The Autism and Behavioural Sciences graduate certificate program provides specialized training for professionals who support autistic individuals in educational, clinical and community settings across Ontario. Rooted in evidence-based practice and the principles of applied behaviour analysis, the program focuses on ethical decision-making, person-centred support strategies and data-informed intervention approaches. Students also gain an understanding of the Ontario systems, laws and policies that shape autism and developmental services, including the Ontario Autism Program (OAP), AODA, Human Rights Code, education systems and child protection frameworks.

The program emphasizes practical skill development to prepare graduates for entry-level roles in behavioural and autism support services. Through hands-on learning, students build competencies in assessment support, intervention implementation, documentation, teamwork and service coordination while working under professional supervision. To accommodate different career goals, students can complete either two supervised practicum placements totaling 336 hours or an applied research project focused on policy, practice or program evaluation, all supported through a capstone seminar that integrates theory, applied learning and professional preparation.

*This program is still pending Ministry approval and is not open for applications yet. *

Program eligibility:

• Postsecondary diploma, advanced diploma or degree in social services, child studies, health sciences, psychology or?equivalent fields.

OR

• Postsecondary degree or diploma in a field not listed above and/or demonstrated competence through related work and/or educational experience.*

Domestic applicants:

• Postsecondary transcripts indicating courses completed to date must be submitted to ontariocolleges.ca at the time of application.
• Domestic applicants with education outside of Canada must have their transcripts assessed for equivalency through ICAS or WES. A comprehensive (course-by-course) post-secondary credential assessment is required.
• Private career college courses and/or credentials are not acceptable as admission requirements for Sheridan programs.

*Applicants may be asked to submit documentation confirming demonstrated competence through related work and/or educational experience such as:

• A comprehensive CV or resume highlighting accomplishments as an Educational Assistant or Educational Resource Worker for an Ontario public school board.
• A mix of a 2–3-year diploma or incomplete degree combined with 3–5 years of relevant professional work, etc., and/or life experience (such as letters of recommendation from managers or professionals confirming your industry knowledge, relevant training certificates or relevant volunteer roles, etc.).

The Office of the Registrar will update your application in the Sheridan Application Portal to notify you if demonstrated competence documentation is required.

Applicants who do not meet the admission requirements for this program will be assessed and advised individually and may be considered for other, related programs.

• Resume/Curriculum Vitae
• Work Experience

Applicant selection:

• Eligible applicants will be selected on the basis of previous related academic achievement, and/or?demonstrated experience.

Field placement requirements:

Students will be required to provide additional documentation (such as criminal record checks and immunization records) directly to their field placement before the start of the placement and at their own expense.