M.S. in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 80

1. Academic Qualifications:

   • A completed bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution.
   • A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or equivalent. This is typically around 65% or higher, depending on the grading system of the institution.
      

2. English Language Proficiency:

   • IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.0.
   • TOEFL iBT: A minimum overall score of 80.
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 120.
   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 65.                                                                                                                                  

3. Standardized Test:

   • GRE (Graduate Record Examination): A  overall GRE score of 300 is required.

Scholarships for International Students at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)

1. Global Excellence Scholarship: This highly competitive scholarship is awarded to outstanding incoming international undergraduate students. It provides full tuition coverage for up to four years of study at VCU. Recipients are selected based on academic merit and their potential to contribute to the VCU community.

2. International Student Scholarships: VCU offers a range of merit-based scholarships for international undergraduate students. These scholarships vary in award amounts and eligibility criteria. They are typically based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and other accomplishments.

3. VCU Presidential International Graduate Scholarships: These scholarships are available for international students pursuing graduate studies at VCU. The awards cover partial tuition costs and are granted based on academic excellence. Applicants must demonstrate outstanding academic achievements and meet specific GPA requirements.

4. VCU School of Business Scholarships: The School of Business at VCU offers scholarships for international graduate students pursuing business-related programs. These scholarships aim to support students who have demonstrated exceptional academic and leadership qualities.

5. VCU Honors College Scholarships: The Honors College at VCU provides scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate international students. These scholarships are typically based on academic achievements, leadership potential, and community involvement.

6. VCUarts Scholarships: For international students interested in pursuing degrees in the arts, VCUarts offers scholarships that are specific to their programs. These scholarships may include awards for outstanding portfolios or auditions.

7. VCU School of Engineering Scholarships: International students studying engineering at VCU may be eligible for scholarships offered by the School of Engineering. These scholarships are based on academic achievements and career aspirations in engineering fields.

8. Departmental Scholarships: Various academic departments at VCU may offer scholarships to international students within their specific fields of study. Eligibility criteria and award amounts vary by department.

9. External Scholarships: VCU encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities, such as those offered by government agencies, foundations, and international organizations. The university's scholarship office provides guidance on finding and applying for external scholarships.

10. Graduate Assistantships: While not traditional scholarships, graduate assistantships at VCU provide international graduate students with opportunities for financial support. These positions may include teaching, research, or administrative roles and often come with stipends and tuition waivers.

It's important for international students to check the specific eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and application procedures for each scholarship they are interested in. Additionally, maintaining good academic standing is typically a requirement to retain scholarship awards.

The Master of Science (M.S.) in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling program at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) is a highly respected and career-focused program that prepares students to make a positive impact in the lives of individuals with disabilities and mental health challenges. This program, accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), provides graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue rewarding careers in counseling and rehabilitation.

1. Licensed Professional Counselors: Graduates of the M.S. program are eligible to pursue licensure as Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs). LPCs work in various settings, including mental health clinics, private practices, and hospitals, providing individual and group counseling to clients dealing with mental health issues.

2. Rehabilitation Counselors: With a strong focus on rehabilitation counseling, this program prepares students to work with individuals who have disabilities. Rehabilitation counselors help clients with disabilities overcome challenges, find employment, and lead fulfilling lives. They often work in state agencies, vocational rehabilitation programs, or private organizations.

3. Addiction Counselors: The program equips students with the skills to assist individuals struggling with substance abuse and addiction. Graduates can pursue careers as addiction counselors in rehabilitation centers, outpatient treatment facilities, and community health organizations.

4. School Counselors: Some graduates choose to work as school counselors, providing guidance and support to students in educational settings. They help students with academic, social, and emotional challenges, contributing to their overall well-being and success.

5. Mental Health Counselors: Mental health counselors work with clients of all ages to address a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and more. They can find employment in mental health clinics, hospitals, or private practice.

6. Case Managers: Graduates are well-suited for roles as case managers, where they coordinate services and resources for individuals with disabilities or mental health needs. Case managers often work in healthcare settings, social service agencies, or non-profit organizations.

7. Community Outreach Specialists: Some graduates choose careers as community outreach specialists, working to raise awareness about mental health issues, advocate for individuals with disabilities, and connect people with available resources and support.

8. Research and Advocacy: The program also prepares students for roles in research and advocacy related to mental health and rehabilitation. Graduates can contribute to improving policies and services for individuals with disabilities and mental health challenges.

9. Private Practice: With the appropriate licensure and experience, graduates have the option to establish their private counseling practices, providing specialized services to clients of their choosing.

10. Continuing Education: Some graduates choose to pursue further education, such as a Ph.D. in counseling or a related field, to advance their careers and specialize in specific areas of counseling or research.