Master of Arts Curriculum

This 90-credit graduate program combines required courses and field experiences, leading to a Master of Arts degree. The program is fully accredited by CACREP (Council on Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs).  Coursework is offered in a combination of in-person classes, hybrid classes, and asynchronous online classes.  The in-person course meets one evening per week (5pm - 8:50pm) at the Everett University Center, while hybrid courses meet in-person 2-5 times per quarter with other weeks by Zoom and/or asynchronous online (the 2-5 times per quarter and/or via Zoom are in the evening from 5pm - 8:50pm but may also include select Saturdays from 9am-4pm).  In-person classes meet in Everett, WA at the Everett University Center on the campus of Everett Community College.

Comprehensive Examination Required

This is an Option II (Non-Thesis) program - Students must pass the Program Comprehensive Exam at the end of their program.

Course Descriptions

RC 501 - REHABILITATION RESEARCH (4 Credits)

An overview of research including: design and analysis; criteria for reading and interpreting existing studies; practice in identifying issues suitable for research; formulating hypotheses and appropriate methods; and guidance in preparing a program evaluation.  Emphasis is on the application of research in clinical and rehabilitation settings.

RC 546 - ADDICTIONS AND REHABILITATION COUNSELING (2 Credits)

General understanding of addictions, including assessment tools and major treatment modalities. Addresses personal, family, and social rehabilitation issues that emerge from addiction.

RC 577 - MULTICULTURAL REHABILITATION COUNSELING (4 Credits)

Introduction to multicultural issues in rehabilitation counseling. The course will focus on increasing students’ awareness of their own attitudes, values, and beliefs; culturally-sensitive interventions; theoretical models; and professional issues. The course will also focus on an understanding of the intersectionality of disability and other demographic and sociocultural factors in providing services to people from diverse backgrounds.

RC 578 - LEGAL, ETHICAL, AND PROFESSIONAL ISSUES IN RC (4 Credits)

An introduction to professional issues in rehabilitation counseling, including scope of practice, relevant legislation, and ethical decision-making.

RC 579 - HUMAN GROWTH, DEVELOPMENT AND DISABILITY (4 Credits)

Examines human growth and development in the context of rehabilitation counseling.  Provides a review of human development theories across the lifespan and their implications and applications with persons with disabilities.

RC 580 - THEORIES & TECHNIQUES OF REHABILITATION COUNSELING I (4 Credits)

Prereq:   RC 582 or permission of instructor.  This is the first in a two course sequence focusing on major counseling theories and techniques. Students will be introduced to major counseling theories and their application to people with disabilities. Students will also engage in experiential application of counseling theory using basic counseling techniques. Competencies will be developed and demonstrated through assigned readings, didactic instruction, microskills training, class discussion, and self-study assignments.

RC 582 - INTRODUCTION TO REHABILITATION COUNSELING (4 Credits)

An overview of the principles and practices of rehabilitation counseling, including history, philosophy, legislative influences, organizational structures, and service-delivery models.  Explores various specialties within the field of rehabilitation counseling.

RC 583 - THEORIES & TECHNIQUES OF REHABILITATION COUNSELING II (6 Credits)

Prereq:   RC 580 or permission of instructor.  This is the second in a two course sequence focusing on major counseling theories and techniques. It is a continuation from RC 580 of the introduction to major counseling theories, with an emphasis on continued development and refinement of practice skills through advanced role play and direct counseling with individuals with disabilities. Competencies will be developed and demonstrated through assigned readings, didactic instruction, microskills training, class discussion, and self-study assignments.

RC 584 - GROUP COUNSELING TECHNIQUES IN REHABILITATION (6 Credits)

Prereq: RC 583 or permission of instructor. A didactic and experiential course to introduce students to the dynamics of group counseling. Purpose, process, and techniques related to various types of groups. Students will have direct experience participating in an in-class group.

RC 585 - SOCIAL, PSYCHOLOGICAL AND ATTITUDINAL ASPECTS OF DISABILITY (4 Credits)

Prereq:  Graduate status or permission of instructor.  An examination of the impact of disability on the individual, the individual's environment, significant others, and society in general.  The adjustment process that individuals and their families experience is compared and contrasted within a broader environmental context.

RC 586 - MEDICAL ASPECTS OF DISABILITY (6 Credits)

Prereq:  Graduate status or permission of instructor.  An examination of the etiology, prognosis, treatment, and vocational implications of major disabling conditions, with an emphasis on physical, sensory, and cognitive impairments. Includes an introduction to medical specialties, therapeutic services, restorative techniques, medical terminology, and assistive technology.

RC 587 - ASSESSMENT AND TESTING IN RC (4 Credits)

Prereq:  RC 582 or permission of instructor.  The use of assessments for diagnostic and intervention planning purposes relevant to educational, career, personal, and social development in rehabilitation counseling. Includes methods of assessment for individuals with disabilities, including testing instruments, individual accommodations, environmental modification, and interpretation of results. Emphasis on a collaborative, client-centered approach to assessment.

RC 588- CAREER DEVELOPMENT AND JOB PLACEMENT (6 Credits)

Examines career development theories, occupational information, labor market trends, and meaningful employment with a career focus.  Includes job analysis, employment techniques, accommodations, and legislation.

RC 589 - CASE MANAGEMENT IN REHABILITATION (4 Credits)

Examines techniques and procedures related to individualized case management and caseload management.  Explores case management issues of various disability groups, including educational and vocational community resources.

RC 590 - PRE-PRACTICUM IN REHABILITATION COUNSELING (4 Credits)

Prereq: RC 582, B or better in RC 583, and permission of instructor. General understanding of agency functions and staff roles and responsibilities. Beginning demonstration of counseling skills with individuals with disabilities in a rehabilitation counseling agency.

RC 591 - PRACTICUM IN REHABILITATION COUNSELING (4 Credits)

Prereq: RC 590 and permission of instructor.  Demonstration of counseling skills with individuals with disabilities in a rehabilitation agency.  Supervision by agency personnel.  S/U grading.

RC 592 - INTERNSHIP IN REHABILITATION COUNSELING (1 to 8 Credits)

Prereq: RC 591 and permission of instructor.  Demonstration of counseling skills in a rehabilitation agency with primary supervision by agency personnel.  Students are required to spend significant time within an agency functioning as a professional counselor.  Repeatable to a maximum of 16 credits. S/U grading.

RC 594 - PSYCHIATRIC DISABILITIES IN REHABILITATION (4 Credits)

Understanding major psychiatric disorders, including diagnosis, assessment, and treatment. Examines the role of the rehabilitation counselor as an integral part of the treatment team.