Unlike any other program in the nation, Occupational & Life Skills (OLS) is a part-time, 90 credit associate degree program for adults with learning disabilities. Students identify and develop a career pathway, grow interpersonal skills, and gain marketable, workplace ready skills interning with local businesses aligned to their career goals. In the last eight years, 85% of our graduates are employed and 30% enjoy upward career mobility.
OLS creates a guided career pathway for graduating students to become gainfully employed, contributing citizens. The program is specific to their self-identified skills, strengths, and passions, and prepares them for the workforce through courses such as Workplace Readiness, Computer Application in the Workplace, Customer Service, Communication and Career Exploration. In the fourth year, an internship of 200 hours related to that career pathway is completed. Some internships translate into jobs and most students are gainfully employed within three months of graduation. Our goal is to help students attain marketable skills for a successful work life.
During our program, students grow interpersonal skills and take steps toward greater autonomy. Courses in Personal Finance, Cultural Awareness, Nutrition, and Social Change in America help make that possible. The confidence they gain at OLS, both onsite and in the community, help students self-advocate and mature so they can become productive community members.
OLS students are eligible for state and federal financial aid. Students with the greatest financial need may attend with minimal financial contribution.
Admissions to the Program
The Occupational and Life Skills Associate in Arts degree is a selectiveadmissions program. To be considered for acceptance into the program, students must follow specific admission guidelines. Current information can be found online at www.bellevuecollege.edu/ols/application-process/
Internships
The internship experience at OLS is designed to provide a safe and practical environment for students to develop a deeper understanding of the occupational and interpersonal skills they have learned. Current information about OLS Internship Information can be found at www.bellevuecollege.edu/ols/discover/internships/
Program Contact Information
OLS holds informational meetings each quarter for prospective students, families and educators. See the current schedule online, or contact us at ols@bellevuecollege.edu or (425) 564-5206.
