Major Overview
Major Overview
The RHS major prepares students for entry-level positions in a variety of human service settings, including agencies serving people with physical, mental, alcohol and other drug, and cognitive disabilities. Students enter employment in a variety of settings:
-
Programs for children and youth
-
Drug and alcohol programs
-
Programs for older people
-
Community mental health programs
-
Programs for people with autism
-
Rehabilitation centers
-
Corrections programs, including prisons
-
Hospitals
Graduates will receive a Bachelor of Science degree in Education with a major in Rehabilitation and Human Services. All RHS students take a core set of courses that provide the foundation for working in a variety of human service settings including: introduction to rehabilitation and human services, case management, client assessment, group work, counseling skills, community mental health, children and family interventions, medical aspects of disability and courses related to working with people from different cultural backgrounds. RHS students also develop core skills in writing, communication and critical thinking.
Recent trends in RHS have directed efforts and attention to expanding resources for a variety of clients, including people with disabilities. As the American with Disabilities Act of 1990 continues to be implemented, there will be increased emphasis on services to persons with severe disabilities, as well as on independent living, supported employment, and transitional services.
Students in RHS receive a solid foundation of specialized education in the rehabilitation and human services field. As a Science degree, students engage in coursework that focuses on biological functioning. Additional coursework will allow students to learn more about culture, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, and diversity.
Rehabilitation and Human Services majors are reminded that, although the major is located in the College of Education, the degree does not lead to certification for employment in public schools. Neither is it a program for any rehabilitation or human service specialty requiring certification.
Minors
Many students choose a minor to enhance their interest and ability in a specific area. Some frequently chosen minors include the following:
-
Psychology
-
Special Education
-
Sociology
-
Spanish
-
Human Development and Family Service
Both the department in which the student wishes to pursue a minor and the student's advisor in Rehabilitation and Human Services must approve of the student's plan and sign the necessary documents, which can be obtained from the Department offering the minor.
A complete list of approved baccalaureate minors offered at University Park can be found at: http://www.psu.edu/dus/handbook/minors2.html
