Bachelor of Science in Occupational Studies
Option in Vocational Arts (code 3-1055) (128 units)

This new option was approved by the Academic Senate on December 7, 2000 and
concurred by the President on January 19, 2001.

This option is designed for teachers in employment-related educational programs that meet the requirements of the State Education Code, Sections 89220, 89221, 89222 and 89223. Specifically, candidates for this option must:

1. Teach or have taught at least 1,620 student contact hours in a full-time position or 1,000 student contact hours in a part-time position in an approved occupational education curriculum.
2. Hold a teaching credential authorizing service as a vocational teacher (community college instructors affected by AB 1725 are exempt from this requirement; however, they must demonstrate instructional competencies by completing prescribed teacher certification courses); and
3. Have worked at least seven years full-time or the equivalent in the field(s) named on the credential.

Candidates, upon completion of these requirements and in consultation with their adviser, submit an application with documentation verifying occupational, managerial, teaching, and professional development experience. Upon approval of the application, the California State Board of Examiners for Vocational Teachers recommends advancement to degree candidacy.

Advancement to candidacy includes the preparation of an individualized program emphasizing three areas of occupational studies: 1) the relation of education and work, 2) teaching learners with special needs, and 3) research and evaluation. The required courses for this option are: OCST 300, 410, 411, 412, 413; OCST 420 or 421 or 422; OCST 456 or 461; OCST 418 or 485. The major is constituted of 77 units of coursework, 24 of which are core classes. This option requires foundation and occupational competency coursework as determined by the State Board of Examiners for Vocational Teachers and in consultation with an Occupational Studies department academic advisor.