The Certificate of Graduate Study in Psychiatric Rehabilitation is a 24-credit-hour graduate specialty program designed to equip human service professionals for work with individuals with severe mental illnesses. This cross-disciplinary program introduces students to the characteristics of severe long-term mental illnesses, assessment, treatment, rehabilitation methods, and the recovery process.

The Certificate of Graduate Study in Psychiatric Rehabilitation is designed to meet the needs of students seeking a rehabilitation counseling or other related graduate degree, individuals seeking a specialty certificate (pre- or post-master’s), and non-degree seeking students needing courses in psychiatric or mental health areas for continuing education credit. Courses within the certificate program are appropriate for rehabilitation counselors; counselors; social workers; educational psychologists; marriage and family counselors; majors in psychology, public health, sociology, nursing, or education; or individuals pursuing vocational or personal interests in the area of psychiatric rehabilitation or mental health.

Learning Outcomes

• Upon completion of the Program, students will be able to describe the complex nature and course of psychiatric disorders and conduct a comprehensive diagnostic process.
• Upon completion of the Program, students will demonstrate knowledge, skills, and values related to the concept of a recovery-focused philosophy of psychiatric rehabilitation by comparing and contrasting classroom-based learning of theory and principles to actual rehabilitation settings.
• Students will demonstrate an understanding of the lived experience of individuals with severe mental illnesses and will be able to design individualized rehabilitation strategies that enhance the overall social, vocational, and independent living performance.

Admission Standards

Applicants to the Certificate of Graduate Study in Psychiatric Rehabilitation must have earned a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution. Admissions decisions are made on the basis of an overall evaluation of the applicant’s preparation and ability to complete advanced study. Particular attention is paid to the applicant’s work experience, practice interests, leadership ability, and motivation. Appropriate supporting documentation for admissions include: GRE scores or MAT scores, transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate course work, written statement of goals for graduate study, work and volunteer experience, and references. Applications are made electronically through the Graduate School and, when all materials are received, are reviewed by the Rehabilitation Counseling/Psychiatric Rehabilitation program faculty.

Certificate Requirements (24 Hours)

All course work is available on campus or online in distance education format. Students electing a distance education option must have a computer with Internet access and be willing to attend an orientation meeting on campus at the beginning of study. Periodic in-person meetings, if requested by the course instructor, are also required.

The Certificate of Graduate Study in Psychiatric Rehabilitation requires 24 graduate credit hours. The curriculum includes four (4) required classes, three (3) electives, and one (1) field study.