Career Information
Certification
All students successfully completing the AHS degree are eligible for certification as a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES®), specific to the health education and public health fields. This allows students to graduate with additional credentials, which can provide an advantage when applying for jobs and/or furthering their education.
Continuing Education
Students wishing to work as an OT will need to complete continuing education to complete the requirement to become an OT or OTR/L.
Advanced Education
Following successful completion of the AHS degree, students are positioned to go directly into the career field within the health education/public health field. To work in occupational therapy additional education will be required. OT specific programs will include training to become either an OTA or an OT. For more information on schooling options visit https://www.aota.org/education/find-a-school.
Those looking to continue their education outside of OT most commonly apply for schools that have programs titled Public Health, Global Health, or Health Education & Promotion. While a variety of MS/MA/MEd degrees are available in these areas, many students look directly at MPH or MSPH programs. Common MPH programs with concentrations in Behavioral, Social, and Community Health; Biostatistics; Epidemiology; Health Education and Promotion. Certifications in Specialized Areas of Health such as Public Health, Global Health, Gerontology, Healthcare Management, Biostatistics, Sexual & Reproductive Health, and Addiction Intervention. These are not exhaustive lists, please see your advisor for additional ideas and visit the main AHS page for additional details.
Careers
For those students that work in Occupational Therapy, will pursue either a career as an Occupational Therapist or Occupational Therapy Assistant or Aide.
Students may also choose another career path with their major that can include a variety of jobs focused on health education. While job titles may vary and some require additional training, many of these jobs are classified under Health Education Specialists by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics or a variety of careers listed within Public Health.
Please visit the main AHS page for additional details.
