Honours Bachelor of Behavioural Psychology (BBP)

Starts in January, September

PGWP-eligible Program

Campus

King

Delivery

Hybrid

Duration

8 Semesters (4 Years)

Study Option

Full-time

Credential

Honours Bachelor Degree

School

School of Public Safety

Courses

Delivery: At Seneca, courses are delivered in four formats: online, in-person, hybrid (an online, in-person combination) or flexible (offered in-person and online at the same time).

The chart below outlines the delivery options available for each course in this program. For some academic terms, there may be more than one delivery option available. You’ll be able to choose your preferred options when you select classes to build your course schedule. Selection for preferred course delivery will be considered on a first come, first served basis.

International students: The impact of studying from outside of Canada and Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility differs significantly based on when you start your program. Please review the PGWP eligibility before choosing your program and course delivery.

Semester 1

Course Code	Course Name	Winter	Summer	Fall
BBP181	Behaviour Observation and Measurement	Flexible	Not offered	Flexible Online
	This course introduces students to various measures of behaviour and to data collection procedures used in the field of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA). Observation and assessment of human behaviour are integral to the science and practice of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA). Students will develop skills associated with selecting, defining, observing, and measuring behaviour as well as gathering and compiling background information to support change.
BBP182	Applied Behaviour Analysis	Flexible	Not offered	Flexible Online
	This course introduces students to the foundational principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA). This will include a discussion about reinforcement and punishment and the guiding concept that dimensional qualities of behaviour increase or decrease. Across both BBP182 and BBP282, students will explore the specific ABA terminology and basic behavioural change concepts that are significant for the science of ABA.
ENG106	Writing Strategies	Online	Not offered	Online In-person
	This course focuses on critical thinking and the rhetorical elements of both persuasive and evaluative forms of writing. Students will learn to differentiate between shades of fact and opinion, objectivity and bias, and apply the techniques of sound argument for a variety of purposes. The main elements of effective communication and research techniques are also examined. Techniques explored and skills developed in this course are applied throughout the four years of the program.
PSY113	Introduction to Psychology I	Online	Not offered	Flexible Online
	The understanding of the basic principles and concepts of psychology is essential to anyone who wishes psychological self-knowledge and, if one?s vocation permits, the application of such knowledge to professional goals and interests. The purpose of the course is to introduce the student to the basic concepts, principles, theories and methods of psychology. Through exposure to psychological information in text readings, lecture and discussion, the student will acquire a working knowledge of the basic principles of psychology and their applications to personal, social and professional life. The student is encouraged to draw upon personal and social experience as the raw material out of which fuller insights may be gained through the application of the course material to that experience.
PSY383	Human Development	Flexible	Not offered	Flexible Online
	In this course, students will be introduced to various theories of Human Development while looking at the developmental periods from conception through middle childhood. Students will be introduced to analyzing human development from biological, psychological and socioemotional perspectives, and gain an understanding of the diverse range of development.

