| Course Level: | Doctorate | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 3 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Master’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Doctorate | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 3 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Master’s Degree | |
Location: Whittier, California, USA
Type: Private university
Founded: 1911
Accreditation: Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) and program-specific accreditations
Focus Areas: Chiropractic, Acupuncture, Ayurveda, Physician Assistant (PA) studies, Integrative Medicine, and other healthcare fields
Campus: Offers on-campus, hybrid, and online programs
Clinical Training: SCUHS operates health centers and collaborates with various healthcare facilities to provide hands-on training
Doctor of Chiropractic (DC)
Master of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine (MACM)
Master of Science in Physician Assistant (MSPA)
Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences (BSHS)
Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) – (Upcoming program)
Ayurvedic Medicine Programs
SCUHS is known for its interdisciplinary approach, training students in evidence-based practices while incorporating alternative and complementary medicine. It is considered a leading institution in integrative health education in the U.S.
Doctor of Chiropractic (DC)
A four-year professional program preparing students for chiropractic practice with clinical training.
Accredited by the Council on Chiropractic Education (CCE).
Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine (DACM)
Prepares students for careers in acupuncture and herbal medicine.
Includes hands-on clinical experience.
Accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (ACAHM).
Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) – (Upcoming Program)
Designed to train students in advanced occupational therapy.
Master of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine (MACM)
Focuses on traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture, and herbal medicine.
Prepares students for licensure as acupuncturists.
Master of Science in Physician Assistant (MSPA)
A two-year program preparing students for physician assistant careers.
Includes clinical rotations in various medical settings.
Accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA).
Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences (BSHS)
A flexible program for students interested in healthcare careers.
Available in on-campus and online formats.
Ayurveda Wellness Educator (AWE) – Certificate Program
Covers the basics of Ayurvedic medicine, diet, and lifestyle.
Ayurveda Practitioner Program (APP)
Advanced training in Ayurvedic medicine, preparing students for clinical practice.
Massage Therapy Certification
Prepares students for careers as licensed massage therapists.
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences (BSHS) |
3–4 years ( based on transfer credits) |
$9,576 (Full-time, Online) |
|
Ayurveda Wellness Educator (AWE) – Certificate |
1 year |
$5,850 (Total Program Cost) |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine (MACM) |
3 years (Full-time) |
$19,424 |
|
Master of Science in Physician Assistant (MSPA) |
2 years (Full-time) |
$39,105 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) |
4 years (Full-time) |
$36,696 |
|
Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine (DACM) |
4 years (Full-time) |
$19,424 |
|
Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) (Upcoming Program) |
3 years (Full-time) |
Not Yet Announced |
International students can apply for most degree programs at SCUHS, including:
Program Name |
Degree Level |
Duration |
|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) |
Doctorate |
4 years |
|
Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine (DACM) |
Doctorate |
4 years |
|
Master of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine (MACM) |
Master’s |
3 years |
|
Master of Science in Physician Assistant (MSPA) |
Master’s |
2 years |
|
Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences (BSHS) |
Bachelor’s (Online) |
3–4 years |
Note: Some programs, such as the Physician Assistant (MSPA) program, may have specific residency or citizenship requirements. International students should check directly with the admissions office.
To apply to SCUHS as an international student, you typically need:
Academic Transcripts – Official transcripts from your previous schools, translated into English if necessary.
English Language Proficiency – TOEFL or IELTS scores may be required for non-native English speakers.
TOEFL (iBT): Minimum score of 80
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5
Credential Evaluation – International transcripts must be evaluated by a recognized credential evaluation service (e.g., WES, ECE, or similar).
Student Visa (F-1 Visa) – SCUHS provides support for F-1 visa applications for eligible programs.
Letters of Recommendation – Required for some graduate programs.
Statement of Purpose – A personal essay explaining why you want to study at SCUHS.
Important: The Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences (BSHS) is fully online, so it may not qualify international students for an F-1 visa.
Each program at SCUHS has specific admission requirements, but the general criteria include:
Completed Application Form (Online Submission)
Official Transcripts from all previous educational institutions
Minimum GPA Requirement (Varies by program)
Letters of Recommendation (For some programs)
Personal Statement or Essay
English Proficiency Test (For international students – TOEFL/IELTS)
Interview (If required by the program)
Step 1: Choose a Program
Visit the SCUHS website to explore available programs.
Review the admission requirements for your selected program.
Step 2: Submit an Online Application
Go to the SCUHS Admissions Portal and fill out the application form.
Pay the application fee (varies by program, typically $50–$100).
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
Upload or send your official transcripts from previous schools/colleges.
Provide letters of recommendation (if required).
Submit a personal statement explaining your interest in the program.
