Academics

Incoming students will complete a new 48 credit hour program, consistent with the certification standards outlined by the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification.

The program can typically be completed in 4 semesters of continuous full-time study (12-15 credits per semester) and is comprised of the following. A core of required graduate courses provides the basic knowledge and skills necessary to the field of rehabilitation and vocational counseling. Principles and practices are taught with an emphasis on:

  • Psychiatric rehabilitation
  • Counseling theory
  • Individual and group counseling skills
  • Assessment in rehabilitation and mental health counseling
  • Evidence-based treatment of mental disorders
  • Job placement
  • Medical and psychosocial aspects of disability
  • Human growth and career development
  • Research methods

Fieldwork

Concurrently, fieldwork of progressively increasing complexity takes place at a variety of federal, state and local rehabilitation facilities including:

  • The State Department of Vocational Rehabilitation
  • Rehabilitation centers
  • Medical hospitals
  • Public schools
  • Facilities for persons with mental and physical disabilities
  • Mental health and counseling centers
  • Community rehabilitation facilities
  • Organizations serving persons with physical, psychiatric, mental, social or emotional disabilities

Courses

Rehabilitation Core-24 credit hours

  • Introduction to Rehabilitation Counseling
  • Assessment in Rehabilitation
  • Psychosocial & Cultural Aspects of Disability
  • Medical Aspects of Disability
  • Work and Disability
  • Research Methods
  • Human Development
  • Insurance, Forensic and Disability Management in Rehabilitation
  • Case Management in Rehabilitation

Clinical Core-18 credit hours

  • Theories of Behavior Change
  • Vocational Counseling and Interventions
  • Supervised Practicum
  • Internship

Supportive Courses-6 credit hours from drawn from the following areas

  • Work or Vocational Behavior
  • Health & Wellness Behaviors
  • Individual Differences 

Certification and Licensure

Upon completion of academics, fieldwork and supervised practice a graduate of the University of Illinois Masters in Rehabilitation Program will be eligible to become a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC), a distinguished certificate recognized nationwide. Graduates will also be eligible for counseling licensure as a Professional Counselor and a Clinical Professional Counselor within the state of Illinois. Illinois accepts the CRC examination as a qualifying professional counselor licensure exam (Please see your state licensing board for information on counseling licensure requirements in states other than Illinois).