Semester 2

Course Code	Course Name	Winter	Summer	Fall
BBP281	Experimental Designs in Behaviour Analysis	Flexible	Flexible	Not offered
	This course will support students to develop skills in research design and analysis to be used in Applied Behaviour Analysis ABA. Knowledge of the research methods and accountability measures used within the behavioural sciences is necessary to inform and evaluate practices as part of a service based on the principles of ABA. This knowledge, and associated skills, will be grounded in the Scientist Practitioner model and the values of scientific inquiry that guide the practice of ABA. This foundation will support students in understanding and analyzing scientific literature related to ABA.
BBP282	Applied Behaviour Analysis II	Flexible	Hybrid Online	Not offered
	This course will expand students vocabulary of applications and technologies used in the field of ABA. The effectiveness in increasing or decreasing behaviour, development and practice of specific procedures utilized to support behaviour change will be explored. Students will use specific procedures and describe necessary modifications to suit a range of populations. Students will document and analyze treatment effects.
LSP320	Interpersonal Communications	Hybrid Online	Online	Not offered
	This course enables students to explore the impact that ones interpersonal skills and attitude have on their careers. Through self-assessments, skill building exercises and practice, participants will develop a variety of interpersonal skills such as; active listening, assertive communications, stress management, negotiating skills, conflict management, developing personal power and understanding the political context of organizations.
PSY114	Introduction to Psychology II	Hybrid Online	Online	Not offered
	The understanding of the basic principles and concepts of psychology is essential to anyone who wishes psychological self-knowledge and, if one?s vocation permits, the application of such knowledge to professional goals and interests. The purpose of the course is to introduce the student to the basic concepts, principles, theories and methods of psychology. Through exposure to psychological information in text readings, lecture and discussion, the student will acquire a working knowledge of the basic principles of psychology and their applications to personal, social and professional life. The student is encouraged to draw upon personal and social experience as the raw material out of which fuller insights may be gained through the application of the course material to that experience.
PSY681	Human Development II	Flexible	Flexible	Not offered
	In this course, students will be introduced to various developmental theories from adolescence to the point of death and dying. Students will be introduced to the continuum of domains that are available when making assessments about behaviour and gain an understanding of when skills emerge in typical development in youth, adulthood, and those that occur for the older adult. The emergence of skills will be explored across physical, cognitive, and socio-emotional domains with an emphasis on observable actions.

Semester 3

Course Code	Course Name	Winter	Summer	Fall
BBP381	Behaviour Assessment	Not offered	Not offered	Flexible Online
	This course introduces students to assessment methods for identifying skills strengths and deficits. and the occurrence of problem behaviour in the field of Applied Behaviour Analysis (Aba). Behaviour Assessment conducted prior to the development of an intervention plan is essential for optimum outcomes and as well follows ethical guidelines and best practice. Students will develop skills associated with selecting, conducting and understanding assessment methods and their results.
BBP382	Interventions I	Not offered	Not offered	Flexible Online
	The course will focus on Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) as it pertains to skill acquisition. The principles of ABA can be employed to teach skills across a broad range of domains. Students will learn to recognize key components of a skill acquisition program and examine ways to structure teaching environments to promote learning.
BBP383	Autism Spectrum Disorder and Other Developmental Disabilities	Not offered	Not offered	Flexible Online
	In this course, students will explore the principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) as they are used to address behaviour excesses and deficits associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities. This course is an examination of ASD and developmental disabilities from a broad perspective, including the etiology, possible theories of causation, assessment practices, and diagnostic features. Students will discuss the impact of the commonly associated mental health issues that a diagnosis can bring on the family unit.
PSY306	Psychological Disorders	Not offered	Not offered	Flexible Online
	This course explores the symptoms, causes and treatment of various types of psychological disorders including deviant behaviour, the neurotic and psychotic personality, mood disorders, character disorders and disorders of an organic nature. A variety of the major approaches to understanding deviations from normal behaviour will be used (physiological, behavioral, psychoanalytic, humanistic and cognitive approaches). Attention will be given to the cultural realities from which psychiatric classification originate including historical views of such phenomenon, how our understanding of mental illness has changed over time, how it may further evolve, and the role of the front line practitioner in dealing with clients presenting with such issues. Special mental health issues problems in childhood, adolescence, adulthood and aging persons will be examined. The legal and ethical issues associated with abnormal psychology will also be explored.
plus: Liberal Studies Course (1)