International students must submit TOEFL/IELTS scores if English is not their first language.
Step 4: Credential Evaluation (For International Students)
International transcripts must be evaluated by an approved agency like:
World Education Services (WES)
Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE)
Step 5: Attend an Interview (If Required)
Some programs (such as Physician Assistant Studies - MSPA) may require an admissions interview.
Step 6: Receive Admission Decision
The admissions committee will review your application and notify you within a few weeks.
If accepted, you will receive an official offer letter.
Step 7: Pay Enrollment Deposit
Secure your seat by paying the non-refundable deposit (amount varies by program).
Step 8: Apply for a Student Visa (For International Students)
If you require an F-1 visa, request an I-20 form from SCUHS.
Apply for a student visa at the U.S. Embassy/Consulate in your country.
Step 9: Register for Classes
Once admitted, you will receive instructions for course registration and orientation.
Program |
Intake Months |
|---|---|
|
Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) |
January, May, September |
|
Doctor of Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine (DACM) |
January, May, September |
|
Master of Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine (MACM) |
January, May, September |
|
Master of Science in Physician Assistant (MSPA) |
September (Once a Year) |
|
Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences (BSHS) (Online) |
Rolling Admissions (Multiple Intakes) |
Note: Some programs, like the Physician Assistant (MSPA) program, have only one intake per year, while others offer three intakes per year.
Program: Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences (BSHS) (Online Only)
Requirement |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Educational Qualification |
High school diploma (or equivalent) |
|
GPA Requirement |
Minimum 2.5 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) |
|
English Proficiency (For International Students) |
TOEFL 80 (iBT) / IELTS 6.5 |
|
Additional Requirements |
Transfer credits may be accepted |
Program: Master of Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine (MACM)
Requirement |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Educational Qualification |
Bachelor’s degree (any field) |
|
GPA Requirement |
Minimum 2.5 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) |
|
English Proficiency (For International Students) |
TOEFL 80 (iBT) / IELTS 6.5 |
|
Additional Requirements |
Prerequisite coursework in sciences may be required |
Program: Master of Science in Physician Assistant (MSPA)
Requirement |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Educational Qualification |
Bachelor’s degree (science/health-related field preferred) |
|
GPA Requirement |
Minimum 3.0 GPA (competitive applicants often have higher GPAs) |
|
Prerequisite Courses |
Biology, Chemistry, Anatomy, Physiology, etc. |
|
Clinical Experience |
At least 500–1,000 hours of direct patient care experience required |
|
English Proficiency (For International Students) |
TOEFL 80 (iBT) / IELTS 6.5 |
|
Additional Requirements |
CASPA application + Admissions Interview |
Note: The Physician Assistant (MSPA) program has very competitive admissions, requiring strong academic performance and healthcare experience.
Program: Doctor of Chiropractic (DC)
Requirement |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Educational Qualification |
At least 90 semester credits from an accredited college/university |
|
GPA Requirement |
Minimum 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) |
|
Prerequisite Courses |
Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Anatomy, Physiology, etc. |
|
English Proficiency (For International Students) |
TOEFL 80 (iBT) / IELTS 6.5 |
|
Additional Requirements |
No MCAT/GRE required |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Merit-Based Scholarship |
High academic performance (GPA 3.5+), leadership skills |
(up to $5,000) |
|
Chancellor’s Scholarship |
Exceptional academic achievement (GPA 3.75+) |
Up to $10,000 (One-time) |
|
Diversity in Health Care Scholarship |
Minority & underrepresented students in healthcare programs |
Up to $3,000 |
|
Military & Veterans Scholarship |
U.S. military personnel, veterans, or dependents |
(covers partial tuition) |
|
Alumni Legacy Scholarship |
Students with a parent or grandparent who is an SCUHS alum |
Up to $2,500 |
|
Financial Need-Based Scholarship |
Students with demonstrated financial need |
(up to $4,000) |
|
Chiropractic Excellence Scholarship |
Students in the Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) program |
Up to $5,000 |
|
Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine Scholarship |
Students in MACM or DACM programs |
Up to $3,000 |
|
Physician Assistant (PA) Program Scholarship |
Students in the MSPA program with outstanding academic records |
N/A |
|
International Student Scholarship |
Non-U.S. citizens with excellent academic performance |
Up to $3,000 |
|
SCUHS Institutional Grant |
Need-based financial aid for eligible students |
(partial tuition) |
Facility |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Campus Location |
Whittier, California, USA |
|
Library & Research Center |
Health sciences-focused library, study spaces, and research resources |
|
Student Health Center |
