Top online master degree programs in rehabilitation counseling

Online Master’s degree programs in Rehabilitation Counseling offer a flexible, accessible path to advanced education for those interested in helping individuals with disabilities or various life challenges achieve their personal, career, and independent living goals.

This specialized field integrates aspects of psychology, counseling, medical rehabilitation, and social work, and focuses on equipping clients with the skills and resources they need to lead fulfilling, self-determined lives.

Frequently Asked Questions about Online Master’s Degree Programs in Rehabilitation Counseling

See below for the answers to the most-asked questions about these online programs;

Why Choose an Online Master’s Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling?

An online master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling provides flexibility for working professionals and those who may not be able to attend an on-campus program. The online platform allows you to learn from anywhere, often at your own pace.

What are the Admission Requirements?

Typical admission requirements for these programs include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, a minimum GPA, letters of recommendation, and oftentimes, some relevant work experience. Some programs may require a statement of purpose or interviews as well.

Are Online Programs Accredited?

Yes, many online master’s programs in rehabilitation counseling are accredited by relevant accrediting bodies such as the Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs (CACREP).

What Courses Will I Take?

You will typically take courses in theories of counseling, vocational assessment, medical and psychosocial aspects of disability, case management, and ethics, among others.

Can I Become Licensed After Completing the Program?

Graduates of accredited master’s programs in rehabilitation counseling are typically eligible to sit for licensing exams. However, different states have different licensing requirements, so you should check the specific requirements in your jurisdiction.

How Long Does it Take to Complete the Program?

Most online master’s programs in rehabilitation counseling can be completed in 2-3 years of full-time study. Some programs offer accelerated tracks that can be completed in less time.

What is the Cost of an Online Master’s Program?

The cost can vary widely depending on the institution. Tuition can range from a few thousand dollars per semester to over $20,000 per semester in some cases.

Are There Financial Aid Options?

Yes, many online programs offer financial aid options including scholarships, grants, and federal student loans. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement programs.

What are the Career Prospects?

Career prospects in rehabilitation counseling are generally good, with opportunities in various settings such as rehabilitation centers, hospitals, government agencies, and private practice.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for rehabilitation counselors is expected to grow at a rate that is about as fast as the average for all occupations.

Benefits of Virtual Master’s Courses in Rehabilitation Counseling

The digital landscape has transformed our educational experience by presenting a more convenient and reachable option compared to traditional, in-person courses. Here are several benefits of enrolling in an online master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling:

Schedule Flexibility

Such programs enable you to engage in studies from any location globally, giving you the leeway to juggle educational pursuits alongside other life responsibilities like employment or family care.

Wider Availability

Thanks to technological advancements, high-quality education in this field is no longer confined to specific geographical locations, making it more inclusive and available to a larger population.

Culturally Diverse Educational Setting

Virtual programs often draw in learners from varied cultural and professional backgrounds, contributing to a robust educational atmosphere where students can gain from different viewpoints and life experiences.

Key Features of Online Master’s Programs in Rehabilitation Counseling

Most online master’s programs in rehabilitation counseling require 60-63 credit hours of coursework, which includes a combination of core courses, electives, and a supervised internship.

Key areas of study typically include counseling theories and techniques, assessment and evaluation, medical and psychosocial aspects of disabilities, case management, and ethical and legal issues in rehabilitation counseling.

Upon completion of the program, graduates are typically eligible to sit for the Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) exam, a nationally recognized certification that is often required by employers.

Online masters in psychology counseling

This is closely related to online master degree programs in rehabilitation counseling. Earning a Master’s Degree in Psychology Counseling opens up a variety of rewarding career paths. Below are some of the opportunities available to individuals with this qualification:

Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Once you have met all the licensure requirements mandated by your state, you can embark on a career as a licensed mental health counselor.

In this role, you’ll have the opportunity to work in diverse environments such as hospitals, specialized mental health facilities, or even your own private practice.

Your responsibilities would generally involve assessing, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of mental health issues through one-on-one counseling, group therapy, or other therapeutic methods.

School Guidance Counselor

If your interests lean more toward child psychology and educational settings, becoming a school counselor could be a fulfilling choice.

In this role, you not only assist students in academic planning but also provide support for social and emotional issues that may affect their educational experience. You’ll work closely with teachers, parents, and other stakeholders to create a nurturing environment that helps students reach their full potential.

Corporate Wellness Counselor

As awareness about the importance of employee mental health continues to grow, many companies are investing in corporate wellness programs.

