2018-2019 Graduate & Professional Studies Catalog [Archived Catalog]
Department of Rehabilitation Science and Technology
|
|
Return to: School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences
Master of Science in Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling & Master of Science Degree in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences with a Concentration in Rehabilitation Counseling
Contact Information
Michael McCue, PhD
Professor, Counseling Program Director
Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and Technology
5040 Forbes Tower
412-383-6589
Fax: 412-383-6597
E-mail: mmccue@pitt.edu
http://www.shrs.pitt.edu/people/michael-mccue
Program 1: Master of Science in Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling
http://www.shrs.pitt.edu/mscrmhc/
Overview
Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling is a program that blends the important concepts of rehabilitation and mental health counseling to provide a strong, cohesive training program for clinical and professional counselors. Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counselors are uniquely qualified to work with individuals with disabilities, particularly those who are experiencing psychiatric disabilities or other mental and behavioral health concerns.
The mission of our program is to improve individual and community mental health and rehabilitation outcomes through the clinical education and training of outstanding professional counselors. Our program integrates counseling, clinical services, research, and advocacy with a strengths-based, empowerment focus.
This program prepares students for clinical practice in rehabilitation and mental health counseling. The two-year, 60-credit hour curriculum includes courses on foundations of rehabilitation and mental health counseling, human development across culture and the lifespan, individual, group, family and couples counseling, substance abuse, evidence based practice in counseling, crisis management, risk assessment and disaster preparedness, clinical assessment and diagnosis, case conceptualization and treatment planning, medical and psycho-social aspects of disability, case management, vocational and career development, job development and placement, and assistive technology. Individualized and group professional mentorship over a students to years of study is a hallmark of the program.
Graduates meet eligibility criteria for national certification in rehabilitation counseling (i.e., certified rehabilitation counselor, CRC), professional counseling (National Counselor Certification, NCC and satisfy the educational requirements for licensure as a professional counselor (LPC).
Prerequisites
The curriculum of study for clinical rehabilitation and mental health counseling relies upon having experienced a strong undergraduate education that has provided a sound foundation in knowledge, methods, and attitudes. Students must possess foundational knowledge of the concepts and terminology in medical, psychological, and sociological sciences on which to build the knowledge and skills of the rehabilitation and mental health counseling curriculum.
Students must have the ability to communicate in a clear, organized, and logical fashion with appropriate grammar, both verbally and in writing.
Admission is available on a full-time or part-time basis. Exceptions may be granted to outstanding students who do not meet all of the prerequisite requirements.
Admission Requirements
- Baccalaureate degree in psychology, human services, rehabilitation sciences, social sciences, or related field of study from an accredited post-secondary institution
- Minimum overall undergraduate GPA of 3.00.
- Applicants must demonstrate that they possess foundation knowledge of the concepts and terminology in medical, psychological, and sociological sciences on which to build the rehabilitation counseling curriculum. Students must have the ability to communicate in a clear, organized, and logical fashion with appropriate grammar, both verbally and in writing.
All applicants must:
- Complete the SHRS ApplyYourself online application
- Submit the $50 application fee (U.S.)
- Submit official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended
- Submit a minimum of three letters of recommendation - Preferably from individuals who have instructed you in academic settings and/or supervised research activities
- Submit a personal statement - Description of educational and long-term professional goals
- Curriculum Vitae or Resume
- Participate in an interview - Applicants may be required to complete a group interview with the counseling faculty as a part of the application process. Face to face interviews are preferred but other means can be arranged if indicated.
This program requires that student’s complete clinical internships at facilities external to the University, and such facilities may require a criminal background check, an Act 33/34 clearance, and a drug screen to determine whether the student is qualified to participate in the clinical internships. Additionally, in order to become licensed, many states will inquire as to whether the applicant has been convicted of a misdemeanor, a felony, or a felonious or illegal act associated with alcohol and/or substance abuse.
