The Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Special Education is the only department solely committed to improving the lives of people with disabilities, as well as their families. The department uniquely prepares students to support and advocate for the full societal inclusion of people with disabilities across the lifespan. Special education and rehabilitation psychology are intrinsically related, both in basic objectives and in professional education and research. Instruction and research emphasize educational and behavioral assessment, treatment, and inclusion of children, as well as counseling, assessment, case management, advocacy, and job placement with adults to facilitate improved personal, social, and vocational adjustment.
Targeted populations encompassed by the department's programs include adults and children with physical, emotional, intellectual and/or learning disabilities, traumatic brain injuries, substance use disorders, and persons involved with the criminal justice system.
Three undergraduate programs are currently available:
- A pre-professional undergraduate program in Rehabilitation Psychology.
- Special Education, with certification options for three age groups:
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Elementary Education and Special Education - leading to certifications in Special Education (K-12) and Elementary Education (K-9). This program is offered jointly with the Department of Curriculum and Instruction.
The department also offers a Disability Rights and Services Certificate that may be completed by students pursuing other majors on campus.
People
Information about faculty, staff, and other contributors to the Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Special Education can be found on the department's website.