As a corporate counselor, you could be responsible for creating and implementing mental health programs, conducting workshops, or providing one-on-one counseling to help employees manage stress, improve productivity, and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Research Analyst or Academic Researcher

If you have a penchant for academic pursuits, a Master’s degree in Psychology Counseling can be a stepping stone towards research-oriented roles.

These positions could be within academic institutions, research organizations, or even within policy think-tanks. Your work might involve conducting studies to explore the efficacy of various therapeutic techniques, developing new treatment protocols, or pursuing further academic qualifications like a Ph.D. in a specialized area of psychology.

12 Top online master degree programs in rehabilitation counseling

Here you’ll discover leading educational institutions providing cost-effective online master’s degrees in rehabilitation counseling.

These exceptional programs have received accreditation from either CACREP or CORE, equipping students to successfully take the national Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) exam. CRCs specialize in helping individuals with diverse disabilities.

  • The University of Alabama
  • Utah State University
  • Fort Valley State University
  • Emporia State University
  • Texas Tech University
  • San Diego State University
  • University of North Texas
  • Winston-Salem State University
  • University of Kentucky
  • Assumption College
  • USF
  • UNIVERSITY of WISCONSIN–MADISON

The University of Alabama

The University of Alabama provides a Master of Arts in Rehabilitation Counseling through an entirely online format. This 48-credit program, accredited by the Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE), incorporates both practicum and internship training that students can complete locally.

Participants in the program will acquire a range of clinical and case management abilities such as one-on-one and group therapy, vocational evaluations, and advocating for diverse communities affected by disabilities. The coursework is delivered online, featuring real-time lectures, and practical skills are developed through supervised practicum and internship sessions.

The program’s course lineup includes: Theories and Methods in Counseling; Career Growth; Skills in Counseling; Group Dynamics and Methods; Introduction to Rehabilitation Counseling; Medical and Environmental Dimensions of Disability; Job Rehabilitation Case Handling and Placement; Multicultural Therapy; Advanced Seminar in Substance Abuse; Educational Research Techniques; Development Across the Lifespan; Practical Training in Rehabilitation Counseling; and Fieldwork in Rehabilitation Counseling.

    • Cost: $375 / Credit Hour
    • Credits Required: 60

Utah State University

This University provides a Master of Rehabilitation Counseling program that is available online and accredited by the Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE). The program aims to prepare students for careers as certified rehabilitation counselors.

Coursework can be undertaken through the online distance education platform, featuring live class sessions. Online students are required to visit the Logan, UT campus during the summer term to participate in three one-week courses.

Upon completion, graduates will be well-equipped to explore career opportunities in various environments including: Veterans Affairs offices, centers for independent living, mental health facilities, substance abuse treatment centers, legal and forensic arenas, as well as private practice.

    • Cost: $431 / Credit Hour
    • Credits Required: 52

Fort Valley State University

This school offers an online Rehabilitation Counseling and Case Management Graduate Program. The Master of Science degree is offered online and designed to train students in developing an ethical and multi-culturally competent practice of rehabilitation counseling.

Graduates will be well-versed in the medical and emotional aspects of disability, equipped to help people with disabilities reach their objectives in various life facets such as social, work-related, and financial.

They will also be ready to seek credentials as a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor or licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor. The curriculum includes courses like Basics of Rehabilitation, Intro to Case Handling, Theories and Practices in Counseling, Medical Case Coordination, and Group Dynamics and Procedures.

Cost: $219 / Credit Hour

Emporia State University

Emporia State University provides a fully online Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling program that is CORE-accredited. This 48-credit course prepares students to work across different rehabilitation settings by imparting skills in evaluation, intervention, and prevention tailored for diverse populations.

Each student’s educational journey is thoughtfully customized to reflect their specific academic and occupational background. The program includes mandatory supervised practicum and internship experiences to offer hands-on training. After completing the program, graduates will be qualified to pursue a professional certification in rehabilitation counseling.

Included in the curriculum are courses such as: Evaluation of Research; Career Counseling and Development; Counseling Theory; Dynamics of Group Counseling; Assessment and Vocational Information; Issues Related to Employment in Rehabilitation; Foundations of Rehabilitation Counseling; Medical Factors of Disability; Psychosocial Aspects and Disability; In-Depth Case Management; Supervised Clinical Experience in Rehabilitation Counseling; and Practicum in Rehabilitation Counseling.

