To prepare for a graduate degree in adaptive technology, undergraduates should major in a related subject such as computer sciences, software design, engineering, education, special education, physical or occupational therapy, sociology or architecture. Entry into a graduate program typically requires a completed bachelor's degree in such a field which may need to include specific coursework such as one year of human anatomy and physiology, learning theory or human growth and development, depending on the focus of the degree.
Mount St. Mary's University in Emmitsburg, Maryland, offers a Master of Education degree with an emphasis in technology facilitation. This program includes courses in distance education, instructional design, technology use in teaching and learning, specific topics in adaptive technology and fundamentals of educational research. Students also complete both a practicum and thesis. The degree prepares instructors to assist students in the classroom and train other teachers about assistive technology in education.
The State University of New York at Buffalo's School of Public Health and Health Professions offers a Ph.D. in assistive technology. The program prepares graduates to work directly with the public or in research. Basic computer and wheeled mobility courses are required. Students then choose among electives such as ergonomics, outcomes measurement, rehabilitation, general adaptive technology and higher-level computer work. Beyond the classroom, students practice skills in community settings to experience real-life application of theory.
Other institutions offer graduate certificate programs in adaptive technology rather than specific degrees. Programs usually require about 15 credits of coursework in assistive technology, disability law, communications technology, the Internet and designing adaptive environments. Classes often focus on needs for particular disabilities or situations such as sensory impairments, learning disabilities or sports and recreation. Admissions requirements may be more lenient for certification programs than degree programs. For example, George Mason University certification students do not need to take the GRE.