Certificate in Rehabilitation Studies
Unlike other human service workers, rehabilitation studies graduates receive specialized instruction in the areas of disability and employment. The undergraduate academic certificate in rehabilitation studies provides students with fundamental knowledge and skills in these areas for effective interaction with individuals with disabilities. This four-course certificate option addresses an unmet need in the local and regional job market for entry-level community rehabilitation providers to serve an increasing number of people with disabilities, particularly the elderly and individuals with developmental disabilities. Because this certificate is offered through distance learning, individuals with disabilities and current rehabilitation workers seeking higher education will also have greater access to the program.
Students who complete the certificate will possess entry-level job skills and exposure to core rehabilitation values. They will enter the field equipped with the competencies needed to provide quality rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities. Rehabilitation professionals work in variety of programs that serve individuals with disabilities, including community rehabilitation programs, addiction treatment programs, disability accommodation offices in schools and universities, centers for independent living, psychiatric rehabilitation programs, state schools, residential programs and probation and parole offices.
The Goal of the Certificate Program is to:
- Increase the supply of qualified personnel who can meet staffing needs of public and private agencies and facilities engaged in vocational and independent living services to persons with severe physical and/or mental disabilities.
- Provide a comprehensive academic program that includes coursework addressing the unique and changing needs of programs providing services to persons with disabilities.
Required Courses (12 hours):
- RHAB 3100 Disability & Society
Explores the historical and current treatment of persons with disabilities. Examines the impact of social institutions, public policy and attitude on service marginalization and segregation of persons with disabilities. - RHAB 3200 Aspects of Disability I
Discusses the stages of adjustment to disability, the impact of age of onset and its impact on family. This course is an introduction to consumer-based health perspectives with an overview of etiology, progression and treatment of major disabling conditions related to cognition, emotion, addiction and other disorders related to the nervous system. The course includes the interplay of physical, psychosocial and vocational implications of these disorders. - RHAB 3900 Case Management in Rehabilitation
Reviews models of case management and caseload management utilized in a broad range of rehabilitation settings. Application of the techniques and tools utilized for rehabilitation interviewing, assessment and individualized planning. Includes professionalism and ethical responsibilities of the rehabilitation case manager. - RHAB 4700 Employment Services
Covers basic job development and job placement skills and activities. Includes job analysis, supported employment, transition services, and labor market analysis.