    • Cost: $470 / Credit Hour
    • Credits Required: 60

Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center offers a Master of Science in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling with a focus on preparing rehabilitation counselors to serve diverse populations in rural areas.

The program imparts clinical expertise along with ethical guidelines essential for becoming professional rehabilitation counselors capable of delivering evidence-based services to individuals with mental, physical, or emotional challenges.

This program has received accreditation from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), and graduates will be ready to take the national certification exam.

They will also be qualified to seek certification as a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor or licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor.

The curriculum consists of courses like: Intro to Counseling and Ethical Formation; Theories of Counseling; Medical Factors in Disabilities; Career Guidance; Cultural Diversity in Counseling; Group Therapy Techniques; Micro-level Counseling; Ethical and Foundational Aspects of Rehabilitation Counseling; Substance Abuse; Developmental Psychology; Professional Growth in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling; Evaluation Methods; Mental Disorders and Diagnosis; Research Methods and Statistical Analysis; and Planning for Treatment and Case Coordination.

    • Cost: $540 / Credit Hour
    • Credits Required: 60

San Diego State University

San Diego State University provides a Master of Science program in Rehabilitation Counseling that is fully accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). Those interested in this program have the flexibility to choose either an on-campus or a fully online educational experience.

The institution places a strong emphasis on recruiting students from a variety of backgrounds and experiences to diversify and enrich the program. Upon completion, graduates will be equipped to seek certification as Certified Rehabilitation Counselors.

Additionally, students who opt for the Clinical Concentration will be well-positioned to seek further licensure and certifications, such as becoming a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and obtaining an Advanced Certificate in Psychiatric Rehabilitation. The program offers specialized tracks in the following areas: Cognitive Disabilities, Rehabilitation Technology, Supported Employment and Transition Services, and Psychiatric Rehabilitation.

The curriculum comprises a variety of courses such as: Foundations of Rehabilitation, Medical and Psychological Elements of Disability, Counseling Theories and Practices, Rehabilitation Assessment, Hands-on Training in Rehabilitation, Job Placement Strategies for Those with Disabilities, Multicultural Issues in Counseling Seminar, Rehabilitation Services and Case Management, Career Development Assessment, Research Methods, Dynamics of Group Interaction, Assistive Technology Applications, and Program Creation.

    • Cost: $627 / Credit Hour
    • Credits Required: 60

University of North Texas

The University of North Texas offers a Master of Science program in Rehabilitation Counseling, which is available both online and on campus, allowing students to choose the learning format that suits them best.

In this program, students are trained to work collaboratively with and advocate for individuals with disabilities, aiming to help them achieve their goals and enhance their overall well-being. The program provides the opportunity to engage closely with distinguished faculty who are experts in rehabilitation counseling.

These faculty members are actively involved in various research areas, including the effects of disability on diverse ethnic and cultural groups, prevention of substance abuse recovery, and the influence of resilience on health outcomes.

The program’s curriculum features a wide range of courses, such as: Seminars on Recovery; An Overview of Drugs and Addictions; Research Experience through the Honors College; Techniques of Microcounseling; Disability in Social Context; Rehabilitation Case Management; Courses on Addictions, Drugs, and Alcohol; Different Models of Addiction Treatment; The Intersection of Substance Abuse and Disability; Fundamentals of Psychiatric Rehabilitation; Group Therapy in Addiction Counseling; Employment Services in Rehabilitation; Specialized Studies in Rehabilitation; and Practical Experience in Rehabilitation.

    • Cost: $643 / Credit Hour
    • Credits Required: 60

Winston-Salem State University

Winston-Salem State University provides a Master of Science program in Rehabilitation Counseling that is accessible both online and on campus. The program can be completed in two years of full-time study. For students interested in specializing within the field, the program offers Areas of Emphasis that require 9-15 credits of elective coursework.

These specializations include Rural Vocational Rehabilitation, Transition Services, Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, and Vocational Evaluation. Participants in the program will acquire essential clinical competencies through supervised practicums and internships. Upon graduation, they will be equipped to work in diverse settings and with various population groups.

The course list for the program consists of: Foundations of Rehabilitation Counseling; Counseling Theories and Methods; Group Therapy Techniques; Vocational Evaluation; Medical and Emotional Elements of Disabilities in the Context of Rehabilitation Counseling; Ethical Considerations in Rehabilitation Counseling; Cultural Factors and Disability; Transitioning from School to Employment; Rural Career Decision-Making; Techniques and Relationships in Counseling; Vocational Placement Strategies; Developmental Psychology; and Issues Related to Psychosocial and Cultural Diversity.

