Psychiatric Rehabilitation, Certificate

Admission Standards

Applicants to the Certificate of Graduate Study in Psychiatric Rehabilitation must have earned a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution. Admissions decisions are made on the basis of an overall evaluation of the applicant’s preparation and ability to complete advanced study. Particular attention is paid to the applicant’s work experience, practice interests, leadership ability, and motivation. Appropriate supporting documentation for admissions include: GRE scores or MAT scores, transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate course work, written statement of goals for graduate study, work and volunteer experience, and references. Applications are made electronically through the Graduate School and, when all materials are received, are reviewed by the Rehabilitation Counseling/Psychiatric Rehabilitation program faculty.

Application Information

For additional information or application materials, contact Dr. Kerry Lachance or Mx. Brianna Newton at:

Certificate of Graduate Study in Psychiatric Rehabilitation
Department of Neuropsychiatry and Behavioral Science
University of South Carolina
Clinical Education Building/Medical Park 15
Suite B-20
3555 Harden Street Extension
Columbia, SC 29203
Phone: 803-434-4296
Fax: 803-434-4231
e-mail: brianna.newton@uscmed.sc.edu or kerry.lachance@uscmed.sc.edu

Certificate Requirements (18 Hours)

All course work is available on campus or online in distance education format. Students electing a distance education option must have a computer with Internet access and be willing to attend an orientation meeting on campus at the beginning of study. Periodic in-person meetings, if requested by the course instructor, are also required.

The Certificate of Graduate Study in Psychiatric Rehabilitation requires 18 graduate credit hours. The curriculum includes three (3) required classes, two (2) electives, and one (1) field study.

Required Courses (9 Hours)

Course Title Credits
NPSY 755Fundamentals of Psychiatric Rehabilitation3
NPSY 756Vocational Implications of Psychiatric Disability3
NPSY 761Dual Diagnosis3
Total Credit Hours9

Electives (6 Hours)

Course Title Credits
The following are recommended: 6
Culture and Disability
Psychopathology for Counselors
Classification and Assessment of Mental Disorders
Addictions Rehabilitation
Any course from Rehabilitation Counseling Master’s Program
Another course as approved by the Program Director
Students may choose from a broad list of electives including other graduate-level courses from the University of South Carolina or other accredited colleges or universities as approved by faculty.
Total Credit Hours6

Field Study (3 Hours)

Course Title Credits
RHAB 890Independent Study1-3
Total Credit Hours1-3