Bachelor of Behavioural Science - Postsecondary Education Quality ...

skills including behavioural assessment, behaviour analysis, behavioural management,
knowledge of evidence-based practices and programming, cognitive behaviour counselling,
team work, professional communication, and knowledge of special populations including
individuals with autism and developmental disabilities. These professionals are prepared to take
on roles such as case facilitators, behaviour therapists, mental health workers, youth workers,
addictions workers, autism instructor therapists, and/or serve as workers in a variety of social
service settings with vulnerable populations.
Primary research conducted also confirms that Ontario employers are finding it somewhat
difficult to hire qualified behavioural science professionals (Humber Institute Employer Needs
Assessment, March 23, 2012). This lack of qualified professionals is likely to increase
significantly as the need for staff and managers in health, education, and social and community
services continue to rise (HRSDC Looking-Ahead: A 10-Year Outlook for the Canadian Labour
Market (2006–2015) Report, October 2006).
Given the significant trends and changes within the field of Behavioural Science, combined with
the fact that many community organizations and institutions currently hire individuals with
degrees and will increasingly be looking for individuals with skills in behavioural science, the
School of Social and Community Services at Humber concluded that the addition of a
baccalaureate degree in this area would provide the opportunity to address the depth, breadth
and complexity of knowledge and skills required in the field.
Secondary research sources also indicate that:
o Community and Social Service Workers‟ employment prospects are considered good
over the next five years and professionals educated in mental health issues,
substance abuse issues and aging and dementia are particularly in required
(Employment Ontario Job Futures).
o The health-related occupations has become one of the fastest growing and indemand
career fields in the world (The Toronto Star, November 11, 2011).
o The Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care has invested $40 million in
Behavioural Supports Ontario which works with individuals with behaviour issues
associated with dementia, mental illness, addictions and other neurological
conditions (Alzheimer Knowledge Exchange Resource Centre).
o Mental health is the number one cause of disability in Canada (Centre for Addiction
and Mental Health Stats).
It may be concluded that there is a high degree of employer support for this program and a
willingness to provide entry-level jobs for graduates.
3.0 Employer Support
In addition to reviewing trends in the field with respect to the educational requirements of people
employed in the field, the Planning and Development Office normally conducts primary research
as a part of the program needs assessment and obtains an initial list of employers who are
interested in supporting the program. In addition, the School responsible for the program
creates an Ad-Hoc program Advisory Committee by contacting organizations who have
indicated an interest in the program or related programs at the college. In the case of the
Bachelor of Behavioural Science, there was no difficulty finding employers to serve as Advisory
Committee members.
Bachelor of Behavioural Science Section M, Page 4