Bachelor of Science in Career and Technical Studies
Program Features
At-a-Glance
- Flexibility of online courses
- Ability to utilize previous work experience for academic elective credit
- Enhancement of job training skills
- Pay scale mobility and professional status
- Opportunity to teach and train others about their life’s work
- Stepping stone to a graduate program
- Experienced faculty
- Further career possibilities
Overview
The Bachelor of Science in Career and Technical Studies (BSCTS) is designed to prepare individuals with practical, marketable skills to successfully enter new careers or advance in their current fields.
As a 100% online degree completion program, Career and Technical Studies is designed specifically for working adults, so students can take classes while still balancing all of life’s other responsibilities. This program also gives students the opportunity to earn college credit after an assessment of their work experience, so they can apply their real-life skills to their studies and earn their degree faster.
This program does not include a credential.
Audience
The BSCTS program provides training for students who want to explore opportunities in a new industry or move forward in their current field. This program is ideal for:
- Trainers and facilitators in public or private industry
- Human resource recruiters and placement personnel
- Mediators or labor relations specialists
- School-to-work coordinators
- Small business owners and entrepreneurs
- Frontline managers, supervisors and lead staff
Advising and Student Services
As a returning adult student, it can be challenging to navigate your way through the CSU system. Our program staff is here to make your journey as smooth and simple as possible. Academic advising and student support are critical to success in the Career and Technical Studies program. Our program staff is committed to making success possible for each student.
The BSCTS program offers personalized academic advising to guide students as they complete their bachelor’s degree at Sacramento State. It is important to stay current with your academic advising sessions. We recommend scheduling an appointment once per semester. Career and Technical Studies staff also communicate frequently with other university departments, such as Admissions & Records, to provide you with the most up-to-date information.
Prerequisites
The program requires students have three years of full-time, paid work experience in a career technical/educational/business field.
Course Offerings
(14 courses, 40 units required)
CHAD 143. Mind and Brain in Developmental Context
3.0 Academic Credits
Investigation of the biological processes underlying child development, from conception through adolescence. Emphasis will be on the genetic, neurological, and endocrine processes related to cognition, social, and emotional development. Students will explore the bidirectional nature of psychobiological processes, with specific emphasis on the psychobiological mechanisms underlying the transaction between cultural, educational, and social-emotional related to educational, and mental and physical health functioning.
Prerequisite: CHAD 30 or 35; Introductory Biology
EDUC 102 Foundations in Career and Technical Studies
3.0 Academic Credits
This course will introduce students to Career & Technical Studies with a focus on college and career readiness by developing a foundation for careers as teachers, trainers, and facilitators in the public and private sector. Students will also explore brain based learning, historical and legislative developments in CTE and Adult Education, lesson plan development, as well as different teaching and learning strategies for participation in a 21st century workforce.
Prerequisite: Students need to be admitted to the BSCTS program.
EDUC 103 Assessment and Instruction in Adult and Organizational Training
3.0 Academic Credits
Demonstrates how to develop performance criteria, continuously assess learner performance levels and evaluate student achievement. Students develop a standard-based course outline and prepare training modules and units of instruction of use for individual, small group and whole class delivery systems.
Prerequisite: Students must be admitted to the BSCTS program.
EDUC 104 Teaching Issues of Diversity in Schools and Workplace
3.0 Academic Credits
Demonstrates how to encourage excellence among and design instruction from different gender, ethnic, sexual orientation, language, and ability groups. This course aims to include research and discussion on education and employment law in regards to sensitivity towards cultural heritages, principles of language acquisition, bias free instructional/workplace materials and inclusive practices.
Prerequisite: Students must be admitted to the BSCTS program.
EDUC 105 Advanced Instructional Design, Program Evaluation and Leadership in Career Technical Studies
3.0 Academic Credits
Explores aspects of CTS program design and management. Investigates aspects of organizing a program following guidelines detailed in the California Career Technical framework. Considers methods of program evaluation following the model set forth by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). Examines leadership qualities and values, analyzing potential benefits and liabilities of various leadership styles.
