Rehabilitation Counseling Northern Illinois University

Overview

The Rehabilitation Counseling programme at Northern Illinois University provides a comprehensive clinical education designed to support individuals with disabilities in achieving independence. Students engage in a rigorous curriculum that blends evidence-based theory with extensive practical experience to ensure professional readiness.

This programme is specifically structured to help students attain meaningful employment, community participation, and independent living for their future clients. By maintaining small class sizes, usually with fewer than 20 students, the university fosters a supportive environment where individuals can build strong professional relationships with expert faculty and peers.

A significant component of the training involves hands-on clinical requirements.

Why Rehabilitation Counseling at Northern Illinois University?

The university holds a prestigious status as a Center of Excellence, designated by the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification. It was the first institution in the nation to receive this honour, reflecting its commitment to high standards in counselor education and professional ethics.

The programme is fully accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). This accreditation ensures that the curriculum meets national standards, qualifying graduates to sit for the Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) exam and pursue licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Illinois.

Instruction is delivered by a faculty of certified and licensed practitioners who are active within the rehabilitation profession. Their expertise ensures that the teaching remains grounded in current industry trends, cultural humility, and ethical practice, providing students with a robust foundation for their future roles.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 775 per credit
• National fee: USD 388 per credit
• Local fee: USD 388 per credit

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Rehabilitation Counseling
• Cultural Humility
• Evidence-based Practices

Careers with Rehabilitation Counseling

Graduates are well-prepared for diverse roles within the healthcare and social service sectors. The programme boasts a high success rate, with over 95% of students securing employment within six months of completing their studies. Many alumni transition into roles that involve vocational support and clinical therapy.

Common job titles for graduates include vocational rehabilitation counselor, ADA accommodation specialist, care therapist, and project coordinator. These professionals work across various settings, including private healthcare providers, non-profit organisations, and government agencies dedicated to disability services.

Prominent employers of former students include organisations such as Northwestern Medicine, Career Consultants of America, and Paralyzed Veterans of America. The training provided ensures that graduates possess the necessary skills to navigate complex rehabilitation systems and advocate effectively for the individuals they serve.