M.S.Ed in Rehabilitation Counseling (51 s.h.)
M.S.Ed. in Rehabilitation Counseling in Mental Health (60- s.h.)

Two master of science in education degrees are offered in rehabilitation counseling: (a) Master of Science in Education in Rehabilitation Counseling (51 s.h.) and (b) Master of Science in Education in Rehabilitation Counseling  in Mental Health (60 s.h.). Both programs are designed to prepare students as professional counselors with specialized knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to assist persons with disabilities towards achieving their personal, social, psychological, and vocational independence including appropriate employment and independent living. The programs include specialty courses by which students prepare for working in mental health and other specialized settings. Graduates work in a variety of rehabilitation settings including state/federal rehabilitation agencies, mental health centers, medical centers, private rehabilitation agencies, Veteran’s Affairs Hospitals, substance abuse programs, independent living programs, schools, insurance companies, private practice, or other organizations serving persons with disabilities.

Prospective students with baccalaureate degree can complete the comprehensive curricula in two academic years (for the 51 credit hour program) and 2 ½ years (for the 60 credit hour program). Acceleration is possible with the approved transfer of a maximum of 12 appropriate course credits. Part-time and non-matriculated students are accepted. Students wishing to work as rehabilitation counselors and become Certified Rehabilitation Counselors (CRC) without regards for mental health licensure are required to take 51 credit hours. Those students wishing to work as rehabilitation counselors and prepare for mental health licensure need to complete 60 s.h.

Extensive fieldwork is an essential component both programs through practicum and internship experiences. A number of rehabilitation facilities in the Long Island and New York metropolitan areas provide pre-practicum, practicum, and internship training opportunities.   

Both programs have an outstanding record of graduates working in the field. In fact, many students find employment prior to or within 3 months of graduation (typically at least
75%), in part because of the strong relationship the program has cultivated with many agencies over the years. Additionally, the program maintains an employment bank of job listings through our online RC Resource Center made available to students in the program. This list includes many job leads that come to the program via word–of-mouth. The RC faculty also encourages graduates to pursue their continuing education for maintenance of their CRC and career advancement mobility. It is not uncommon for graduates to contact the program with questions pertinent to their careers.

Note: National Rehabilitation Association, National Rehabilitation Counseling Association or American Counseling Association sponsored liability insurance is strongly recommended for internship students. This insurance provides coverage while performing professional duties as a rehabilitation counselor in training. Information may be obtained from the Graduate Program Director.