Prerequisite: Students must be admitted to the BSCTS program.
EDUC 106 Individual Growth Through the Examination of Personal Assets, Philosophies and Life Experiences
3.0 Academic Credits
This course is designed as a primer for EDUC 107 by introducing concepts, exercises, and research that focus on the personal elements associated with leadership and self-growth. Participants will develop greater self-awareness and understanding of key personal assets/issues that impact leadership development and enhance organizational communication and growth. The impact of life experiences and personal philosophies will be discussed as they relate to effective leadership development. An inter-interdisciplinary approach to personal growth and development will be emphasized.
Prerequisite: Students must be admitted to the BSCTS program.
EDUC 107 Designing Solutions
3.0 Academic Credits
Offers student participation in innovative solutions to organization, team, and individual needs. Using design thinking’s iterative process, students will be able to identify needs and develop potential solutions to meet those needs to improve performance.
Prerequisite: Students must be admitted to the BSCTS program.
EDUC 109 Career Guidance in Career Technical Studies
1.0 Academic Credits
Examines the professional history of students and assists them in gathering documentation to support their Experimental Learning Portfolio for submission to the CSU Reviewing Committee. Assists students in identifying goals for professional accomplishment.
Prerequisite: Application for Review of Work Experience. Students must be admitted to the BSCTS program.
EDUC 110 Current Issues in Workforce Development
3.0 Academic Credits
Course provides an in-depth investigation of various challenges and issues facing workforce development professionals in the public and private sectors. Students will utilize Design Thinking tools in order to identify and study critical workforce development issues, and develop solutions that benefit the individual and organization.
Prerequisite: Students must be admitted to the BSCTS program.
EDUC 112 Organizational Policies, Finance and Legislation
3.0 Academic Credits
This course aims to provide students with information which will enhance their understanding of organizational finance, legislation and policies. Critical to this course is the understanding that Career and Technical Education (CTE) organizations rely on local, state and national policy, finance and legislation to function.
Prerequisite: Students must be admitted to the BSCTS program.
EDUC 113 Implement Digital Technologies with Ethical Knowledge
3.0 Academic Credits
Develop professional competencies in digital and emerging technologies, defined by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) taskforce. Cultivate a keen awareness about digital technologies when blending fundamental ethical principles and foresight to make quality decisions. Identify and implement effective pathways to learn and ethically adapt emerging technologies strategically. Solve problems effectively to attain sustainable goals.
Prerequisite: Students must be admitted to the BSCTS program.
EDUC 114 Theories and Practices of Multiculturalism in Schools and Organizations
3.0 Academic Credits
An introduction to the study of multiculturalism and its impact on schools and the workplace. The primary objective is to provide a learning environment which is conducive to the development of knowledge, understanding, and skills consistent with multicultural training and pluralistic philosophies. Students will examine the work of adult education theorists and business scholars that impact schools and the workforce. The course examines social institutions, beliefs, customs, and social trends affecting adult education, organizations, and the workforce.
Prerequisite: Students must be admitted to the BSCTS program.
EDUC 115 Behavior Management and Total Quality Management in Career Technical Education Program
3.0 Academic Credits
Teaches students how to manage the classroom and learning behavior of career technical education students in various settings under various circumstances. Total Quality Management procedures for career technical education/training programs are studied.
Prerequisite: Student must be admitted to the BSCTS program.
EDUC 116 Methods of Inquiry in Career Technical Studies
3.0 Academic Credits
This course provides students with a broad overview of methods and models of academic research. Students will evaluate sources and prioritize those with the highest quality according to key identifying factors. Students will gain understanding of how individual research models are matched to specific issues and problems within the domain of Career Technical Studies, and relate these to their own individual growth and career development based upon their particular interests, goals and strengths.
Prerequisite: Student must be admitted to the BSCTS program.
EDUC 118 Integrative Perspectives in Leadership
3.0 Academic Credits
This course explores methods of integrative thinking, holistic leadership practices, cultural perspectives, and mindful communication techniques for current and future leaders. This course defines leadership styles and gives students the opportunity to apply integrative thinking models across multiple disciplines.
