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Disability Studies and Rehabilitation Service

A concentration on Disability Studies and Rehabilitation Services provides students the resources and knowledge to be academically and professionally grounded in issues faced by individuals seeking disability services. Students will also be exposed to the theme of employment – including vocational adjustment and appropriate job placement – and independent living outcomes as reaffirmed in the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1992. Rehabilitation depends heavily upon communication between both the consumer and professional and among various professionals; consequently, communication will be stressed, as well as an understanding of the potential influence of cultural diversity and individual lifestyle choices. Courses will also enable students to understand the methods used in disability services to solve consumer problems and utilize available resources. Finally, a well-supervised field experience component will provide students the opportunity to integrate classroom principles and develop entry-level skills in a work setting.

Admission to the Program

Undergraduate students admitted to University of Memphis may pursue a degree in the College of Professional and Liberal Studies by completing Declaration of Major form. 

Once accepted, students must seek academic advising prior to the start of each semester. Advisors will provide guidance in developing a meaningful educational plan that is compatible with the student's abilities, values, interests and career goals. Academic advising is available in-person, by phone and web conference. 

Fees and Scholarships

Students are encouraged to visit University and Student Business Services regularly to review fee charts, deadlines and other important details as they are subject to change. 

The College of Professional and Liberal Studies offers several scholarships for students meeting the stated requirements. Students may apply for scholarships through Tiger Scholarship Manager.

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Degree Requirements

Students in the Disability Studies and Rehabilitation Services concentration will select from a set of courses in rehabilitation, business management, communication and human development. Requirements for this program include general education, a coordinated study, internship, thematic studies, senior project and general electives. Students should seek guidance from their advisor every semester and follow the assigned degree plan.  A minor may be pursued with this degree through the submission of a completed minor application. Approval must be granted from the graduation analyst of the minor they are seeking as well as the College of Professional and Liberal Studies graduation analyst. 

Thematic Studies

Thematic studies focus on significant themes in social, political, and religious history. All College of Professional and Liberal Studies students must complete 6 credit hours of thematic studies courses. These courses are offered on campus and online in many interdisciplinary topics.

Internships

All students pursuing the Disability Studies and Rehabilitation Services concentration will be required to secure an internship as part of their degree requirements. Successful internships provide valuable learning experiences related to coursework and areas of study under the supervision of a faculty member and an employer in the community.

Prior Learning Assessment

Students who wish to accelerate the completion of their degree may be eligible to earn credit through Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) which includes credit earned by CLEP or DSST standardized exams, Experiential Learning Credit, or departmental credit by examination.

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File for Graduation

Undergraduate students who are within two semesters of graduation should review the required process to file for graduation. All parts must be completed by the posted deadline. 

Career Development

Students interested in learning more about career options in Disability Studies and Rehabilitation Services should review information and set an appointment to meet with a Career Specialist in our Career Services Office.

Local and National Organizations

Disability and Rehabilitation Research Projects (DRRP) Program
Office of Disability, Aging and Long-Term Care Policy (DALTCP)