immensely proud of the contributions of our alumni in Toronto and around the globe.
From Michelin-starred restaurants to major construction, entertainment, community and financial organizations, our graduates are truly making an impact across a range of industries.
Courses
Required Courses
SEMESTER 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| BST 1003 | Behavioural Theory |
| BST 1007 | Behaviour Theory and Practice: Introduction to ABA |
| BST 1021 | Lifespan Development |
| BST 1022 | Introduction to Psychology |
| BST 1028 | Strategies for Student Success |
| COMM 1000 | Introduction to College Communication |
| Or | |
| COMM 2000 | Communicating Across Context** |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
SEMESTER 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| BST 1029 | Developmental Disabilities in Ontario: Policy and Process |
| BST 1030 | Behaviour Theory and Practice: Behavioural Assessment |
| BST 1031 | Interpersonal and Group Skills |
| BST 1032 | Ethics and Professionalism |
| BST 2009 | Field Seminar I |
| BST 2014 | Field Placement I |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
SEMESTER 3
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| BST 2035 | Research Design and Statistics |
| BST 2036 | Behaviour Theory and Practice: Acquisition Strategies |
| BST 2037 | Behaviour Theory and Practice: Reduction Strategies |
| BST 2027 | Field Seminar II |
| BST 2038 | Field Placement II |
| PSY 2017 | Abnormal Psychology |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
SEMESTER 4
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| BST 2039 | Special Populations: Childhood Issues |
| BST 2040 | Special Populations: Acquired Brain Injury and Gerontology |
| BST 2041 | Behaviour Theory and Practice: Group-Based Interventions |
| BST 2042 | Field Seminar III |
| BST 2043 | Field Placement III |
**Based on the results of your placement test, you may be required to take COMM 1000 (Introduction to College Communication) before progressing to COMM 2000. COMM 1000 does not count as a course required for graduation, and you will be charged for this extra course. Please visit the Assessment Centre web page for more information.
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 Behaviour 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 first two semesters of programs 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 two 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.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Each year we award over $2 million dollars in scholarships, awards and bursaries to first-year students. Check out our financial aid webpages for ways to pay for college and the full list of available scholarships, awards and bursaries.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information. This program is available for funding through our partnership with Passage, who provide student loans to qualified international student applicants. To find out more about this opportunity, and if you may qualify, visit our Passage page.
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
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and of the selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- Grade 12 English (C or U)
Note: Although not required for admission purposes, one of the following courses is recommended for your success in the program.
- Grade 11 Math (M or U) or Grade 12 (C or U)
AND
- Science - One course from this list: Biology, Grade 12 (U) or Grade 11 (C or U); Chemistry, Grade 12 (C or U) or Grade 11 (U); Physics, Grade 12 (C or U) or Grade 11 (U)
** Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice, and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Students will be expected to engage with technology on a regular basis. George Brown requires the use of the learning management system (Brightspace); word processing, presentation, and data/graphing software; and other programs/apps.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit the Transfer Guide for more information.
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
International Students
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
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.