Semester 4

Course Code	Course Name	Winter	Summer	Fall
BBP481	Acquired Brain Injury and Rehabilitation	Online	Not offered	Not offered
	This course is intended to introduce students to the application of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) to clients with an acquired brain injury. Students will have a working knowledge of brain functioning and how behaviour becomes disrupted when it is injured. Students will explore Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) from a holistic perspective and will include discussion of the cognitive, functional, socio-emotional, and behavioural impact of this injury. Students will apply their knowledge of the principles of ABA to identify relevant and applicable goals that enhance quality of life and promote independence for this population.
BBP482	Ethics in Behavioural Intervention	Hybrid Online	Not offered	Not offered
	This course is designed to address the ethical issues and guidelines for practice in behavioural science. Students will learn about standards set by regulating bodies and how these guidelines govern their professional behaviour, decision-making, professional conduct, and direct-client service. In this course, students will explore diversity and multiculturalism as it influences the practice in behaviour analysis and common ethical dilemmas and strategies to address dilemmas will be discussed.
BBP483	Interventions II	Hybrid Online	Not offered	Not offered
	This course introduces the student to an objective, positive, strengths-based approach to support the role of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) in decreasing challenging behaviours. Identifying, defining, and treating challenging behaviours has been one of the key and influential areas in the field of ABA. This course will focus on students’ application of the three term contingency to the treatment and reduction of maladaptive behaviour.
BBP484	Forensic Behaviour Science	Flexible Online	Not offered	Not offered
	This course will explore the interdisciplinary nature of Forensic Behavioural Science as an emerging field at the interface of the human services and criminal justice systems. Students will examine possible risk and preventative factors that underlie criminal behaviour and discuss challenges specific to individuals with disabilities in the correctional system. Students will learn how principles of Applied Behavioural Analysis (ABA) can be utilized in law enforcement and crime prevention.
plus: Liberal Studies Course (1)

Semester 5

Course Code	Course Name	Winter	Summer	Fall
BBP581	Behavioural Psychology in Context	Not offered	Not offered	Flexible Hybrid
	In this course, students will explore the theory of behaviourism in relation to social, cultural and historical contexts. Students will have an opportunity to investigate the works of notable authors and researchers associated with behaviourism to gain an in-depth understanding of the concepts and theories that inform current practice in the field of behavioural sciences. In addition, students will explore the use of behavioural principles and concepts to analyze and address current social and cultural issues.
BBP582	Adulthood and Aging	Not offered	Not offered	Flexible Online
	This course will introduce students to the aging process, the impact of aging on caregivers and end of life planning, as well as various models of service for older adults. Behavioural gerontology as a field will be explored and its role in ethical and collaborative service for older adults will be highlighted. The definitions, causes, and assessment of various physiological, mental health, and social challenges will be explored.
PSY583	Biological Influence of Behaviour	Not offered	Not offered	Flexible Hybrid
	This course examines how the brain influences behaviour. Students will learn about the overall structure and function of key neurological components. With this foundational understanding, the link between the brain’s physiological elements and their influence on behaviour will be analyzed. Particular emphasis will be placed on studying this link as it relates to the field of behavioural psychology. Additionally, students will evaluate contemporary issues in the neurosciences including equity, diversity, sustainability, decolonization, and ethics.
SWO400	Theories of Counselling	Not offered	Not offered	Flexible Hybrid
	Practitioners delivering human services in the community often find themselves helping clients deal with the social and emotional issues that impede their growth and enjoyment of life. A thorough understanding of the theories and skills of counseling and psychotherapy is needed to help maximize the relationship and thereby the growth and wellbeing of the client. To this end the purpose of this course is to provide an examination and critique of the major counseling and psychotherapeutic methods. Students will explore and understand the key concepts of the theories including their major tenets and basic assumptions, and beliefs about the nature of stress, dysfunction, and therapeutic change, the role of the counselor, and the application of the theory to practice. Students will be asked to engage in a critical analysis of the scientific, cultural, and philosophical underpinnings of each theory. Special emphasis will be placed on integration and synthesis in order to match modalities with specific clients, issues, and populations.
plus: Liberal Studies Course (1)

