Online Master’s Degrees in Rehabilitation Counseling
Counseling Schools Search
When you click on a sponsoring school or program advertised on our site, or fill out a form to request information from a sponsoring school, we may earn a commission. View our advertising disclosure for more details.
“For aspiring online rehabilitation counseling students, I would advise them to be intentional about building relationships with their peers and faculty, and to ask for help.”
Sarah Roundtree, PhD, Program Director and Assistant Professor, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
Rehabilitation counseling programs prepare graduates to empower individuals with disabilities, chronic health conditions, and other life challenges to achieve independence, meaningful employment, and improved quality of life. Students develop skills in counseling, advocacy, case management, and vocational planning while working with diverse populations across medical, educational, and community settings.
Rehabilitation counseling focuses on helping individuals overcome personal, social, psychological, and environmental barriers that limit participation in work, school, and daily life. Professionals in this field assess clients’ strengths and needs, coordinate supportive services, and provide counseling to promote self-sufficiency, career readiness, and long-term well-being.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (2025), employment for rehabilitation counselors is projected to grow faster than average over the next decade, driven by rising demand for mental health services, vocational support, and disability advocacy. Earning an online master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling is a common pathway toward becoming a licensed counselor or Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC), opening doors to careers in healthcare, state vocational rehabilitation agencies, schools, nonprofit organizations, and private practice.
Most rehabilitation counselors begin by earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology, counseling, social work, or a related field, followed by a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling or clinical mental health counseling.
Graduates typically complete supervised clinical hours and pursue professional credentials, such as state counseling licensure and the Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) certification. Hands-on experience through internships, practicum placements, or work in human services can strengthen career prospects and help aspiring counselors build the skills needed to serve diverse client populations.
This guide explores what students can expect from online master’s programs in rehabilitation counseling, including admissions requirements, curriculum, accreditation, career paths, and how to choose the right program.
Meet the Expert: Sarah Michelle Roundtree, PhD
Dr. Sarah Roundtree serves as program director and assistant professor for the clinical rehabilitation counseling program at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. Her research and clinical work center on increasing accessibility of higher education for minoritized students and faculty.
Pivotal to Dr. Roundtree’s interest in the field are her experiences as a woman with non-apparent disabilities and her brother, who has intellectual and developmental disabilities. These personal experiences, along with over 20 years of volunteer and professional work in the disability community, have influenced her to support future generations of counselors in working with people with disabilities.
CounselingSchools.com: What do you wish the public understood about rehabilitation counselors?
Dr. Roundtree: Rehabilitation counselors are trained to support clients with a wide range of disabilities, including physical disabilities, intellectual and developmental disabilities, learning disabilities, mental illnesses, and more. Whether the client comes for career counseling or mental health counseling, rehabilitation counselors know how to advocate for and with clients with disabilities to support them in attaining the highest quality of life.
CounselingSchools.com:What advice would you give to aspiring online rehabilitation counseling students?
Dr. Roundtree: Many people assume that online programs are easier than in-person programs. I find that this is far from the truth! While online programs offer flexibility for students who work full- or part-time or have personal or familial obligations, online programs require high levels of motivation and communication.
For aspiring online rehabilitation counseling students, I would advise them to be intentional about building relationships with their peers and faculty, and to ask for help. In a remote format, it is easy to feel like you are off on your own, but there are many people here who are willing to support you if they know you need it.
Typical Admissions Requirements for Online Master’s Degrees in Rehabilitation Counseling
Admission requirements for online master’s programs in rehabilitation counseling vary by school, but most programs seek applicants with strong academic backgrounds and a demonstrated interest in helping individuals with disabilities or life challenges. Candidates are typically evaluated on academic performance, professional or volunteer experience, and readiness for graduate-level counseling work.
Applicants usually need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, often in psychology, counseling, social work, or a related field, and a minimum GPA. Common application materials include official transcripts, a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and a résumé. Some programs may require interviews, background checks, or proof of relevant experience, while standardized tests like the GRE are often optional or waived.
Because rehabilitation counseling is a hands-on field, programs often prioritize applicants who demonstrate empathy, communication skills, and a commitment to advocacy and client support.
Courses in Online Master’s Degrees in Rehabilitation Counseling
Coursework in online master’s degrees in rehabilitation counseling is designed to build core competencies in counseling theory, assessment, vocational rehabilitation, and disability advocacy. Students learn how to support individuals with physical, mental, developmental, and emotional disabilities through counseling, case management, career planning, and coordination of community resources.
Foundational coursework typically covers counseling techniques, ethics and professional practice, multicultural counseling, human development, and research methods. Programs also include specialized training in rehabilitation-focused topics such as the medical and psychosocial aspects of disability, vocational evaluation, job placement, and rehabilitation case management. Many programs require supervised practicum and internship experiences in settings such as hospitals, state vocational rehabilitation agencies, schools, and community organizations.
