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
George Brown College's Behavioural Science Technician (C146) is a two-year diploma program that provides you with an opportunity to study Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA). This field of study helps prepare you for work that is often related to developmental disabilities, brain injuries, gerontology and behavioural disorders. The primary goal of ABA is to support meaningful change in people’s lives.
Full Description
George Brown College's Behavioural Science Technician (C146) is a two-year diploma program that will teach you about the science of behaviour 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” skills.
The themes studied in this Behavioural Science Technician program include:
- behavioural theory
- behavioural assessment
- behavioural acquisition and reduction strategies
- scientific method
- ethics and professionalism
- 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
Alternately, 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 enriches 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.
Graduates of this program who have an interest in working in a long-term care facility should consider applying to our Interprofessional Complex and Long-Term Care postgraduate certificate (S417).
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 Assessment Centre 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 total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2022. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2023 and at later dates.
** Amounts listed are the 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.
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.
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
Additional Mandatory Requirements
Pre-placement Health Form (for first-year C146 students)
- Upon confirmation of acceptance into this program, students must meet all the mandatory pre-placement health requirements for the program. It may take up to four months to complete all the requirements.
- All costs, service fees and fines associated with the overall health requirements are the responsibility of the student.
- For further details and to download the mandatory pre-placement health form, go to the Pre-placement website.
Police Vulnerable Sector Check (must be valid annually) (for first year C146 students)
- In compliance with the requirements of our placement partners, all students in this program are required to have a Police Vulnerable Sector Check completed, and this check must be renewed annually before entering into field or clinical placement.
- The Police 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 Police 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 Police Vulnerable Sector Check.
- Students who are unable to provide a "clear" Police 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 police record check vary and must be paid by the student. For more information, please visit Pre-placement website.
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.
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 (some of whom are alumni).
Program Overview
Behavioural Science Technician is a two-year diploma program that provides you with an opportunity to study Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA). This field of study helps prepare you for work that is often related to developmental disabilities, brain injuries, gerontology and behavioural disorders.
Full Description
Behavioural Science Technician is a two-year diploma program that provides students with an opportunity to study applied behaviour analysis (ABA). This field of study helps prepare you for work that is often related to developmental disabilities, brain injury, gerontology, and behavioural disorders. A common misconception about this program is that it involves teaching students counselling and "talk therapy." It does not.
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
Coursework, practicum and employment is often related to autism and developmental disabilities; however, the program also covers behaviour analysis in the areas of dementia, brain injury and childhood disorders.
Students who elect to transfer to our degree program and/or continue their education in behaviour analysis may find employment opportunities in a variety of settings.
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
Alternately, you can visit these industry-specific websites for more information on this field of study:
- Association of Behaviour Analysis International
- Behaviourbabe – Ethical Advocate for Accurate Application & Dissemination of Behaviour Analysis
- B.F. Skinner Foundation
- Cambridge Center for Behavioural Studies
- The Ontario Association for Behaviour Analysis, Inc.
Your Field Education Options
Field placement gives students the opportunity to apply the theory they'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 gives access to different clinical populations across the lifespan. The depth and breadth of these opportunities not only enriches the overall learning experience but allows students to start building their own professional network within the sector.
George Brown faculty work with students and our extensive network of community partners to secure placement.
NOTE: Field education may require travel due to the number of opportunities for appropriate placements within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Students 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 technology program 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 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.
Graduates of a health sciences program who have an interest in working in long-term care facilities should consider applying to our Interprofessional Complex and Long-Term Care postgraduate certificate (S417).
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 1007 | College English** |
| GSSC 1081 | Lifespan Development |
| GSSC 1105 | Introduction to Psychology |
| 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 1007. COMM 1000 does not count as a course required for graduation, and you will be charged for this extra course. Please visit Assessment Centre 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 total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2021. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2022 and at later dates.
** Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2022. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2023 and at later dates.
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
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.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit Transfer Guide for more information.
Special Requirements
Additional Mandatory Requirements
Pre-placement Health Form (for first year C146 students)
- Upon confirmation of acceptance into this program, students must meet all the mandatory pre-placement health requirements for the program. It may take up to four months to complete all the requirements.
- All costs, service fees and fines associated with the overall health requirements are the responsibility of the student.
- For further details and to download the mandatory pre-placement health form, go to the Pre-placement website.
Police Vulnerable Sector Check (must be valid annually) (for first year C146 students)
- In compliance with the requirements of our placement partners, all students in this program are required to have a police vulnerable sector check completed, and this check must be renewed annually before entering into field or clinical placement.
- The police 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 police 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 police vulnerable sector check.
- Students who are unable to provide a "clear" police 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 police record check vary and must be paid by the student. For more information, please visit Pre-placement website.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
Contact Us
For more information, email Sarah Davis at sarah.davis@georgebrown.ca
For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
