Bachelor of Behavioural Science - Postsecondary Education Quality ...

Analytical, creative and problem solving skills are developed in both the core courses and
in the breadth component of the program, enhancing graduates‘ capacities to meet the
challenges of careers in a wide range of non-profit, community or governmental
organizations.
Depth and Breadth of Knowledge in the Field
The larger discipline of behavioural science encompasses a diverse and far-ranging field
which includes multiple disciplines that explore the work of organisms in the natural world
and may include fields of study including psychology, neuropsychology, and cognitive
science.
This degree focusses on the specific area of behavioural science which is strongly
grounded in the research and application of applied behaviour analysis and cognitive
behavioural approaches as applied to a wide range of individuals throughout the lifespan
including people with autism, developmental disabilities and dual diagnosis, addictions
and those with dementia and aging issues. Behaviour Analysis has achieved mainstream
attention through the application of principles of behaviour to children with autism. In
Ontario, some postsecondary educational programs have developed and adapted
curriculum to educate and train students in this field. Behavioural Science has wider
application and the potential to contribute and develop in many ways in addition to autism.
A degree level program with opportunities for students to pursue this field in diverse ways
is needed. Humber‘s Ad-Hoc Advisory Committee have recommended a broader
application that includes cognitive behavioural therapy, interprofessional collaborations
(IPC), knowledge translation, and adult education which is greatly reflected in this degree.
Behavioural Science professionals have the knowledge and skills to creatively utilize,
apply and communicate, an empirically-based, behavioural framework. They work within a
variety of interprofessional settings, with a variety of client groups, across the lifespan.
These professionals adhere to strict ethical practices in the integration of behavioral
theory and practice in the design, implementation and evaluation of all aspects of multidimensional
assessment and intervention. Behavioural Science professionals have the
knowledge and skills in applied behaviour analysis and cognitive behaviour approaches
and are eligible for certification with the Behaviour Analyst Certification Board (BACB) as
a Board Certified Assistant Behaviour Analyst (BCaBA).
In addition to their clinical and educative work, Behavioural Science professionals also
facilitate the future utilization and dissemination of Behavioural Science through
mediation, counselling, and consultation work, as well as, academic research and writing,
in various settings for social, health and mental health benefits.
Professionals in this field are informed collaborators within interprofessional (IPC)
contexts and contribute to the dissemination of the principles and practice of behavioural
science within their scope of practice. They use a scientist–practitioner model of practice
and effectively communicate, orally and in writing, to individuals, teams and in groups.
The Behavioural Science professional practices in clinical and educational settings and
has skills in group facilitation and mediator training applying knowledge and skills across
all age groups, in settings such as schools, residential facilities, family homes, health and
mental health care facilities, and the community. Professionals possess knowledge and
Bachelor of Behavioural Science Section D, Page 3