Prerequisite: Students must be admitted to BSCTS program.
EDUC 165. Sex Role Stereotyping in American Education
3.0 Academic Credits
This course is designed to introduce students to the educational programs and practices resulting from societal sex role and racial stereotyping. It analyzes the specific effects of sex and race inequalities in the total school setting.
Prerequisite(s): GWAR certification before Fall 09; or WPJ score of 80+; or 3-unit placement in ENGL 109M or ENGL 109W; or 4-unit placement in ENGL 109M or ENGL 109W and co-enrollment in ENGL 109X; or WPJ score 70 or 71 and co-enrollment in ENGL 109X.
THEA 175 Multicultural Perspectives in American Film
3.0 Academic Credits
Study of the historical and artistic contributions of Native American, Chicano/Latino, African-Americans and Asian American to the American cinema. The course will concentrate on a range of films with an emphasis on multicultural theoretical and critical writings and will examine the cultural and socio-political climate in which these films were crafted.
Information Sessions
Interested in learning more? Join us for a live information session from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 26, via Zoom.
Employment Outlook
After completing the program, most students continue to work in their current field. However, a bachelor’s degree is valuable no matter what subject you study, especially a versatile major like Career and Technical Studies. As California faces a projected shortage of nearly 1.1 million college-educated workers by 2030, having a degree will open many doors for career opportunities and advancement.
Costs
- $489/unit for 48 units
- Application fees include the $70 non-refundable university application fee paid online through CSU Apply, and a $50 BSCTS Departmental Fee, paid upon formal admission to the program. Admitted students will be given instructions on how to pay the $50 departmental fee.
- ELP Portfolio fee = $250
- Estimated Total Program Cost = $23,722
Financial Aid for BSCTS
Most students qualify for some type of financial aid unless they have defaulted on a previous student loan. Many students may qualify for loans, as there are no income restrictions.
To qualify for financial aid, undergraduate students must be admitted to Sac State and registered in a minimum of six units in the academic term for most types of financial aid.
The first step for any type of financial aid (including loans) is to submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). See the Sacramento State Financial Aid & Scholarships website for more information.
How to Apply
Upcoming Dates
The Bachelor of Science in Career Technical Studies has its own admissions window, different from programs offered on the main university campus.
We have two admission cycles each year:
- Fall semester deadline — July 1
- Spring semester deadline — Dec. 1
Basic Requirements
Letter Verifying Three (3) Years of Work Experience
Students will need to submit a letter verifying they have completed at least three years of full-time work experience in one field, industry, or area. Each work verification letter must include the following elements:
- Employer’s name
- Start and end date (if the letter says present or current, we can only count up to the date on the letter)
- Position title (if it is not self-explanatory, then include a brief description of duties or attach a job description)
- Indicate full-time or part-time status (if part-time, please include the average number of work hours per week)
- Letter must appear on employer’s letterhead, with a wet signature
Students may submit a copy of their work verification letter and keep the original for their files. Later in the program, they will need the original letter to complete their Experiential Learning Portfolio (ELP) in class.
30 Transferrable Units
Students will need proof of completing at least 30 units of transferrable credit from another college or university. A student’s course history must include the following to be eligible for program admission:
- At least three units in Area A2 (English 1A), and
- At least three units in either Area A1 (oral communication), A3 (Critical Thinking), or B4 (quantitative reasoning).
We encourage our students to take community college classes to fulfill graduation requirements. Please send us ANY classes you have taken and let our degree advisor create an education plan.
Submission Steps
- Complete the BSCTS program application.
- Gather copies of your resume, all unofficial transcripts, and a work verification letter showing at least three years of full-time work experience (see instructions below).
- Submit all required documents with the program application.
Once we receive all four items required to apply (department application, resume, transcripts, and work letter), our degree advisor will conduct a complete evaluation to determine admission and what classes will transfer over to Sacramento State.
A student’s evaluation results will determine if they can move onto the formal admissions process with the CSU system or if they need more prerequisites before they can begin the program.
