Honours Bachelor of Behavioural Psychology

The Honours Bachelor of Behavioural Psychology program is a four-year degree that equips graduates with extensive knowledge, theory, and practice in the specialized field of behavioural psychology, or Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), a sector within the broader field of Psychology.The program provides extensive work-integrated learning experiences for students, including 420 hours of practicum, and 420 hours of internship.

The program introduces students to the cognitive and behaviour perspective of the human lifespan, and prepares them to work with people with autism, developmental disabilities, andor addictions across a variety of sectors including corrections, early intervention, education, gerontology, rehabilitation, and health care. Graduates will be prepared to actively conduct assessments, design and carry out interventions, and complete evaluations with a wide array of individuals.Students will also engage in a live lab element within coursework, in collaboration with a local partner, where they will observe and engage in cutting-edge work, research, and apply theory to practice.

Graduates may further their studies in B.Ed. programs (teacher’s college) or pursue a master's degree.Career InformationThrough a combination of theory and practical skills gained in the field, graduates from this program will be able to work in these growing fields of behavioural psychology:AutismDevelopmental disabilitiesEducationAcquired brain InjuryCorrectionsAddictionsOrganizational behaviour managementGerontologyLearning OutcomesIntegrate the principles of psychology and specifically Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) in professional practice and current behavioural research.Apply appropriate theories and approaches to practice when working with individuals across the life continuum and from different populations.Assist individuals in evaluating their current situations, selecting achievable, socially significant goals, and realizing those goals within the community.Select and implement appropriate methodologies when conducting and evaluating research in the fields of psychology and ABA.Communicate clinical knowledge to suit various audiences in order to collaborate with members of the community in support of the achievement of the individual’s particular behavioural goals.Observe and evaluate the behaviour of individuals in their environment, within a life continuum focus and across different populations, while conducting appropriate assessments prior to implementation of interventions.Design, write, and implement appropriate behavioural intervention strategies for a range of specialized populations across the lifespan, utilizing the science of ABA and evidence-based practices to increase skills and decrease challenging behaviours.Consult with a range of stakeholders to promote behavioural skill building with multiple populations.Carry out behavioural counselling in one or more settings under appropriate supervision.Adhere to ethical standards and codes of conduct in the field of ABA, including relevant provincial and national legislation and best practices.Act as a member of an interdisciplinary team in a wide variety of educational, health, clinical, and social environments to best serve an individual’s needs.Recognize and adhere to the limits of one’s practice and determine when to seek additional consultation and professional development.