Semester 6

Course Code	Course Name	Winter	Summer	Fall
BBP680	Behavioural Counselling	Flexible Hybrid	Not offered	Not offered
	This course will explore the historical development, contemporary theories, concepts and interventions, evidence-based practices, and the development of practical therapeutic skills to support the application of behavioural counselling with various populations and diagnoses. Students will be introduced to the goals and types of behavior addressed by the interventions such as cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). In this course, students will examine assessment and intervention techniques, structuring therapy sessions, developing treatment plans, case management, and educating patients.
BBP681	Behavioural Approaches to Education	Flexible Hybrid	Not offered	Not offered
	In this course, students will explore behavioural approaches to teaching and learning that are applicable to a variety of educational settings. Students will learn about the legal processes, the individual education plan (IEP), and the identification, placement, and review committee (IPRC) to support individuals requiring behaviour intervention. Students will have opportunities to explore assessment tools and the use of behavioural approaches to support preventing and reducing concerning behaviour, as well as an emphasis on teaching new skills in classroom settings. The course will also explore cultural considerations when supporting students and their families to create equitable and inclusive learning environments that meet the needs of all learners.
BBP682	Special Topics in Behavioural Analysis	Flexible Hybrid	Not offered	Not offered
	This seminar-style course will extend students understanding of the applications of the principles of behaviour analysis to a wide variety of contexts and social issues. Students will have the opportunity to select, examine, and discuss a contemporary social behaviour trend from a behaviour analytic lens. Students will independently study and develop a perspective on an advanced topic.
STA683	Applied Statistics in Social Sciences	Flexible Hybrid	Not offered	Not offered
	This course will introduce students to the statistical methods used to conduct quantitative research. Topics discussed include displaying and describing data, the normal curve, probability, statistical inference, and hypothesis tests with applications in the child development and educational fields. A major focus is on why and when statistical methods are used as well as interpreting the results of statistical analyses. Students will learn basic computational methods as well as the use of statistical software for analyzing data.
plus: Liberal Studies Course (1)

Semester 7

Course Code	Course Name	Winter	Summer	Fall
BBP780	Industrial and Organizational Behaviour	Not offered	Hybrid Online	Not offered
	This course provides an opportunity for students to examine individual and group behaviour in public, private, and nonprofit organizations. Students will be introduced to industrial-organizational psychology and organizational behaviour management. The role of behavioural principles and a functional assessment approach in effective performance management, staff training, and performance evaluation will help students in future management and leadership roles.
BPR774	Research Methods: Behavioural Psychology	Not offered	Hybrid Online	Not offered
	This research methods course will examine the various components of the research process including the formulation of research questions or a research hypothesis; the review of the literature; qualitative, quantitative, mixed method, and single-case research designs; research ethics; data collection; analysis of data; and ethical protocol. Students will develop the elements of a research proposal based on a problem relevant to professional practice.
PSY783	Mental Health and Addiction: Behavioural Psychology	Not offered	Hybrid Online	Not offered
	This course examines the nature of mental health and addiction from a biopsychosocial-plus and behaviour analytic perspective. In this course students will learn the fundamentals of substance use and addictive disorders and their intersection with mental health diagnoses. We will look at addictive disorders and other mental health diagnoses from a developmental perspective, considering issues of trauma, neuropsychology, genetics, and social determinants of health. Students will be introduced to key research on the biopsychosocial and behavioural factors that contribute to the development of addictive disorders and other mental health issues, and on current directions in evidence-based treatment. This course will also discuss contemporary issues in addiction and mental health, with a focus on those that impact Canadians.
PSY785	Developmental Disabilities and Behavioural Intervention Across the Lifespan	Not offered	Hybrid Online	Not offered
	Welcome to PSY 785 Applications of ABA in Developmental Disabilities and Behavioural Intervention across the Lifespan. This course provides an advanced opportunity to consolidate student’s behavioural assessment and intervention skills with unique populations throughout the lifespan. Skills are assessed using multimedia interactions and use of technology such as the Simulation Apartment delivered in partnership with the Centre for Behaviour Health Sciences (CBHS) Behaviour Analysts as co-instructors with Seneca faculty. Students will learn how to actively apply the principles and strategies of the science of ABA using complex scenarios via live and virtual opportunities implementing the biopsychosocial model to support the needs of people with complex dual diagnoses, FASD, and ASD through a critical disabilities’ perspective. Students will create and evaluate intervention plans based on clinical assessments to analyze the utility, usability and effectiveness of the interventions while fostering a collaborative environment for success using a person-centred approach. This course aims to provide students with an understanding of what their roles as implementers of behavioural supports will be expected to do, and how to report to and work within a supervisory framework in a regulated health profession.
WTP200	Work Term Preparation	Not offered	Online	Not offered
	This Work Term Preparation course is designed to empower students with the tools, skills, and strategies needed to navigate the modern job market and achieve long-term career success. Through self-assessment, career exploration, helping students to identify and leverage skills from their existing experiences, students will develop a deep understanding of their personal strengths, values, personality, interests and goals. The course covers essential topics such as crafting professional résumés and cover letters, mastering interview techniques, and building a strong personal brand, including an online presence. Students will learn how to research career pathways, evaluate job market trends, and create actionable career plans tailored to their aspirations. Emphasis is placed on professional communication, networking, workplace readiness, and adapting to diverse organizational cultures. Additionally, the course provides insights into negotiating job offers, managing career transitions, and professional growth. With a focus on lifelong learning and continuous improvement, this course equips students with the confidence and resources to pursue fulfilling careers while remaining adaptable in a dynamic and competitive workforce. Ideal for students preparing to enter the job market or those seeking to refine their career trajectory, this course fosters self-awareness, professional readiness, and strategic career planning.
plus: Liberal Studies Course (1)