Course titles may include:
- Foundations of Rehabilitation Counseling
- Counseling Theories and Techniques
- Medical and Psychological Aspects of Disability
- Career Development and Vocational Assessment
- Group Counseling
- Multicultural Counseling
- Substance Use and Co-Occurring Disorders
- Ethics and Professional Practice in Counseling
- Research Methods in Counseling
- Practicum and Internship in Rehabilitation Counseling
Supervised Clinical Hour Requirements & Internships – Online Master’s Degrees in Rehabilitation Counseling
Most online master’s degrees in rehabilitation counseling require supervised practicum and internship experiences to help students build real-world counseling skills. Programs accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) typically follow standardized clinical training requirements.
Under CACREP guidelines, students generally complete a 100-hour supervised practicum, including direct client service, followed by a 600-hour supervised internship, with at least 240 hours of direct client contact. These clinical experiences are designed to prepare students for professional practice and state licensure requirements.
Clinical hours are usually completed in approved settings, such as vocational rehabilitation agencies, hospitals, community mental health centers, schools, or nonprofit organizations, under supervision by licensed professionals.
Program Accreditation for Online Master’s Degrees in Rehabilitation Counseling
Accreditation is an important factor when choosing an online master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling, as it can affect licensure eligibility, certification, financial aid, and employer recognition. Many programs in this field seek accreditation from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), the primary accrediting body for counseling programs in the United States.
CACREP-accredited rehabilitation counseling programs meet established standards for curriculum, faculty qualifications, clinical training, and student outcomes. Graduating from a CACREP-accredited program can simplify the path to state counseling licensure and the Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) credential, as some licensing boards and employers prefer or require degrees from accredited institutions.
In addition to programmatic accreditation, students should ensure that their institution holds regional accreditation, which verifies the overall academic quality of the college or university. Because licensure requirements vary by state, prospective students are encouraged to confirm that a program’s accreditation and curriculum align with the regulations in the state where they plan to practice.
Featured Online Master’s in Rehabilitation Counseling Programs
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center offers an online master of science in clinical rehabilitation counseling designed to prepare students for professional practice in the rehabilitation counseling field. The program emphasizes telehealth and combines academic instruction with supervised practicum and a 600-hour internship.
Students gain the skills needed to pursue licensure as a professional counselor (LPC) and certification as a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC). The program includes two in-person residencies for experiential learning and competency assessment.
- Location: Lubbock, TX
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
The University of South Florida’s online master of arts in rehabilitation counseling and disability sciences prepares students to work with individuals with physical, mental, emotional, and chemical disabilities by emphasizing the psychological, social, medical, and vocational aspects of disability and developing personal adjustment counseling skills.
The 60‑credit, fully online curriculum incorporates synchronous weekly classes and field placement experiences to help students build the competencies needed for careers as rehabilitation counselors and disability specialists. Graduates of the program are eligible to pursue national certification as Certified Rehabilitation Counselors (CRC) and can work in a variety of settings serving people with disabilities.
- Location: Tampa, FL
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
Fort Valley State University’s online master of science in clinical rehabilitation counseling is a fully online 61‑credit program that equips students to support people with physical, mental, developmental, or emotional disabilities in achieving independence and fuller lives.
The curriculum blends academic coursework with practicum and internship experiences designed to meet CACREP standards, preparing graduates for careers in rehabilitation settings and for eligibility to pursue the certified rehabilitation counselor (CRC) credential. The program emphasizes empowerment, professional skills, and practical outcomes in diverse clinical and community environments.
- Location: Fort Valley, GA
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
At the University of Wisconsin‑Stout, the online master of science in rehabilitation counseling offers a flexible path for students seeking to work with individuals facing physical, mental, or emotional challenges. The 60‑credit program combines core counseling coursework with applied field experiences, including a practicum and a 600‑hour internship. Graduates are prepared to pursue the certified rehabilitation counselor (CRC) credential and meet requirements for state licensure.
The program’s online format supports both full‑time and part‑time learners, allowing students to complete coursework on a schedule that fits their professional and personal lives.
- Location: Menomonie, WI
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
Auburn University offers a master of education (MEd) in clinical rehabilitation counseling that prepares students to support youth and adults with disabilities through counseling, case management, and vocational services. The program blends academic coursework with practica and internships, meeting CACREP standards and preparing graduates to work in state and federal vocational rehabilitation agencies, nonprofit community programs, and other disability services settings.
Coursework includes disability‑related counseling, case management, and career development, and students complete required field experiences in the United States as part of the degree.
- Location: Auburn, AL,
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
The online master of arts in rehabilitation counseling at the University of Alabama prepares students to guide individuals with disabilities toward independence, meaningful careers, and improved quality of life. The 60‑credit curriculum blends core counseling theory with rehabilitation‑specific coursework and includes practicum and internship components that provide hands-on experience.
Graduates are prepared to pursue licensure as professional counselors and certification as certified rehabilitation counselors (CRC), while the flexible online format accommodates working professionals and other adult learners.