Provides chiropractic, acupuncture, and integrative health services |
|
Classrooms & Labs |
Modern lecture halls, anatomy labs, and clinical training rooms |
|
Fitness & Wellness Center |
Gym facilities, yoga, and wellness programs |
|
Student Lounge & Café |
Spaces for relaxation, dining, and networking |
|
Clinical Training Facilities |
On-campus and affiliated health centers for hands-on training |
|
Parking Facilities |
Free and paid parking options available |
Accommodation Type |
Features |
Estimated Cost (Per Month in USD) |
Estimated Cost (Per Year in USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Shared Apartment (2–3 people) |
Furnished/unfurnished, shared kitchen & bathroom |
$800 – $1,200 |
$9,600 – $14,400 |
|
Studio Apartment (Single) |
Private unit with kitchen & bathroom |
$1,200 – $1,800 |
$14,400 – $21,600 |
|
One-Bedroom Apartment |
Private bedroom, living space, kitchen, bathroom |
$1,500 – $2,200 |
$18,000 – $26,400 |
|
Homestay (with local family) |
Meals included, shared living space |
$1,000 – $1,500 |
$12,000 – $18,000 |
|
Student Housing Near Campus |
Private or shared rooms, utilities included |
$900 – $1,500 |
$10,800 – $18,000 |
Additional Costs:
Utilities (Electricity, Water, Internet): $100 – $200/month
Transportation (Public Transit/Gas): $50 – $150/month
Groceries & Dining: $300 – $600/month
SCUHS assists students in finding housing in areas close to campus, such as:
Whittier, CA – Closest to campus (5-10 min drive)
La Mirada, CA – Affordable rental options (10-15 min drive)
Norwalk, CA – Budget-friendly apartments (15-20 min drive)
Fullerton, CA – More upscale apartments (20-30 min drive)
The university also offers housing referral services, helping students find rental listings, roommates, and housing contracts.
SCUHS Housing Assistance: Contact the Student Services Office for recommendations.
Online Platforms: Check Zillow, Craigslist, Apartments.com, and Facebook housing groups.
Local Realtors: Connect with real estate agents in Whittier for rental options.
Roommate Matching Services: SCUHS helps students find potential roommates for shared apartments.
SCUHS provides a student-centered learning experience, with small class sizes and hands-on clinical training. Students engage in interdisciplinary learning, combining traditional healthcare with complementary medicine like chiropractic, acupuncture, and Ayurveda. The university emphasizes evidence-based practice and practical training through on-campus clinics and partner healthcare facilities.
SCUHS has a modern campus designed to support both academic and personal well-being. Facilities include:
Library & Research Center – Provides access to health sciences journals, textbooks, and study spaces.
Student Lounge & Study Areas – Comfortable areas for relaxation and group study.
Clinical Training Facilities – Hands-on learning through on-campus healthcare clinics.
Fitness & Wellness Center – Promotes student health with gym facilities and wellness programs.
Cafeteria & Dining Options – Offers healthy food choices to support student well-being.
SCUHS students can participate in various clubs and organizations that promote leadership, networking, and professional development. Popular student activities include:
Student Government Association (SGA) – Represents student interests and organizes campus events.
Wellness & Yoga Clubs – Focuses on holistic health and mindfulness practices.
Chiropractic & Acupuncture Student Associations – Connects students with professionals in their field.
International Student Community – Helps international students adjust to life in the U.S.
Research & Case Study Groups – Encourages students to participate in clinical research and case presentations.
SCUHS also organizes guest lectures, workshops, and networking events with healthcare professionals.
Located in Southern California, students have access to a vibrant lifestyle with plenty of recreational opportunities. Whittier is close to:
Beaches – Newport Beach, Santa Monica, and Huntington Beach are within driving distance.
Theme Parks – Disneyland and Universal Studios are nearby for weekend fun.
Shopping & Dining – The area has diverse restaurants, cafes, and shopping centers.
Outdoor Activities – Hiking trails, nature parks, and wellness retreats are easily accessible.
SCUHS does not offer on-campus housing, but students can find affordable housing in Whittier, La Mirada, Norwalk, and Fullerton. The university helps students with off-campus housing referrals and roommate matching.
The cost of living varies, with shared apartments costing around $800–$1,200 per month and private apartments ranging from $1,200–$2,200 per month.
SCUHS provides a range of student services to support academic success and personal well-being:
Academic Advising & Career Services – Helps students with course selection, career planning, and internships.
Counseling & Mental Health Support – Offers counseling services for stress management and well-being.
Financial Aid & Scholarships – Assists students in applying for financial aid and scholarship opportunities.
International Student Support – Provides guidance on visas, housing, and cultural adjustment.
SCUHS students gain clinical experience through internships and externships at healthcare facilities. International students with F-1 visas may also qualify for Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT).
