This is the preliminary (or launch) version of the 2026-2027 VCU Bulletin. Courses that expose students to cutting-edge content and transformative learning may be added and notification of additional program approvals may be received prior to finalization. General education program content is also subject to change. The final edition and full PDF version will include these updates and will be available in August prior to the beginning of the fall semester.
The Certificate in Applied Vocational Rehabilitation is designed for bachelor’s‑level professionals seeking specialized, practice‑ready skills in supporting individuals with disabilities to achieve meaningful employment outcomes. Vocational rehabilitation agencies and community‑based disability programs increasingly rely on professionals who can assess client strengths, navigate systemic barriers and coordinate services that promote competitive, integrated employment. Yet many entering these roles lack formal preparation in vocational counseling, disability‑informed assessment and culturally responsive service delivery.
The certificate provides targeted, graduate‑level instruction in career counseling, job placement, assessment, multicultural counseling and case management core competencies essential to effective vocational rehabilitation practice. Designed for early‑career professionals and new hires in vocational rehabilitation and related employment services, it equips learners to support individuals with disabilities in achieving long‑term employment and community participation. Delivered fully online, the program expands access to high‑quality training across geographic regions, including rural and underserved areas.
Student learning outcomes
Upon completion of the program, the graduate will be able to:
- Conduct and interpret vocational assessments to inform individualized service planning and employment goal development
- Demonstrate culturally responsive counseling skills that address the diverse backgrounds and experiences of individuals served in vocational rehabilitation settings
- Implement effective case management practices to coordinate services, monitor progress and promote successful rehabilitation outcomes
- Analyze barriers to employment and community participation and advocate for inclusive, person-centered vocational services within public and nonprofit systems
VCU Graduate Bulletin, VCU Graduate School and general academic policies and regulations for all graduate students in all graduate programs
The VCU Graduate Bulletin website documents the official admission and academic rules and regulations that govern graduate education for all graduate programs at the university. These policies are established by the graduate faculty of the university through their elected representatives to the University Graduate Council.
It is the responsibility of all graduate students, both on- and off-campus, to be familiar with the VCU Graduate Bulletin as well as the Graduate School website and academic regulations in individual school and department publications and on program websites. However, in all cases, the official policies and procedures of the University Graduate Council, as published on the VCU Graduate Bulletin and Graduate School websites, take precedence over individual program policies and guidelines.
Visit the academic regulations section for additional information on academic regulations for graduate students.
Graduation requirements
As graduate students approach the end of their academic programs and the final semester of matriculation, they must make formal application to graduate. No degrees will be conferred until the application to graduate has been finalized.
Graduate students and program directors should refer to the following graduation requirements as published in the Graduate Bulletin for a complete list of instructions and a graduation checklist.
Visit the academic regulations section for additional information on graduation requirements.
Admission requirements
| Degree: | Semester(s) of entry: | Deadline dates: | Test requirements: |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certificate | All semesters | None |
The Certificate in Applied Vocational Rehabilitation program is open to qualified students who have earned a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university or the equivalent and who have met all general admission requirements of the VCU Graduate School.
Degree requirements
In addition to general VCU Graduate School graduation requirements, students in the Certificate in Applied Vocational Rehabilitation program must complete 12 credit hours of course work.
Curriculum requirements
| Course | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Required courses | ||
| RHAB 623 | Career Counseling and Job Placement | 3 |
| RHAB 624 | Assessment and Evaluation | 3 |
| RHAB 633 | Case Management | 3 |
| RHAB 654 | Multicultural Counseling | 3 |
| Total Hours | 12 | |
The minimum number of graduate credit hours required for this certificate is 12.
Contact
Kaitlyn Pascuzzi
Program coordinator, Department of Rehabilitation Counseling
rehabcnsling@vcu.edu
Website: rehab.chp.vcu.edu/programs/