- Location: Tuscaloosa, AL
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa delivers its master of education in counseling with a concentration in rehabilitation counselor education through a fully online format that blends synchronous and asynchronous learning.
Over the course of the three‑year, 48‑credit program, students engage in weekly online meetings alongside independent coursework and complete field experiences in their own communities, building practical skills in counseling, vocational rehabilitation, and disability support. Graduates are prepared for careers working with individuals facing disability‑related challenges and counseling needs.
- Location: Honolulu, HI
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
University of Massachusetts Boston
The University of Massachusetts Boston offers a master of science in rehabilitation counseling that prepares students for careers helping people with disabilities lead more independent and fulfilling lives through counseling, vocational support, and case management. This 60‑credit program can be completed primarily online, with synchronous weekly class meetings and a required one‑week residential session in Boston early in the program, and includes supervised practicum and internship fieldwork in the student’s community.
Both clinical rehabilitation counseling and vocational rehabilitation counseling tracks are fully accredited, and graduates are eligible to sit for the certified rehabilitation counselor (CRC) exam.
- Location: Boston, MA
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
St. Cloud State University’s master of science in rehabilitation counseling prepares students to work with individuals with disabilities by combining counseling theory with real‑world application. The program includes coursework in evaluation, vocational and personal counseling, and coordinating services that support independent living and employment.
Students complete supervised practicum and internship experiences as part of their training and build cultural competency and advocacy skills. Note that the program’s admissions are currently paused, so prospective students should check with the university for the latest availability and delivery options.
- Location: St. Cloud, MN
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
Assumption University’s master of arts in rehabilitation counseling is offered online or in a blended online/campus format that prepares students for careers helping individuals with disabilities achieve independence, employment success, and improved quality of life. The curriculum builds clinical counseling skills, vocational assessment, case management, and ethical practice, and students complete supervised practicum and internship experiences as part of the degree.
Assumption’s program is known for small cohort sizes, faculty engagement, and preparation for the certified rehabilitation counselor (CRC) credential, with the added option of RSA scholarship support for eligible students.
- Location: Worcester, MA
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
Winston‑Salem State University
Designed for students seeking a career in rehabilitation counseling, the master of science in rehabilitation counseling at Winston‑Salem State University combines online coursework with practical training. The program prepares students to support individuals with disabilities in achieving employment, independence, and personal growth. Students engage in counseling, vocational services, and case management, completing a supervised practicum and a 600‑hour internship. Graduates are eligible for the certified rehabilitation counselor (CRC) credential and can pursue state licensure.
- Location: Winston‑Salem, NC
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
Helping adults overcome barriers and improve their lives is the focus of Utah State University’s online master’s in rehabilitation counseling. This 61‑credit program trains students to provide counseling, vocational support, and advocacy for individuals with disabilities, as well as guidance to their families.
The curriculum combines rigorous coursework with supervised practicum and internship experiences, preparing graduates to pursue the certified rehabilitation counselor (CRC) credential and professional licensure. The flexible online format allows students to balance their studies with work and other commitments while gaining the skills needed for diverse rehabilitation counseling careers.
- Location: Logan, UT
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
Designed to develop counseling professionals with a strong clinical foundation, the master of arts in rehabilitation counseling at George Washington University combines rigorous online coursework with supervised practicum and internship experiences that prepare students to work with individuals facing physical, mental, emotional, or social challenges.
Graduates are eligible for the certified rehabilitation counselor (CRC) credential, the national certified counselor (NCC) designation, and can pursue licensure as professional counselors. The program is offered online with an expectation of brief on‑campus sessions for select skills classes, and includes mentorship from faculty with real‑world experience.
- Location: Washington, DC
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
Jobs for Those With an Online Master’s Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling
There are many career paths for those with an online master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling.
Graduates can work in hospitals, vocational rehabilitation agencies, schools, nonprofit organizations, and community mental health centers. They may also specialize in areas such as substance use counseling, assistive technology, or career development for individuals with disabilities. In private practice or group settings, rehabilitation counselors advocate for fair treatment and equal opportunities for underserved populations, including people with disabilities, veterans, older adults, and those living with chronic illness or mental health conditions.
Rehabilitation counselors may work in government agencies, state vocational rehabilitation offices, insurance companies, or as consultants to organizations that support clients with disabilities. They can provide direct counseling, case management, or program coordination. For those interested in research or education, graduates can also pursue roles in academia, training future rehabilitation counselors, or contributing to policy and program development in the disability services field.
Kimmy Gustafson
WriterAt CounselingSchools.com, Kimmy Gustafson’s expertly crafted articles delve into the world of counseling and mental health, providing valuable insights and guidance to readers since 2020. In addition to feature pieces and interviews, she keeps the state licensing tables current. Kimmy has been a freelance writer for more than a decade, writing hundreds of articles on a wide variety of topics such as startups, nonprofits, healthcare, kiteboarding, the outdoors, and higher education. She is passionate about seeing the world and has traveled to over 27 countries. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Oregon. When not working, she can be found outdoors, parenting, kiteboarding, or cooking.