Program 2: Master of Sciences in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences with a Concentration in Rehabilitation Counseling
http://www.shrs.pitt.edu/msrc
Overview
The program curriculum is designed to permit the student to obtain the essential knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to function effective as a professional rehabilitation counselor. The curriculum includes courses on rehabilitation research, foundations of vocational rehabilitation, counseling services, medical, psychological and social aspects of disability, case management, vocational and career development, assessment, job development and placement, rehabilitation science and assistive technology, and disability studies
Prerequisites
The curriculum of study for rehabilitation counseling is based upon having experienced a strong undergraduate education that has provided a sound foundation in knowledge, methods, and attitudes. Students must possess foundational knowledge of the concepts and terminology in medical, psychological, and sociological sciences on which to build the rehabilitation counseling curriculum.
Students must have the ability to communicate in a clear, organized, and logical fashion with appropriate grammar, both verbally and in writing.
Admission is available on a full-time or part-time basis. Provisional special status may be granted to outstanding students who do not meet all of the prerequisite requirements.
Admission Requirements
- Required credits/degrees: Completion of a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution (no specific major) from a curriculum with a distribution of studies in psychology, counseling, and social sciences
- Required quality point average: 3.0
Prerequisite Courses
- Psychology, counseling, or human development, 6 credits
- Statistics, 3 credits
- English composition or technical writing, 3 credits
Application Requirements
All applicants must:
- Complete the SHRS ApplyYourself online application;
- Submit the application fee of $50 (U.S.);
- Submit an essay-a description of educational and long-term professional goals;
- The applicant should demonstrate knowledge of rehabilitation through previous work experiences, internships, field experiences, or volunteer work experiences;
- Submit three letters of reference, preferably from individuals who have instructed you in academic settings and/or supervised research activities. These letters should address the applicant’s academic, professional, and personal attributes and potential for meaningful graduate study;
- Submit official transcripts from all colleges and universities you have attended;
- Additional requirements for international applicants.
Note: Application can be submitted when course requirements are in progress.
Please note this program requires that you complete clinical internships at facilities external to the University, and such facilities will or may require a criminal background check, an Act 33/34 clearance, and perhaps a drug screen to determine whether you are qualified to participate in the clinical internships. Additionally, in order to become licensed, many states will inquire as to whether the applicant has been convicted of a misdemeanor, a felony, or a felonious or illegal act associated with alcohol and/or substance abuse.
Admission Requirements and Application Process
http://www.shrs.pitt.edu/msrc/admission
The curriculum of study for rehabilitation counseling is based upon having experienced a strong undergraduate education that has provided a sound foundation in knowledge, methods, and attitudes.
Specific requirements for admission to rehabilitation counseling are:
- A Baccalaureate degree. (No specific major is mandated; however, prerequisite study for post baccalaureate advanced education should include a well-rounded general education that includes a distribution of studies in psychology, counseling and social sciences) Computer literacy is essential.
- Prerequisite coursework includes foundation courses in the following areas:
- Psychology, counseling, or human development (2 courses)
- Statistics or research design
- English composition or Technical Writing
- Students must possess foundation knowledge of the concepts and terminology in medical, psychological, and sociological sciences on which to build the rehabilitation counseling curriculum.
- The applicant must have a minimum overall GPA of 3.00, and a 3.00 in the prerequisite courses
- The applicant should demonstrate knowledge of rehabilitation through previous work experiences, internships or field experience, or volunteer work experience.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Curriculum and Course Descriptions
https://www.shrs.pitt.edu/RST/msrc.aspx?id=157
The program curriculum is designed to permit the student to obtain the essential knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to function effectively as a professional rehabilitation counselor.
Master of Science Degree in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences with a Concentration in Rehabilitation Science and Technology (RST)
Contact Information
Dan Ding, PhD
University of Pittsburgh
Human Engineering Research Laboratories (HERL)
6425 Penn Avenue, Suite 400
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
412-822-3684
E-mail: dad5@pitt.edu
http://www.shrs.pitt.edu/RST/
Admission Requirements and Application Process
https://www.shrs.pitt.edu/RST/MSRST.aspx?id=324
Required credits/degrees: Bachelor’s degree
Required quality point average (QPA): 3.0
Other admission criteria: The applicant must demonstrate knowledge of rehabilitation science and technology through volunteer or work experience.