On-campus employment opportunities are available in research labs, administrative offices, and student services.
SCUHS provides several career support services to assist students in finding employment:
Career Counseling & Advising – Personalized career planning and job search assistance.
Internships & Externships – Hands-on experience in hospitals, wellness clinics, and rehabilitation centers.
Networking & Job Fairs – Events connecting students with employers and healthcare professionals.
Resume & Interview Coaching – One-on-one training to help students prepare for job applications.
Alumni Network Support – Strong connections with SCUHS graduates who provide mentorship and job leads.
Chiropractic Graduates (DC Program):
90%+ employment rate within 6 months of graduation.
Graduates work in private clinics, sports medicine centers, rehabilitation centers, and wellness practices.
Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine Graduates (DACM/MACM Programs):
80%+ employment rate within a year.
Many graduates open private acupuncture clinics or work in integrative healthcare centers.
Physician Assistant Graduates (MSPA Program):
High demand with an expected 100% employment rate within months of graduation.
Work in hospitals, primary care clinics, and specialty medical practices.
Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences (BSHS) Graduates:
Many graduates pursue advanced degrees (Chiropractic, PA, Acupuncture, or Medical School).
Others find jobs in healthcare administration, wellness coaching, or research.
Graduates from SCUHS work at various healthcare organizations, wellness centers, hospitals, and private practices, including:
Kaiser Permanente
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
Providence Health & Services
Los Angeles Chiropractic Centers
UCLA Health
Private Acupuncture & Chiropractic Clinics
Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation Centers
Program |
Average Salary (USD per Year) |
|---|---|
|
Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) |
$60,000 – $120,000 |
|
Doctor/Master of Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine (DACM/MACM) |
$50,000 – $90,000 |
|
Master of Science in Physician Assistant (MSPA) |
$95,000 – $130,000 |
|
Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences (BSHS) |
$40,000 – $70,000 |
Note: Salaries vary based on experience, location, and specialization. Chiropractors and acupuncturists who open their own clinics can earn higher incomes.
SCUHS students complete internships and clinical rotations in various healthcare settings. These include:
On-campus health clinics – Hands-on patient experience.
Affiliated hospitals & wellness centers – Work under licensed professionals.
Sports medicine & rehabilitation clinics – For students interested in sports therapy & chiropractic care.
The Physician Assistant (MSPA) program includes mandatory clinical rotations in primary care, emergency medicine, surgery, and specialty fields.
Many SCUHS graduates choose to start their own clinics in chiropractic, acupuncture, or wellness coaching. The university provides resources and mentorship for students interested in:
Opening a private practice
Developing a wellness brand
Integrative healthcare business strategies
Optional Practical Training (OPT) – International students on an F-1 visa can work for up to 12 months after graduation.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) – Some programs allow internships during studies.
H-1B Work Visa Sponsorship – Some employers sponsor international graduates for work visas.
SCUHS has a moderate to selective acceptance rate, depending on the program. Since SCUHS is a specialized health sciences university, admission is based on academic performance, prerequisite coursework, healthcare experience, and interviews (if required).
Overall Acceptance Rate: 60% – 70%
Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) Program: 70% – 80% (Less competitive)
Master of Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine (MACM/DACM): 65% – 75%
Master of Science in Physician Assistant (MSPA): Less than 30% (Highly competitive)
Physician Assistant (MSPA) Program has a low acceptance rate (~30%) due to high demand, strict admission criteria, and limited seats. It requires a high GPA, strong healthcare experience, and an interview.
Chiropractic and Acupuncture programs have a higher acceptance rate (~70-80%) because they focus on holistic healthcare and attract students from diverse academic backgrounds.
GPA Requirements: Minimum 2.5 – 3.0 GPA (varies by program)
Prerequisite Courses: Science & healthcare-related coursework required for some programs
Clinical/Healthcare Experience: Required for the MSPA program
English Proficiency: TOEFL/IELTS required for international students
Interview Performance: Some programs require an admissions interview
Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCUHS) is located in Whittier, California, USA.
Campus Address:
16200 Amber Valley Drive, Whittier, CA 90604, USA
Located in Southern California – Close to Los Angeles, offering access to top healthcare facilities.
Easily Accessible – Well-connected by highways and public transportation.
Near Major Cities:
Los Angeles, CA – 15 miles (~30-minute drive)
Long Beach, CA – 20 miles (~35-minute drive)
Anaheim, CA (Disneyland) – 12 miles (~25-minute drive)
Nearby Airports:
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) – ~45-minute drive
John Wayne Airport (SNA) – ~35-minute drive
Surroundings: Residential and commercial areas with restaurants, shopping centers, and healthcare facilities nearby.
