University of Wisconsin - Stout

Due to the high demand for this program, our next available cohort is Fall 2009. We will begin accepting applications for that cohort in September 2008.

 

Overview

UW-Stout offers the option of completing a Master of Science degree in Vocational Rehabilitation with a concentration in Rehabilitation Counseling via distant education. The online program is designed for individuals who are currently working in the field of rehabilitation or have prior experience working with individuals with disabilities, and wish to complete their graduate degree on a part-time basis. A minimum of two years related work experience is required for admission into the online program.

Two courses are offered each semester (one during the summer), allowing students to complete the online degree program in three years. Distant learning courses and all program requirements are identical to our on-campus program, which is accredited by the Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE). Upon successful completion of the vocational rehabilitation program/rehabilitation counseling concentration, you will be eligible to take the National Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) examination.

The program utilizes asynchronous learning methods, which means that you can participate in weekly learning assignments at a time that is most convenient for you. The university uses a course delivery system called "Learn at UW-Stout", and training is provided in how to access course materials. New content information (the equivalent of a classroom "lecture") is typically posted once a week, with a corresponding group discussion and student activities or assignments. Students communicate regularly with the instructor and classmates via e-mail and online discussion forums. Most classes also require field based activities, such as community site visits and projects involving your local rehabilitation service offices and/or employers. Practicum and internship experiences will be arranged in your home area on an individualized basis, and can often be completed in your current place of employment.

Semester Course Code Course Name Credits
Year 1
Fall REHAB 717-XXX Occupational Analysis
and Job Placement
3
  REHAB-701-XXX Foundations of Rehabilitation 3
Spring REHAB-620-XXX Psychological Testing --
Exceptional Needs
3
  COUN-750-XXX Counseling Theory 3
Summer   Restricted Elective 3
Year 2
Fall REHAB-713-XXX Physical Aspects of Disability 3
  REHAB-715-XXX Research in Rehabilitation 3
Spring REHAB-714-XXX Cognitive Aspects of Disabilities 3
  REHAB-723-XXX Procedures of Vocational Evaluation 3
Summer REHAB 708-XXX Practicum in Rehabilitation Counseling 3
Year 3
Fall REHAB-764-XXX Case Coordination 3
    Restricted Elective 3
Spring  N/A Comprehensive Exam -
  REHAB-787-XXX Internship in Rehabilitation Counseling 12
Total: 48

Course descriptions are available here.

Additional Information

Mandatory On-campus Orientation Training: A mandatory three-day on-campus orientation is held during the first week of August each year. All students are required to participate in the orientation prior to beginning online courses, and are responsible for all costs incurred in traveling to Menomonie, including accommodations and meals. The purpose of the session is to assist you in building collaborative online skills and in learning the technology and basic skills necessary to succeed in a graduate level online program. You will meet your instructors and classmates in person, become acquainted with university resources that you can access online, learn about university policies, and be introduced to available technical support.

This is the only time that online students are required to come to campus. Past students have found this intensive orientation to be essential to their online learning, as well as forming the necessary relationships with classmates and faculty that have helped them succeed in the program. Students are advised not to consider applying unless they are willing to meet this program requirement.

Technical Requirements: In addition to computer hardware requirements, students should be comfortable using Microsoft Windows software including MS Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.

Program Costs: Tuition costs are the same for in-state, out-of-state and international students. Financial aid is available to qualified students, and may include scholarships, grants, and loans.

Frequently Asked Questions

 

For more information contact:

Debra Homa, Ph.D., CRC, CVE
Online Graduate Program Director
231A Vocational Rehabilitation Building
University of Wisconsin-Stout
Menomonie, WI 54751-0790

Phone: 715/232-1113
Email: rehab-couns@uwstout.edu