    • Cost: $672 / Credit Hour
    • Credits Required: 60

University of Kentucky

The University of Kentucky’s College of Education provides an Accelerated Distance Learning Program for a Master’s degree in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling.

This online program features courses that are organized into focused eight-week segments, delivered through asynchronous online teaching. This format is designed to give students the flexibility to focus on their coursework and complete tasks at times that suit them, although within certain deadlines. In addition to the asynchronous content, virtual office hours are available to facilitate interaction between students and instructors.

Those who enroll full-time can expect to complete the program in just 16 months, while part-time students can finish within three years.

The program’s curriculum consists of a range of courses such as: Fundamentals of Rehabilitation Counseling; Theories and Practices in Rehabilitation Counseling; Lifespan Development in the Context of Disability; Cultural Aspects in Rehabilitation Counseling; Responding to Crisis, Disaster, and Trauma for Individuals with Disabilities; Case Management Techniques in Rehabilitation Counseling; Research and Evaluation Methods in Rehabilitation Programs; Group and Family Therapy Techniques; Mental Health Assessment and Treatment Planning; Job Placement Strategies in Rehabilitation Counseling; and Topics Covering Transition, Supported Employment, and Independent Living.

    • Cost: $674 / Credit Hour
    • Credits Required: 58

Assumption College

Assumption College’s Graduate Studies Program offers a Master of Arts in Rehabilitation Counseling. Students have the option to pursue this degree either on campus as full-time or part-time students, or online on a part-time basis.

Both pathways require the completion of 60 credit hours. The online program is designed to prioritize a student-centric educational experience and facilitates interaction between students and faculty throughout the course of study.

Additionally, online students are required to attend a five-day, in-person session on campus each summer to further their professional skills and development in the field of rehabilitation counseling.

The curriculum for this program comprises courses such as: Seminar in Research Methods; Theories and Practices in Counseling; Group Counseling Techniques; Advanced Therapeutic Methods; Developmental Psychology with a Focus on Disabilities Across the Lifespan; Cultural Sensitivity in Counseling Practices; Treatment Strategies for Substance Abuse; and a Community-Based Practicum focusing on Transitional Services.

    • Cost: $691 / Credit Hour
    • Credits Required: 60

USF

The University of South Florida (USF) offers a completely online Master of Arts program in Rehabilitation Counseling and Disability Sciences (RCDS).

This program is designed to address the growing need for Certified Rehabilitation Counselors who can assist people with various types of disabilities, including physical, mental, emotional, and chemical. In Florida alone, there are currently 100 unfilled positions in rehabilitation counseling, which exacerbates the challenges faced by those who require such services.

online masters in psychology counseling

The online nature of the program provides flexibility, making it accessible for individuals who may be working full-time, living outside the Tampa Bay area, or facing constraints that make it difficult to attend a traditional educational setting.

The RCDS program will focus on providing training across various dimensions of disability, including psychological, social, medical, and vocational aspects. It will also aim to enhance skills in personal adjustment counseling.

With a 60-credit structure, the online program is crafted to be interactive and engaging. It encourages students to not only acquire knowledge but also to think critically about contemporary issues affecting people with disabilities.

Graduates of this program are expected to become advocates, counselors, educators, and researchers in the field of Rehabilitation Counseling and Disability Sciences.

UNIVERSITY of WISCONSIN–MADISON

The M.S. in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling equips students to work with adolescents and adults with various disabilities, including mental health issues and substance use disorders, across both the public and private sectors.

The program focuses on enhancing life quality and community inclusion for individuals with disabilities, ranging from physical and psychiatric to sensory and age-related. Emphasizing hands-on training, students undergo supervised field placements and can cross-train in both rehabilitation counseling and counseling psychology.

The program is CACREP-accredited, meeting standards for national CRC certification and Wisconsin’s training license for professional counselors.

Financial aid options like scholarships and assistantships are available for eligible students. Graduates find employment in diverse settings, from nonprofit and state agencies to educational institutions. The program is part of a highly-ranked educational institution, offering access to interdisciplinary views, professional resources, and current research.

Recommendations

Best Online Nursing Programs for Non-Nurses

Clinical Mental Health Counseling Programs

Alternative careers for mental health counselors

Best Cardiovascular Perfusionist Masters Programs In USA

2 year Nursing programs in Canada for international students

Leave a Reply