Prerequisites:
- Statistics- 3 credits
- English Composition- 3 credits
- Human Anatomy and Physiology- 3 credits
- College Physics- 3 credits
*prerequisite waivers are permitted, pending applicants can demonstrate proof of equivalent knowledge/experience
Application Procedures
Application Requirements
All applicants must:
- Complete the SHRS ApplyYourself online application;
- Submit the application fee of $50 (U.S.);
- Submit an essay-a description of educational and long-term professional goals;
- Submit three letters of reference, preferably from individuals who have instructed you in academic settings and/or supervised research activities. These letters should address the applicant’s academic, professional, and personal attributes and potential for meaningful graduate study;
- Submit official transcripts from all colleges and universities you have attended;
- Additional requirements for international applicants.
Note: Application can be submitted when course requirements are in progress.
Please note this program requires that you complete clinical internships at facilities external to the University, and such facilities will or may require a criminal background check, an Act 33/34 clearance, and perhaps a drug screen to determine whether you are qualified to participate in the clinical internships. Additionally, in order to become licensed, many states will inquire as to whether the applicant has been convicted of a misdemeanor, a felony, or a felonious or illegal act associated with alcohol and/or substance abuse.
Master of Science Degree in Physician Assistant Studies
The Physician Assistant Degree program prepares students to become highly qualified physician assistants. The University of Pittsburgh graduates will go on to serve as tomorrow’s leaders in patient centered care, education and professional service.
Physician Assistants (PAs) are health care professionals licensed to practice medicine with physician supervision. PAs practice primary and specialty patient care in medical and surgical settings throughout the United States and worldwide. In order to practice, Physician Assistants must graduate from an accredited educational program and become certified through an examination by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA).
The University of Pittsburgh Physician Assistant Studies Program received Accreditation by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant, Inc. (ARC-PA) in March of 2012, following a site visit in September 2011. This program was awarded continuing accreditation through March of 2018. Students are admitted into the program upon successful completion of: an undergraduate degree at an accredited institution and fulfillment of all prerequisites.
Contact Information
Marsha LaCovey, MS
Physician Assistant Studies
School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences
3010 William Pitt Way
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
412-624-6719
Fax: 412-624-7934
E-mail: mlacovey@pitt.edu
Webpage: http://www.shrs.pitt.edu/pa
Admission Requirements/Application Process
https://www.shrs.pitt.edu/PA/PAProgram.aspx?id=755&nav=756
Applications are accepted through CASPA each year from mid April to November 1. Students are admitted each spring semester.
Master of Science in Prosthetics and Orthotics
Contact Information
Amy Donovan
Department of Rehabilitation Science and Technology
6425 Penn Ave., Ste. 401
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
412-383-6596
Fax: 412-624-6501
E-mail: adonovan@pitt.edu
http://www.shrs.pitt.edu/po/
Program Overview
Orthotics and Prosthetics is the evaluation, fabrication and custom fitting of artificial limbs and orthopedic braces. Orthopedic braces, or orthoses, are used to stabilize or unload joints, normalize motion and stresses on tissue, substitute for muscle weakness or paralysis, and assist in normal growth, development and function. Orthoses can be applied to the head, neck, trunk, or limbs. Artificial limbs, or prostheses, are used to replace missing limbs or portions of limbs, and to restore more normal function of the upper or lower extremities.
Orthotists and prosthetists work in a variety of settings, including private practice, hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, nursing homes, and home health settings. Orthotists and prosthetists are currently in high demand, and the demand is expected to increase in the future.
Orthotists and prosthetists are part of the health care team, and as such, work with physicians, therapists, and other health care professionals to provide the orthotic and prosthetic needs of patients. Orthotists and prosthetists are responsible for 1) performing a comprehensive assessment of the patient’s orthotic/prosthetic needs, 2) creating a comprehensive orthotic/prosthetic treatment plan to meet the needs and goals of the patient, 3) performing the necessary procedures to deliver the appropriate orthotic/prosthetic services, which may include fabrication of the orthosis/prosthesis, 4) providing continuing patient care and periodic evaluation to assure/maintain/ document optimal fit and function of the orthosis/prosthesis, 5) participating in personal and professional development through continuing education, training, research and organizational affiliations, and 6) developing, implementing and/or monitoring policies and procedures regarding human, business, and organizational management.
