Explore a Career in Behavioural Science

 

A behavioural scientist is a dynamic professional who applies insights from psychology, sociology, neuroscience, and related disciplines to understand and influence human behaviour. In Canada, behavioural scientists contribute to a range of fields, including public health, marketing, policy design, education, and technology, helping shape effective strategies that improve individual and societal outcomes.

 

What Do Behavioural Scientists Do?

 

Behavioural scientists explore how people make decisions, form habits, and interact in various environments. They design research studies, analyze data, and develop behavioural interventions that guide policy, enhance organizational performance, or improve public services.

Typical responsibilities include:

• Designing experiments and field studies to examine human behaviour.

• Analyzing behavioural data using statistical and computational methods.

• Developing strategies to influence behaviour in areas like health, finance, or education.

• Advising on policy design, marketing campaigns, or user experience (UX) improvements.

• Collaborating with stakeholders in healthcare, education, business, and government.

• Translating complex findings into actionable recommendations.

• Publishing research and presenting findings to professional and public audiences.

 

Pathway to Becoming a Behavioural Scientist in Canada

 

To pursue this career in Canada, students typically start with an undergraduate degree in psychology, sociology, neuroscience, economics, or behavioural science. Some universities offer interdisciplinary programs explicitly focused on behavioural science or decision-making.

 

Admission Requirements for Undergraduate Study:

• High school diploma with strong grades in English, mathematics, and social sciences.

• Some programs may require biology or chemistry, especially for neuroscience-related pathways.

• Competitive programs may request supplemental applications, personal essays, or interviews.

 

Further Education and Professional Certification:

While entry-level positions may be available with a bachelor’s degree, many behavioural scientists pursue graduate degrees (Master’s or Ph.D.) in psychology, behavioural economics, public health, or cognitive science.

 

Additional certifications may include:

• Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) certification for work with developmental disorders.

• Certification in Behavioural Science Technology (via Ontario colleges).

• Professional workshops in UX research, data analytics, or policy evaluation.

 

University Programs in Canada:

 

Several Canadian institutions offer strong programs in psychology, behavioural science, or decision-making:

• University of Toronto – Offers psychology and behavioural economics options; known for cutting-edge interdisciplinary research.

• Simon Fraser University – Features applied behavioural science and public health integration.

• McGill University – Combines behavioural neuroscience with psychology and social science.

• Carleton University – Offers a Bachelor of Cognitive Science with behavioural applications.

• Seneca College and George Brown College – Provide Behavioural Science Technology diplomas focusing on practical application in healthcare and education.

 

Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) Certification in Canada

 

Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) is a widely recognized and evidence-based approach focused on understanding and changing behaviour. ABA is particularly effective in supporting individuals with developmental conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), intellectual disabilities, and learning disorders. Certification in ABA equips professionals with the skills to assess behaviour, implement interventions, and improve quality of life for clients across healthcare, education, and community settings.

 

What is ABA Certification?

 

ABA certification formalizes a professional’s training and competence in applying behavioural principles to real-world situations. In Canada, the most recognized international credentials are administered by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), a U.S.-based body. However, due to BACB policy changes (as of 2023), Canadian practitioners now pursue alternate or parallel certification routes.

Key ABA Certifications:

1. Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) – Graduate-Level Certification

• Requirements:

  • A master’s degree in behaviour analysis, psychology, or education.

  • Completion of ABA-specific coursework verified by the BACB.

  • 2,000+ hours of supervised practical experience.

  • Passing the BCBA certification exam.

• Scope: Qualified to design and oversee behaviour intervention plans (BIPs), supervise assistants and technicians, and conduct behavioural assessments.

2. Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) – Undergraduate-Level Certification

• Requirements:

  • A bachelor’s degree in a related field.

  • Approved coursework in ABA.

  • 1,300 hours of supervised fieldwork.

  • BCaBA exam.

• Scope: Works under the supervision of a BCBA.

3. Registered Behaviour Technician (RBT)

• Requirements:

  • High school diploma (minimum).

  • 40-hour RBT training course.

  • Competency assessment by a BCBA.

  • RBT certification exam.

• Scope: Implements behaviour plans under close supervision; often works directly with clients.

 

Canadian Context & Changes

As of January 2023, the BACB no longer accepts new certification applications from non-U.S. residents (except for a few grandfathered cases). However, Canadian provinces and institutions have responded with alternatives:

In Ontario:

• Ontario Association for Behaviour Analysis (ONTABA) supports and promotes ABA in the province.

• ABA therapists may become Registered Behaviour Analysts (RBA) or Certified Behaviour Analysts (CBA) through provincial regulatory bodies (pending regulation implementation).

In British Columbia:

• ABA practitioners are often supervised by licensed psychologists or integrated into behaviour intervention teams under BC’s autism funding program.

 

Career Outlook & Salary Expectations

 

The demand for behavioural scientists is increasing as governments, non-profits, and businesses seek data-driven insights into human behaviour. Opportunities exist in healthcare, public policy, UX design, education, financial services, and social innovation.

Median Salary: $65,000–$95,000 CAD annually
Senior roles in government, consulting, or academia can exceed $120,000 CAD.

 

Interesting Fact:

 

Behavioural science research has been instrumental in improving public health campaigns, such as increasing vaccine uptake and designing effective smoking cessation programs. Behavioural nudges, informed by science, are now standard tools in government and corporate strategy worldwide.

 

Is Behavioural Science Right for You?

 

If you:

• Are curious about why people think, feel, and act the way they do,

• Enjoy designing research and analyzing data,

• Want a career that combines scientific inquiry with real-world impact,

then behavioural science offers an intellectually rewarding and socially valuable path.

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At Alpha Study Canada, we help students explore behavioural science degrees, select the right university, and develop a strategic plan to launch a meaningful and impactful career.