FAQ
Is the BSCTS program a recognized, accredited baccalaureate degree?
Yes! Your diploma from Sacramento State would state: California State University, Sacramento, College of Education, Bachelor of Science in Career & Technical Studies.
What is the cost of the BSCTS major courses?
2026/2027 Fee Schedule
Cost Per Unit $489*
Total Program Cost (49 units) $23,961
Fixed fees:
BSCTS Program Application fee $50
CSU Apply Application fee $70
Writing Placement for Juniors (WPJ) fee $20
Sacramento State Graduation fee $145
Is financial aid available?
Financial aid is available based on individual student need. Applicants should complete the 2026-27 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and include Sacramento State (Federal School Code #001150) to ensure the Financial Aid Department has access to the FAFSA information. Prospective students should complete the FAFSA in a timely manner if they plan to use financial aid to pay for tuition fees, as it can take up to 16 weeks to process federal loans and grant awards.
What are the admissions requirements for admission to the BSCTS program?
- You must have a High School Diploma (or equivalent)
- 2.0 GPA or higher in previous college coursework
- At least 30 units of college-level General Education
- Completion of A2 Written Communication with a “C-” or better and at least one of the following:
- A1 Oral Communication
- A3 Critical Thinking
- B4 Quantitative Reasoning (Math)
- Equivalency of three (3) years full-time work experience
How many units are required for the degree and what is the breakdown?
BSCTS Major – 40 Upper Division Units
General Education – 9 Upper Division Units
Experiential Learning Portfolio Credit – 1-30 Elective Units
Transfer Units – 60-70 Lower Division Units
Minimum Units to Graduate – 120 Unit
How many of the required units must be taken “in residence” at Sacramento State?
- 30 units in residence, of which at least 12 units must be taken in the major
- 9 units in upper division general education. The BSCTS degree exceeds these requirements
Can I complete lower-division general education requirements at a local community college?
Yes, we encourage students to complete lower-division general education requirements at the local community college, and our program advisors will work with you to develop a plan.
Is the foreign language competency required?
Yes, this is a Sacramento State graduation requirement. The foreign language requirement can be satisfied in one of the following ways:
- Completing 3 years (same language) of foreign language in High School
- Completing level 2 of foreign language or American Sign Language with a “C-” or better at the community college or university level
- Taking the foreign language proficiency exam if fluent in another language
Are BSCTS graduates eligible to enroll in a Master’s Degree Program?
Yes, BSCTS graduates can pursue a Master’s degree in Gender Equity Studies, Language and Literacy, Multicultural Education, Universal Design for eLearning, Workforce Development Leadership, Higher Education Leadership, or a Teaching Credential program, provided they meet admission criteria.
What can I do with a degree in BSCTS?
Most students continue or go on to work in state or government agencies, private practices, or the technical fields. Graduates go on to develop organizational assessments and training plans, improve workforce diversity, inclusion, and belonging, increase accessibility, and embrace diverse perspectives.
Can I work full-time and complete the BSCTS degree?
Yes, in fact, CCE designed the program for working students. All classes are asynchronous and students can take between 2-4 courses per semester. This reasonable course load and modality allow students to work or take classes at a community college while enrolled in the BSCTS program.
How long will it take to graduate?
Most students graduate within 2 years (6 semesters); however, the time to graduate depends on the number of courses a student can take in each semester. For example, students who start Fall 2026 could graduate in Summer 2028 at the earliest.
This is a fully online program. Will I be required to come to Sacramento State in person at any time during my enrollment?
No. This program is fully online and does not require students to come to Sacramento State in person at any time. For the most part, one of the only times students come to Sacramento is upon graduation for the commencement ceremony.
How often does the BSCTS program admit new students?
The BSCTS program admits new students during the fall and spring semesters.
How do I enroll in the BSCTS program?
If you are interested in the program, the first step is to submit a BSCTS program application, resume, work verification letter, and unofficial transcripts. No fees are required at this time. Those interested must meet the admissions eligibility requirements per an unofficial transcript evaluation before completing the CSU Apply Application.