The MSPO Program is five consecutive terms in length, including one summer term, and requires a total of 66 credits. It is designed to meet all standards for accreditation by the National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE) and for preparing students to complete residencies and take the American Board of Certification in Orthotics and Prosthetics examinations.
The curriculum includes clinical internships at various internship sites which are available in the Pittsburgh area and throughout the country. The first set of internships are integrated into the curriculum and are completed within the Pittsburgh area. During the last term of the Program, the student completes a more extensive internship, and the student may have to relocate out of the Pittsburgh area during this term. We can work with the student to set up additional internship sites for this final term if necessary.
Accreditation Status
The Master of Science Program in Prosthetics and Orthotics has been granted accreditation by the National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE). Our graduates are fully eligible for NCOPE residencies, and, upon successful completion of an NCOPE residency, they are fully eligible to take the certification examinations of the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics (ABC).
Admission Requirements and Application Process
https://www.shrs.pitt.edu/RST/MSPO.aspx?id=681&SBP=4876
Prerequisite courses
- Baccalaureate Degree. No specific major is mandated; however, the degree should include a well-rounded general education with a distribution of courses in the sciences, mathematics, psychology, social sciences, and humanities.
- Prerequisite coursework includes foundation courses in the following areas:
| |
• Physics with lab |
4 credits |
| |
• Biology with lab |
4 credits |
| |
• Chemistry with lab |
4 credits |
| |
• General Psychology |
3 credits |
| |
• Mathematics (algebra or higher) |
3 credits |
| |
• Human anatomy |
3 credits |
| |
• Human physiology |
3 credits |
| |
• Statistics |
3 credits |
*These courses may not be taken in an online or e-learning setting. Candidates who apply to the program with the latter will be asked to retake said courses prior to enrolling in the program.
- Recommended minimum overall grade point is a 3.0 grade-point average in all college-level courses and a 3.0 average in prerequisite courses. Applicants with less than a 3.0 but with other outstanding qualifications will be considered.
- Demonstration of knowledge of the profession of orthotics and/or prosthetics through volunteer or work experience. We suggest 250 hour minimum of O&P shadowing to allow the practitioner plenty of time to write a recommendation.
- Recommendations: (Three): At least one academic reference from a college instructor, and at least two references from a health-care professional (preferably a certified orthotist or prosthetist).
- Essay describing background leading to the choice of this profession and long-term goals.
- Completed Application form.
- Official transcriptions from all college level course work.
- Graduate Record Exam General Test (institution code - 2927).
Applicants applying to the Prosthetics and Orthotics (MS) program will apply online using the Orthotics &
Prosthetics Centralized Application Service, known as OPCAS, https://portal.opcas.org/ submit one copy of their official transcript, letters of recommendation, and other required information directly to OPCAS.
To be assured inclusion in the review process, applications should be completed by the date posted on the MSPO website (http://www.shrs.pitt.edu/po. Application information which must be submitted includes:
- Completed application form
- Official transcriptions of all college-level courses
- Letters of recommendation (three)
- At least one from a college instructor
- At least two from a health care professional (preferably a certified orthotist or prosthetist)
- Essay describing background leading to your choice of this profession and your long-term goals.
- Graduate Record Exam Scores (General GRE) (Institution Code 2927)
- Record of work, shadowing, or volunteer experience related to the profession of orthotics and prosthetics
Please note that the University of Pittsburgh’s program requires that you complete clinical internships at facilities external to the University, and such facilities will or may require a criminal background check, an Act 33/34 clearance, and perhaps a drug screen to determine whether you are qualified to participate in the clinical internships. Additionally, in order to become licensed, many states will inquire as to whether the applicant has been convicted of a misdemeanor, a felony, or a felonious or illegal act associated with alcohol and/or substance abuse.
Admissions process, application deadline and prerequisites requirements are available on the Prosthetics and Orthotics webpage.
The School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences does not require a supplemental application. It is the responsibility of the applicant to complete all admission requirements prior to enrollment.
Tuition and Fees
Tuition and Fee rates for the MSPO program can be found at the following websites:
Tuition
University Fees:
In addition to University Fees, some of the MSPO courses have lab fees associated with them. Current Fees are available on the Prosthetics and Orthotics webpage.
ProgramsMaster’sCertificate
Return to: School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences
|