Work-Integrated Learning Term

Course Code	Course Name	Winter	Summer	Fall
BBP881	Behavioural Psychology, Work Term	Not offered	Not offered	Hybrid Online In-person

Semester 8

Course Code	Course Name	Winter	Summer	Fall
BBP880	Legislation, Policy and Systems	Flexible Hybrid	Not offered	Not offered
	This course will examine the historical context of the community and social services sector in Ontario. Students will learn about key policy and legislation as it relates to treatment, consent, assessment, and privacy, and its impact on vulnerable and marginalized populations across the lifespan. Students will learn how the ethical and professional conduct guidelines in the practice of behaviour analysis can work in conjunction with provincial laws in Ontario.
BBP882	Advanced Topic: Behavioural Gerontology	Flexible Hybrid	Not offered	Not offered
	This course will provide students with the opportunity to examine the advanced topic of behavioural gerontology and associated professional and research issues. Students will consider the applications and utilizations of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) in the area of behavioural gerontology. Reflecting the increase in older adults among the population, and a growing awareness of the complex needs among this population, this course will encourage students to consider how to prepare and deliver behavioural analysis services to older adults, who may have multiple existing diagnoses in addition to age-related phenomena. During the course, students will also assess techniques and best practices to facilitate treatments to assist older adults, their families, and caregivers. This course prepares students to address the societal need for behavioural analysis services among older adults and to consider advanced professional issues in this area.
BPR884	Research Project	Flexible Online	Not offered	Not offered
	Building on the proposal developed in the Research Methods course, students will conduct and report on a capstone project while adhering to ethical guidelines. This course provides the students with an opportunity to become familiar with the independent research experience; to collect and evaluate data and make recommendations and conclusions on the basis of the analysis of the research findings.
PSY881	Seminar: Assessing Complementary Therapies	Flexible Online	Not offered	Not offered
	In this course, students will examine complementary therapies from an evidence-based approach. The growing popularity of complementary therapies requires the behavioural analyst to develop skills to evaluate and educate clients about evidence-based practice and the role of complementary therapies in the behavioural sciences. Students will have an opportunity to evaluate and research a variety of complementary therapies to support practice grounded in the scientific rigor of Behavioral Psychology.
plus: Liberal Studies Course (1)

Program Learning Outcomes

Learn more about program learning outcomes for this program.

Archived Program & Course Information

To find details on programs or courses from prior academic years, browse our archive of program information.

Seneca has been granted consent by the Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security to offer this degree for a seven-year term starting Dec. 9, 2022. In conformity with the Minister's criteria and requirements, Seneca will submit an application for the renewal of the consent for this program 12 months prior to the expiration of the consent. Seneca shall ensure that all students admitted to the above-named program during the period of consent will have the opportunity to complete the program within a reasonable time frame.