Requirements for admission to a doctorate in rehabilitation program vary from school to school. However, the common requirement is successful completion of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). Schools also require a minimum grade point average from an undergraduate program. Some universities require that applicants complete a master's degree in rehabilitation counseling prior to entering the doctorate program. Applicants should also be prepared to submit professional or educational references as well as writing samples that demonstrate their ability to meet graduate level writing standards.
Individuals who seek a doctorate in rehabilitation counseling must demonstrate competency in several areas. They must demonstrate their ability to establish counseling relationships and use counseling techniques in individual, family or group therapeutic sessions. Rehabilitation counselors must be familiar with assessment procedures and instruments, evaluate psychosocial aspects of disability as well as chronic illness and utilize professional and community resources.
Potential applicants for a doctorate in rehabilitation counseling may choose between enrollment in a traditional educational setting or an online learning environment. Online options offer students the opportunity to take classes at any time of the day or night. This is a good choice for working students or those who are busy with family and community obligations. In addition, online learning saves on commuting expenses. Some students may need the face-to-face interaction with professors and their peers that a traditional learning environment offers. Moreover, the classroom setting also provides networking opportunities not available in online education.
Prospective doctorate candidates in rehabilitation counseling may obtain information about financial aid from their university or college of choice. Accredited schools require that students complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Financial aid options include grants, fellowships, scholarships, assistantships and student loans.