B.S. in Rehabilitation and Disability Studies

Undergraduate Programs Entry Requirements:

• Academic Qualifications: International students applying for undergraduate programs at Auburn University should have completed their secondary education or its equivalent. The minimum academic requirement is a score of 80-86% or above in the qualifying examination.
   
• English Language Proficiency:                                                                                                                                                               
  • IELTS: A minimum overall band score of 6.5 is required.
  • TOEFL: A minimum score of 79 on the internet-based test (iBT) is required.
  • PTE: A minimum score of 55 with no band less than 50 is required.

These scholarships recognize academic achievements, leadership potential, and diverse backgrounds. 

1. International Merit Scholarships: Auburn University offers merit-based scholarships to outstanding international students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence, leadership skills, extracurricular involvement, and other criteria. The scholarships are renewable for up to four years of undergraduate study and provide partial tuition coverage.

2. Global Scholars Program: The Global Scholars Program is a prestigious scholarship program at Auburn University. It is designed for academically talented international students who demonstrate exceptional leadership abilities, community involvement, and a commitment to global issues. Selected students receive a comprehensive scholarship package that includes full tuition, housing, and a stipend.

3. Cultural Diversity Scholarships: Auburn University recognizes and values the diversity of its student population. The Cultural Diversity Scholarships aim to support underrepresented international students who contribute to the university's cultural and global perspectives. These scholarships provide financial assistance for tuition and living expenses.

4. Departmental Scholarships: Various academic departments and colleges within Auburn University offer scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships may be discipline-specific and require students to major in a particular field of study. Students are encouraged to explore departmental websites and contact their respective academic units for information on available scholarships.

5. External Scholarships: Auburn University also encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities provided by governments, organizations, and foundations. The university's Office of International Programs provides guidance and resources to help students search and apply for external scholarships.

It is important for international students to carefully review scholarship eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and any additional requirements specified by Auburn University. The university encourages early application submission to be considered for the available scholarships. 

Graduates of Auburn University's B.S. in Rehabilitation and Disability Studies program have diverse career prospects in rehabilitation counseling, disability services, vocational rehabilitation, case management, independent living support, community outreach, advocacy, research, and policy analysis. With their knowledge of disability theory, counseling skills, advocacy strategies, and interdisciplinary approach, graduates are well-equipped to make meaningful contributions to the lives of individuals with disabilities and promote social inclusion, equality, and empowerment in their communities.

1. Rehabilitation Counselor: Graduates can pursue careers as rehabilitation counselors in various settings, including rehabilitation centers, vocational rehabilitation agencies, community mental health centers, and private practice. They work with individuals with physical, mental, developmental, or emotional disabilities to help them overcome barriers to employment, education, and independent living. Rehabilitation counselors assess clients' strengths and needs, develop individualized treatment plans, provide counseling and support services, and facilitate access to vocational training, job placement, and community resources.

2. Disability Services Coordinator: Graduates may work as disability services coordinators or disability support specialists in educational institutions, such as colleges, universities, and K-12 schools. They collaborate with students, faculty, and staff to ensure equal access to educational programs and accommodations for students with disabilities. Disability services coordinators assess students' accommodation needs, coordinate academic adjustments and auxiliary aids, provide advocacy and support services, and promote disability awareness and inclusion on campus.

3. Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist: Graduates can pursue careers as vocational rehabilitation specialists or employment specialists, assisting individuals with disabilities in obtaining and maintaining meaningful employment. They work for state vocational rehabilitation agencies, nonprofit organizations, workforce development programs, and rehabilitation centers. Vocational rehabilitation specialists assess clients' vocational skills, interests, and barriers to employment, develop job readiness skills, provide job placement assistance, and offer ongoing support and career counseling to maximize clients' vocational potential and integration into the workforce.

4. Case Manager: Graduates may work as case managers or care coordinators for individuals with disabilities, coordinating services and supports across multiple agencies and providers. They assess clients' needs, develop comprehensive service plans, coordinate access to medical, social, educational, and vocational services, advocate for clients' rights and preferences, and monitor progress towards goals. Case managers ensure continuity of care, promote client autonomy and self-determination, and facilitate collaboration among interdisciplinary teams to enhance clients' quality of life and community integration.

5. Independent Living Specialist: Graduates can work as independent living specialists or transition coordinators, assisting individuals with disabilities in transitioning from institutional settings to community living arrangements. They provide support and advocacy services to promote clients' independence, self-sufficiency, and integration into community life. Independent living specialists assess clients' living skills, develop transition plans, provide training in daily living activities, facilitate access to housing, transportation, and assistive technology, and empower clients to live independently and participate fully in their communities.

6. Community Outreach Coordinator: Graduates may work as community outreach coordinators or program coordinators for disability-related organizations, advocacy groups, or government agencies. They develop and implement outreach programs, workshops, and educational initiatives to raise awareness of disability issues, promote accessibility and inclusion, and advocate for policy changes to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities. Community outreach coordinators collaborate with community partners, engage in public speaking engagements, and mobilize grassroots efforts to advance disability rights and social justice initiatives.

7. Disability Rights Advocate: Graduates can work as disability rights advocates, advocating for the rights, accessibility, and inclusion of individuals with disabilities in society. They work for disability rights organizations, legal advocacy groups, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations. Disability rights advocates engage in legislative advocacy, policy analysis, public education campaigns, and litigation to address systemic barriers, discrimination, and inequality faced by individuals with disabilities in areas such as employment, education, transportation, housing, and healthcare.

8. Researcher or Policy Analyst: Graduates may pursue careers as researchers or policy analysts, conducting research on disability-related issues, analyzing policies and legislation, and advocating for evidence-based practices and policy reforms. They work for research institutes, think tanks, government agencies, advocacy organizations, and academic institutions. Researchers and policy analysts contribute to the development of effective interventions, best practices, and policy recommendations to improve services, support systems, and outcomes for individuals with disabilities and their families.