Rehabilitation and Human Services Minor

Rehabilitation and Human Services Minor(s)

Penn State’s Rehabilitation and Human Services program offers two minors that help students develop valuable skills for working with people in today’s society: the Rehabilitation and Human Services (RHS) minor and the Addictions and Recovery minor.

The RHS minor is a great option for students in any major who want to better understand health, disability, and how to support people facing life challenges. As medical advances help people live longer with chronic illnesses and disabilities, and as social issues like addiction, poverty, and family violence continue to impact communities, there is a growing need for professionals with strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills. This minor provides practical knowledge about working with individuals who have disabilities or other life challenges, making it a valuable addition to many career paths in healthcare, education, social services, and beyond.

The Addictions and Recovery minor is a multi-disciplinary program designed for students from various fields who want to develop specialized knowledge and skills to support individuals living with substance use disorders at all stages of recovery.

With the increasing number of people affected by addiction, the growing potency of certain drugs, and the unique needs of specific populations, this minor helps students understand the complex issues surrounding addiction and recovery. By completing the minor, students will be equipped to contribute to addictions and recovery programs that improve outcomes for individuals facing these challenges. The curriculum allows students to take courses from multiple disciplines, offering diverse perspectives on addiction and recovery.

The minor is structured into recommended tracks, helping students choose courses that align with their major and career goals. One track provides a pathway to becoming a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) for students who earn a bachelor's degree in a behavioral science field along with the minor. Students interested in this certification should select courses that meet the CADC learning requirements in Pennsylvania.

Additionally, the minor offers opportunities for research and hands-on experiences, preparing students for graduate study or direct work in the field.

Both minors give students a deeper understanding of important social issues and the skills to make a positive impact in their careers and communities.

Minor Highlights or Learn more (option):

 The Rehabilitation and Human Services (RHS) minor(s) could be a great fit for you if:

• You enjoy building meaningful connections and working closely with people.
• You are passionate about health, disability, and overall well-being.
• You want to help individuals achieve their life goals, such as finding employment, improving their health, and building strong relationships.
• You are interested in making daily life more accessible and fulfilling for people with disabilities.
• You value diversity, appreciate different life experiences, and believe in treating everyone with respect.
• You want to advocate for individuals with disabilities in workplaces, communities, and beyond.

If you are looking for a career where you can make a real difference in people’s lives, the RHS program can help you get there!

Please email the RHS Minor Adviser, Dr. Jessica Henry at for additional information. Please put "RHS Minor" in your subject line.