Graduate and Adult Learning

MAP: Health

OCCUPATIONAL SCIENCE
MAP: Health

OCCUPATIONAL SCIENCE BACHELOR'S DEGREE

Muskingum University’s Occupational Science Degree Completion Program is designed for certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTAs) with an Associate of Science (AS) degree or those with an associate degree in a related health field who want to earn a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree.

The Occupational Science major provides foundational preparation for students planning to enter Muskingum’s Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) program via the OTA Bridge or Alternative MOT pathways.

The curriculum extends the occupation-based focus developed in OTA programs, emphasizing holistic education through coursework in psychology, anatomy, biological sciences, nutrition, wellness, informatics, statistics, and communication.

PROGRAM STRUCTURE – BUILT FOR YOUR CAREER AND SCHEDULE

  • Designed for Certified OTAs and Healthcare Professionals — Build upon your prior education to earn your bachelor’s degree.
     
  • 100% Online and Asynchronous — Access coursework 24/7, from anywhere, on your own schedule.
     
  • Fast-Track Completion — Finish your BS degree in as little as 12–18 months, depending on transfer credits.
     
  • Flexible Pacing — Take one course per eight-week term or accelerate your progress.
     
  • No Clinical Requirement — All coursework can be completed fully online.
     
  • Strong Preparation for Graduate Study — Ideal for those planning to pursue an MOT or OTD program.
     
  • Transfer-Friendly Admissions — Enter with an AS degree or 60+ regionally accredited semester hours; prior coursework is evaluated for maximum transfer credit.

CURRICULUM

Courses

Health Core Requirements (12 Credit Hours)

  • HLSC 301 – The American Health Care System (3) 
  • HLSC 304 – Statistics for the Health Sciences (3) 
  • HLSC 495 – Seminar in Health Science (3) 
  • Choose one: HLSC 305 Health Informatics or HLSC 307 Health Communications & Promotion (3) 

Foundational Core Requirements (9 Credit Hours)

  • OCSC 351 – Occupational Science (3) 
  • OCSC 453 – Elder Cognitive Health & Wellness (3) 
  • OCSC 455 – Sensory Function Across the Lifespan (3) 

Occupational Science Electives (9 Credit Hours)

Choose three of the following:

  • BIOL 346 Pathophysiology or BIOL 250 Human Diseases (3) 
  • PSYC 208 Lifespan Development (3) 
  • PSYC 363 Abnormal Psychology (3) 
  • PSYC 409 Topics: Health Psychology (3) 
  • PSYC 430 Psychology of Injury (3) 
  • PHST 312 Social Gerontology (3) 
  • PHST 322 Health Policy (3) 
  • HLSC 330 The Human Body: Structure & Function (3)
  • HLSC 331 Nutrition & Health (3) 

Total Major Credits: 30 semester hours 

For a complete listing of MAP requirements, policies and procedures please refer to the Muskingum Adult Program Guidebook.

WHO SHOULD ENROLL

This program is ideal for:

  • Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTAs) seeking to earn a bachelor’s degree for graduate preparation
  • Individuals with an AS in Health or 60+ college credits pursuing a science-based degree
  • Working professionals planning to advance into Muskingum's MOT program
  • Those looking for a flexible, fully online, self-paced program

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

HOW MANY CREDITS IS THE MAJOR?

The Occupational Science major requires 30 semester hours of major coursework. 

ARE THE OCCUPATIONAL SCIENCE COURSES TAUGHT BY OCCUPATIONAL THERAPISTS?

Yes — three of the major’s core OT content courses are taught by occupational therapists.

Can I use this major to qualify for Muskingum’s MOT Program?

Yes — this major is specifically designed to prepare you for Muskingum’s MOT program via the OTA Bridge or Alternative track. 

IS THE MAJOR FORMAT SUITABLE FOR ADULT LEARNERS?

Yes! Students can enroll in any of our five 8-week sessions, allowing for flexible work/life balance.

Is financial aid available for adult students?

Yes. Eligible students may qualify for federal financial aid, scholarships, and grants. For details, visit the Office of Financial Aid.

REQUEST INFORMATION TODAY
Ready to start your Pre-MOT journey? Contact us today and let’s get you started!
Let's Get Started!
Back to top