I'm looking into vocational rehabilitation as a career and I'm curious about training opportunities. How do I start finding programs or certifications related to vocational rehabilitation, especially those that could help me get a job in this field?
To start your search for vocational rehabilitation training opportunities, you should look into colleges or universities that offer degrees or certifications in rehabilitative sciences, counseling, social work, or a related field. Graduates of these programs typically enter roles in vocational rehabilitation and similar career paths.
Many community colleges offer associate degrees in Human Services or Rehabilitation Services. Some four-year colleges and universities offer bachelor's or master's degrees in Rehabilitation Counseling or a related field. For example, the University of Wisconsin - Stout offers an undergraduate degree in Rehabilitation Services and a graduate degree in Rehabilitation Counseling.
You will also find certificate programs related to vocational rehabilitation. These are often designed for professionals already working in the field who want to advance their skills or specialize further.
If you're planning on working for a state vocational rehabilitation agency, obtaining certification as a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) from the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification could be advantageous. This nationally recognized certification could set you apart in some job markets and put you in a more competitive position for promotions and raises.
Lastly, remember to do extensive job-market research and try to get in touch with professionals in the field. This will give you a better understanding of the practical aspects of the job, projected job growth, and the specific skills employers are looking for. Additionally, reach out to your own school's career center or academic advisors for recommendations—they'll often have a wealth of knowledge to share with students interested in this field.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.