rehabilitation human services student assisting elderly person

Rehabilitation and Human Services Major

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Help people with disabilities achieve the best possible quality of life.

People with disabilities are able to integrate into their communities more than ever before. With a Rehabilitation and Human Services degree, you’ll help people with physical, learning, cognitive and addiction disorders increase their independence and quality of life. The interdisciplinary program prepares you for a variety of careers in rehabilitation.

Program type:
Major
Format:
On Campus or Online
Est. time to complete:
4 years
Credit hours:
120

What is a rehabilitation and human services major?

Application Deadlines
Fall:
Aug. 15
Spring:
Dec. 15
Summer:
May 1

 

If you're an international student, refer to the international application process for deadlines.

Rehabilitation and human services is an interdisciplinary major that draws from psychology, sociology, social work, nursing and other fields. Your core courses include rehabilitation, research methodology and psychology. You'll also choose a concentration in:

  • Substance abuse and addictions
  • Mental health
  • Gerontology
  • Developmental disabilities
  • Other specializations

Accredited Rehabilitation and Human Services Major

The program is one of more than 25 approved undergraduate rehabilitation programs accredited by the Committee on Rehabiliation Accreditation (CoRA) under the auspices of the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). CAAHEP promotes and advances the quality of educational programs for inclusive rehabilitation sciences. 

Graduates of the addictions program are well positioned to obtain licensure in North Dakota and other states in sub­stance abuse counseling.

UND's Rehabilitation and Human Services Major

  • Enjoy personalized small classes. The average size for courses in this major is 15-20.

  • Become involved in UND's Rehab Club. You'll participate in service opportunities and social networking with peers and professionals.

  • Earn a bachelor's degree in rehabilitation and human services and a master's degree in counseling in approximately five years.

  • Let our team of academic advisors help you plan your major. You'll also have access to personalized Degree Map software to keep you on track to graduate in four years.

  • Get hired! At UND, you'll receive help perfecting your resume, practice interviewing, and learn effective job-hunting strategies.

  • Complete an internship in a professional rehabilitation agency. The work experience will enable you to apply theory to practice and integrate knowledge, values and skills.

What jobs can you get with a rehabilitation services degree?

22%

Job growth outlook for substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health counselors through 2031

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

11%

Projected job growth for rehabilitation counselors

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Social welfare policies have created demand for people to provide vocational services such as job seeking and skills training. Those with a human services major are in high demand and have landed such entry-level jobs as:

  • Developmental disabilities case manager
  • Employee assistance supervisor
  • Independent living specialist
  • Job coach
  • Mental health case manager
  • Rehabilitation case manager
  • Residential care coordinator
  • Supported employment specialist
  • Vocational evaluator/job developer
  • Vocational placement specialist

Rehabilitation and Human Services Major Jobs

Our graduates work in a variety of settings including:

  • Centers for communication disorders
  • Chemical dependency programs
  • College disability support programs
  • Community mental health centers
  • Hospital-based rehabilitation units and psychiatric hospitals
  • Local, state and federal government agencies such as Veterans Affairs
  • Private and pub­lic vocational rehabilitation agencies

Rehabilitation alumni have gone on to a variety of successful careers with:

  • Anne Carlsen Center
  • Askew Rehabilitation
  • Baxalta U.S., Inc.
  • Development Homes, Inc.
  • Meridian Behavioral Health, LLC

Human Services Major Courses

RHS 200. Helping Skills in Community Services. 3 Credits.

This course provides the student with the basic knowledge and skills associated with the helping process, including interviewing skills, as practiced in a variety of community services settings. A special focus will be on the problem-solving process and interaction skills used in direct service activities with individuals. Helping skills require a knowledge of interpersonal relationships and the effective use of interpersonal behaviors. This combination of knowledge and skills will benefit any individual wanting to increase effectiveness when working with people. F,S,SS.

RHS 250. Contemporary Issues in Rehabilitation. 3 Credits.

This course introduces students to the profession of rehabilitation and examines how persons with disabilities are treated in our society. Topics include: community and national rehabilitation agencies, political and social influences on rehabilitation programs, conceptualization of disability, attitude development and change, building accessible and inclusive communities, and transforming the media. Opportunities for involvement with agencies providing rehabilitation services will be provided. S,SS.

RHS 350. Overview of Disabilities. 3 Credits.

This course provides an overview of physical and mental disabilities for rehabilitation professionals, including the medical, psychological, social, and vocational aspects of specific disabilities. Medical terminology, etiology, treatment, interventions, and prognosis of various disabilities will be presented. F.

RHS 450. Vocational Assessment and Job Acquisition. 3 Credits.

Review of the basic principles of testing along with various instruments and techniques used in the assessment of persons with disabilities. Use of assessment information in the job acquisition process and the importance of work for individuals with disabilities are also addressed. S.

RHS 455. Rehabilitation Process. 3 Credits.

This course examines the history, philosophy, and ethical standards of the rehabilitation profession. Topics include the following: experiences of people with disabilities throughout history, legislation affecting persons with disabilities, public and private rehabilitation systems, case management principles, role and function of rehabilitation counselors, principles of independent living, and community resources utilized in rehabilitation programs. F.

RHS 260. Inclusion in Recreation Settings. 3 Credits.

Study of individuals with disabling conditions and their leisure-related needs with emphasis on integration strategies and legislation that facilitate community involvement. F,S.

Leaders in Education

UND students are prepared to be leaders in their field to motivate future generations.

Explore More Options

Looking to connect with the college or find a similar degree?

We use cookies on this site to enhance your user experience.

By clicking any link on this page you are giving your consent for us to set cookies, Privacy Information.