B.S. in Occupational Studies

Santa Ana

INTAKE: Feb, June & Aug

Program Overview

Santa Ana College provides over 250 credit programs including associate degrees, certificates, and transfer pathways that prepare students for seamless transition to four-year universities or direct entry into the workforce. The B.S. in Occupational Studies program specifically addresses the need for advanced technical and managerial skills in high-demand industries, allowing students to gain both theoretical knowledge and practical expertise.

Curriculum: The curriculum at SAC is designed with a balance of foundational academic courses and specialized career training. The B.S. in Occupational Studies integrates coursework in leadership, project management, and technical fields tailored to occupations such as healthcare, manufacturing, and public safety. The college continually updates its courses to align with industry standards and emerging technologies, ensuring that graduates are workforce-ready.

Research Focus: While primarily focused on teaching, Santa Ana College supports applied research projects that enhance student learning and community impact. Research activities often concentrate on workforce development, technology integration, and innovative educational practices. SAC encourages faculty and students to collaborate with local industries to address real-world challenges through research and practical solutions.

Industry Engagement: Santa Ana College maintains strong partnerships with regional employers and industry leaders to provide students with hands-on learning experiences, internships, and job placement opportunities. These collaborations help tailor curriculum to meet labor market demands, especially in sectors like health sciences, digital media, emergency services, and advanced manufacturing. SAC’s Career Center actively supports students in connecting with employers and developing professional skills.

Global Perspective: Recognizing the importance of global competence, SAC offers programs and services that foster international awareness and cultural exchange. The International Student Center supports learners from around the world, providing resources that promote cross-cultural understanding. Study abroad opportunities and global citizenship initiatives further enrich the educational experience, preparing students to thrive in a diverse and interconnected world.

Location

Santa Ana

Score

IELTS 6

Tuition Fee

USD 9888

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Application Fee: $65

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 60% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
TOEFL: Overall score of 45 or higher.
DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 100.

Santa Ana College (SAC) offers a range of scholarship opportunities for international students who meet specific eligibility criteria. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement among international students.

Santa Ana College Foundation Scholarships: The SAC Foundation annually awards numerous scholarships based on academic merit, financial need, leadership, and community service. Some of these scholarships are accessible to international students who meet eligibility criteria.

Program-Specific Scholarships: Certain academic programs and departments may offer scholarships for outstanding students, including international students pursuing degrees in areas like health sciences, digital media, or criminal justice.

External Scholarships: International students are also encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities from private organizations, governments, and international foundations that support study in the United States.

A Bachelor of Science in Occupational Studies, especially one that builds upon an Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) background, prepares graduates for a variety of roles within healthcare, education, and community settings. While this degree typically serves as a strong foundation for pursuing a Master's or Doctorate in Occupational Therapy (which is required to become a licensed Occupational Therapist), it also opens doors to enhanced roles for OTAs and related positions.

Advanced Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA): Graduates can continue working as OTAs but with a deeper understanding of occupational science, enabling them to take on more complex cases, mentor newer OTAs, or assume lead OTA roles.

Rehabilitation Specialist/Coordinator: In this role, graduates can coordinate and manage rehabilitation services, working with patients, families, and interdisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive and effective care plans.

Wellness Program Coordinator: With a focus on holistic health, graduates can design, implement, and manage wellness programs in various settings, including corporate wellness, community centers, or senior living facilities.

Health Educator/Promoter: Utilizing their knowledge of human occupation and health behavior, they can educate individuals and groups on healthy living, disease prevention, and adaptive strategies for daily activities.

Community Health Worker/Navigator: Working within communities, these professionals help connect individuals with healthcare resources, provide health education, and advocate for health equity, leveraging their understanding of occupational factors in health.

Geriatric Care Coordinator: Specializing in the needs of older adults, they can coordinate care plans, identify resources, and support older individuals in maintaining independence and quality of life.

Adaptive Equipment Specialist: Graduates can work with individuals to assess their needs for adaptive equipment and assistive technology, providing guidance on selection, fitting, and training in their use to enhance participation in daily activities.

Case Manager (Healthcare): Similar to rehabilitation specialists, case managers often coordinate care for patients with chronic conditions or complex needs, ensuring continuity of care and access to appropriate services.

Research Assistant (Occupational Science/Therapy): For those interested in academic or clinical research, a B.S. in Occupational Studies can be a pathway to assisting with studies related to human occupation, intervention effectiveness, or disability.

Pre-Occupational Therapy Graduate Studies: Crucially, this degree is often designed as an excellent preparatory step for students who intend to pursue a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) or a Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) to become licensed Occupational Therapists. The foundational knowledge and upper-division coursework significantly strengthen their applications for these advanced programs.